Lather is a personal care brand that provides access to various formulations across skin, hair, and body care categories. The brand positions itself to tackle multiple concerns, such as sensitivity to artificial ingredients, environmental stressors affecting skin health, and common haircare concerns (such as thinning or scalp buildup).
The Lather offerings cover daily essentials like cleansers, moisturizers, shampoos, body washes, deodorants, scrubs, facial masks, and toners. Beyond these, Lather also provides access to travel-friendly kits, gift bundles, and wellness essentials (such as workout, sleep, or bath essentials).
In this review, we provide a detailed overview of the Lather brand, covering aspects like its bestselling formulations, core philosophy, ingredient transparency, advantages, and potential brand limitations. The review also compares Lather with similar brands to understand how Lather positions itself in the clean beauty market.
Founded in 1999 by Emilie D. Hoyt, Lather was developed to offer personal care formulations with clean ingredients and no synthetic fragrances, drawing from natural aromatherapy and plant-based principles.
Across its portfolio, Lather offers several formulations across categories like face, body, and haircare. In the face care category, Lather offers formulations like Cucumber & Ginseng Facial Mist, Sweet Almond Face Moisturizer, and Citrus Balancing Toner. For the bodycare essentials, the brand offers formulations like Bamboo Lemongrass Body Wash, Hand Therapy, and Mint Thyme Body Wash. Under the haircare category, some flagship formulations by Lather include Avocado Mint Hair Repair, Bamboo Lemongrass Hair Wash, and Hair Appoint-Mint.
The manufacturers state that Lather maintains a commitment to cruelty-free practices (indicated by its PETA certification), providing that no animal testing occurs at any stage of product development. Lather also claims that it avoids the use of harmful ingredients such as parabens, sulfates, mineral oil, and synthetic fragrances across its entire product lineup.
Lather’s Mint Thyme Hair Wash may help gently cleanse your hair and scalp. The manufacturer states that Mint Thyme Hair Wash may be particularly compatible if you have fine or oily hair type.
As per the official site, Mint Thyme Hair Wash contains botanical extracts like chamomile, cucumber, and olive leaf. Chamomile has an apigenin flavonoid that may help calm scalp inflammation and support a healthier scalp environment. Olive leaf extract contains oleuropein, which might support scalp circulation and offer antimicrobial effects, potentially reducing buildup.
The makers included peppermint and thyme essential oils in Lather’s Mint Thyme Hair Wash. Peppermint oil contains menthol, which may stimulate cold receptors in the skin and increase blood flow to hair follicles. Thyme essential oil includes a thymol compound that has antifungal and antibacterial properties that may help protect the scalp from infections.
For use, the makers suggest applying Mint Thyme Hair Wash to wet hair. Post-application, you are to lather and then rinse your hair thoroughly with warm water.
Sweet Almond Face Moisturizer may help restore moisture levels in your skin without leaving behind a greasy feel. The makers state that Sweet Almond Face Moisturizer may be compatible with multiple skin types, such as dry, combination, sensitive, or mature skin.
Sweet Almond Face Moisturizer has sweet almond, macadamia nut, and avocado, containing essential fatty acids and vitamin E. The essential fatty acids could strengthen the lipid matrix of the skin barrier, contributing to improved hydration. Vitamin E in these oils may act as a lipid-soluble antioxidant that might protect your skin cells from oxidative damage.
Sweet Almond Face Moisturizer also contains extracts such as pomegranate, rosemary, chamomile, and white tea. These extracts may help decrease free radicals, which are unstable molecules that could damage skin cells and accelerate premature skin aging. The makers also added panthenol (pro-vitamin B5) and allantoin, which may help support skin barrier repair by promoting keratinocyte synthesis and soothing inflammation.
According to the official site, Lather’s Ultra Mild Face Wash provides a foaming base, which may help remove makeup, oil, and surface impurities without disrupting your skin’s natural moisture barrier. The makers state that Ultra Mild Face Wash is free from parabens, sulfates, mineral oil, and color, which could make it compatible for use on multiple skin types.
