Frequently Asked Questions
(FAQs)
Have questions about our products, ingredients, or ordering process?
This FAQ section is designed to provide clear, honest answers about JSTAR Soap Company and our handcrafted skincare. If you don’t find what you’re looking for, we’re always happy to help—please reach out to us by email.
FAQ - the basics
🧼 Products & Ingredients
Are your products handmade?
Yes. All JSTAR Soap Company products are handcrafted in small batches with care and intention. Because they are handmade, natural variations in color, texture, shape, and appearance may occur. These variations do not affect product quality or performance.
What kind of ingredients do you use?
We use thoughtfully selected, earth-sourced, and naturally derived ingredients chosen for quality, safety, and everyday use. When possible, we incorporate plant-based elements inspired by herbs grown in our own garden, while responsibly sourcing other ingredients from trusted suppliers.
Do you use lye in your soaps?
Yes. Lye (sodium hydroxide) is essential for traditional soapmaking. It is fully transformed during the saponification process and does not remain in the finished soap.
Does “naturally derived” mean the same as “natural”?
Not exactly. “Naturally derived” means an ingredient originates from a natural source but may be processed for safety, stability, or performance. We prioritize transparency and avoid making misleading claims such as “100% natural.”
Are your products considered natural skincare?
Our products are best described as naturally inspired, eco-conscious skincare made with earth-sourced and naturally derived ingredients, along with cosmetic-grade components used responsibly for product safety and quality.
🌿 Skin Type & Usage
Are your products suitable for sensitive skin?
Many customers with sensitive skin enjoy our products; however, all skin types are different. We recommend reviewing ingredient lists carefully and performing a patch test before full use.
How do I perform a patch test?
Apply a small amount of product to a discreet area of skin and wait 24 hours. If irritation occurs, discontinue use.
Can your soaps be used on the face and body?
Some soaps are designed for both face and body use, while others are best suited for body use only. Please refer to each product description for recommended use.
👶 Family & Safety
Are your products safe for children?
Many of our products are gentle and family-friendly. Adult supervision is recommended, and we encourage reviewing ingredients and performing a patch test before use on children.
Are your products safe during pregnancy or nursing?
If you are pregnant or nursing, we recommend consulting with a healthcare professional before using any skincare product, especially those containing essential oils.
🚚 Shipping & Orders
How are shipping costs calculated?
We use USPS shipping services through the Wix platform to fulfill all orders. Shipping rates are calculated at checkout based on the total weight of your order and your delivery location.
Why is shipping cost based on weight?
To help keep shipping costs more predictable and affordable, we have recently updated our shipping structure to flat-rate shipping tiers based on order weight. This allows us to offer clearer pricing at checkout and helps reduce overall shipping costs, so our customers can shop with confidence and comfort.
Where do you ship?
At this time, JSTAR Soap Company ships within the United States only. We do not currently offer international shipping. As our business grows, we may explore international shipping options in the future.
Do you offer pre-order items?
Yes. Some products are offered as pre-orders and will clearly indicate estimated shipping timelines on the product page.
Should I order pre-order items separately?
Yes. If you need in-stock items shipped sooner, we recommend placing pre-order items in a separate order.
🧾 Sales Tax
Will I be charged sales tax?
Sales tax is only applied to orders shipped to Texas addresses. Texas sales tax is automatically calculated at checkout based on the applicable county and ZIP code. Orders shipped outside of Texas are not charged sales tax at this time.
📦 Storage & Care
How should I store my soap?
To extend the life of your soap, store it in a cool, dry place between uses. A draining soap dish works best to allow the bar to dry properly.
How should lotions, body scrubs, and lip balms be stored?
For best quality, store lotions, body scrubs, and lip balms in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and heat. Avoid leaving products in hot environments such as cars, near windows, or close to heat sources.
How can I help prevent lotion from separating?
Because our lotions are handcrafted with thoughtfully selected ingredients, exposure to heat can cause natural separation. To help maintain consistency:
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Store lotions at room temperature or cooler
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Avoid prolonged exposure to heat
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If slight separation occurs, gently stir or shake the product before use
Why is cool storage important for body scrubs and lip balms?
Heat can soften or melt oil- and butter-based products like body scrubs and lip balms, affecting texture and appearance. Keeping them in a cool area helps preserve their intended consistency and performance.
🌱 Sustainability & Ethics
Is JSTAR Soap Company eco-conscious?
Yes. We are committed to mindful sourcing, eco-conscious practices, and reducing waste where possible. We encourage customers to reuse or recycle packaging whenever possible.
Do you test on animals?
We do not test our human skincare products on animals.
Our upcoming canine line is being thoughtfully developed and evaluated for safety using limited, in-home observation before release.
💬 Custom Orders & Contact
Do you offer custom scents or products?
We offer select custom options, such as lip balm flavors, depending on availability.
Please contact us for details.
How can I contact you with additional questions?
If you have questions not answered here, please email us directly. We’re always happy to help.
📧 Email: info@jstarsoapco.com