Our soap

What makes your soap different from shop-bought soap?

Our soaps are made by hand in small batches using the cold-process method. Each batch is poured, cut by hand and then left to cure for 6–8 weeks. This slow rest lets the bars become hard, mild and long-lasting. Because nothing is removed during the process, the bars keep their natural glycerine, which gives them a softer, more comfortable feel on the skin than many commercial bars.

What does “curing” mean, and why does it take so long?

Curing is the resting time after a soap is made. Over 6–8 weeks, the extra water evaporates and the soap finishes its natural change from oils to a gentle bar. A well-cured bar is milder, harder and lasts longer, so we never rush it.

What’s in your soaps?

Every product page lists the full ingredients, so you know exactly what you’re using. Our body bars are made with nourishing plant oils and shea butter, with additions like oats, honey, kaolin clay and essential oils. Our limited-edition tallow bar is made with beef tallow, which is clearly marked on its page.

I have sensitive skin. Which soap should I choose?

We suggest starting with Honey Oats Veil, our unscented bar with oats, honey and plant-based milk. If you enjoy a light scent, Calm Complexion is made with aloe vera and kaolin clay, with a soft herbal blend of essential oils. Everyone’s skin is different, so please read the ingredients and patch test on your inner arm before first use. Our soaps are for everyday care and aren’t a treatment for skin conditions. If you’re unsure, check with your doctor.

Why does my soap look slightly different from the photo?

Every bar is made by hand from natural and herbal ingredients, so colour, swirl, scent and shape can vary a little between batches. No two batches are exactly alike. We think that’s part of the charm.

How do I make my soap last longer?

Keep it dry between uses. Use a soap dish with drainage holes or ridges, keep it out of the shower stream, and let it air-dry. Cutting a bar in half and using one piece at a time also helps. A well-cared-for bar lasts for weeks.

Are your products cruelty free?

Yes. We never test our products on animals. We test them on ourselves, our family and friends. Most of our body bars are plant-based, but Honey Oats Veil contains honey and our limited-edition tallow bar contains beef tallow, so those two aren’t vegan.

Can I use the Lemon Kitchen Soap Bar on my skin?

No. The Lemon Kitchen Soap Bar is not for body use. It’s an all-purpose household cleaning bar for floors, bathrooms, dishes and surfaces, and it’s too strong for skin. Please use one of our body soaps for washing.

Orders, payment and delivery

How do I pay?

We accept EFT (direct bank transfer) only. After you place your order, our bank details appear on the confirmation page and in your order email. Please use your order number as the reference, and email your proof of payment to info@thymenthistle.co.za if you can. Your order is reserved for 3 days while we wait for payment.

How much is delivery, and which couriers do you use?

Delivery is a flat rate of R150 anywhere in South Africa. We send orders with PUDO, PAXI or The Courier Guy, depending on the size of your order and where it’s going. Orders are packed within 2–5 working days once your payment has reflected. Full details are in our Shipping Policy.

Can I return something?

Yes. You can return unused, sealed products within 7 days of receiving them. Return shipping is for your account. For hygiene reasons we can’t take back opened or used soap. If anything arrives damaged, faulty or wrong, let us know with photos and we’ll replace it or refund you. See our Returns & Refunds Policy.

Do your soaps make good gifts?

Absolutely. Our soaps are lovely gifts for birthdays, Mother’s Day, teachers, thank-yous or just because. Whispers of Lavender and Amber Petals are especially thoughtful choices. We’re happy to send your order as a gift straight to someone else. Simply enter their name and delivery address as the shipping address at checkout.

Where are you based?

We’re a small, handmade business based in Secunda, Mpumalanga, and we deliver all over South Africa. Questions are always welcome. Email info@thymenthistle.co.za or WhatsApp us on +27 62 267 9583.