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Soap for New Tattoos

Soap for New Tattoos

If you’ve landed here you are probably all too aware of the discomfort of a new tattoo and want something to promote healing. Fear not, I will go through all the essential oils that help to heal new tattoos faster and list all of the Grizzly Bars which contain them. This is all about Soap for New Tattoos.

Often overlooked due to the excitement of getting a tattoo, proper aftercare can help to promote healing and reduce itchiness. Essential Oils can be great for helping to heal tattoos in many ways, so if you have just got a new tattoo then why not consider a couple of Grizzly Bars to help you through the initial healing phase.

I would however, recommend that you use the soap beforehand to make sure there are no allergies or adverse reactions to the ingredients before it is used on broken skin. Lastly, while these are not clinically tested, Essential Oils which are contained in these soaps have been used for these properties for many years

Essential Oils for Healing

Essential Oils have been utilised for their healing properties for many years. Dating back to 4500BC when the Ancient Egyptians started using them in cosmetics and ointments. With such a long lasting legacy it seems that they’re a great choice even today.

The main selection of oils I will cover here are:

  • Tea Tree
  • Lavender
  • Eucalyptus
  • Peppermint

When it comes to healing properties these are the most applicable.

Tea Tree Essential Oil

Well known for its use in skincare, Tea Tree Oil’s anti-inflammatory properties can reduce irritation, redness and swelling. This can be great for when itchy scabs begin to form.

Washing new tattoos with Tea Tree Oil soap can help to relieve the urge to scratch and sooth irritation. Our Soap which contains Tea Tree Essential Oil is Adventure

Soap for New Tattoos

Lavender Essential Oil

This fantastic solution from nature provides many great benefits. In this application though it can be applied for calming and pain-killing properties.

Also containing SPF to help protect tattoos from long term sun damage, Lavender can reduce physical paint and suffering by promoting relaxation.

You can find Lavender Essential Oil in our Recover and Daydream bar soaps.

Soap for New Tattoos
Soap for New Tattoos

Eucalyptus Essential Oil

Eucalyptus Essential Oil contains a compound called cineole/eucalyptol. This compound is known for its anti inflammatory, antibacterial and analgesic properties and is also widely used to aid wound healing and provide pain relief.

According to research, Eucalyptus can encourage ceramide production which keeps the skin hydrated, reduces inflammation and helps to stop collagen breakdown.

This Essential Oil can be found in the Grizzly Bars Refresh and once again in Recover

Soap for New Tattoos

Peppermint Essential Oil

Experience a cooling sensation with this powerful essential oil. Peppermint can reduce itching and inflammation.

Try this Essential Oil to soothe burning and irritated skin. Once again this can be found in our powerful minty blend Refresh.

No Harsh Chemicals

As our Base Recipe contains no SLS, SLES or Palm Oil, it is a great, environmentally friendly yet powerful cleanser for daily use. Check out the Shop and order a couple bars for your daily cleaning routine. All are also suitable for use as Shampoo and don’t leave a residue behind.

Conclusion

To conclude, there are 4 great Grizzly Bar Soaps for New Tattoos containing essential Oils that can help to heal and recover your skin.

In Addition they are great for your skin longer term and can be used daily.

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Soap for Sensitive Skin

Soap for Sensitive Skin

Sensitive skin is generally due to allergic reactions such as allergic contact dermatitis, eczema and rosacea. Environmental factors can also affect skin such as cold and windy weather, exposure to to much sun and heat. Air conditioning and central heating can also strip skin of moisture resulting in dry and itchy skin. The best Soap for Sensitive Skin that we make is Simplicity.

Simple Solution for Sensitive Skin

Early on I decided that a soap made only of our base recipe with no additions would be a great addition. If you have sensitive skin then this is a great starting point in the search for your every day soap. As there are no unnecessary items added then it is easy to evaluate whether this soap will work for your skin or not.

If this soap works for you then great. Grab another bar or two and try some more in our range.

No Harsh Chemicals

As none of our soaps contain SLS or SLES, they are fantastic for sensitive skin. Our base recipe is mostly vegetable based so along with the benefits to the environment, it is gentler on your skin.

