Frequently Asked Questions

Your Questions Answered

Welcome to our FAQ page! Below you'll find answers to the most common questions about our handcrafted botanical skincare products. Can't find what you're looking for? Contact us and we'll be happy to help.

When will my order ship?

We ship orders Monday through Wednesday only to protect the freshness and quality of our handcrafted products. This ensures your items don't sit in transit over weekends or get exposed to extreme temperatures.

• Orders placed by 12 PM (noon) Wednesday will ship that week
• Orders placed after 12 PM Wednesday will ship the following Monday
• Most orders are processed within 1-3 business days
• During holidays or high-demand periods, processing may take longer

What shipping carriers do you use?

We ship via USPS, UPS, or FedEx with tracking included on all shipments. You'll receive a shipment confirmation email with tracking information once your order ships.

Do you ship internationally?

Currently, we only ship within the Continental United States. If you're outside this area, please contact us to discuss possible accommodations.

How much does shipping cost?

Shipping costs are automatically calculated at checkout based on the weight and destination of your order.

What if my package is lost or arrives damaged?

If your package arrives damaged or is lost in transit, contact us within 7 days so we can assist you in filing a claim.

Can I return or exchange my order?

No, we do not accept returns or exchanges on any bath and body products.

This policy is in accordance with Florida Statute 501.142, which governs personal care products. All bath, body, and skincare items cannot be returned or exchanged for hygiene and safety reasons.

What if I receive a damaged or wrong product?

If your item arrives damaged, defective, or you received the wrong product, please contact us within 7 days with your order number and photos. We will replace or refund as appropriate.

What makes your products different from store-bought skincare?

Our products are:

• Scientifically formulated based on fatty acid profiles and skin lipid research
• Small-batch crafted for maximum freshness
• Handmade in Florida with quality-tested ingredients
• Formulated for skin barrier repair, not just temporary moisture

Are your products safe for sensitive skin?

Yes! Our products are designed with gentle, skin-compatible ingredients. However, we always recommend patch-testing any new product before full use, especially if you have known allergies or very sensitive skin.

Do your soaps contain lye?

Yes, all true soap is made through saponification—a chemical reaction between oils and lye (sodium hydroxide). However, there is no lye remaining in the finished soap. During the saponification process, the lye completely transforms the oils into soap and natural glycerin. Our soaps cure for 6 weeks to ensure complete saponification and a mild, gentle bar.

How long do your soaps need to cure?

All our cold-process artisan soaps cure for a minimum of 6 weeks before they're ready to use. This ensures a harder, longer-lasting bar.

Will body butters and balms melt in hot weather?

Yes, products containing butters, balms, or oils may be sensitive to heat and can melt during hot weather. We highly recommend:

• Tracking your shipment
• Bringing packages indoors promptly upon delivery
• Storing products in a cool, dry place

Nature Coast Apothecary is not responsible for melting or damage due to heat exposure.

How should I store my products?

Store all products in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. For soaps, keep them in a well-draining soap dish between uses to extend their life.

What is the shelf life of your products?

Our products are made fresh in small batches:

• Soaps: 12-18 months
• Body oils: 6-12 months
• Body butters and lotions: 6-12 months
• Facial oils: 6-9 months

Store properly and use within the recommended timeframe for best results.

What are fatty acid profiles?

Fatty acid profiles describe the specific combination of fatty acids (like linoleic acid, oleic acid, and alpha-linolenic acid) in each botanical oil. These profiles determine how the oil interacts with your skin.

We formulate based on scientific research into skin lipid composition. Different skin concerns require different fatty acid ratios, which is why we carefully select each oil for its specific benefits.

Learn more: Ingredient Benefits at a Glance →

Why do you focus on linoleic acid?

Research shows that acne-prone and aging skin contains 50-70% less linoleic acid than healthy skin. Linoleic acid (omega-6) is essential for:

• Skin barrier function
• Ceramide synthesis
• Reducing inflammation
• Regulating sebum production

Many of our products are formulated with high-linoleic oils to address these deficiencies.

Do you use essential oils and fragrances?

Some of our products contain essential oils and fragrances for fragrance and therapeutic benefits. All fragrance and essential oil usage follows safety guidelines. We also offer unscented options for those with sensitivities.

Are your products vegan?

Most of our products are 100% plant-based and vegan. However, some products contain:

• Tallow (in our Whipped Tallow Balm)
• Beeswax (in some balms)

All product pages clearly list ingredients, so you can easily identify vegan options.

See our Vegan Skincare Routine Guide →

Where do you source your ingredients?

We source high-quality botanical oils, butters, and ingredients from reputable cosmetic suppliers. All ingredients are selected for purity, quality, and their specific fatty acid profiles.

How do I use body oils?

For best results:

1. Apply to damp skin immediately after showering or bathing
2. Start with a small amount for arms and legs, more for larger areas
3. Massage in circular motions until absorbed
4. Wait 1-2 minutes before dressing

Body oils work by trapping moisture in your skin, so applying to damp skin is key!

Learn more: Power of Plant Oils →

Can I use facial oils on oily skin?

Yes! High-linoleic facial oils (like those containing hemp seed oil, rosehip oil, or grapeseed oil) are excellent for oily and acne-prone skin. They help regulate sebum production rather than adding more oil to your skin.

Shop Botanical Facial Oils →

What's the difference between body butter and lotion?

Body Butter:

• Anhydrous (no water)
• Thicker, richer texture
• Best for dry skin and nighttime use
• Longer-lasting moisture

Lotion:

• Water-based emulsion
• Lighter texture
• Absorbs quickly
• Best for daytime or normal skin

Who is Nature Coast Apothecary?

We're a small, family-run operation based in Homosassa, Florida. Our company was born from a personal need—when my wife was diagnosed with overlap syndrome, her compromised skin barrier led me to research ceramide synthesis and fatty acid profiles. The result was our first product, Satin Coast Body Oil, which transformed her skin.

Today, we're dedicated to creating science-backed, affordable barrier repair products for everyone who needs them.

Read our full story →

What does "barrier repair" mean?

Your skin barrier is the outermost layer that protects against moisture loss and environmental damage. When compromised, you may experience:

• Chronic dryness
• Sensitivity
• Redness and irritation
• Accelerated aging
• Breakouts

Our products provide the essential fatty acids your skin needs to rebuild its ceramide-rich barrier naturally.

Learn more: Understanding Your Skin →

Where are your products made?

All our products are hand-blended, quality-tested, and packaged with care in Homosassa, Florida.

Where can I learn more about botanical skincare?

Visit our Knowledge Center for:

• Comprehensive ingredient guides
• Skin concern solutions
• Fatty acid education
• Oil-by-oil profiles
• Scientific research

Do you have a blog?

Yes! Check out our Blog for:

• Skincare science articles
• Product guides
• Ingredient deep-dives
• Tips for mature skin
• Anti-aging alternatives

How can I contact you?

Contact us with any questions, concerns, or special requests. We typically respond within 1-2 business days.

Do you offer custom formulations?

Yes. If you have a specific skin concern or product request, let us know—we love hearing from our customers.

Can I visit your workshop or buy in person?

We currently operate online-only.

Still Have Questions?

We're here to help! Explore our educational resources or get in touch.