Frequently Asked Questions
Welcome to the Scenturie FAQ. Here you will find answers to our most commonly asked questions. As an award-winning natural skincare brand formulated right here in Aotearoa, New Zealand, we believe in absolute transparency about our active ingredients, our science-led process, and our sustainable values. If you can’t find the answer you’re looking for, please don’t hesitate to reach out to our team.
About Scenturie & Our Ethos
A: Every Scenturie product is expertly formulated and handcrafted in small batches right here in our Auckland studio. By manufacturing locally, we maintain absolute quality control and maximum freshness. We proudly partner with trusted local suppliers to source our sustainable, high-performance ingredients, including our signature New Zealand native botanicals.
A: Yes. We are very proud to be a 100% vegan and certified cruelty-free brand; this commitment is a core pillar of our philosophy. As dedicated supporters of the New Zealand Anti-Vivisection Society, we guarantee that no Scenturie product, nor any of our raw ingredients, has ever been tested on animals.
A: Yes, absolutely! We have a dedicated 3-step men’s skincare range specifically formulated to address the unique daily needs of men’s skin, such as post-shave irritation. We are incredibly proud that this collection recently won “Best Skincare Range for Men” and “Men’s Product of the Year” at the 2026 International Beauty Shortlist Awards. However, because we formulate for overall skin health rather than gender, men can absolutely use any product from our wider Scenturie collection to complement their routine.
Ingredients & Formulations
A: A: Yes. Scenturie is built on a “Science-Led, Nature-Inspired” philosophy. We are committed to using only high-performance, plant-derived ingredients. Our two main priorities are absolute safety and clinical effectiveness. We thoroughly evaluate every ingredient against up-to-date scientific research to ensure it is beneficial for your skin and safe for the environment. Our formulations are proudly free from parabens, sulfates, silicones, synthetic fragrances, and other harsh irritants.
A: While we incorporate many organic botanical oils and butters, our finished products do not carry an overarching organic certification. Driven by our “Science-Led, Nature-Inspired” philosophy, our priority is sourcing the highest quality, cosmetic-grade natural ingredients based on their proven nutritional benefits. Many of our most innovative ingredients—such as upcycled fruit extracts and wild-harvested New Zealand natives—cannot be certified organic, but undergo a strict refining process to guarantee absolute purity and effectiveness.
A: We are proud that our skincare is completely free from unsustainable palm oil. We formulate to avoid palm oil wherever possible. To achieve the beautiful, stable texture in our creams, we use a specialised, Ecocert-approved olive emulsifier (Cetearyl Olivate & Sorbitan Olivate). While primarily olive-derived, the manufacturing process requires blending in fatty alcohols and fatty acids sourced from RSPO-certified sustainable palm oil to create a stable, PEG-free product. We selected this specific ingredient because it exceptionally mimics the skin’s natural composition and is proven hypoallergenic. We are dedicated to transitioning to a 100% palm-free alternative as soon as modern formulation technology allows.
A: Yes, because your skin’s safety is our absolute priority. In skincare chemistry, any formulation that contains water requires a preservative to prevent harmful bacterial and microbial growth. To ensure our water-based creams remain fresh, safe, and effective, we strictly use gentle, natural preservatives that are fully Ecocert and BIO-GRO approved. However, our luxurious water-free (anhydrous) formulations—including our Revitalising Face Oil, Facial Cleansing Oil, and Super Boost Bakuchiol Serum—do not require this and are completely preservative-free.
Skin Types & Safety
Yes. Because we formulate strictly without known irritants like synthetic fragrances, parabens, or harsh sulfates, our products are incredibly gentle and respectful of the skin barrier. Our Natural Creamy Cleanser and Nourishing Natural Day Cream are particularly popular for soothing very reactive or sensitive skin. However, everyone’s skin is unique and individuals can still be sensitive to certain natural ingredients or essential oils, so we always recommend performing a patch test prior to full use.
A: Apply a small, pea-sized amount of the product to a discreet patch of clean skin, such as your inner arm or the inside of your wrist. Leave the area undisturbed for 24 hours. If no redness, itching, or irritation occurs, you can confidently go ahead and use the product as directed. If any discomfort does occur, please wash the area and discontinue use.
A: We do not believe any skincare product can claim to be universally safe for everyone, especially during pregnancy. However, our range is highly trusted by expectant and breastfeeding mothers. We intentionally formulate without harsh synthetics, and ensure any essential oils used are kept at extremely low, safe dilutions that strictly meet international dermal safety standards. Because hormonal changes can make the skin more reactive, we always recommend reviewing the ingredient list with your midwife or GP, and performing a simple patch test first.
A: We believe in complete ingredient transparency. While some of our products do contain botanical oils derived from nuts or soy, the cosmetic refining process usually removes the allergy-causing proteins. However, we cannot guarantee our products are 100% free of all trace elements. Please carefully review the full ingredient list provided on each product page, and if you have a severe nut, soy, or wheat allergy, consult your healthcare provider prior to use.
A: We embrace a “pro-ageing” philosophy—we believe in supporting and nourishing your skin at every stage of life, rather than fighting it. For mature skin, we highly recommend focusing on deep hydration and cellular support. Our formulations feature highly potent, upcycled fruit seed extracts and New Zealand native botanicals that are clinically proven to support collagen production, improve elasticity, and protect the skin barrier. Our Super Boost Bakuchiol Serum is a fantastic, natural alternative to retinol, offering incredible smoothing and firming benefits without the harsh irritation.
Packaging & Sustainability
A: Absolutely. Sustainability is at the core of our “Science-Led, Nature-Inspired” philosophy. We intentionally package our formulations in premium amber glass to protect the active botanical ingredients and minimise plastic waste. For our local customers, we proudly offer the “Scenturie Loop” return program. You can return your empty, clean amber glass bottles and jars to us to be sterilised and reused, helping us create a true circular economy. Any remaining components are fully recyclable through standard local facilities.
Orders & Shipping
A: Your confidence in our formulations is our top priority. We offer a 30-Day Skin Compatibility Guarantee—if a product isn’t quite right for your skin, we are happy to provide a refund or exchange on items returned substantially unused within 30 days of purchase. For complete details and step-by-step instructions, please visit our full Shipping & Returns page.
A: We currently ship across New Zealand and to Australia. All orders are carefully packed and dispatched from our Auckland studio, and both domestic and trans-Tasman deliveries include full tracking so you can monitor your parcel’s journey. For estimated delivery timeframes and rates, please view our Shipping & Returns page.