Ultra Mild Face Wash includes ingredients like aloe vera, pomegranate, and white tea extract. Aloe vera contains polysaccharides and amino acids that may help retain moisture in the skin and support the repair of the outer skin layer (stratum corneum).
Pomegranate comprises ellagic acid and punicalagins, which are antioxidants that may help promote skin regeneration by supporting fibroblast activity. White tea contains catechins like epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG), which may help neutralize free radicals and reduce the breakdown of elastin and collagen. Such effects might help support firm and smooth skin.
Muscle Ease Gel with Botanical Pain Relievers aims to support temporary relief from minor muscle aches, joint discomfort, and tension. It is available in a 4-oz jar, with a Travel Trio pack containing three tubes (2-oz each) of the Muscle Ease Gel.
As per the official site, the Muscle Ease Gel with Botanical Pain Relievers formula contains menthol and camphor. Menthol works by activating cold-sensitive TRPM8 receptors in the skin, which creates a cooling sensation that may help decrease the perception of pain. Camphor may stimulate nerve endings and increase local blood flow, producing a warming effect that might help relax stiff muscles and ease discomfort.
The makers also added capsicum fruit extract that contains the capsaicin compound, which may provide a warming sensation that may assist in blocking pain signals. Beyond these ingredients, Muscle Ease Gel with Botanical Pain Relievers also includes witch hazel and yucca root.
Witch hazel contains tannins that may function as natural astringents, which might help reduce inflammation by tightening tissues and improving the skin barrier function. Yucca root comprises saponins, which are compounds that could deliver anti-inflammatory effects and support joint comfort.
For use, the makers suggest applying a small amount of Muscle Ease Gel to the affected area up to 3–4 times daily and massaging until fully absorbed. It’s recommended to wash hands after each application.
Lather’s Almond Shave Crème aims to support a smoother shave experience while helping minimize post-shave irritation. It is compatible for use on sensitive or easily irritated skin, as the creamy texture of the foam may allow the razor to move more easily across the skin. Such effects might help minimize the chance of nicks, redness, or discomfort.
Almond Shave Crème includes sweet almond oil, which possesses nutrients like vitamin E, omega fatty acids, and proteins. These nutrients may help soften the skin and provide antioxidant support. Glycerin might help keep your skin hydrated during shaving and may reduce dryness or tightness afterward.
The makers added coconut oil in Almond Shave Crème, which may support your skin’s lipid barrier and have mild antimicrobial effects. Stearic acid is also included as an emollient and surfactant, which might help soften your skin and stabilize the creamy texture of the shave crème.
Toning Eye Gel with Peptides could help firm the delicate skin around your eyes and minimize sagging. It may be beneficial in fading the appearance of puffiness and dark circles, providing hydration to the under-eye skin area. The makers state that Toning Eye Gel with Peptides may be compatible for use on dry, combination, oily, or sensitive skin.
As per the official site, Toning Eye Gel contains a mix of palmitoyl pentapeptide-5 and acetyl tetrapeptide-5 peptides. These peptides work to firm the skin by stimulating collagen production, which could help diminish the appearance of fine lines over time.
The makers also integrated niacin (vitamin B3) in Toning Eye Gel with Peptides, which may help brighten the under-eye area by improving skin tone and texture. Other ingredients like green tea extract and spirulina may provide antioxidant protection, helping to defend your skin against oxidative stress and environmental damage.
Bamboo Lemongrass Foaming Body Scrub may help exfoliate and cleanse your skin simultaneously. It may produce a light foam while physically buffing away surface buildup, which might support smoother-feeling skin.
The formula features bamboo stem powder and walnut shell powder, which may work as mechanical exfoliants by creating friction that could help eliminate dead skin cells from the stratum corneum. Such a physical exfoliation might help unclog skin pores by dislodging trapped sebum and debris.
