When it comes to skincare, I’ve always been on the lookout for products that are both natural and effective. That’s why I was intrigued by The Healthy Porcupine Pure Tallow Soap—a handmade, 100% grass-fed tallow soap that promises to be gentle, nourishing, and free of synthetic additives. But does it live up to the hype? After using this soap for a while, I’m ready to share my honest experience—the good, the bad, and everything in between.
Packaging
The first thing I noticed about this soap was its minimalist packaging. It comes in a simple, recyclable cardboard box, which is great for those who care about sustainability. The design is clean and straightforward, focusing on the brand name and product details rather than flashy visuals. While I appreciate the eco-friendly approach, I would have liked a window on the box to see the soap before opening it. That said, the packaging is functional, easy to open, and keeps the soap protected.
Ingredients
One of the standout aspects of this soap is its simple and clean ingredient list—just 100% saponified grass-fed tallow. There are no dyes, fragrances, or synthetic additives, making it an excellent choice for those with sensitive skin, eczema, or allergies. Tallow is rich in fatty acids, which help to nourish and moisturize the skin naturally. While I love that it’s made from ethically sourced ingredients, it’s worth noting that the soap isn’t officially organic-certified—though the tallow comes from cows raised without antibiotics or hormones. If you’re looking for a soap with added exfoliants or essential oils, this version won’t provide that, but The Healthy Porcupine does offer scented options.
Scent
This soap is completely unscented, which is both a pro and a con depending on your preference. If you’re sensitive to strong smells or just want a neutral soap that won’t interfere with other fragrances, this is a great choice. However, if you enjoy a bit of scent in your skincare routine, you might find it a bit plain. The company does offer other variations with essential oil scents, so there are options for those who prefer a little fragrance. Personally, I didn’t mind the lack of scent—it made it feel pure and simple, just like the ingredients.
Effectiveness
Now, onto the most important part—does it work? I was pleasantly surprised by how well this soap performs. It lathers easily, producing a creamy, rich foam that feels luxurious on the skin. Unlike some natural soaps that leave a filmy residue, this one rinses off cleanly and leaves my skin feeling soft, smooth, and moisturized. I noticed that it helped with dry patches, and it didn’t cause any irritation or breakouts.
One of the biggest benefits I found was its versatility—I used it on my face, body, and even for shaving, and it worked beautifully for all purposes. If you struggle with acne or rosacea, you might find this soap particularly beneficial, as it’s gentle and non-comedogenic. The only downside? It doesn’t have exfoliating properties, so if you’re looking for something to slough off dead skin cells, you may need to pair it with a scrub.
Size and Lifespan
The soap comes in a 4oz (113g) bar, which is a standard size for handmade soaps. Despite its modest size, it lasts surprisingly long due to its hard texture. Unlike softer soaps that dissolve quickly, this one holds its shape well and doesn’t turn mushy if stored properly. I found that a single bar lasted several weeks with daily use, making it cost-effective in the long run. To extend its lifespan, I recommend using a well-draining soap dish to keep it dry between uses.
Brand Reputation
The Healthy Porcupine is a woman-owned, small-batch company based in the USA, specifically in New Hampshire. Their focus on ethical sourcing and handcrafted products makes them stand out in the natural skincare market. Customers appreciate their transparency about ingredients and sustainability efforts, and the company has built a loyal following. I was also impressed with their customer service—they’re responsive and engaged with their community, often educating consumers about tallow-based skincare through their website and social media.
Price and Value
At around $9.99 per 4oz bar, this soap falls into the mid-range price category for handmade, all-natural soaps. Given its high-quality ingredients, ethical sourcing, and long-lasting nature, I find it to be a great value. The company also offers occasional sales, subscription options, and bulk purchasing discounts, which can help save money if you plan to use it regularly. Compared to other artisanal soaps, it’s competitively priced and delivers excellent performance.
Availability
This soap is widely available online, including through the company’s website and retailers like Amazon. While some health food stores and specialty shops may carry it, it’s not as commonly found in large chain stores. Shipping costs and times can vary depending on where you order from, but I didn’t have any issues with availability.
- 100% natural and simple ingredients
- Moisturizing and gentle on sensitive skin
- Long-lasting and cost-effective
- Eco-friendly packaging
- Versatile—can be used for face, body, and shaving
- Handmade and ethically sourced
- No added scent—might be too plain for some users
- Lacks exfoliating properties
- Not widely available in physical stores
Overall Rating
After thoroughly testing The Healthy Porcupine Pure Tallow Soap, I’d give it a solid 9/10. It excels in gentleness, moisturizing properties, and longevity, making it a fantastic choice for anyone looking for a clean, simple, and effective soap. While the lack of scent and exfoliation might not appeal to everyone, its high-quality ingredients and ethical production make it well worth the investment. If you’re in the market for a truly natural soap that nourishes your skin, this one is definitely worth trying.
