FAQ's
What’s so special about Dr.Hauschka? A Unique Skin Care Philosophy.
As the protective covering of the body, the human skin is exposed to many influences from within and without which can impair its functioning and appearance. This can result in unbalanced skin reactions such as dryness, lack of moisture or the overproduction of oil, and ultimately in premature aging.
Dr.Hauschka Skin Care regards these changing skin conditions as transient skin states and does not divide the skin into static types. By addressing the skin as a holistic organ and stimulating its natural functions, Dr.Hauschka Skin Care products encourage the skin to exercise its powers of self-regeneration.
What kind of products does Dr.Hauschka make?
Dr.Hauschka Skin Care makes a wide range of personal care products and cosmetics:
Face Care
Body Care
Hair Care
Make-up plus an annual Trend Colours make-up range
Why does Dr.Hauschka no longer produce sun protection products? Dr.Hauschka Skin Care has ceased production of sun protection products. Our sunscreen products used the well known and accepted Australian Standard to measure our UVA protection which is a 90% filter. However the EU Commission on Standards has stated that sun protection must now have a ratio of 1:3 UVA to UVB protection, which we are not able to reach with our natural physical sun protection. This EU requirement ratio is not difficult to achieve for chemical sun protection factors, whereas with natural mineral titanium dioxide, which is a physical pigment that remains on the surface of the skin, performs with a very high UVB protection. It’s this aspect that makes the ratio difficult for us to achieve without having a very white product. After-Sun Lotion remains in the range.
Why doesn’t Dr.Hauschka sell refills?
This is a hygienic precaution since Dr.Hauschka Skin Care does not use synthetic, chemical preservatives.
Why is there no night cream?
The Dr.Hauschka oil-free night care regime supports the nocturnal activity of the skin because this is the time when the skin's metabolic activity is at its maximum. Instead of burdening the natural elimination processes with oily skin care products, which impedes this night time function of the skin, the Dr.Hauschka night care programme consists of products containing stimulating and regenerating plant essences.
These allow the skin to breathe freely and overcome any weaknesses and imbalances. Healthy and beautiful skin is the result.
Dr.Hauschka products for night treatment are oil free:
Basic night care: Facial Toner, Clarifying Toner or Regenerating Serum
Intensive night care: Rhythmic Night Conditioner, Rhythmic Conditioner Sensitive, Intensive Treatment 01 for Acne Skin (under 25 years), 02 for Acne Skin (over 25 years), 03 for Hypersensitive skin or stress related conditions, 04 for Maturing skin or 05 for Menopausal skin.
When should I use the Cleansing Cream and when is the Cleansing Milk more appropriate. I haven’t come across the need for two cleansers before?
Correct Cleansing is the first step towards a healthy skin. Correct cleansing with products that respect your skin’s acid mantle and outer layer of the skin provides the basis of healthy skin care and our gentle cleansing supports our oil free night care philosophy.
The Dr.Hauschka regime uses two cleansing products daily. Cleansing Cream is recommended specifically as a morning cleanser for use in your morning shower.
Cleansing Milk is our evening cleansing product to remove make-up, including eye make-up.
However Cleansing Cream may also be used as a secondary optional cleanser after Cleansing Milk is used to remove make-up in the evening. We recommend this for those that require a twice daily deep cleanse and also because it’s the more nourishing cleansing product Cleansing Cream assists new customers that are in transition away from the conventional night cream approach.
Cleansing Cream:
Almond meal binds to dirt, grime and the night time eliminations of the skin. Ground Almonds are combined in a paste of Almond oil, Wheat Germ oil, Anthyllis, Chamomile and Calendula which is nurturing to the skin and treats the skin’s outer layer and acid mantle with respect.
Cleansing Milk is our make-up remover, including eye make-up for evening cleansing. Jojoba, Apricot Kernel and Sweet Almond Oils are combined with extracts of Anthyllis, Oats, Rye and Wheat.
When should I use Facial Toner or Clarifying Toner
Facial Toner - a basic toner that supports normal, dry or sensitive skin and skin in need of regeneration.
Clarifying Toner - a special herbal lotion that regulates blemished, greasy, large-pored skin prone to inflammation. Also for an inflamed and sensitive skin and a perfect ‘after-shave’ product.
Mist the skin with the appropriate toner in the morning after cleansing and before applying your regular day-care product. Apply the toner again in the evening after cleansing unless you are using Rhythmic Night Conditioner, in which case you should omit the toner in the evening and apply Rhythmic Night Conditioner instead.
