Now that Christmas is over, I am taking a much-needed rest. Although I absolutely love the holidays, hosting 40+ for a big buffet dinner and Open House is pretty stressful! Add in the shopping, wrapping, cleaning, and baking… and taking a few days off afterward is absolutely essential. In addition to a series of decadent, long naps over the post-Christmas weekend, one of my favorite de-stressing methods is a long, hot soak in the tub. And, over the years, I have amassed a large collection of relaxing bubble baths, decadent bath salts, bath oils, and specialty handmade soap.
In fact, I am something of a soap connoisseur. From ultra-smooth, triple-milled French and Italian bars, to earthy oatmeal and honey exfoliating soaps, I have used dozens and dozens of combinations. (My philosophy is, why use basic Dove when you can bathe with the same Rance soap commissioned by Napoleon for Empress Josephine?)
So, when I was given the chance to try an Indian Citrus Bar from Subtle Body Essentials, I knew that post-holiday was the perfect opportunity!
The Indian Citrus bar is a very fragrant soap. There are notes of blood orange and bergamot orange, tangerine, lemongrass and lime, plus spicy rosemary. But, the scent is not overpowering, which I appreciate. (I once had a rose soap that I actually threw away because the scent was so overwhelming.)
The bar also has a moderate lather – not as rich and creamy as soaps containing lots of lotion, but certainly not as stingy as glycerin-based bars. And, the soap actually includes lots of beneficial oils for the skin, 85% of which are certified organic. Olive oil for smooth skin, plus coconut and sustainable palm oil make this a great choice for either face or body.
The only feature I would change is the color, which stained my white washcloths. I have had this happen with other soaps, as well. But it is worth noting.
The Indian Citrus bar is available on Amazon and Subtle Body Essentials makes many other scents, as well, including (one of my personal faves) lavender.
Now, I am ready for another long nap!
Love jewelry, handbags, and fashion? WIN THEM! Please take some time to enter our current fashion, beauty and style giveaways. And, if you enjoyed this Handmade Soap post, please visit Women’s Health and Beauty for even more beauty essentials, trends and inspiration.
NEED A PRODUCT REVIEW? Have a fashion, beauty or style product line and want an honest evaluation, or if you would like to create a giveaway or promotion? Please contact us.
PHOTOS: Handmade Soap images used with permission by Subtle Body Essentials.
DISCLAIMER: No financial compensation was received in exchange for this post. I did, however, receive a sample of the handmade soap mentioned above in order to fully evaluate the product. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I believe will be good for my readers.
Susan Said… WHAT?! is your guide to a life filled with style. From must-have fashion and accessories, to gorgeous gardens, stunning interiors, plus the latest products for parties, weddings, and events of all kinds. Susan Conforte McNeill is an author, entrepreneur, and co-founder of the literacy organization Success Won’t Wait! Susan Said…WHAT?! was named one of the Top 50 Beauty Blogs in the World by RebateZone.com.