Frequently asked questions.

It means there is no water in the formula — at all. Most skincare products are 60–80% water, which is cheap but inert. When you remove water, you have to fill that space with something else — and we fill it with botanical oils and plant extracts. Every millilitre is active.

No. No synthetic fragrance is added to any homeApothec formula. Synthetic fragrance is one of the most common causes of skin sensitisation, especially on reactive and eczema-prone skin. The formulas have a natural botanical scent from the infused oils, but nothing added for scent.

The Relief Balm is specifically formulated to be baby-safe — no fragrance, no steroids, no harsh preservatives. The other products are adult-formulated. If you want to use them on a child, message Tracy first and she'll advise based on age and skin condition.

Synthetic fragrance is one of the most common causes of skin sensitisation. We don't use it because we can't guarantee it won't cause a reaction, especially on reactive or eczema-prone skin. The formulas have a natural botanical scent from the infused oils, but nothing added for scent.

Unopened: 24 months. Once opened: 12 months. Because the formulas are waterless, they don't need the heavy preservative systems that water-based products do — but the carrier oils will eventually oxidise. Store in a cool, dark place and use within a year of opening.

This is the most common question Tracy gets. Oily skin is almost always dehydrated skin — it produces excess oil because its lipid barrier is compromised. The right oils (specifically linoleic-rich ones like those in the Oily Skin Power Serum) signal to the skin that it doesn't need to produce more. It feels counterintuitive, but it works.

Skin barrier repair takes time. Most people notice a difference in texture and sensitivity within 2–3 weeks. The full effect — a barrier that holds through weather, stress, and hormonal changes — takes 6–8 weeks of consistent daily use. This isn't a fast fix. It's a long one.

Generally yes, but it depends on what you're using. homeApothec formulas layer well under or over most products. What to avoid: strong actives (high-strength retinols, AHAs) on the same application — they work against what the botanical oils are trying to do. If you're not sure, message Tracy.

Most of the formulas are safe during pregnancy, but some botanical oils have restrictions during the first trimester. Message Tracy with the specific product and she'll advise. Don't take our word for it — check with your doctor too.

West Malaysia: flat rate RM8, usually 2–4 business days. East Malaysia (Sabah, Sarawak): RM15, 4–7 business days. We're working on international shipping — message Tracy if you're outside Malaysia.

We accept FPX (all Malaysian banks), DuitNow QR, GrabPay, and Touch 'n Go eWallet via HitPay. Card payments are also accepted.

If your product arrives damaged or there's an issue with the order, contact Tracy and she'll make it right. Because the products are skincare, we can't accept returns of opened products for hygiene reasons — but if something is wrong, we will fix it.

Glass bottles and aluminium caps where possible. We avoid single-use plastic. The outer packaging is recycled cardboard. It's not perfect yet, but we're moving in the right direction.

Tracy makes every batch herself, by hand, in Kuala Lumpur. Small batches. 8-week infusion process. No outsourced manufacturing.

Because Tracy only makes products she actually uses. Six formulas plus a bundle covers the main skin concerns without being overwhelming. She'd rather have six products that really work than twenty that are mediocre.

Message Tracy on WhatsApp. She's based in Kuala Lumpur and local pickups can sometimes be arranged.