Frequently Asked Questions

Your Skincare Routine

What is the best skincare routine for women?

The best routine is the one you'll actually do — consistently, twice a day. For most women, that means four steps: cleanse and exfoliate, tone, treat, and moisturise. Morning and night, about five minutes each. That's it.

The order matters: thinnest product first, thickest last. Apply your cleanser directly to your Konjac Sponge — you get a thorough cleanse and gentle exfoliation in one step, soft enough to use every morning and night. Then Toner → Face Cream, and you're done.

For women over 30, the biggest shift is usually adding a dedicated treatment step before the moisturiser — a hydrating serum or elixir — rather than relying on moisturiser alone to do everything. Skin loses moisture faster after 30, and a serum applied to slightly damp skin makes a visible difference.

The Merindah Go to Glow Set is the complete three-step natural
skincare routine for women who want a simple, effective daily ritual. The
Hydrating Anti-Ageing Elixir is the recommended treatment step to pair with it.

What's the best natural skincare routine for women over 30?

From your late 20s onwards, skin's cell turnover starts to slow and moisture retention decreases — which means the routine that worked in your early 20s often stops delivering the same results.

It's not that your skin has turned against you. It just needs a little more support.

The foundation doesn't change: cleanse, tone, moisturise. What changes is the quality and focus of each step. A non-stripping cleanser rather than a foam. A hydrating treatment serum applied to slightly damp skin before moisturiser. A cream rich enough to seal everything in — not just sit on the surface.

Consistency over complexity, every time. A simple routine used twice daily will outperform a ten-step routine used occasionally.

The Merindah Botanicals core morning routine — Cleanse + Exfoliate → Tone → Nourish → Moisturise — is designed exactly for this. Four steps. Five minutes.

How long does it take to see skincare results?

Everyone's skin is different, so results vary — but most people notice a visible difference within the first week of consistent use.

If you're new to 100% natural skincare, your skin may take a little longer to adjust as it recalibrates from synthetic ingredients. Give it the full 21 days before drawing conclusions.

For best results, use your Merindah products morning and night as part of a daily routine. Consistency is the one thing that makes the biggest difference.

And if you don't see results after 21 days with the Go to Glow Set or Essential Beauty Pack — we'll refund you. That's our 21-Day Glowing Skin Guarantee.

Is toner necessary?

Honestly? Toner is one of the most underrated steps in a skincare routine.

A good toner removes any residue the cleanser leaves behind and adds a first layer of hydration before your serum — which means everything you apply after absorbs better and goes further. It's a step that makes a visible difference to how your skin looks and feels, and one I'd never skip.

If you want the full rundown on why toner deserves a permanent place in your routine, you can read more about the benefits of using a toner here.

The Merindah Calming Toner is designed to be gentle enough to use morning and night, and is formulated to prep the skin for the next step.

How to use rosehip oil?

Two to three drops warmed between your palms and pressed gently into skin — apply after your Elixir and before your Face Cream so the moisturiser seals it in.

What I love about rosehip oil is how versatile it is. It works beautifully on your face, but it's just as good on dry hands, elbows, knees, and heels. Massage a little into your cuticles and nails daily and you'll notice the difference quickly.

You can also use it on its own as a lightweight moisturiser if that's your preference — it absorbs well without feeling greasy.

For 20 ways to use rosehip oil, I've put them all together here.

Ingredients & What's Inside

What does '100% natural skincare' actually mean?

Every single ingredient comes from a natural source — the preservatives, the emulsifiers, and any fragrance included. No petrochemicals, no parabens, no synthetic stabilisers.

'Natural' isn't a regulated term in Australia, so it means different things to different brands. Some brands call themselves natural while still using synthetic ingredients. The only way to know is to read the full ingredient list — or buy from a brand that explains exactly what's in each product and why it's there.

At Merindah Botanicals, 100% natural includes the preservatives.
That's not standard across the industry — we're transparent about it because it
matters.

What natural ingredients are best for anti-ageing?

The most effective natural anti-ageing ingredients work across hydration, antioxidant protection, and skin appearance support. The key ones worth knowing:

Rosehip oil — rich in omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids and naturally occurring vitamin A; supports skin texture and a more even-looking tone.

Kakadu Plum — one of the world's richest natural sources of vitamin C; supports a brighter, more even-looking complexion and antioxidant protection against environmental damage.

Gotu Kola (Centella asiatica) — used in traditional medicine for thousands of years; supports the skin's appearance of firmness and resilience.

Sea Buckthorn — packed with antioxidants and omega fatty acids; supports a healthy, radiant-looking complexion.

Shea butter — deeply nourishing; helps skin look and feel soft and supple.

Jojoba oil — closely mimics the skin's natural sebum; excellent for maintaining balanced, moisturised-looking skin at any age.

Gotu Kola, sea buckthorn, shea butter, and jojoba are all found in the Merindah Hydrating Anti-Ageing Elixir — formulated specifically for women who want natural anti-ageing results without synthetic ingredients.

Do your skincare products contain gluten?

