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Questions? We’ve got answers.


Welcome to our FAQ page — your go-to guide for all things Aardvel. Whether you’re curious about our ingredients, shipping options, product care, or our sustainability ethos, you’ll find everything you need right here. We’ve gathered your most common questions and answered them with care and clarity.


Still wondering about something? Don’t hesitate to get in touch — we’re always happy to help.

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What are the benefits of using cold-process soap?

Cold-process soap retains natural glycerin and is made without synthetic detergents. It provides a creamy lather that moisturises while cleansing, making it ideal for dry or sensitive skin. Aardvel’s Cleansing Bloks are cold-processed with nourishing oils and organic Buchu.

How do I use a solid shampoo bar correctly?

Wet your hair thoroughly and either rub the shampoo bar directly onto your scalp or lather it in your hands before massaging into the roots. Rinse well and repeat if needed. Our pH-balanced Shampoo Bloks are designed to gently cleanse without stripping natural oils.

Are Aardvel products suitable for sensitive skin or eczema?

Yes. All Aardvel products are formulated without sulfates, parabens, synthetic fragrances, or preservatives—making them ideal for sensitive skin, eczema, and allergy-prone conditions. Our Buchu & Tea Tree Moisturising Blok and Buchu & Lavender Cleansing Blok are especially calming for irritated skin.

What is Buchu and why is it used in Aardvel products?

Buchu is a native South African botanical renowned for its anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, and antioxidant properties. At Aardvel, we infuse our solid soaps, shampoo bars, and lotion bars with organic Buchu oil to help soothe sensitive skin, combat dandruff, and support a healthy scalp and skin microbiome.

What is the shelf life of Aardvel's solid skincare bars?

When stored properly in a dry, cool place, Aardvel’s solid shampoo, soap, and lotion bars have a shelf life of up to 12–18 months. Use a draining soap dish or travel tin to extend longevity and preserve effectiveness.

Do solid lotion bars really work for dry skin and eczema?

Absolutely. Solid lotion bars offer a concentrated blend of natural butters and oils without fillers or water. They create a breathable barrier that deeply hydrates and soothes irritated skin. Aardvel’s Moisturising Bloks are especially effective for dry patches, eczema, and post-shower nourishment.

Are Aardvel’s products vegan and cruelty-free?

Yes. All Aardvel products are 100% cruelty-free, and most are vegan (except for products containing beeswax, like some of our Moisturising Bloks). We never test on animals and use ethical, plant-based ingredients wherever possible.

Is Aardvel packaging recyclable or zero waste?

All Aardvel packaging is either recyclable, compostable, or reusable. Our solid products come in minimal paperboard or aluminium tins, supporting a low-waste, plastic-free lifestyle.

Can I travel with Aardvel’s solid skincare bars?

Yes! Solid bars are TSA-friendly and perfect for travel—no liquid restrictions, no spills. Store them in one of our eco travel tins for convenience and longevity on the go.

How long will a Blok last me?

You can expect to use a block from 3 up to 6 months with regular use.

We intentionally made our block larger than usual to reduce the number of times you'll have to reorder (Fingers crossed you love it as much as we do!) This saves money, time, and the environment.

Where is Aardvel products made?

Aardvel is proudly handcrafted in small batches in South Africa, using locally sourced and organic ingredients wherever possible. Inspired by indigenous botanicals like Buchu and Rooibos, our formulations are rooted in tradition and crafted for modern conscious living.

Will the soap melt if stored in high temperatures?

No, the soap is stable and will not melt; however, if left in sunlight for an extended time, the scent may dissipate, at least on the surface. Once in use the soap will usually release its scent.

The solid skin creams should be stored at room temperature; as they are beeswax products, they will get soft if warmed, and temperature fluctuations can sometimes cause the shea butter in the balm to become grainy.

Are your soaps vegan?

Most of the bloks we offer are made with plant ingredients. Although we do add beeswax to our body cream bloks, which is not considered vegan by some.

I'm allergic to dairy. Are any of your soaps dairy-free?

Yes, all of our soap bloks are 100% vegan & dairy free.

How long does it take to make a batch of soap?

Between prepping the molds, weighing the ingredients, mixing together the oils, lye, and other additions, and pouring the soap to let it harden, it requires setting aside an afternoon to finish the recipe. Then comes slicing the logs into bars after 48 hours, storing the bars of soap on racks to allow to dry, and waiting 4-12 weeks for the soap to fully cure. The soaps are then individually beveled and packaged before they're ready for sale.