What effect do Rhythmic Conditioners have on the skin?
The rhythmic conditioners are oil-free intensive care products for the night which have a normalising action on the various skin states. We recommend using Rhythmic Night Conditioner in the form of a 28-day course of treatment during which the conditioner is applied to the face every evening after cleansing. Apply 2 ampoules each evening during the first 3 weeks and then just 1 ampoule per evening during the last week. The course of treatment can be repeated several times a year. The recommended number of treatments is one for every 10 years of your age (e.g. 3 treatments a year for someone aged 30).
When should I use Intensive Treatment 01 and Intensive Treatment 02 for acne/blemished skin?
Dr.Hauschka Intensive Treatments 01 and 02 complement our basic care for blemished skin. They provide an additional normalising stimulus.
Dr.Hauschka Intensive Treatment 01 is specially formulated for the needs of blemished teenage skin and can be used until the age of 25. Containing select treasures from nature, it has an anti-inflammatory and soothing effect on the skin. It supports the skin's cleansing process, clarifies the complexion, prevents acne from reappearing, soothes and harmonises.
Dr.Hauschka Intensive Treatment 02 is specially formulated for the needs of blemished adult skin and can be used starting at the age of 25. Rhythmitised, select treasures from nature are used to refine the pores, sooth the skin and clarify the complexion. Dr.Hauschka Intensive Treatment 02 quickly reduces inflammation, supports the skin’s cleansing process, prevents acne from reappearing and soothes and harmonises the skin.
When should I use Intensive Treatment 03?
Dr.Hauschka Intensive Treatment 03 is specially formulated for hypersensitive skin. It helps the skin protect itself, soothing and strengthening irritated, reddened and sensitive skin. It improves the skin’s resistance and causes the signs of stress to quickly fade away. The result: skin that feels relaxed and harmonious.
When should I use Intensive Treatments 04 and 05?
The Dr.Hauschka Intensive Treatments 04 and 05 supplement the basic care of mature skin and provide an additional normalising impulse.
Intensive Treatment 04 is specially formulated to meet the needs of demanding mature skin which needs an additional normalising impulse to stimulate the regenerating powers of the skin. It hydrates, smoothes and vitalises the skin. The complexion becomes noticeably more refined and takes on a radiant, soft and well cared for appearance.
Intensive Treatment 05 is specially formulated to meet the needs of skin during menopause which often appears red and blotchy due to hot flushes and pigmentation (age spots). It preserves and enhances the skin's regenerating powers and counterbalances its declining vitality. The skin feels strengthened, soft and well cared for.
Don’t I need the Rhythmic Conditioners any longer?
Regenerating Serum and the Intensive Treatments are formulated specially for mature, demanding skin as a supplement to the Rhythmic Conditioner ampoules. You can use them alternately four times a year in a regular three-month cycle:
1st month: Rhythmic Night Conditioner / Rhythmic Conditioner Sensitive
2nd month: Regenerating Serum
Which is the right day cream for my skin?
The Dr.Hauschka skin care preparations are attuned to the needs of every skin condition. Use them individually or in combination. But remember that the skin is a living and constantly changing organ and that you may have to modify your skin care accordingly.
Moisturising Day Cream (for normal or dry skin) - a light, activating, moisturising emulsion for men and women which restores the oil and moisture balance of the skin. Moisturising Day Cream is the preferred moisturiser for dry skin. It stimulates production of oil by the sebaceous glands, binds the moisture already present in the skin and thus corrects dry and moisture-depleted skin. (Not suitable for couperose skin prone to broken or dilated capillaries.)
Rose Day Cream (fortifying, protecting day care for reddened, sensitive, moisture depleted skin in need of regeneration) - a rich day cream which promotes regeneration of the epidermis and increases the resilience of skin that is sensitive and prone to blotchiness. It also regulates the oil and moisture balance of the skin. Use Rose Day Cream to give additional protection against environmental influences. It can be applied on top of Moisturising Day Cream, for example.
Rose Day Cream Light (soothing, protecting day cream for dry, moisture-depeleted and sensitive skin) - The many facets of the harmonising and revitalising rose are composed into a smooth, readily absorbed day cream. The result is a moisture-regulating and regenerating day cream for dry, moisture-depleted and sensitive young skin.
