Frequently Asked Questions

Got a question? Good. We love when you read the fine print.

Why "natural" ingredients?

Because plants are extraordinary chemists.

We choose botanicals for their potency, complexity and compatibility with skin — not because “natural” looks good on a label. We favor organic, wildcrafted, virgin, cold-pressed and minimally processed ingredients when they make sense for the formula.

Are all synthetics bad? Absolutely not. Are all natural ingredients wonderful? Nope.

We formulate for performance on real skin, not label appeal.

Why green tea?

Because green tea is kind of a show-off. 

It's rich in antioxidant polyphenols, including catechins such as EGCG, and is known for its soothing properties. It's a beautiful fit for changing, sensitive, breakout-prone and environmentally stressed skin.

That's why green tea sits at the heart of High Tea formulas.

Also... High Tea. We couldn't exactly build the brand around instant coffee.

Is High Tea only for perimenopausal, menopausal or aging skin?

Nope. But changing skin is our specialty.

Skin changes begin long before we necessarily see them. If you're over 30, supporting hydration, resilience and overall skin health early is hardly a bad idea.

If you're under 30, don't overcomplicate things. Gently cleanse, moisturize beautifully and protect your skin from the sun. You probably don't need an arsenal of acids and actives yet. Something versatile like **RITUAL Face Oil** can be a beautiful all-in-one addition for younger skin.

And when perimenopause, menopause or simply life starts changing the rules? **That's where High Tea really shines.**

Is High Tea “anti-aging”?

We address many of the visible changes associated with aging. We just don't believe aging itself is the enemy.

We're not selling you your 25-year-old face back.

We are here to help plump and soften the appearance of fine lines, replenish moisture, support resilience and amp up your glow.

Beauty is not a depreciating asset.

What about the skin microbiome?

We like it. We feed it. We try very hard not to piss it off.

Your microbiome is part of the living ecosystem that helps support healthy skin function. Our formulas are designed to replenish, nourish and protect that ecosystem rather than strip the skin into submission.

Less scorched earth. More thriving garden.

Is High Tea organic?

Many ingredients are certified organic. Some aren't.

Certification is only part of what we consider. We also care about how an ingredient was grown, harvested, extracted and processed, along with its quality, potency and purpose in the formula.

We also love beautiful wildcrafted, virgin and minimally processed ingredients.

The certification matters. The ingredient itself matters more, and not all are available as "certified organic."

Are High Tea products vegan?

Almost all are.

Some formulas may contain honey or beeswax when they serve a meaningful purpose. Ingredient lists are provided on every product page so you'll always know what you're buying. No tricks here.

Have a specific concern? Contact the Lab. We'd rather answer than make you guess.

Do you use preservatives?

Oh, absolutely.

Water-based skincare needs an appropriate preservation system to remain safe during normal use. That's non-negotiable.

Our water-free formulas don't require the same preservation approach and use antioxidants to help protect their oils from oxidation. Please take care not to get water into your products!

Either way: use your skincare. Fresh skincare belongs on your face, not aging gracefully in the bathroom cabinet.

What does “fresh skincare” mean?

We formulate for potency and performance — not maximum warehouse shelf life.

Our products are made thoughtfully with beautiful raw materials and are intended to be enjoyed while they're fresh.

So please don't save the good stuff.

Your face is literally what it's for.

Where are High Tea products made?

Right here in Wakefield, Massachusetts.

Our ingredients come to us from growers, producers and suppliers around the world because extraordinary botanicals don't all grow in New England.

But the finished formulas are handcrafted here in the USA, in small batches, with a very hands-on approach from ingredient selection to a finished bottle.

Globally sourced. Handcrafted in Massachusetts.

How do I know which products are right for me?

Start with the product descriptions — we've made them detailed enough to help you understand what each formula does and who it's best suited for.

High Tea formulas are generally designed to be gentle, well tolerated and seriously effective without relying on harshness to get results.

Still unsure? Contact the Lab. Tell us what your skin is doing and we'll point you in the right direction.

Can I use High Tea with retinoids, acids, professional treatments or prescription skincare?

High Tea formulas are generally designed to "play nicely with others" — including other skincare, makeup and the periods between professional treatments.

In fact, nourishing, replenishing and protecting skin between more intensive treatments is something we do particularly well.

But we don't know the condition of your skin, the treatment you're receiving or what your medical professional has prescribed. If you're using prescription products, undergoing procedures or following a dermatologist's treatment plan, ask your dermatologist or medical professional before adding something new.

We'll never pretend an FAQ knows your skin better than they do!

Is High Tea eco-conscious?

We're trying, and always working at it.

We prioritize thoughtful sourcing, safe, biodegradable ingredients and suppliers closer to home when it makes sense. Our concentrated formulas also tend to last quite a while, helping reduce unnecessary packaging and frequent shipments.

We're not interested in slapping an “eco-friendly” badge on ourselves and declaring victory.

There's always another way to do better.

Are High Tea products fragrance-free?

Many are. When fragrance is used, we use only natural scents and essential oils, and you'll find them and any potential fragrance allergens disclosed in the ingredients list - usually at the bottom because they are used in very, very small amounts. 

Note: Fragrance-free doesn't mean scent-free. Natural, unrefined oils, butters, hydrosols and botanicals have beautiful inherent scents of their own — and we let them.

How long will my products last me?

Most High Tea products last you approximately two to three months with normal use, depending on the product and how generously you use it.

Follow the storage and period-after-opening guidance provided with your product.

And again: don't ration the good stuff.

What if something isn't working for me?

Tell us.

Skin is individual. If something doesn't feel right or you're not getting what you expected, Contact the Lab and let us help.

Questions, concerns, unexpected reactions and love letters are all welcome.

Email: Help@HighTeaSkincare.com

Do you offer custom formulations?

Yes, on a limited basis.

I offer personal formulation consultations when someone simply can't find what their skin needs or wants something extraordinarily personal.

I also design formulas for professional estheticians and makeup artists who would like to provide a specific product or even produce their own line.

And if I think something High Tea already makes is exactly what you need, I'll tell you that instead.

Custom for the sake of custom isn't the point. Getting the formula right is.

Email: Hello@HighTeaSkincare.com