SLS is commonly used in most cosmetic products today. However, it is derived from Palm Oil and has been linked to skin cancer. For this reason we avoid it and use more natural solutions to produce the same effects.

Trying More Variants

With all of our Soaps using the same base recipe and then having extra ingredients added, You know that any problems are down to certain ingredients and not the soap.

Some of our recipes even have added ingredients which are known to be good for the skin. Mostly in the form of Essential Oils. Adventure is a powerful cleaner but may dry the skin when used every day. Recover has a blend of oils that are known to heal skin.

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Soap Bars Without Palm Oil

Soap Bars Without Palm Oil

Introduction

Palm Oil has been a key ingredient of bar soap for many years. This is down to its characteristics and ability to produce good soaps. However, with the issues caused by palm oil production we have decided to exclude palm oil and all derivatives of it from Grizzly Bars. Furthermore we have also created our soap base without SLS (Sodium Lauryl Sulfate) or SLES (Sodium Laureth Sulfate).

Soap Bars Without Palm Oil

Why Exclude SLS/SLES from Soap ?

SLS and SLES are both produced from Palm Oil. Although many manufacturers may create soap and claim it does not contain Palm Oil, this is not entirely true. Presence of either of these would indicate that palm oil has been used in the production of the cosmetic product.

In addition to being a palm oil derivative, SLS is know to cause skin problems for some people and has also been linked to being a cause of skin cancer. While the verdict on this is currently not fully known we would still prefer to not use it in Grizzly Bars.

Is it Possible to create Soap without Palm Oil ?

Absolutely Yes. Our soap has all the performance with none of the environmental issues from using Palm Oil. It is cheaper to produce soap by using palm oil but we don’t see this as the way forwards.

Soap Bars without Palm Oil are still in the minority but appearing more frequently now. Take that step away from cheaply made soaps and move towards better quality products with less environmental impact today. Grizzly Bars don’t even come in plastic packaging. Our shipping envelopes are made from biodegradable and recyclable plastic derived from corn starch.

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Solid Shampoo Bars

Solid shampoo soap bars in a variety of colours and fragrances

Discover the Benefits of Solid Shampoo Bars

Looking for an eco-friendly and travel-friendly alternative to liquid shampoo? Look no further than our solid soap bars! Our selection of solid shampoo offers a sustainable and convenient hair care solution. Made with natural ingredients and free from harsh chemicals, these bars are not only good for the environment but also nourish and cleanse your hair effectively.

Embrace Sustainability with Zero-Waste shampoo

Say goodbye to plastic bottles and hello to a zero-waste hair care routine with solid shampoo bars. Our carefully curated collection of solid shampoo bars provides a luxurious lather and gentle cleansing for all hair types. Whether you have oily, dry, or sensitive hair, there’s a solid shampoo bar suitable for your specific needs. With long-lasting durability and compact packaging, these bars are perfect for travel or reducing bathroom clutter. Experience the convenience and sustainability of solid shampoo and make a positive impact on the planet.

Nourish Your Hair with Natural Ingredients

Looking to transition to a more sustainable beauty routine? Solid shampoo bars are a great starting point. These bars are not only better for the environment but also offer numerous benefits for your hair and scalp. Packed with natural ingredients like essential oils, botanical extracts, and nourishing butters, solid shampoo can help promote healthier, shinier, and more manageable hair. Take the plunge into eco-conscious living with our range of solid shampoo and enjoy the transformative effects on your hair.

Summary

Explore our collection of solid bars for an eco-friendly, travel-friendly, and effective hair care solution. With natural ingredients, plastic-free packaging, and long-lasting benefits, solid shampoo bars offer a sustainable alternative to traditional liquid shampoos. Experience the convenience, nourishment, and environmental impact of solid shampoo by incorporating them into your beauty routine.

Check out our range of Bar Soaps in the Online Shop

We also sell a range of Sustainable Clothing via our sister brand Grizzlywears too HERE

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Cruelty Free Soap

Cruelty free soap

Cruelty-free soap is a term that has gained significant attention in recent years, as more individuals become aware of the ethical implications of their purchasing decisions. This post will explore the benefits of use, the growing consumer demand and challenges that may hinder its widespread adoption. It is now evident that cruelty-free soap not only aligns with personal values but also contributes to a more ethical and sustainable world.

