Frequently asked questions
Do you accept returns?
Because many of our products are personal-care items, we cannot accept returns of products that have been opened or used unless there is a problem with the order.
If your order arrives damaged, incorrect, or otherwise has an issue, please contact us promptly with your order information and photographs when applicable so we can help.
What is the return policy?
Our goal is for every customer to be totally satisfied with their purchase. If this isn't the case, let us know and we'll do our best to work with you to make it right.
Are any purchases final sale?
We are unable to accept returns on certain items. These will be carefully marked before purchase.
When will I get my order?
Our products are handcrafted, and processing times may vary depending on the product and current order volume. The current processing estimate will be displayed during ordering or in our shipping information.
Once your package has shipped, you'll receive the applicable tracking information.
Where do you ship?
Available shipping destinations and shipping costs are displayed during checkout based on the delivery address and products ordered.
What if my product is damaged during shipping?
Please contact us as soon as possible and include your order number and photographs of the product and packaging. We'll review the situation and work with you toward an appropriate resolution.
How much does shipping cost?
Shipping is calculated based on your location and the items in your order. You will always know the shipping price before you purchase.
Where are your products made?
Our products are handcrafted in Montana, USA by Alpine Botanicals Apothecary.
Are your products handmade?
Yes. Our soaps, skincare products, and botanical oil blends are handcrafted rather than mass-produced.
Many of our products are mixed, poured, filled, cut, or finished by hand. Because of this, you may notice subtle variations from one product or batch to another. We consider these natural differences part of the character of genuinely handcrafted products.
Are your products natural?
We formulate our products with a strong emphasis on naturally derived and botanical ingredients, including plant oils, butters, herbs, botanical extracts, clays, salts, and minerals.
Because different products serve different purposes, their formulations vary. Please refer to the ingredient list on each individual product page for complete information about what that product contains.
Are your products organic?
Some of the botanical ingredients we use are organic, but not every ingredient or finished product is necessarily certified organic.
Rather than applying the term "organic" broadly to our entire collection, we encourage customers to review the ingredient list provided for each product.
Do you use artificial fragrances?
Our products vary. Some are unscented, some receive their natural aroma from their ingredients, and others are scented with essential oils or other scent blends depending on the individual formulation.
The product description and ingredient list will identify the scent or aromatic ingredients used in each product.
Do you offer unscented products?
Yes. We offer several unscented options for customers who prefer products without added scent.
Look for Unscented in the product name or scent selection when shopping.
What is cold process soap?
Cold process soap is made by combining oils and fats with an alkaline solution through a traditional soapmaking process called saponification.
After the soap is made, our cold process bars are allowed time to cure. During curing, excess water gradually evaporates and the bar becomes firmer and longer-lasting.
Does handmade soap contain lye?
Lye—sodium hydroxide—is required to make traditional cold process soap. During soapmaking, sodium hydroxide reacts with oils through saponification to form soap.
It is therefore normal to see Sodium Hydroxide listed among the ingredients used to make a handcrafted soap.
How should I store my handmade soap?
Allow your soap to dry thoroughly between uses. A well-draining soap dish that allows air to circulate around the bar is ideal.
Avoid leaving handmade soap sitting in standing water, as this can cause the bar to soften and be used up more quickly.
Unused bars should be stored in a cool, dry place away from excessive humidity and direct sunlight.
Do your creams need to be refrigerated?
No. Our preserved skincare creams are designed to be stored at normal room temperature and do not require refrigeration.
Keep the container tightly closed and store it in a cool, dry location away from direct sunlight and excessive heat.
How long should I keep my skincare products?
For the best experience, we generally recommend using our handmade skincare products within 12 months, unless a particular product states otherwise.
Always keep the container clean and tightly closed, and avoid introducing unnecessary water or contaminants into the product.
Are your products suitable for sensitive skin?
Everyone's skin is different, and even naturally derived ingredients can cause sensitivities or allergic reactions.
If you have sensitive or reactive skin, review the complete ingredient list before purchasing and consider performing a small patch test before broader use. Discontinue use if irritation occurs.
If you have a known allergy, please do not use a product containing that ingredient.
Can I use your products if I am pregnant or nursing?
Because individual circumstances and sensitivities vary—and some products may contain essential oils or botanical ingredients—we recommend reviewing the complete ingredient list with your healthcare professional if you are pregnant, nursing, taking medication, or have a medical condition that may affect which ingredients are appropriate for you.
How can I contact Alpine Botanicals Apothecary?
If you have a question about a product, ingredients, your order, or choosing between products, we'd be happy to help.
Please contact us through our Contact Us page or the contact information provided on our website.