Regenerating Day Cream (smoothing, regenerating day cream for mature, demanding skin) - The composition of high-grade plant oils and herbal extracts gives demanding, mature skin the impulse to use its own powers of regeneration. The protecting day cream reduces dryness wrinkles, refines and smoothes the complexion. It supports the toning and form-giving powers of the skin and gives it a radiant, soft and well cared for appearance.
Quince Day Cream (for normal skin) - The action of Quince Day Cream is modelled on nature. It is a light, refreshing, hydrating day care product for men and women, which helps to maintain the skin's balance and keep it healthy.
I have a problem with pimples, what do you suggest?
Cleansing Cream: gentle cleansing for morning and evening.
The Cleansing Cream is the basis for successful skin care. Selected herbal extracts in an almond base strengthen the skin. The Cleansing Cream refines the pores, promotes elimination of waste products and clarifies the skin.
Clarifying Toner: regulating basic care product.
The special composition of medicinal herbs makes Clarifying Toner an effective skin care product for oily skin prone to blackheads and inflammation. Daily use of the toner also shrinks large pores.
Rhythmic Night Conditioner: normalising intensive care product (night care). Stimulates the natural skin functions and normalises oil and moisture production, promotes healthy skin renewal.
Normalising Day Oil: normalising day care product. that regulates the activity of the sebaceous glands. The oily extracts help the skin to correct its sebum production. Pores are visibly refined, inflammation subsides and the skin is soothed. Also protects against the effects of the weather.
Facial Steam Bath: deep cleansing intensive care product. Stimulates the skin's natural elimination processes, clears clogged pores and soothes blemishes.
Cleansing Clay Mask: clarifying intensive care. Has anti-inflammatory properties and promotes elimination; the deep-cleansing, clarifying action helps remove blackheads and dead skin.
Rejuvenating Mask: regenerating intensive care product. Reduces inflammation, regenerates, has gentle clarifying action.
What are the differences between the Masks?
Rejuvenating Mask
The harmonising effect of the Dr.Hauschka Rejuvenating Mask makes it a suitable intensive care product for all skin conditions. It stimulates the intrinsic activity of dry skin, gently clarifies blemished, open-pored skin, soothes sensitive, allergy-prone skin and moisturizes normal skin. Treat your skin to this intensive care experience. It will thank you with a smooth, firm complexion and an even appearance and texture.
Firming Mask
The Dr.Hauschka Firming Mask provides nourishing, intensive care for people of 30 and above as the skin becomes drier and starts to lose its elasticity and capacity for regeneration. The rich mask restores elasticity and leaves the skin feeling smooth and fortified. The result is a soft, silky complexion.
Soothing Mask
With its moisture-balancing properties, the relaxing Dr.Hauschka Soothing Mask helps sensitive skin that is prone to reddening to regain its natural balance. The result: a healthy, even complexion – and a sense of inner well-being.
Moisturising Mask
This moisture-balancing intensive care product preserves the skin's natural, protective hydrolipid mantle and restores life to dry, sensitive and mature skin in need of regeneration.
Cleansing Clay Mask
This cleansing mask has healing, soothing and regenerating action. The clarifying intensive care gently removes blackheads and callus and stimulates the skin's healthy powers of elimination.
Why don’t you use alpha-hydroxy acids (AHA’s) or beta-hydroxy acids (BHA’s) in any of your products?
Alpha Hydroxy Acids (AHAs) accelerate exfoliation of dead skin cells, temporarily revealing plumper, youthful-looking, immature cells and smoother skin. AHAs, BHA’s and glycolic peels increase production of new skin cells by giving the skin the equivalent of a mild chemical burn. Dr.Hauschka Skin Care’s holistic approach does not endorse aggressive exfoliation by any means, whether it is chemical with AHAs, or mechanical with dermabrasion or scrubs. Excessive exfoliation degrades the important barrier function of the skin, the first line of defence of the immune system. Harsh exfoliation increases the susceptibility to sun damage, causes temporary inflammation of the skin and are suspected of increasing the risks of allergic reactions and inflamed, sensitive skin. Forty years of experience with holistic products has shown that high quality natural substances in Dr.Hauschka Skin Care support healthy skin renewal without degrading the skin’s important protective functions.
Why shouldn’t I use a moisturiser at night?
Your skin is most active when you sleep, renewing cells and eliminating wastes. If moisturisers are applied at night, these natural functions are impeded.
