Staff Answer Each preservative has a suggested usage percentage.

Staff Answer You can switch the EO, but you must check IFRA safety levels for each, as they all vary.

Staff Answer You would need to tweak the recipe to follow the suggested percentage ranges in this article: https://www.wholesalesuppliesplus.com/handmade101/business-articles/tips-for-formulating-emulsified-sugar-scrubs.aspx

Staff Answer It is the Phenonip preservative. You can choose another preservative if you wish.

Staff Answer Yes, you can make this substitution but always be sure to test your product when making any ingredient substitutions for proper performance.

Staff Answer Hi Michele,

Yes, fragrance oils and essential oils are interchangeable in this recipe. Be sure to check the IFRA safe usage rates for the essential oil you plan to use. Generally, FOs are not as strong so it might be a lighter scent in your finished product.

Staff Answer Hi Robin – We’re sorry to hear about the mess! This is an oil-based scrub so it does tend to be a bit more liquid than some other scrubs. It could be the top. The dome shape allows the foam liner to creep up a tiny bit, which could result in leaking with this type of product. If you like the dome top, perhaps pair with a press and seal liner. (continued below)

Staff Answer (continued from above) The rancid smell comes from oxidation in the oils and butter. An antioxidant is the solution for rancidity. Vitamin E is in the recipe for this purpose. Perhaps try adding a bit more if you are having an issue. Please keep in mind that we haven’t tested this suggestion.

Staff Answer This recipe has a shelf life of one year. This recipe doesn't have any water in it, which is why it doesn't have a preservative. It does have Vitamin E, which helps with the oils/butter from going rancid. If you anticipate water coming in contact with this product, for example if you keep it in the shower, then you will want to add a preservative. This product does not need to be refrigerated.

Staff Answer This product is minimally refined to retain as much of the natural benefits as possible. While this does result in a slightly stronger scent we have found that most customers are able to mask the smell and are willing to endure what remains for the added benefits it provides. If you find that the smell is too strong for your preference I would recommend switching to our Ultra Refined Shea butter. http://www.wholesalesuppliesplus.com/products/ultra-refined-shea-butter.aspx

Staff Answer Since this recipe does not contain any water you are not required to add a preservative for retail. However, since most people use scrubs in the shower where water is introduce to the product you may want to add a preservative for good measure. Optiphen plus or Germaben II E are compatible with this recipe. The recommended usage rates can be found in the learn to use information for each of these preservatives.

Staff Answer We have not tested our recipe with any of the suggestions you made so cannot say whether or not any of them will work. There is really no reason for you not to try a test batch with what you have on hand.

Staff Answer Yes, you may replace the Shea butter liquid refined with an avocado oil. The consistency may change a little.

Staff Answer 5ml equals 1 teaspoon, so you'll need 2 teaspoons of vitamin E in this recipe

Staff Answer We do not recommend using regular shea because it will thicken back up once melted. The liquid shea butter will work best for this scrub.