Benefits of Cruelty Free Soap

The avoidance of animal testing and cruelty is the biggest benefit. Many conventional soap brands rely on animal testing to ensure the safety and efficacy of their products. This practice involves subjecting animals to painful experiments, causing unnecessary suffering.

By choosing cruelty-free products, individuals can actively contribute to the reduction of animal cruelty and promote a more compassionate society. Furthermore, cruelty-free soap supports ethical and sustainable practices. These products are often made with natural and organic ingredients. Not only better for the environment but also for human health. Conventional soaps often contain harsh chemicals and synthetic additives that can be harmful to both our bodies and the planet. In contrast, cruelty-free soap embraces the use of natural ingredients, such as plant-based oils and essential oils, which provide nourishment and promote skin health without compromising the well-being of animals or the environment.

Demand for Cruelty Free Soap

The increasing demand for cruelty-free cosmetics is a testament to the growing awareness and concern for animal welfare. As more information becomes available about the harsh realities of animal testing, consumers are becoming more conscious of the products they purchase.

Consumers are actively seeking alternatives that align with their values and do not contribute to animal suffering. This shift in consumer behaviour reflects a desire for a more compassionate and ethical world. In addition to animal welfare, the preference for cruelty-free brands is also driven by personal values. Many individuals are now more conscious of the impact their choices have on the world around them. They want to support brands and products that share their commitment to ethical and sustainable practices. Cruelty-free soap provides an avenue for consumers to make a positive impact through their purchasing decisions, allowing them to align their personal values with their daily routines.

The influence of social media and online communities cannot be overlooked in the rise of cruelty-free cosmetics. Platforms such as Instagram and YouTube have become powerful tools for promoting cruelty-free alternatives. Influencers and activists use these platforms to raise awareness about animal testing and advocate for cruelty-free products. This online community, combined with the ease of sharing information, has played a significant role in spreading the message and driving consumer demand for soap that is also cruelty free.

Summary

While the benefits of using cruelty-free products are evident, there are still challenges and barriers that may hinder its widespread adoption. One such challenge is the limited availability and accessibility of cruelty-free options. In some regions, cruelty-free soap may be difficult to find, as conventional brands dominate the market. This lack of availability can make it challenging for individuals to make the switch to cruelty-free alternatives. Another barrier to adopting cruelty-free soap is the higher cost compared to conventional soaps.

Cruelty Free Soap

Check out the Grizzly Bars range of Bar Soap in our online shop

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Vegan Soap

Understanding vegan soap and its benefits


Vegan soap, also known as vegetable soap, is a type of soap made from fats or oils of vegetable origin rather than from saponified animal fats [1]. This means that vegan soap does not contain any animal products, making it a cruelty-free and ethical choice for those who follow a vegan lifestyle [2]. Historically, soap was made using animal tallow or fat, but advancements in soap-making techniques have allowed for the creation of vegan soaps that are entirely plant-based [3]. Vegan soap brands often use ingredients like coconut oil, olive oil, shea butter, and rice bran wax to create their products [4] [2]. These natural ingredients provide a gentle and nourishing cleansing experience for the skin [5]. By choosing vegan soap, individuals can support sustainable and animal-friendly practices while enjoying the benefits of a high-quality cleansing product.


The ingredients used in vegan soap are carefully selected to provide effective cleansing properties without the use of animal-derived ingredients. Common ingredients in vegan soap include sodium cocoate (derived from coconuts) and sodium palm kernelate (derived from palm kernels) [4]. Olive oil, known for its moisturizing properties, is also frequently used in vegan soap formulations [6]. By using plant-based ingredients, vegan soap offers a natural and gentle alternative to traditional soaps that may contain harmful chemicals or animal-derived ingredients [5]. Homemade vegan soaps can be crafted using a variety of oils, such as coconut oil, palm oil, and olive oil, along with lye and distilled water [7]. These simple and natural ingredients make vegan soap a safe and nourishing option for all skin types [8].

