FAQ

What does b.a.r.e. stand for?

b.a.r.e. stands for “bringing antiseptic resources to everyone." The company was built on the idea that something so simple as a bar of soap can effectively help prevent the spread of diseases and illnesses. We invest 20% of our proceeds to the Children's Carepoint in Kaberamaido, Uganda. Funds may be used to buy vitamins or any other supplies as needed. Our ultimate goal is to teach interested locals the skill of soapmaking so that they can sell their own soap. We may donate soap, but we stay away from the "buy one, give one" model, as such acts can take away from the local economy.

What exactly is soap?

Soap is formed by a complex chemical reaction between a basic compound and oils.  Most people don't realize that soap doesn't kill germs. Soap molecules actually surround themselves around dead skin cells, oils, and dirt and carry all that gunk away when it's washed away with water. That's why the water becomes cloudy as it is filled with dirt and germs.

What are the main ingredients in bar soap?

The active ingredient used to make a bar of soap is sodium hydroxide, commonly known as lye.  Lye does not remain in soap after the chemical reaction, "saponificiation," which occurs between lye and oils. This results in glycerine, the main component of soap.  We also add other all natural ingredients such as essential oils and exfoliants to give the soap texture and scents.

How are soaps typically made?

There are two ways of making soap by hand- the hot process and cold process. The difference between the two methods is the addition of heat to the soap, which occurs in the hot process. When heat is applied, water evaporates more quickly, helping to accelerate the drying process.  In both processes, soap is then cured before use.

How do you make your soaps?

We handmake our soaps through the cold process method, which we believe creates a smoother and more moisturizing soap than the hot process. After mixing all the ingredients, the soap is poured into a mold, insulated, and allowed to sit undisturbed for at least 24 hours.  Soap is then unmolded, cut, stamped, and cured for four weeks before being sold.

What blend of oils do you use for your soap bars?

We dedicate ourselves to using only quality oils. Our oils include a blend of coconut, palm, olive oil, soybean, castor, and shea butter. Our palm is sourced from a RSPO supplier.

What are saponified oils?

When the oil reacts with sodium hydroxide, the process is known as saponification. The word literally means "soap making" as sapo is Latin for soap. In other words, it's just fancy terminology for oil that has been converted to its soap phase. 

 

Are your soaps organic? 

No, while all of our soaps are made with all natural ingredients, they are not completely organic. By nature, all natural soap can only be up to 85% organic, since sodium hydroxide is not organic. We prioritize quality and ethically sourced ingredients first, followed by organic. Some of our oils are organic, such as palm and shea butter, and through time, we aim to use all organic oils. 

Do you use fragrance oils for your soap?

No, we do not.  Fragrance oils contain synthetic and artificial compounds.  We use 100% pure essential oils.

My skin is sensitive– can I still use your soap?

Yes! Our soap is made out of 100% all natural ingredients and as long as you are not allergic to any of the ingredients listed, our soaps should work better on your skin than commercial soaps. However, we recommend you test our product on a small area of your skin first before using it on your whole body.

What is your most popular soap bar?

By far, our number 1 best seller is our starry night bar, which is made with activated charcoal and helps get rid of blackheads and acne. Our sampler pack comes in as a close second, which many people buy to try a few flavors at once or as a gift

Does my soap expire?

Because our soap bars do not contain any preservatives, it is recommended that you use your soap bar within one year of purchase. Scents may also start to fade after six months.

How do I store my soap bar?

It is recommended you store your soap bar in a cool dry area with open ventilation.  It is important that you do not store your soap in a sealed container or zip lock bag. We also advise using a soap dish to prevent water from accumulating under the soap.

There's white powder on my soap. Is it still okay to use?

Yes! The powder is called soda ash and it is completely harmless. Soap ash typically forms on the surface of the soap bars, though it can also occur within the soap. Soda ash does not impact the cleanliness of your soap, and you can think of it as a by product of it being handmade!

Why does my soap look different from the last time I ordered?

Because all of our soaps are handmade, no two bars will ever look alike. Variations are most typical in shape, color, and even scent. One of the main reasons for this is soaping during different seasons of the year. Even though we insulate all of the soap logs during the curing process, cooler temperatures typically cause more opaque like colors. For instance, our starry night bar may look more grey than black, even though the same amount of charcoal is added to every batch. 

 

Who are the recipients of the donated bars and where do they go?

We are currently partnered with Children’s Hopechest and Sundara Fund.  Check out our blog to see your impact on these children.