+ How is the soap made?
The cold process soaps are made in a traditional method that produces natural and gentle soaps. They are handmade in small batches. The process is called saponification which creates a soap containing glycerin, giving the soap its moisturizing properties. It is blended in small batches and hand poured into moulds. This goes through saponification to produce the soap blocks. The soap bars are hand cut and cured/aired for a minimum of 6-8 weeks. Cold process soap is believed to be the best kind of soap for your skin and the planet.
+ What are the main ingredients used in our products?
Just like food, ingredients make a big difference in our soap. The best premium nourishing oils, butters, clays and essential oils are used. The oils and butters that are used are known for their cleansing, moisturising and nourishing qualities. We strive to buy locally and ethically as possible. The main ingredient in the soap is extra virgin olive oil combined with other oils which may include sweet almond oil, avocado oil, macadamia oil, apricot kernel oil, rosehip oil, rice bran oil and castor seed oil. Butters may include organic shea and cocoa, and mango seed butter.
+ Is Palm oil used?
No.
+ Why does my soap look different from the last time I ordered it?
All of our soaps are handmade and cut, no two bars will ever look alike. As much as we try to duplicate batches we cannot always get them identical – variations will occur in colour, pattern and cut.
+ Where are the soaps made?
We are a small business located in Bayside Melbourne, Australia.
+ Can you use the soaps for the face?
Oliv and Koko soaps are made for the body. Some people do use them for the face but it is a personal choice and what suits your skin. Please avoid eye area.
+ Are they Vegan?
All of them are vegan except for the (1) Honey, Cinnnamon and Almond Meal Exfoliating Body Soap Bar; (2) Oatmeal, Manuka Honey and Rosehip Oil Soap Bar; (3) Organic Almond Milk and Honey, and (4) Lips Balms.
+ Can you wash your hair with the Soap?
No. It is different to a shampoo.
+ Are synthetic preservatives, or Sodium Lauryl Sulphate (SLS) used in the products?
No.
+ Do the products contain nuts?
Nuts are not a main ingredient. Some of the oils in the soaps are from tree nuts – such as almond oil, shea butter, macadamia oil and are known to cause reactions to some people. Please do not use the product if you have any of these sensitivities. Oliv and Koko is not responsible for any individual reaction to any particular ingredient. People with sensitivities / allergies to any ingredient should not use that product. Always try a patch test and if at any time irritation occurs, please discontinue use.
+ Allergies?
If you have allergies, please read the ingredient list thoroughly. Some products do feature milk, almond oil, macadamia oil or essential oils. If you experience any irritation, discontinue use right away.
+ Do the soaps expire?
Our soap bars do not contain any preservatives. It is recommended that you use your soap bar within one year of purchase. Scents may start to fade after 6 months. (Citrus essential oil scents are known to not last as long as others).
+ Are the products tested on animals?
No, only on friends, and family.
+ Where do the off-cuts of the soap go?
The off-cuts of soap which are 100% perfect are given to a Melbourne-based Not For Profit organisation distributed to women and children facing difficult challenges.
+ Can Shower Steamers be used in the bath?
No. Shower Steamers are made for the shower. Do not use in the bath due to a higher concentration of essential oils. Please do not use the shower steamers for children or if you are pregnant – consult with your GP. As there are no preservatives in the Shower Steamers please use within three months of purchase.
+ Are the lip balms safe to use if they melt and then solidify?
Yes. As the Lip Balms are made from plant-based oils and beeswax they can melt and solidify in the heat or with a change in temperature. This does not at all affect using the balm.
+ What is the white stuff on top of some soap? Is it safe?
This is called soda ash and is harmless. This forms when air reaches a batch of soap in its first 24 hours. It rinses off the first time you use it and totally safe to use. Some soapmakers like it on to form a pattern.