Using vegan soap offers a range of benefits for both the skin and the environment. Vegan soap is known for its ability to strengthen the skin’s barrier, preventing the accumulation of bacteria and viruses on the skin’s surface [9]. The absence of harsh chemicals and pesticides in vegan soap makes it a safe and healthy option for daily use [10]. Furthermore, choosing vegan soap supports sustainable practices and reduces the demand for animal-derived ingredients, such as palm oil, which can have negative environmental impacts [11]. By opting for vegan soap, individuals can contribute to the preservation of the environment and the well-being of animals [12]. Additionally, many vegan soap brands prioritize eco-friendly packaging, further reducing their environmental footprint.

Choosing the right vegan soap


When choosing the right vegan soap, it is important to read ingredient labels carefully. Soap manufacturers are required to list their ingredients on the packaging, although the level of detail may vary [13]. While some soaps may only list basic ingredients like oils and lye, others may include a more extensive list of additives [14]. By reading the ingredient labels, you can ensure that the soap you choose does not contain any animal-derived ingredients, such as animal fats or by-products [15]. This step is crucial in selecting a truly vegan soap that aligns with your values and preferences.

In addition to reading ingredient labels, it is essential to avoid soaps that contain animal-derived ingredients. Some common animal-derived ingredients found in soaps include beeswax, lanolin, and retinol [16]. These ingredients are derived from animals and are not suitable for those following a vegan lifestyle. By actively avoiding soaps with these ingredients, you can ensure that the soap you choose is truly vegan and cruelty-free [5]. It is also important to research ethical brands that are committed to using only plant-based ingredients and avoiding animal testing [4]. By doing so, you can support companies that align with your values and contribute to a more compassionate and sustainable industry.

Fortunately, there are many vegan soap brands available in the market today. These brands offer a wide range of options, from bar soaps to liquid soaps, that are free from animal-derived ingredients [17]. Some popular vegan soap brands include Weleda, Friendly Soap, The Little Soap Company’s Eco Warrior, and Wild Sage + Co [18] [19] [20]. To make an informed decision, you can also refer to ethical and environmental rankings of soap brands, which assess their sustainability practices and commitment to animal welfare [21]. By choosing vegan soap and supporting ethical brands, you can enjoy clean and nourished skin while making a positive impact on the planet and animal welfare.

Making your own vegan soap at home


Making your own vegan soap at home is a rewarding and eco-friendly way to ensure that the products you use align with your values. To get started, gather the necessary ingredients and supplies [6]. Vegan soap is free from any animal-derived ingredients, such as gelatin, lard, or beeswax, which are commonly found in non-vegan soaps [22]. A basic vegan soap recipe may include ingredients such as coconut oil, olive oil, shea butter, and lye (sodium hydroxide) [23]. These ingredients can be easily sourced from local stores or online retailers. Additionally, you will need distilled water, a scale for measuring ingredients, a heat-resistant container for mixing, and soap molds [6].

Once you have gathered all the necessary ingredients and supplies, it’s time to follow a soap making recipe. There are various recipes available online or in soap making books that cater specifically to vegan soap making [24]. A typical recipe will involve measuring and mixing the oils, melting the solid oils, dissolving the lye in water, and combining the two mixtures. It is important to follow the recipe closely and take proper safety precautions when working with lye, as it is a caustic substance [2]. The soap mixture will then need to be poured into molds and left to cure for several weeks. During this time, the soap will harden and become suitable for use [25].

One of the advantages of making your own vegan soap is the ability to customize it according to your preferences. You can experiment with different oils, such as coconut oil, olive oil, or avocado oil, to achieve desired properties like lather or moisturization [26]. Additionally, you can add natural colorants, such as clay or herbal powders, for aesthetic appeal [27]. Fragrance can be added using essential oils, ensuring that your soap is free from synthetic fragrances [28]. By customizing your vegan soap, you can create unique blends that suit your skin type and personal preferences. So, why not give it a try and enjoy the satisfaction of using a soap that is not only good for your skin but also aligns with your values?

