All Posts

Anhydrous means “without water.” In skincare, that translates to super-concentrated oils, butters, waxes, and active ingredients that pack a punch. Because there’s no water, these formulas are stable, potent, and preservative-light — but using them correctly makes all the difference. Read further to learn more about how they work, how to care for them, and a few insider tips to make them shine. Plus, a little reader discount awaits at the end.

Feeling that in-between February energy? ❄️ The excitement of January is gone, but spring still feels far away… How do you stay grounded? Rituals might be the answer. 🌿 Tap into simple, intentional acts that anchor your days—get inspired with some fresh ideas on this blog.

Beef tallow has surged in popularity in handmade skincare, often marketed as “ancestral” or “superior.” This article explores what tallow actually does for skin, why its benefits aren’t unique, and how thoughtfully formulated plant-based oils can deliver consistent, evidence-based results—without relying on trends or marketing hype.

Ever stepped out of the shower feeling tight or stripped? Learn how humectants like honey work alongside naturally formed glycerin in soap to support moisture and improve how skin feels after every wash.

Not all “paraben-free” labels tell the whole story. Learn what parabens really do, why they’re misunderstood, and how Douglas-Smith Soap Co. keeps your skin safe.

If you’ve ever wandered over to a skincare aisle or scrolled a soap blog, you’ve probably seen it: fragrance oils portrayed as villains and essential oils as heroes. But is it really that simple? As makers, this topic hits close to home for us at Douglas-Smith Soap Co. We handle these ingredients in their most concentrated forms, so we take safety seriously — for ourselves and for the people who use what we make. In this blog, we’ll separate the myths from the reality, explor

Soap making is more than a practical skill; it’s an art that truly shines at Douglas-Smith Soap Company in the magical town of San Marcos, TX. The cold process method elevates this craft, offering unique benefits that have captivated soap lovers (and soap wizards) everywhere. Let’s explore the cold process method, the timeline from start to finish, and its hidden perks for enthusiasts and casual users alike. Beautifully crafted Douglas-Smith Soap Bars The Chilling Charm of C

Bath salts are more than just a luxurious addition to your bathing routine; they can turn your self-care rituals into an enjoyable experience. With their soothing properties and delightful scents, bath salts uplift your mood and invite relaxation. Here are five wonderful ways to incorporate bath salts into your life. 1. Soothing Soak for Stress Relief After a long day, few rituals feel as restorative as slipping into a warm bath enriched with mineral-rich salts. Epsom salt, a

Bathing is more than just a routine; it's a rejuvenating escape. The addition of bath bombs can elevate this simple pleasure into a multi-sensory experience that offers a variety of benefits, backed by science, for both your mind and body. Pair them with a Douglas-Smith Soap Co soap bar and you've got an indelible combination. In this blog we will discuss what bath bombs are the purpose of their ingredients and top 3 reasons to use them. (we'll also make soap pairing suggest

Imagine sinking into a warm bath, the world outside fading as soothing aromas swirl around you. Every tension in your body begins to melt, and for a few blissful minutes, it’s just you—and pure relaxation. Douglas Smith Soap Co.’s signature salt blend makes this escape effortless. A powerful mix of Epsom, Dead Sea and Himalayan salts with baking soda, citric acid and hand-selected premium essential or "clean" fragrance oils; you can transform your everyday soak into a mini-re

Have you ever wondered why some soaps leave your skin feeling “soap-er” soft  while others feel a little harsh? The secret ingredient might just be something called “super fat.”   In this post we will discuss what super fat is, why it matters and where you can find soaps that contain it What is Super Fat? Super fat is simply the extra oils left behind during the soap-making process, the ones that don’t fully turn into soap. It’s intentional—and perfectly formulated to treat

Who doesn't love a good lather? That rich, cloudy foam can transform washing into a pleasurable ritual. It seems fun and makes you feel clean and refreshed, right?!... But what is lather exactly and is more lather proof of effectiveness - or proof of harmful additives? To answer these questions, we will explore the science behind lather and compare the ingredients in mass-produced soaps to the ingredients found in handmade soaps. What is Lather? Lather is the foam that form

Ever wonder what makes some soaps feel like a hug for your skin? Meet glycerin: the tiny wizard tucked inside your favorite bar. It’s truly a powerhouse ingredient; or an unsung HERO of happy, glowing skin. We like to call it the magic elixir of soap. Let's unlock the magic, shall we? In this blog post, we will explore glycerin and... its incredible benefits for your skin, how it feels during application, and why you should definitely consider trying products that contain

Once upon a time, in a little soap pot, oils met lye in a swirling dance. With a dash of alchemy and a sprinkle of patience, they transformed - never to be the same again. This enchanting process is called saponification , and it's the spell that turns simple ingredients into the bubbly bars we can't live without. While it might sound mystifying, this process is actually the foundation of many soap-making techniques used today. In this blog we will discuss what saponificatio

Traveling is an adventure filled with new experiences, beautiful sights, and unforgettable moments. But let’s face it: it can also be a bit daunting, especially when trying to pack all the essentials. That's where travel soaps come in—small, convenient, and perfect for your getaways! With a special offer for Airbnb hosts and boutique hotels, now is a perfect time to see how these little soaps can enhance your guest experience. Why Choose Travel Soaps? Travel soaps are unlike

In the hustle and bustle of gardening and cooking, personal care often falls to the wayside. After hours spent weeding, planting, or stirring up a delicious meal, treating yourself should be a priority. The Douglas-Smith Soap Loofah Scrub offers a perfect solution to unwind and pamper your skin. This unique scrub combines cleansing and exfoliation, making it an essential item for anyone who loves to get their hands dirty in the garden or kitchen. In this post, we will delve

Do you ever hesitate to purchase a handmade soap because you worry it might disappear too quickly? You’re not alone! Many soap lovers fear this issue will come true and wish for ways to keep their favorite bar around longer. Luckily, with a few straightforward practices, you can boost the lifespan of your soap and continue enjoying its delightful aroma and cleansing abilities. Read on to increase the value of your thoughtful, local purchase by discovering three effective tip

Grit in soap is not just an interesting feature; it takes your cleansing routine to a whole new level. By combining cleansing with exfoliation one to two times per week, gritty soaps help keep your skin smooth, refreshed, and glowing. In this post, we’ll look into what grit in soap is, its advantages, and how to use it safely. Additionally, we will highlight some fantastic options from Douglas-Smith Soaps. What is Grit in Soap? Grit in soap consists of tiny particles suspen

In the quest for flawless, radiant skin, we often overlook the natural wonders that the earth provides. One such marvel is beeswax, a substance that has been used in skincare for centuries. It is not only an amazing thickener but also a fantastic moisturizer and protective barrier for the skin. Understanding its benefits and how to incorporate it into your skincare routine can leave your skin feeling nourished and revitalized. The Magic of Beeswax Skincare Beeswax is a natur

Are you tired of your basic bath routine? Looking for ways to make your bathing experience feel more luxurious and enjoyable? Handcrafted bath products by Douglas-Smith Soap Co. can be the answer. With their unique ingredients and careful production methods, these items can transform your bath into a spa-like retreat in your own home. Whether you prefer luxurious bath bombs, or nourishing soaps, there is a world of unique bath essentials waiting for you to discover. Unique B