Hydrolyzed sweet almond protein is included in Bamboo Lemongrass Foaming Body Scrub to support hydration and soften the skin's surface. Fruit extracts like lemon, orange, apple, pineapple, and coconut are also added to the body scrub. These fruit extracts contain natural enzymes and alpha hydroxy acids (like citric and malic acid), which may break down the bonds between dead skin cells. Such effects may encourage mild chemical exfoliation and potentially help brighten dull skin.
Bamboo Lemongrass Foaming Body Scrub is scented with lemongrass oil and complemented by essential oils and botanicals like vetiver, tangerine leaf, and ylang ylang. For use, you should stir well before each application to evenly distribute ingredients. The makers suggest applying Bamboo Lemongrass Foaming Body Scrub to wet skin in circular motions, allowing it to foam lightly, then rinsing thoroughly.
Lather’s Vitamin C Peptide Renewal serum is formulated to support skin brightness, texture, and resilience. As per the official site, it contains ascorbyl glucoside (which is known as a stable form of vitamin C), which might support collagen synthesis and improve skin luminosity.
Vitamin C Peptide Renewal also includes peptides like alpha oligopeptide-6 and alpha palmitoyl pentapeptide-5. These peptides may help stimulate fibroblast activity, which could support skin repair and renewal. Sodium hyaluronate is also included as it binds water molecules in the skin, which may improve hydration and support skin volume and smoothness.
The makers also added botanical extracts like grapefruit cell extract and saccharomyces cerevisiae extract, which offer antioxidant properties that may assist in suppressing the effects of daily environmental exposure on skin. For use, the makers suggest applying Vitamin C Peptide Renewal serum to clean skin, particularly on your face and neck, before moisturizer or sunscreen.
Australian Plum Night Crème by Lather aims to support overnight hydration and skin recovery, particularly if you are dealing with dry, tired, or aging skin. It comprises Terminalia ferdinandiana (Kakadu plum) fruit extract, a source of vitamin C that may help lower oxidative stress and support collagen synthesis. These effects might help minimize the appearance of fine lines and environmental skin damage.
The Australian Plum Night Crème contains trifluoroacetyl tripeptide-2, a peptide that may help maintain skin elasticity by suppressing collagen degradation. For moisture retention and surface hydration, sodium hyaluronate is added, which might help provide your skin with a plump appearance.
Emollients such as shea butter, safflower oil, and caprylic/capric triglyceride may contribute to skin softness and suppleness. Other ingredients in Australian Plum Night Crème feature grape seed extract, which may help protect the skin from oxidative damage and calm inflammation. The base of phospholipids, glycerin, and propanediol could help maintain hydration and potentially enhance the delivery of other ingredients in Australian Plum Night Crème.
As per the official site, Lather holds certifications from Leaping Bunny and PETA, certifying Lather’s status as a cruelty-free brand. These certifications reflect brand-wide policies, not just those of specific product lines. Lather also claims that it does not conduct animal testing at any stage of its product development.
Other competitive brands like Ursa Major and Herbivore Botanicals also emphasize commitment to cruelty-free practices, refusing to conduct or commission animal testing at any stage. However, Lather is an independently owned business. Such independence may offer added assurance that the brand’s cruelty-free policy is consistently applied, without influence from parent companies that may follow different practices.
Lather’s cruelty-free stance may strengthen the brand’s position in the ethical beauty space. It may allow you to make purchasing decisions with greater confidence knowing that the brand follows ethical sourcing and animal welfare standards.
Lather maintains an established presence in the spa and hospitality sector. As per the official site, Lather is the official Bath and Body Provider of Forbes Travel Guide, which could imply that the brand is recognized within the global hospitality industry for meeting the expectations of high-end hotel and spa environments.
The brand maintains partnerships with reputable hospitality groups, including Preferred Hotels & Resorts and Select Registry. As per Lather’s blogs, its formulations are used in notable luxury properties, such as the Andaz Costa Rica Resort, Hotel Arista, and ARIA Sky Suites. Through these partnerships, Lather has built a strong reputation in the hospitality world.