Some of our products may contain gluten. The Vitamin E used across our range may be wheat-derived, and our Luxurious Face Cream contains Wheatgerm Oil.

If you have a known gluten allergy or intolerance, we recommend checking the full ingredient list on each product page before purchasing, and patch testing before first use.

Are your skincare products nut free?

Some products contain nut-derived ingredients; like our Nourishing Hand Cream. We always recommend checking the full ingredient list on the product page before purchasing if you have a nut allergy, and doing a patch test before first use. If you're unsure about a specific product, reach out — we're happy to help you work out what's right for your skin.

Do any of the Merindah Botanicals products contain sunscreen (SPF)?

No — none of the Merindah Botanicals products contain SPF. We're a botanical skincare brand focused on hydration, skin health, and the appearance of ageing — SPF is a separate step and an important one.

Our recommendation: apply your Merindah routine first (Cleanser → Toner → Elixir → Face Cream), let it absorb for a minute or two, then apply your SPF on top as the final morning step.

Are natural preservatives as effective assynthetic ones?

Yes — when the formulation is done properly. Preservatives exist to stop microbial growth in products that contain water. Without them, a cream or serum can develop bacteria or mould, which you'd then be applying to your face.

Naturally derived preservatives — plant-based compounds, organic acids, vitamin E (tocopherol) — absolutely preserve a product effectively when used correctly. The key is formulation expertise. A well-made natural product with the right preservative system is just as safe and
shelf-stable as a conventional one.

Natural products may have a slightly shorter shelf life (12–18 months rather than 24–36 months). That's a reflection of the preservative approach, not a sign of inferior quality.

Do you use phenoxyethanol in your products?

No. Phenoxyethanol is a synthetic preservative and it has no place in our formulations. Every Merindah Botanicals product is preserved naturally — it's one of the things that makes our 100% natural claim genuine rather than just a label.

Your Skin Concerns

What if I have sensitive skin?

Our products are hypoallergenic and have been designed with sensitive skin in mind — so if you've struggled to find natural skincare for sensitive skin that doesn't cause a reaction, this is a good place to start.

That said, every person's skin is different. If you have known allergies or particularly reactive skin, we'd recommend getting in touch before purchasing so we can point you in the right direction. And as always, patch test any new product before first use.

Will the Merindah Botanicals products give me an allergic reaction?

We can't guarantee that any product will be reaction-free for every person — no brand honestly can. What we can tell you is that every Merindah Botanicals product is 100% natural, free from synthetic fragrances (one of the most common skincare allergens), and formulated with care for sensitive skin.

Before using any new skincare product — ours or anyone else's — we recommend a patch test: apply a small amount to the inside of your wrist, leave for 24 hours, and check for any reaction before applying to your face.

If you have known allergies to specific botanicals, always check the full ingredient list on the product page. And if you're ever unsure, reach out before you buy — we'd rather help you choose the right product than have you experience a reaction.

Can natural skincare help with perimenopausalskin changes?

Yes — perimenopausal skin changes are primarily about moisture and resilience, and natural skincare addresses both well. Declining oestrogen reduces the skin's ability to retain moisture and recover quickly, which shows up as increased dryness, sensitivity, and more noticeable fine lines.

What helps: barrier-supporting plant oils (rosehip, jojoba), hydrating actives like hyaluronic acid, Gotu Kola for the appearance of skin firmness, and avoiding anything stripping or heavily fragranced during periods of heightened sensitivity.

Many Merindah customers with perimenopausal skin find the Hydrating Anti-Ageing Elixir particularly effective — it's formulated for exactly this kind of skin: dehydrated, sensitive, and in need of consistent nourishment.

Do you offer pregnancy safe skincare?

The Merindah Botanicals range is 100% natural and free from the synthetic ingredients most commonly flagged as
concerns during pregnancy — including parabens, synthetic fragrances, and
sulphates.

That said, we always recommend checking with your midwife or GP about your full skincare routine during pregnancy, as some natural ingredients — including certain essential oils at high concentrations — are generally advised against.

We're happy to share the full ingredient list for any product so you can discuss it with your healthcare provider.

Can I use natural skincare on oily orcombination skin?

Yes. The idea that oily skin can't tolerate plant oils is one of the most persistent skincare myths. The right plant oils — jojoba, rosehip, squalane — are non-comedogenic, meaning they won't block pores.

In fact, oily skin often overproduces sebum as a compensatory response to being stripped by harsh cleansers.

Switching to a gentle, natural cleanser and a lightweight moisturiser can actually reduce oiliness over time, as the skin's natural sebum regulation recalibrates.

It may take a few weeks for oily or combination skin to adjust when switching to natural skincare — that's normal.

About Our Products

Where are your skincare products made?

All of our natural skincare products are manufactured in Australia using
botanically sourced ingredients. We're a proudly Australian brand — not a label
slapped on an overseas formula.

Are your skincare products certified?

Yes. Merindah Botanicals holds the following independent certifications:

Australian Certified Toxic-Free

MADE SAFE certified

Not Tested On Animals

Vegan Friendly — certified by Safe Cosmetics Australia

Cruelty-Free and Vegan — certified by PETA

We've also won 45 industry awards across the range.

