Frequently Asked Questions
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About Our Products
Where are ZEBRA products made?
ZEBRA oral care, personal care products, and cosmetic products are proudly made in the USA, with the exception of the dental floss and toothbrush, which are produced in Italy. Non-consumable products, such as accessories or clothing, may be sourced globally. However, American-made is always our goal and preference.
Why doesn't ZEBRA use hydroxyapatite in its products?
At ZEBRA, we take a very conservative approach to ingredient safety, especially for products used daily in the mouth. While hydroxyapatite is often marketed as a natural alternative to fluoride, we have chosen not to include either micro or nano hydroxyapatite in our formulations.
Much of the available safety data on hydroxyapatite, particularly nano-sized hydroxyapatite, is based on short-term or animal studies. Long-term, independent, and unbiased human safety studies specific to daily oral care use are still limited. We also believe it is important to consider who funds certain safety studies and who ultimately benefits from their outcomes. In some cases, research has been supported by patent holders or parties with a financial interest in the widespread adoption of micro or nano hydroxyapatite, which is an important factor we take into account when evaluating risk.
There are also unanswered questions about how micro and nano particles behave in the human body over time. Smaller particles may bioaccumulate, potentially collecting in organs and tissues, and the long-term effects of this accumulation are not yet fully understood. Because oral care products are used every day and swallowed in trace amounts, we approach this area with heightened caution.
Additionally, both micro and nano hydroxyapatite work by forming a calcium-based lattice or coating on the surface of the teeth. While this may offer short-term cosmetic or protective effects, we have concerns that creating a persistent mineral barrier could interfere with the mouth's natural design. Saliva plays a critical role in delivering minerals, supporting enamel health, and maintaining balance in the oral environment. We believe honoring this natural process is essential, and that disrupting it may have unintended long-term consequences.
Beyond published studies, we also place real value on consumer experience. We have heard from thousands of customers who previously used hydroxyapatite-based products and reported negative effects such as gray spotting, staining, black discoloration of teeth, increased sensitivity, and in some cases increased cavity formation. While individual experiences vary and these reports are anecdotal, we believe lived experience matters and deserves consideration alongside laboratory data.
For ZEBRA, the absence of long-term unbiased human safety studies, potential bioaccumulation concerns, conflicts of interest within existing research, disruption of the body's natural design, and consistent consumer feedback make hydroxyapatite a risk we are not willing to take.
Our philosophy is simple. Unless an ingredient works in harmony with the body as it was designed, we do not include it.
Do ZEBRA products expire?
We recommend using ZEBRA products within one year of purchase.
Are the products gluten-free?
Yes!!! Our founder’s daughter has celiac disease so our products contain gluten-free ingredients. They may however be produced in a facility that also processes wheat.
Are your products vegan and cruelty-free?
All of our products are cruelty free and never tested on animals. However, our deodorant and floss use beeswax, so not technically vegan.
Are ZEBRA products heavy metal tested?
Heavy metals and other contaminants are an important issue in the personal care industry, and product safety is always a top priority for us.
ZEBRA products undergo extensive heavy metals testing as part of our quality and safety program. We work with accredited, independent third-party laboratories to test our formulas for commonly regulated heavy metals, including lead, arsenic, cadmium, and mercury. Based on our historical third-party testing, our toothpaste results have consistently shown extremely low levels, historically at or below 0.001 parts per million (ppm) per serving for each tested heavy metal.
Because our toothpaste contains naturally derived ingredients and minerals used for remineralization, trace amounts of heavy metals can occur, similar to what is found naturally in many foods such as vegetables and fruits that are grown in the ground. Our sourcing standards and formulation are intentionally designed to minimize these trace levels as much as possible while still delivering a toothpaste that effectively performs its intended function.
In addition to routine heavy metals testing, our formulas are evaluated to meet California Proposition 65 compliance, which applies more stringent safety thresholds for heavy metals than current federal requirements.
We make intentional sourcing and packaging decisions, such as using a bio-based sugarcane plastic tube for lip gloss and toothpaste rather than conventional petroleum-based plastic, because we believe these choices contribute to overall product safety and quality.
For added transparency, each product page on our website includes a chart outlining the testing performed and Prop 65 compliance information.
Our goal is to go beyond minimum requirements and continuously monitor our products so customers can feel confident in the safety and quality of ZEBRA.
Why is the Birthday Cake Toothpaste more expensive?
The Birthday Cake toothpaste is more expensive because it costs significantly more to produce, which is by design. We unapologetically source the highest-grade organic vanilla flavor and real natural vanilla planifolia, which is one of the most costly raw ingredients in the world.
True vanilla planifolia is more expensive by weight than silver, is extraordinarily labor-intensive to grow and harvest, and requires hand pollination by humans. We also choose to source it outside of China to ensure the utmost level of purity, traceability, and quality. That decision alone dramatically increases cost, but it's non-negotiable for us.
Most companies cut costs by using artificial vanilla, non-organic "natural flavors," or lower-grade substitutes. We do not. We refuse to compromise ingredient integrity, especially in products designed for children. The result is a toothpaste that is cleaner, purer, and fundamentally different from mass-market alternatives.
Will temperature affect ZEBRA products?
Yes! Our products are formulated without toxic solubilizers and stabilizers, so extreme cold and extreme heat will affect the product. Please allow product to come to room temperature before using.
Safety, Families, & Kids
Are ZEBRA products safe for kids and teens?
Yes! Our products are non-toxic and formulated with kids in mind. Supervision is recommended for oral care products and we always recommend keeping products out of reach for children and pets.
Do your deodorants work on sensitive skin?
We have two formulas for Deodorant. We recommend our no baking soda deodorant for those with sensitive skin.
What if my pet gets into a product?
We recommend contacting a Veterinary Doctor as Xylitol is not recommended for Pets.
Shipping & Returns
How long does shipping take?
Orders typically arrive within 4-10 days. Please note during peak shipping seasons carrier times may very. Shipments to Alaska and Hawaii will take 3 weeks.
Can I return my order?
ZEBRA orders ship almost immediately and are final sale.