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Environmentally Friendly Packaging

Environmentally Friendly Packaging

When creating Environmentally friendly products, hard work can be undone by packaging them irresponsibly. Grizzly Bars strive to look for the most environmentally friendly packaging.

Plastic Free Soap Packaging

Often you find soap is packaged in shrink wrap plastic. This is usually down to cost but it is not ideal. Early on in the development of Grizzly Bars, I decided to commit to zero plastic waste.

When packaging products that are “single use” (I don’t mean they last one wash by this!) it is especially important not to create excessive landfill waste. The impact of using plastic packaging on products which are intended to be purchased frequently is even more critical. Plastic packaging is not as critical on products which you will only purchase once. On the other hand, plastic waste produced by products which are repeatedly bought such as food or cosmetics quickly adds up

Environmentally Friendly Packaging
Plastic Waste

The worst thing about plastic waste is that most plastics are recyclable but the infrastructure or incentives to do it is simply not present. In spite of reduced energy and material costs to recycling plastic the industry seems to not have converted yet.

By switching to plastic free products or ones which use bioplastics as a consumer, we can help to move things forwards.

Recycled Labelling

Often overlooked, labelling is something else which adds up to a degree of waste. Grizzly Bars are labelled with ink free, recycled paper. This helps to reduce environmental impact a little more.

These labels can be recycled with paper waste but do break down in landfill. More importantly they break down when they get out into the wider world.

Paper Packaging

A simple solution is to use food grade brown paper bags. We like these because they meet the requirements for packaging soap and are definitely environmentally friendly packaging.

Furthermore when combined with our labels the entire package is non toxic. This means that it can break down safely without harm.

Since this paper is not printed with inks or toner, it remains more environmentally friendly.

What about Shipping ?

When shipping products the requirements are a little different.

I chose to use biodegradable plastic for shipping. This is because it is tough enough to withstand what couriers can do on normal occasions. The added benefit is that it keeps the soaps dry in transit.

These shipping envelopes differ from normal because they do break down if they are released into nature. With many companies now offering packaging like this, It is worth the extra cost to me.

In addition, even my shipping labels are recycled paper !

The Whole Package

Grizzly Bars are packaged responsibly in every aspect. Creating luxurious packaging for someone to tear off and dispose of was never a goal for me. A good product with less waste was.

Lastly, although plastic has become a mainstream packaging material for its versatility and low cost you will find no single use none-biodegradable plastics here.

With the best intentions in the world, packaging can make its way out into nature. This is why it is important to use materials that can break down over time with little impact. Packaging made from renewable sources.

Finally, If you appreciate the effort made by me to reduce waste, check out my range of soaps to support me.

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Custom made Soaps

Custom made Soaps

If you’re looking for something a little bit different, maybe to promote your business or product, maybe I can help out. With the ability to quickly produce new moulds to your specifications and a large range of fragrances you need look no further when it comes to small batch, custom made soaps.

Custom Made Soaps
Selection of Grizzly Bars branded soaps

Designed to fit your needs

We can produce soaps in large bars up to several kg, right down to a size and shape to suit your application. For example, a large bar to be cut up and sold by weight right down to single use size soaps for hotels. In addition we can shape the bars to suit your business and add a logo.

If you feel comfortable with CAD then feel free to make your own design, otherwise I am happy to do this step for you.

How I designed my own Soap Bars

Firstly, I take the design in CAD and produce prototype bars At this stage I can add your logo to see how it fits and make any adjustments. I will also produce some samples for you to feel and make sure you’re happy with them.

Secondly, I can begin making up the moulds which your soap will be cast from. This process can take a while and requires special resins. In addition there can be a lot of work to get the moulds perfect.

Lastly, It is up to you to select from one of my existing soap recipes for the colour & fragrance you wish to produce or we can develop a new recipe to suit your needs. The range of Grizzly Bars is always expanding and you will have access to customise all these varieties.

Custom Labels to Match

In addition to custom moulds, I can make custom labels featuring your own logo and we can find packaging to suit your needs. This can be as simple or fancy as you like.