When compared to Lather, the formulations from Ursa Major and Herbivore Botanicals brands may be found in select boutique spas or retail outlets. However, these brands do not have the extensive hospitality programs or partnerships in the spa or hotel sector as Lather.
The established spa and hospitality presence of Lather may give you confidence that the formulations from Lather are the same ones trusted by leading hotels and spas, aligning with consistent industry standards.
Although Lather promotes the use of clean ingredients, cruelty-free practices, and the exclusion of synthetic fragrances, the brand does not provide any indication that its formulations undergo dermatologist testing or clinical trials. Across the official website of Lather, there is no reference to terms like “dermatologist-tested,” “clinically evaluated,” or any scientific studies that verify the safety or performance of the brand’s offerings.
Such a lack of third-party dermatological validation may be a particular disadvantage. It may leave you with fewer reliable points of reference when deciding whether Lather products are suitable for your skin, especially if you have sensitivities or prefer formulations with research-backed efficacy.
The formulas from the Lather brand have inconsistent availability across retail chains in the USA. As per the official site, Lather maintains retail availability in select retail locations in cities like Pasadena, Long Beach, Phoenix, and inside Atlanta International Airport, along with a few airport shops.
Beyond these limited retail spaces, Lather’s offerings lack visibility in large, national multi-brand retailers like Sephora, Ulta Beauty, or Whole Foods. Lather has chosen to rely heavily on its website and a few wellness-focused venues and boutique hotel partners for distribution.
On the other hand, the formulations from the Ursa Major brand are accessible in several beauty retail outlets in multiple U.S. states, such as Maine, Massachusetts, Rhode Island, New Hampshire, and New York. Similarly, Herbivore Botanicals benefits from extensive placement in national retail chains like Sephora and various affiliated retail outlets in the U.S.
If you prefer to shop in person, compare products side by side, or discover new brands while browsing in mainstream stores, Lather’s absence from major retail shelves could make this difficult. Unless you reside near one of Lather’s few store locations or stay at a partner hotel, your only real option is to shop online.
When comparing Ursa Major and Lather, both differ notably in the range of their offerings and core focus. While both brands offer targeted formulations that span categories like face, body, and haircare, Ursa Major extends its product lineup into SPF protection, hand care, and deodorants. Meanwhile, Lather integrates a broader approach under wellness categories like Bath Essentials, Sleep Essentials, Muscle Ease, and Wellness Balms. It also provides access to gift bundles and Travel Ready packs, aligning its range more with spa and self-care routines.
On comparing bestselling formulations across similar categories, both brands present staples like moisturizers, serums, and deodorants. For instance, Ursa Major features flagship formulations like the Mountain Glow Serum, Golden Hour Recovery Cream, Forest Alchemy Eye Cream, and Hoppin’ Fresh Deodorant. Similarly, some of Lather’s bestselling offerings include the Vitamin C Peptide Renewal, Sweet Almond Face Moisturizer, and Lavender & Bergamot Deodorant Crème.
In terms of certifications and standards, Ursa Major holds a Certified B Corporation status, which highlights its commitment to verified environmental and social responsibility practices. The brand also states that all its formulations are made using cruelty-free practices. Meanwhile, Lather does not hold a B Corp certification. However, the brand claims a cruelty-free stance, which is evident by its third-party certifications from PETA and Leaping Bunny.
In terms of price positioning, there are some points of difference between the Ursa Major and Lather brands. For example, one 10-fl oz (295ml) bottle of Ursa Major’s Go Easy Shampoo is priced at $28 as part of a one-time purchase. On the other hand, one bottle (236ml) of Mint Thyme Hair Wash from Lather costs $20.
The brands Herbivore Botanicals and Lather differ in the scope of their formulation offerings and categories covered. Herbivore maintains a focused approach, centering on skincare and bath and body care essentials, without any haircare line. The brand’s collection spans facial oils, serums, moisturizers, exfoliants, soaps, and scrubs. Some bestseller formulations from Herbivore Botanicals include the PHOENIX Deep Renewal Facial Oil, NOVA 15% Vitamin C + Turmeric Brightening Serum, LAPIS Balancing Facial Oil, and EMERALD Calming Facial Oil.
