My Honest Review of Shea Terra 33% Shea Butter Soap (2025)

As someone who has tried countless natural soaps in search of the perfect balance between moisturization, effectiveness, and gentleness, I was excited to try Shea Terra’s 33% Shea Butter Soap. With its promise of high-quality organic ingredients, ethical sourcing, and suitability for sensitive skin, it sounded like a winner. But does it really live up to the hype? In this review, I’ll share my honest thoughts based on my experience using this soap, discussing its packaging, ingredients, scent, lather, and overall effectiveness.

Packaging

At first glance, the packaging is simple and practical, with an emphasis on the Shea Terra Organics branding. The soap comes in a compact, paper-based cardboard box that clearly lists the ingredients and key product details. While it isn’t the most visually striking packaging, it aligns with the brand’s natural and organic philosophy. However, there’s no window or transparency to see the actual soap before opening, which some may find disappointing. If you’re looking for luxurious or eye-catching packaging, this isn’t it, but it does the job of keeping the soap protected and eco-friendly.

Ingredients

One of the standout features of this soap is its all-natural ingredient list. With a whopping 33% USDA-certified organic shea butter, organic extra virgin olive oil, and organic virgin coconut butter, it’s clear that the focus is on moisturization and nourishment. There are no artificial additives, fragrances, or exfoliants, making it a great choice for those with sensitive skin or allergies.

The shea butter is ethically sourced from West and East Africa, supporting women’s cooperatives, which is an added bonus. While the exact pH level isn’t specified, the soap is hypoallergenic and free from harsh chemicals, making it a gentle option for all skin types.

Scent

If you love strongly scented soaps, you might be disappointed. This bar is fragrance-free, meaning there are no added perfumes. However, there is a very subtle, natural scent that comes from the raw shea butter and oils used in its formulation. It’s mild, clean, and neutral, which makes it a great option for those who are sensitive to fragrances or prefer unscented products. Since it lacks artificial scents, it is unisex and works well in all seasons, particularly in winter when skin needs extra moisture.

Effectiveness

Now, let’s talk about performance—because at the end of the day, a soap needs to do its job! Cleansing power? Check. Moisturization? Double check. Unlike some natural soaps that leave skin feeling stripped or dry, this one provides a gentle yet effective cleanse.

It creates a rich, creamy lather that rinses off easily without leaving any residue. After use, my skin felt soft, hydrated, and comfortable—not tight or itchy like some commercial soaps tend to do.

For those dealing with dry skin, eczema, or psoriasis, this soap might be a game-changer. Many users, myself included, have noticed that it soothes irritated skin and helps retain moisture. While it doesn’t have exfoliating properties, it makes up for it with its nourishing formula. It even works well as a shaving soap, thanks to its creamy lather and moisturizing benefits.

Size and Lifespan

The bar weighs approximately 4.5 ounces (115 grams), which is a standard size for natural soaps. One of the best things about this soap is its durability—it’s a hard bar that doesn’t dissolve too quickly, making it long-lasting even with regular use.

To maximize its lifespan, I recommend keeping it dry between uses by placing it on a well-draining soap dish. While there are no travel-size options, the regular size is still compact enough to take on trips if needed. Overall, it offers good longevity, making it a cost-effective purchase in the long run.

Brand Reputation

Shea Terra Organics has built a strong reputation for using ethically sourced, high-quality ingredients. Their focus on natural skincare and sustainability has earned them a loyal customer base. I particularly appreciate that their shea butter is sourced from women’s cooperatives in Africa, supporting fair trade and economic empowerment.

Additionally, the brand is cruelty-free, meaning they do not test on animals, which is a huge plus for conscious consumers. While they may not have won any major awards, the overwhelmingly positive customer reviews speak for themselves.

Price and Value

At around $8 per bar, this soap is slightly more expensive than mass-produced commercial soaps, but when considering the quality of ingredients and ethical sourcing, it’s a reasonable investment. Given its long-lasting nature and moisturizing benefits, I feel the price is justified.

Shea Terra Organics occasionally offers discounts and bundle deals on their website, which can be a great way to save money. While they don’t offer a subscription option, purchasing in bulk could help reduce costs. If you value natural, high-quality skincare, this soap provides good value for the price.

Availability

You can purchase this soap directly from Shea Terra Organics’ website, as well as from Amazon and select health food stores. It is widely available online, though local availability may be limited depending on your location. Shipping costs and delivery times vary based on the retailer, so it’s worth checking for the best deals.

Overall Rating

After using the Shea Terra 33% Shea Butter Soap, I can confidently say it’s a fantastic choice for anyone looking for a natural, moisturizing soap that supports ethical sourcing. It excels in hydration, gentleness, and longevity, making it a great option for those with dry or sensitive skin. While it may not have the bells and whistles of luxury soaps, it delivers on its core promise: nourishing, effective skincare in a simple, high-quality formula.

Final Rating: 4.5/5

Would I repurchase? Absolutely!