Frequently Asked Questions
What is slow beauty?
Slow beauty is a more mindful approach to skincare.
It prioritises quality over excess, using carefully selected ingredients and considered formulations rather than fast, trend-led products.
At EVOO+ botanicals®, slow beauty means working with nature, not against it. Each formula begins with New Zealand extra virgin olive oil, slowly infused with botanicals to support healthy, balanced skin.
What is waterless skincare?
Waterless skincare is formulated without added water.
Rather than diluting formulas, EVOO+ botanicals® uses nutrient-rich plant oils as the foundation of every product, allowing for a more concentrated and nourishing result.
Without water, our formulations do not rely on the same preservative systems required to stabilise water-based products.
Why extra virgin olive oil?
Extra virgin olive oil is at the heart of EVOO+ botanicals®.
Naturally rich in antioxidants, essential fatty acids, squalene and polyphenols, it helps support the skin barrier, maintain moisture and protect against environmental stress.
We use only New Zealand extra virgin olive oil, with every formulation made at our olive grove in Akaroa.
What makes extra virgin olive oil so beneficial for the skin?
Extra virgin olive oil is naturally rich in skin-supportive compounds.
It helps to nourish and soften the skin, support the skin barrier and protect against environmental stress.
Unlike refined oils, extra virgin olive oil retains its natural bioactive compounds, making it a deeply effective and supportive base for skincare.
What is squalene?
Squalene is a naturally occurring lipid found in the skin.
It plays an essential role in maintaining hydration, softness and overall skin balance. As we age, natural squalene levels begin to decline.
Extra virgin olive oil is a natural source of squalene, allowing it to work in harmony with the skin - helping to replenish what is already there and support a soft, balanced feel.
What are polyphenols?
Polyphenols are naturally occurring antioxidant compounds found in plants.
They help defend the skin against environmental stress while supporting long-term skin resilience and vitality.
Extra virgin olive oil is naturally rich in polyphenols, which is why it sits at the heart of every EVOO+ botanicals® formulation.
Which polyphenols are found in extra virgin olive oil?
- Hydroxytyrosol – A powerful antioxidant that helps protect the skin from environmental stress and supports a brighter, more even-looking complexion
- Tyrosol – Helps defend against oxidative damage while supporting overall skin vitality
- Oleuropein – Supports skin resilience and helps maintain a healthy skin barrier
- Oleocanthal – Known for its soothing properties, helping to calm and comfort the skin
Together, these naturally occurring compounds help to protect, nourish and support long-term skin health.
What does ‘infused with botanicals’ mean?
Rather than using extracts or fragrances, we slowly infuse whole botanicals into our olive oil.
This traditional process allows the beneficial compounds from the plants to gently transfer into the oil over time, creating a more complete and naturally active infusion.
We then blend the infused oil with organic jojoba and plant butters to create the final formulation.
Are your products natural?
Yes.
EVOO+ botanicals® formulations are made using naturally derived ingredients.
We combine plant oils, plant waxes and organic botanicals, with no synthetic fragrance or essential oils. This considered approach makes them well suited to sensitive skin.
Do your products contain fragrance?
No synthetic fragrance is used.
Each product has a subtle, natural scent derived from the botanicals used in the infusion - fresh, green and softly herbal.
Are your products suitable for sensitive skin?
Our formulations are designed to be gentle and supportive of the skin barrier, and were created with sensitive skin in mind.
However, as with any skincare product, we recommend performing a patch test before first use.
Who is the founder of EVOO+ botanicals®?
EVOO+ botanicals® was founded by Andrea Moore in New Zealand’s South Island.
The brand draws from her connection to her family’s award-winning olive grove in Akaroa, where her family has been a leading producer of extra virgin olive oil for over 20 years, long appreciated for its wellness properties.
As a professional photographer, she has worked closely alongside makeup artists both in New Zealand and internationally, developing a deep understanding of skin, light and natural texture.
Inspired by years of work and travel within the luxury travel industry, she has experienced a wide range of luxury hotels, spas, and wellness retreats around the world, shaping a refined perspective on skincare and ritual.
EVOO+ botanicals® brings this experience together through a considered approach to formulation, centred around New Zealand extra virgin olive oil and carefully selected botanicals, alongside an ongoing focus on herbalism.
While EVOO+ botanicals® is shaped by this background, it is not about one person. The focus is on your skin, on sharing knowledge, and on creating skin-supportive formulas designed to strengthen the skin barrier.
Are your products for everyone?
EVOO+ botanicals® products are for everyone.
For him, her, they and them, our formulations are designed to support healthy, balanced skin.
How do I use facial oil?
Apply 1-2 pumps to clean skin and gently press into the face and neck.
Use morning and/or evening, either alone or layered with your existing routine.
Can I wear EVOO+ botanicals® face oils during the day?
Aura is designed for daytime use.
It supports the skin barrier and sits comfortably on the skin, leaving a soft, balanced finish rather than a heavy or greasy feel.
Extra virgin olive oil contains naturally occurring compounds that may offer a very low level of natural UV absorption, but it does not provide sufficient sun protection on its own.
For daytime use, apply Aura first, followed by sunscreen as usual.
Will facial oil make my skin oily?
No.
When used correctly, facial oils can help balance the skin.
They support the skin barrier and can help regulate natural oil production, leaving skin feeling soft and nourished rather than greasy.
Do I still need moisturiser?
Facial oils can be used on their own or layered with a moisturiser, depending on your skin.
They help seal in moisture and support the skin barrier, making them a versatile step in any routine.
If using alongside a moisturiser, opt for one that supports the skin barrier without diluting the benefits of your oil.
Do I still need SPF?
Yes.
We always recommend using a dedicated SPF as part of your daily routine.
While extra virgin olive oil naturally contains antioxidant compounds that help support the skin against environmental stress, including sun exposure, it does not provide sufficient sun protection on its own.
EVOO+ botanicals® products can be used alongside your sunscreen to support the skin barrier and overall skin health.
How long will my product last?
Most products are designed to be used within 12 months of opening.
Because we use natural ingredients, we recommend storing your products in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight.
Are your products vegan and cruelty-free?
Yes.
EVOO+ botanicals® products are vegan and not tested on animals.
Do you use preservatives?
Because our formulations are waterless, they do not require traditional preservatives.
We use stable, oil-based ingredients, supported by tocopherol (vitamin E), to maintain freshness.
Where are your products made?
All EVOO+ botanicals® products are made in New Zealand at our award-winning olive grove in Akaroa.
Do you ship internationally?
Yes.
We ship worldwide.
Shipping times and rates vary depending on your location. Please refer to our Shipping & Delivery page for more details.
Are EVOO+ botanicals® products edible?
EVOO+ botanicals® products are not intended for consumption.
While we use high-quality extra virgin olive oil and naturally derived ingredients, each formula is developed for topical application only. Some of the botanicals used are not suitable for ingestion.
The natural scent can be appealing, but our products are designed for skin and hair, not for eating.
If a small amount is accidentally ingested, it is unlikely to cause harm. However, we do not recommend consumption. If you have any concerns, seek medical advice.