When it comes to skincare, I’ve always leaned towards natural and chemical-free products, which is why I was intrigued by the Big Crazy Buffalo Pure Bison Tallow Buff Soap. Made from 100% pure bison tallow, this soap promises to be gentle, moisturizing, and free of synthetic additives. Given my sensitive skin, I was curious to see if this soap would live up to its claims. After using it for several weeks, I’m ready to share my honest experience—the good and the not-so-good.
Packaging
Right off the bat, the packaging caught my attention for its minimalist and rustic design. The soap comes in a simple, recyclable box, sealed with a sticker for tamper evidence. I appreciate the transparency, as the soap itself is visible through the packaging, giving an authentic and natural feel. While it doesn’t have the flashy branding of some commercial soaps, the eco-friendly approach aligns well with the product’s all-natural philosophy. The 4 oz rectangular bar is compact and easy to store, though I do wish it had a travel-size option for convenience.
Ingredients
One of the most appealing aspects of this soap is its incredibly simple ingredient list—just bison tallow, water, and lye. That’s it! There are no artificial additives, fragrances, or preservatives, making it an excellent choice for those with sensitive skin or allergies. The bison tallow, sourced from a family-owned business in Nebraska, acts as a natural moisturizer, closely resembling the skin’s own oils. While it lacks exfoliants or additional nourishing oils, the purity of the ingredients means fewer chances of irritation. The soap has a pH level around 9, which is slightly alkaline but still mild on the skin.
Scent
I opted for the unscented version, but that doesn’t mean it’s completely odorless. There’s a faint, natural earthy scent, which I’d describe as neutral and slightly animalistic due to the tallow. While I didn’t find it off-putting, some people with a sensitive nose might need time to adjust. The good news is that the scent doesn’t linger on the skin, making it a great option for those who prefer fragrance-free skincare. If you do want a scented version, the brand offers other options like Ponderosa Pine, Lemon Drop, and Apple Moonshine.
Effectiveness
Here’s where things got interesting. The lather is different from commercial soaps—it’s creamy and slick rather than foamy and bubbly. At first, it took some getting used to, but I found that this texture helped with shaving (my husband even tested it as a shaving soap and liked the glide!). Despite its gentle formula, it cleans well without stripping moisture, leaving my skin feeling soft and nourished rather than tight or dry. I also noticed that my skin needed less lotion afterward, likely due to the tallow’s hydrating properties.
One unique observation—there’s a brief adjustment period for some users. Initially, my skin felt slightly different, but after about a week, I noticed an improvement in overall texture. Some users have even reported relief from eczema and psoriasis, though individual results may vary. While it’s not a deodorizing soap, it does the job of cleansing effectively without any artificial additives.
Size and Lifespan
The 4 oz bar is a solid size and lasts longer than many store-bought soaps. Since it’s a hard bar, it doesn’t melt away quickly, even with daily use. I found that storing it in a dry place between uses helped extend its lifespan significantly. It’s worth noting that, while it isn’t available in a travel size, the company does offer multi-pack options for those who want to stock up.
Brand Reputation
Big Crazy Buffalo is a small, family-owned business based in Nebraska, specializing in bison tallow products. Their commitment to ethical sourcing and sustainability is a big plus. They are transparent about their ingredients, and their soaps are handcrafted in small batches. Another thing I appreciate is their strong customer engagement—they actively respond to inquiries and feedback, which makes me feel confident in supporting their brand. Plus, their no animal testing policy aligns with my values.
Price and Value
At around $8.99 per bar, this soap is priced similarly to other high-quality, handcrafted soaps. Given its natural ingredients and long lifespan, I’d say it offers good value. The company sometimes offers discounts and free shipping on larger orders, which is a nice bonus. While it’s not the cheapest soap out there, the moisturizing effects and purity justify the price for me. If you’re used to commercial soaps, this might seem like a splurge, but for those seeking a clean and nourishing option, it’s worth considering.
Availability
You can find this soap on the Big Crazy Buffalo website and through select online retailers. It’s also stocked in some specialty stores, though availability might be limited depending on your location. One downside is that it’s not as widely available in physical stores, so online ordering is the best bet for most people. Shipping costs and times vary, but I found their customer service to be responsive if any issues arise.
- 100% natural ingredients (just bison tallow, water, and lye)
- Moisturizing and gentle on sensitive skin
- Long-lasting bar that doesn’t melt quickly
- Handcrafted in the USA by a small business
- No artificial fragrances, preservatives, or chemicals
- Slick, creamy lather works well for shaving
- Not widely available in physical stores
- Scent may take time to adjust to for some users
- Not a deodorizing soap
- Higher price point compared to mass-produced soaps
- Adjustment period for those switching from commercial soaps
Overall Rating
After weeks of use, I’d give the Big Crazy Buffalo Pure Bison Tallow Buff Soap a solid 4.5 out of 5 stars. It’s a fantastic choice for those looking for a pure, moisturizing, and long-lasting soap. While it may not be for everyone—especially those who prefer strong fragrances or exfoliating properties—it excels in hydration, skin nourishment, and simplicity. If you’re looking for a chemical-free, skin-friendly soap with a rich tradition, this one is definitely worth a try!