On the other hand, Lather adopts a more expansive strategy, offering a tri-category portfolio that includes face, body, and haircare essentials, along with wellness items such as sleep essentials, deodorants, and muscle relief products. Some flagship formulations from Lather include the Ultra Mild Face Wash, Toning Eye Gel with Peptides, Bamboo Lemongrass Body Wash, Muscle Ease Gel with Botanical Pain Relievers, and Mint Thyme Hair Wash.
Herbivore Botanicals focuses exclusively on skincare and bath luxuries, with no wellness or apothecary-style offerings. On the other hand, Lather integrates holistic wellness into its product line, with items like Muscle Ease Bath Salts, sleep-enhancing oils (like Quiet Night Relaxing Balm), and deodorants (Lavender & Bergamot Deodorant Crème).
In terms of pricing, there are some contrasts between the formulations from Herbivore Botanicals and Lather brands. For instance, one 12-g tube of Dream Jelly Strawberry Lip Balm from Herbivore Botanicals costs $18 as part of a one-time purchase. Meanwhile, one tube of Lip Conditioning Balm from Lather is available at $11.
To evaluate Lather’s brand reputation, we looked at both its background and its standing across independent review platforms. Established in 1999, Lather has been operating for over two decades, providing a clean and synthetic-free approach to personal care.
However, when assessing third-party reputation indicators, the picture is more mixed. On the Better Business Bureau (BBB), Lather holds an “A+” rating, which reflects positively on its transparency and customer complaint resolution practices.
Meanwhile, Lather’s profile on Trustpilot remains unclaimed, and no brand page exists on Reviews.io, both of which are reputable review platforms to gauge a brand’s trustworthiness. On TenereTeam, Lather holds a 4.7 out of 5 score on TenereTeam, but the rating is based on just nine publicly accessible reviews, limiting its weight as a credibility metric.
When evaluating Lather, we assessed the real customer experiences of two of Lather’s popular formulations on Amazon to provide insights into how the brand performs in daily routines.
Many customers who tried the Almond Shave Crème expressed that it helped them achieve a soft and hydrated feel post-shaving, often eliminating the need for a separate moisturizer. Users also praised the light almond scent for leaving a subtle and pleasant aroma. However, some consumers described Almond Shave Crème as having a “weird” texture, while a few customers experienced skin irritation and redness after a single use, attributing it to alcohol in the formula.
Lather’s Mint Thyme Hair Wash received a mostly favorable response on Amazon. Customers consistently praised the natural mint fragrance and the way it left their hair feeling light, voluminous, and residue-free. It was especially well-received by consumers with fine or short-to-medium textured hair. However, a few users found Mint Thyme Hair Wash slightly drying, while some expressed dissatisfaction with its pricing, especially in comparison to conventional shampoos.
Lather’s philosophy revolves around clean beauty, omitting synthetic fragrances, and providing a sensorial self-care experience. The brand also maintains a commitment to ethical practices, which is evident by its cruelty-free status indicated through third-party certifications from Leaping Bunny and PETA.
However, Lather does not disclose if its formulations undergo dermatologist testing or clinical trials, and there is no mention of third-party scientific evaluation across its website. Such absence of dermatological backing may be concerning, particularly if you have sensitive skin, skin allergies, or a preference for clinically validated formulations.
Moreover, Lather’s retail availability is restricted to select affiliated outlets and boutique partnerships in the U.S. The Lather brand’s offerings are not available in major large-scale retail outlets like Sephora or Ulta, creating friction if you prefer in-person shopping.
The efficacy and safety of Lather formulas may likely depend on factors like your specific personal care needs, skin type, comfort with ingredient transparency in the absence of clinical support, and frequency of use. Reviewing full ingredient lists, patch testing, and evaluating how Lather’s positioning aligns with your needs may help you make a more informed purchase decision.
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