Importantly, I prefer to source environmentally friendly packaging. Labels are usually made of recycled paper and packaging kept simple. With a lot of effort being made to produce good, safe soaps it makes sense to package them responsibly.

The Simplest Solution Soaps

If you aren’t sure about the process of creating your own moulds and just want to test the market first this is also fine. I am able to provide generic soaps or trade deals on Grizzly Bars. Minimum orders start at around 1kg of each variety. However, I can produce much larger batches if required.

Importantly, we can create custom labels but our safety information will have to be displayed.

Custom making your Soaps

Get in touch via email if you wish to discuss the process or what I can do for you. If you want to try any of the soaps, they are available to buy in my shop

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Van life Soap

Van life Soap

Is Van Life Soap really a thing ? Maybe it is something we have just discovered with the new range of Grizzly Bars. Or was it planned all along…

UK Van Life

Van life in the UK

In the UK, Van Life differs greatly from that of some other countries. It isn’t practical to pull up in a huge bus sized vehicle due to the size of roads and availability of sites to accept such a large motorhome. This is where things get much more compact.

Firstly, many people choose to base their camper on a small van such as the classic VW or Ford Transit Custom. Essentially this means space is at a premium. You definitely need to pack and travel light. Secondly, this means items that are more versatile are better and in addition, items that require less energy or resources to utilise. e.g. Packing your (preferably clean) clothes into a pillow case which you can use as a pillow too.

Soap for road trips

With space and water being at a premium you need a good solid effective soap.

Grizzly Bars are good for washing face, body and hair with the added benefit of being easy to rinse. This helps to further reduce waste water when washing and save something which can be a precious resource. I may be able to go without a shower but not a coffee !

Lastly, although having your own shower is great, you will often find at some point in a road trip you will give in and go to a camp site for a little extra comfort and use of the facilities. Either way you will need something effective for washing with. Have a look at the range of soaps in my shop and take advantage of a discount to try a few different bars on your next adventure.

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Essential Oils vs Fragrance Oils

Essential Oils vs Fragrance Oils

Thinking about Natural vs Synthetic in current times seems to form an immediate impression. We automatically assume that a Natural product is better than Man Made. However, is this the case and what are the positives and negatives when it comes to Essential Oils vs Fragrance Oils.

Are Essential Oils better for the planet because they’re Natural or are Fragrance Oils better because they require less resources ?

Let’s explore as much as we can find and see what the facts are. I suspect there is no clear cut winner and it will come down to individual applications.

Essential Oils vs Fragrance Oils
Essential Oils vs Fragrance Oils

What is the Difference ?

The main difference between Essential and Fragrance Oils is that Essential = Natural and Fragrance = Synthetic. Firstly, Essential Oils are made from natural ingredients where Fragrance Oils are often synthesized.

Essential OilsFragrance Oils
NaturalSynthetic
Aromatic Plant PartsSynthetic components & Aromatic Plant Parts
Has natural medicinal & aromatherapeutic benefits, can have longer shelf lifeCan replicate aromas not found in nature, lower cost to produce
Can have negative side effects, generally more costly to produceUsually shorter shelf life, no medicinal benefits
Vanilla, Peppermint, LavenderCandy, Fresh Linen, Pumpkin Spice
Essential Oils vs Fragrance Oils

Medicinal or Therapeutic properties may be found in Essential Oils. Unfortunately some can also carry unwanted side effects, usually in the form of allergens. On the other hand this does not mean Fragrance oils are allergen free. Fragrance Oils can be made up of many different chemical compounds.

Both types of Oil are regulated for use within the EU and have safe limits along with guidance for safe usage.

Is one better than the other ?

This is a very hard question to answer. Furthermore, it is very subjective. In some instances you want the benefits of essential oils but not the side effects.

On the other hand you can argue that although fragrance oils are synthetic they have no impact on commercial farming. This is something I have looked into and thought about deeply without currently coming to a conclusion. Some of the soaps I make are all natural, some contain natural and some are all synthetic. Whilst farming and processing one oil may be harmful, another may be harmless and it is dependant upon the source.

Lastly, check out the range of soaps in my shop and leave me feedback on which you prefer after trying them !