Frequently Asked Questions
why are your soaps palm free?
We don't use palm oil in our soaps because we cannot guarantee that it is sustainably sourced. Palm oil harvesting is affecting the habitat of orangutans and we think it's best just not to use it in our soaps. We use lots of cocoa butter instead, more expensive but totally worth it.
I SEE SOME OF YOUR INGREDIENTS MENTION NATURAL FRAGRANCE, ISN'T FRAGRANCE BAD?
Yes, synthetic fragrances can contain phalates and harmful ingredients. Dr. Bessette carefully chooses our natural fragrances to be free from any harmful ingredients.
How long will it take to get my order?
We ship your order within 48 hours by USPS Priority Mail. We are located in Massachusetts and depending on your location, it should arrive within 1-3 days.
WHAT IS THE STRAW LIKE MATERIAL IN MY SHIPPING BOX?
The packing material that we use is called sisal shred. It comes from the agave plant. It is completely natural, sustainable, and compostable.
where is the facial sponge in my facial beauty bar?
Our facial sponges are shipped compressed. They are made of 100% natural cellulose and look like a paper disc. Simply wet the sponge before use and voila!
what kind of oils can i mix with my salts to make a scrub?
Any oil from your kitchen will work just fine. Olive oil tends to be heavier and grapeseed oil is an excellent choice. Just mix equal parts oil and salt to make a homemade scrub. Dr. Bessette recommends using on feet, elbows, and knees and to avoid using on the face.
your soap bars are big, what if i want a smaller size?
The best part of using all natural handmade soaps is that they can be cut with a large kitchen knife. Because commercial soaps use waxes and fillers, they crumble when cut. That's how you can tell if a soap is all natural or not.
can i send a note with a gift order?
Yes! Absolutely! Just enter your gift note text in the comments box at checkout and we will hand write your note on a lovely card.
do you have a store?
Yes, we are located in the Boston Public Market at 100 Hanover Street, Boston, MA. Our store hours are from 10AM-8PM Mon-Sat and 10AM-6PM on Sundays. We also have a seasonal cart at our manufacturing facility located at 71 Greenwich Road in Ware, MA 01082. PayPal and cash are accepted.
where else can I buy dr. bessette naturals?
We are currently expanding our wholesale and will be coming soon to more retailers. You will find this information on our website. For now, we can be found online, in our retail shop at the Boston Public Market, on Faire, on Amazon, and delivery through WhatsGood.
i have very sensitive skin, what would be good for my skin?
All of our products are made with natural ingredients but Dr. Bessette recommends our Papaya soap, fragrance free soap, and our 100% olive oil milk soap. A great choice would be our Sensitive Skin Gift Set under our Gift Sets tab.
I want to get some of your products for a baby, what should i buy?
Without a doubt, our vitamin papaya bar with sweet orange essential oil is the perfect choice.