Are your skincare products vegan?

Yes. Every Merindah Botanicals product is 100% vegan — no beeswax, lanolin, collagen, or any other animal-derived ingredient. We're PETA-certified vegan and cruelty-free.

What does '100% natural skincare' mean for Merindah Botanicals specifically?

It means every ingredient in every product comes from a natural source. Not just the active ingredients — the preservatives, emulsifiers, and any fragrance too. Nothing synthetic enters
the formula.

'Natural' is not a regulated term in Australia, so it means different things to different brands. For Merindah, it's a genuine commitment, not a marketing position. Mel founded the brand after a severe allergic reaction to a mainstream product she couldn't identify the cause of — the entire brand exists because of a belief that you should be able to trust what you're putting on your face.

What makes Merindah Botanicals different fromother natural skincare brands in Australia?

Formulating since 2013. 45 industry award wins. 100% natural including the preservatives — which isn't standard across the industry. And a product line built around one very specific promise: that you can feel like you've just left the day spa — before you even leave the house. In five minutes. With ingredients you can actually trust.

Mel founded the brand because she couldn't find what she was looking for. She wanted something she could trust on her own face. Everything that's been built since then starts from that place — not from what's trending, not from what's cheapest to produce.

Do you offer a money back guarantee?
How do I store natural skincare products?

Cool, dry, and away from direct
sunlight — that's the golden rule. Heat, humidity, and UV exposure can degrade
the active botanical ingredients and reduce how well the product works.

The bathroom shelf is convenient but not always ideal — steam and temperature fluctuations from showers can shorten a product's shelf life. A bedroom dresser or vanity away from windows works well.

Natural products tend to have a shorter shelf life than conventional ones because they use naturally derived preservatives rather than aggressive synthetic ones. Check the PAO symbol (the open jar with a number) on the packaging — that tells you how many months the product is good for after opening. Stick to it.

Ethics & Sustainability

Does Merindah Botanicals test on animals?

No — never. We're PETA-certified cruelty-free and vegan. That certification is independently verified, not self-declared.
Neither our finished products nor our individual ingredients are tested on
animals.

Is natural skincare more sustainable than conventional skincare?

Generally yes — botanical skincare that uses sustainably sourced plant ingredients, biodegradable formulations, and thoughtful packaging has a significantly lower environmental
footprint than conventional skincare relying on petrochemical ingredients.

The areas where natural skincare brands vary most are ingredient sourcing, manufacturing practices, and packaging choices. The most sustainable brands are transparent about all three.

At Merindah, we use PET packaging (widely recyclable through Australian kerbside programs) and we're committed to reviewing our sustainability approach as the brand grows.

Why do we use PET instead of glass?

PET (polyethylene terephthalate) is a lightweight, shatterproof plastic that's widely recyclable through Australian kerbside recycling programs. For a small Australian brand making skincare in Tasmania, glass creates significant practical and safety challenges — weight, breakage risk in transit, and a ubstantially higher carbon footprint for shipping.

PET is the most widely recycled plastic in Australia. We've made a considered choice to use it rather than a materials decision made purely for aesthetics. We're committed to reviewing our packaging approach as the brand grows and better sustainable alternatives become accessible at our scale.

What if I have sensitive skin?

Our products are hypoallergenic and - although they are suitable for all skin types - have been designed with sensitive skin in mind.

If you have any known allergies or extremely sensitive skin we highly recommend to contact us prior to purchasing.

Do you offer a money back guarantee?

Orders, Shipping &Guarantees

Do you offer a money back guarantee?

Yes. We stand behind our products. If you're not happy with your purchase, get in touch and we'll make it right. We'd rather you love what you're using than have a product sitting in a drawer doing nothing.

Full details of our returns and refunds policy are available on the website. For wholesale Discovery Pack purchases, a 30-day
money-back guarantee applies.

Where are your products available?

You can shop the full Merindah Botanicals range at merindahbotanicals.com.au. We ship Australia-wide. The range is also
available through select beauty therapists and salons — if you'd like to find a
stockist near you
, get in touch.



Do you offer skincare for wholesale or salon use?

Yes. Merindah Botanicals offers a wholesale program for beauty therapists and salons. We've also developed a number of professional treatment protocols specifically for salon use — so your clients get a genuine spa experience.

The Discovery Pack ($150 for $225 value, with a 30-day money-back guarantee) is designed specifically for therapists wanting to trial the range before committing to a stockist relationship. Get in touch to receive our wholesale brochure and find out more.

What if I have sensitive skin?

Our products are hypoallergenic and - although they are suitable for all skin types - have been designed with sensitive skin in mind.

If you have any known allergies or extremely sensitive skin we highly recommend to contact us prior to purchasing.

Do you offer a money back guarantee?

Can't find what you're looking for?

Send us an email to tell us what's up and someone from our Customer Service team will get back to you as soon as possible. Be sure to include your order number (if you have one).

Please email us at hello@merindahbotanicals.com.au