I’ve always been on the lookout for a natural, moisturizing bar soap that aligns with my values—gentle on the skin, free from harsh chemicals, and sustainably made. When I came across Peet Bros. Shea Butter Bar Soap in the Argan & Sandalwood scent, I was intrigued by its claim of having 25 times more shea butter than other leading brands. After using it for a while, I wanted to share my honest thoughts, covering everything from packaging to effectiveness. If you’re considering making the switch to this eco-conscious soap, keep reading to see if it’s worth your time and money.
Packaging
The first thing that stood out to me was the 100% recyclable and compostable cardboard packaging. I appreciate brands that ditch plastic, and Peet Bros. clearly prioritizes sustainability. The design is simple and minimalist, emphasizing the natural ingredients inside. It’s easy to open, which is always a plus, but once unwrapped, there’s no way to reseal it—something to consider if you like keeping your soap fresh before use. One minor downside is that the packaging doesn’t include a transparent window, so you can’t see the soap’s color and texture before opening. Still, the commitment to being palm oil-free and eco-friendly makes up for this small inconvenience.
Ingredients
Peet Bros. takes pride in using high-quality, natural ingredients. The soap contains shea butter (one of the first listed ingredients), argan oil from Morocco, and a blend of plant-based oils. There are no artificial colors, sulfates, parabens, or phthalates, which is fantastic for those with sensitive skin. The brand also claims that their soap is vegan and cruelty-free, which aligns with my personal preferences.
However, there are a few things to note. While it’s marketed as being suitable for dry and sensitive skin, there’s no official claim that it’s hypoallergenic. Also, the pH level isn’t specified, which might be a concern for those who need a very specific balance for their skin type. Overall, the ingredient list is impressive, and I love knowing that what I’m putting on my skin is both natural and ethically sourced.
Scent
I tried the Argan & Sandalwood version, and the scent is moderate—not overpowering but noticeable. It has a warm, earthy, and woodsy aroma that feels natural and unisex, making it great for both men and women.
One thing I really liked is how the scent lingers for a while after use without being too intense. If you prefer something more subtle, this would be a good option. That said, some reviewers describe it as very gentle, so if you’re looking for a stronger fragrance, you may want to consider other scent options like Coconut Vanilla or African Black Soap. There’s also an Unscented version for those who prefer fragrance-free products.
Effectiveness
This soap does a great job at cleansing the skin without stripping away moisture. The high shea butter content leaves my skin feeling soft and hydrated, making it a good choice for anyone with dry or mature skin. While it’s not specifically marketed for eczema-prone skin, some users with sensitive skin have reported positive experiences.
The lather is rich and creamy, creating a luxurious feel in the shower. It’s also easy to rinse off, which I appreciate because some moisturizing soaps can leave a residue. It doesn’t have any exfoliating properties, so if you’re looking for a scrub-like effect, this might not be the best option. However, I found that it works well for shaving, providing a smooth glide.
While it doesn’t claim to have antibacterial properties, it’s effective at removing dirt and helping with body odor. It works well in both hard and soft water, which is great if you live in an area with varying water conditions.
Size and Lifespan
The soap comes in a 5 oz (142 g) bar, which is a standard size for natural soaps. It’s moderately hard, meaning it doesn’t dissolve too quickly with regular use. If stored properly, it should last a reasonable amount of time, though using a soap dish or soap saver can help extend its lifespan by preventing it from getting mushy.
It’s worth noting that Peet Bros. doesn’t offer a travel-sized version, so if you like to take your soap on the go, you may need to cut a piece off or find a travel case. The soap is likely biodegradable, adding to its eco-friendly appeal.
Brand Reputation
Peet Bros. is a family-owned company that focuses on producing palm oil-free and sustainable skincare products. Their dedication to using high-quality, ethically sourced ingredients has earned them a positive reputation among eco-conscious consumers. The soap is made in the USA, and the company is transparent about its ingredient sourcing and manufacturing practices.
Additionally, Peet Bros. is cruelty-free, meaning they do not test on animals. Their commitment to environmental sustainability is another major plus for those who prioritize eco-friendly brands.
Price and Value
The soap is priced at around $5-$7 per bar, which is fairly competitive for a high-quality, natural soap with a high shea butter content. While it’s not the cheapest option on the market, many customers—including myself—feel that the moisturizing benefits, ethical sourcing, and eco-friendly packaging make it worth the price.
Peet Bros. also offers gift sets, making their products a good option for thoughtful, sustainable gifts. Occasionally, you can find discounts or free shipping on orders over $35 through their website, making bulk purchases more affordable.
Availability
Peet Bros. Shea Butter Bar Soap is available both online and in select stores. You can purchase it through retailers like Amazon, Vitacost, and health food stores, though availability may vary depending on your location. If you prefer shopping in person, it may take some effort to find a store that carries it.
Shipping costs and delivery times depend on the retailer, but most online options offer consistent stock availability.
- Moisturizing formula with high shea butter content
- Natural ingredients, free from sulfates and parabens
- Cruelty-free and vegan
- Sustainable, plastic-free packaging
- Pleasant, moderate scent
- Works well for shaving
- No travel-size option
- Not explicitly hypoallergenic
- Can become slippery when wet
Overall Rating
After using Peet Bros. Shea Butter Bar Soap for a while, I can confidently say it’s a solid choice for anyone looking for a natural, moisturizing, and eco-friendly soap. While it has a few minor drawbacks, the high-quality ingredients, ethical sourcing, and sustainability efforts make it stand out.
Final Rating: 4.5/5
