How often should I use Coat Elixir?
As often as you like. For maintaining coat condition, we recommend using it around 2–3 times a week as part of your normal grooming routine.
Will it make the coat greasy?
Not when used as directed. Coat Elixir is highly concentrated, so you only need 3–4 pumps in warm water. It leaves the coat soft and glossy rather than oily or artificially slick.
Can I use it before clipping?
Absolutely — it's one of our favourite ways to use it.
Hot cloth the coat the day before clipping to lift away dust and grease and condition the hair. Just make sure your horse is completely dry before you clip.
Will it clog my clippers?
No. When diluted and used as directed, Coat Elixir won't gum up your blades. We've used it before clipping everything from fine TB coats to seriously hairy cobs.
Do I need to rinse it off?
No. Coat Elixir is designed to be left in the coat so those lovely conditioning oils can stay put.
Can I use it instead of bathing?
For everyday dust, grease and winter grime, yes — that's one of the reasons we love it.
It won't replace shampoo when your horse genuinely needs a full bath, but it's brilliant for getting a much cleaner, glossier coat without repeatedly bathing.
How much should I use?
Start with 3–4 pumps in approximately ¼ bucket of warm water. You don't need much — it's concentrated.
Can I use it neat?
Yes. Use a tiny amount to add extra shine to areas such as the mane, tail and muzzle. As it's oil-based, avoid applying it neat before prolonged exposure to strong sunlight.
Is it suitable for sensitive skin?
Many horses with sensitive skin use Original Coat Elixir happily, but we'd always recommend patch testing first. If your horse is particularly sensitive or prone to itching, take a look at our Coat Elixir Comfort, specifically created with sensitive skin in mind.
What if my horse has dry, damaged or rubbed areas?
Original is brilliant for maintaining everyday coat condition, but for horses needing a little more intensive TLC, choose Coat Elixir Repair — our richer formula created for dry, compromised hair and areas prone to rubbing.
Is it vegan and cruelty-free?
Yes. Coat Elixir contains no animal-derived ingredients and, like everything at Honest Riders, is cruelty-free.
How should I store it?
Store somewhere cool and dry, away from direct sunlight.
How long will one bottle last?
This depends on how often you use it, but because you only need 3–4 pumps per application, a little goes a surprisingly long way.