faq

Frequently asked questions

What is SLES, SLS, parabens and why should I avoid them?

Sodium Laureth Sulfate is added to soaps, shampoos, body washes and cleaners, its very cheap surfactant and creates foam. Unfortunately it has a link with a possible carcinogen when going through ethoxylation. Sodium Lauryl Sulfate is an effective detergent which has shown to be a skin irritant and potential hair loss issues. Parabens are usually added as preservatives to prolong shelf life, they have links to elevate cellular and hormone function. Some risk to UV exposure and may cause allergeric reactions. In the environment they have been found in marine mammals, thought to have washed from sewage.



Why is postage free over an amount in UK but not elsewhere?

In the UK there is a set fee on size and weight of a parcel. If you order over £30 I can cover the full cost of postage for you. Unfortunately the cost of International/European shipping is x 3 of UK cost and I try to reduce this down by partially covering the cost for you.



Does wildaboutsoaps products contain preservatives?

No, wildaboutsoaps products are free of all preservatives, fillers or synthetic colourants. I avoid water in the body butters which would require a preservative as the water would grow bacteria. Soaps and shampoos are naturally high pH which discourages growth.



What is the difference in essential oils or fragrance oils?

Simple - choose essential oils every time, they are flowers/herbs distilled or steamed to produce scent, they also will bring their natural healing benefits to you. Synthetic fragrance oils are produced within a laboratory artifically from chemical compounds that do not exist in nature, they are cheaper to buy, some can be petroleum based.



Are wildaboutsoaps products hypo-allergenic?

My products are plant and nature-derived and are created to be as gentle on and nourishing to the skin, as possible. Allergic reactions are rare. It is however possible to be allergic to almost anything, including naturally-occurring substances and matter. If you suspect sensitivity to an ingredient, please conduct a patch test first, on a small area of your skin.



Are wildaboutsoaps products tested on animals?

The products are not tested on animals. Lots of human friends have tested them and given me feedback



Are wildaboutsoaps products vegan safe?

Wildaboutsoaps products use mostly plant-derived ingredients. However two soaps Cleopatra Goats Milk & Honey soap and Chamomile and Goats Milk soap both contain goats milk and one also contains honey. In shampoo bars Tidal Wave and Nettles & Petals have a protein which is used to strengthen and avoid breakage. I wanted to include a protein and was unable to obtain a suitable plant based type without preservative. I have used wild Tussah silk fibre, in this the pupa is not killed but is allowed to hatch as normal. The silk is collected but is unsuitable for spinning.



is wildaboutsoaps products safe to use?

As part of the EU regulations wildaboutsoaps is fully compliant and have been certified by a Chartered Chemist. So be rest assured the products are safe to use for their intended use following instructions.. I am a member of the Guild of Craft Soap and Toiletry Makers who only invite members to joinwho are compliant within law on testing, product labellling, manufacture and trading standards are met.