The water-based composition of:
Toners/Rhythmic Conditioner/Intensive Treatments/Regenerating Serum leaves the skin free to "breathe" while supporting the skin's night time activities.
Sleeping isn’t aging, nor is there is any requirement to protect your skin from a night time environment.
Furthermore, in our experience the use of heavy night creams actually exacerbates a dry skin condition.
Give your skin at least one month (skin cell cycle) and you will be convinced!
What differentiates Dr.Hauschka Skin Care from other lines?
For over 40 years, the incomparable quality of Dr.Hauschka Skin Care's pure botanical products and professional esthetics methods have led the field of holistic skin care. The difference begins with the soil. Biodynamic agriculture provides the highest quality healing plants and captures plant vitality with hand harvesting at sunrise. Fresh plants immediately undergo our unique processing method so the plants’ healing quality is captured and carried directly to the skin. Using products and treatment methods that support the health of the skin holistically, Certified Dr.Hauschka Estheticians offer professional services and treatments unparalleled in the industry. Lymph stimulation, central to the Dr.Hauschka Classic Treatment, incorporates gentle, rhythmical brush and hand strokes that encourage internal cleansing. Skin radiates with natural beauty.
Do your products follow vegan and/or vegetarian standards?
Dr.Hauschka Skin Care upholds holistic principals but does not ascribe to a vegetarian or vegan philosophy. Though we do no animal testing, and use no animal ingredients that require killing vertebrates such as collagen, elastin, placenta, hyaluronic acid or ceramides, several humanely obtained animal ingredients: lanolin, propolis, beeswax and royal jelly are included in many Dr.Hauschka products. We also employ carmine and silk, two ingredients from insects.
What is the difference between Organic and Biodynamic?
Over 90% of the plants in Dr.Hauschka Skin Care are grown biodynamically, organically or have been ethically wild-harvested. Biodynamics is a comprehensive and holistic form of organic agriculture that pioneered the scientific use of crop rotation, composting, integrated soil, crop and pest management and animal husbandry during the early part of the 20th century. These agricultural practices were later popularised by the organic movement. Both forms of agriculture are ecologically sound and fundamental to the health of the earth, plants and human beings. Biodynamic agriculture is an organic and sustainable approach that not only considers the health of the ecosystem but also how the rhythms of the universe--the sun, moon, planets and stars--influence how the plants grow. It employs a unique set of herbal preparations to enliven and harmonize plants, compost and soil. Biodynamics addresses the source of problems rather than the symptoms. For example, the organic farmer might apply a natural pesticide to discourage or kill insects. A Biodynamic farmer looks to the ecosystem to find and correct the imbalance that caused the insect infestation.
I just started using your products. Why am I breaking out?
Medications and other skin care regimens may have suppressed your symptoms. When transitioning to Dr.Hauschka Skin Care products a few new customers go through a kind of skin ‘detox’ as conventional petro chemical based products are being removed from the skin.
Dr.Hauschka products activate the skin, encouraging it to function as it was intended; therefore suppressed, underlying conditions may surface. As the skin returns to a balanced state, the symptoms will subside. To encourage balance and help ease the transition, use Rhythmic Night Conditioner.
Of course an optimum product prescription and daily regime is integral for the best results. Feel free to contact us on info@drhauschka.co.nz for a personal product prescription.
How long will it take your products to have a noticeable effect on my skin?
The length of time required to restore health to the skin depends on the skin’s condition and the products used, in addition to lifestyle and diet. A daily regime of cleansing, toning and moisturising with Dr.Hauschka Skin Care can produce noticeable effects within several days. Our most dynamic products - Rhythmic Night Conditioner and Rhythmic Conditioner, Sensitive; initiate a change more quickly. Remember that medications and other conventional skin products may have suppressed your symptoms, and so you may experience a period of acclimation to this new way of caring for your skin. Rhythmic Conditioners can help ease the transition. A healthy lifestyle complements Dr.Hauschka Skin Care products; good nutrition and a holistic skin care routine help restore balance to the skin.
Do you test on animals?
Dr.Hauschka Skin Care opposes animal testing. We do not perform animal testing nor have we ever commission another company to do so on our behalf, nor do we use ingredients that have been tested on animals. Dr.Hauschka Skin Care products comply with guidelines regarding animal testing set forth by both PETA (People for Ethical Treatment of Animals) and the BDIH (German Federation of Natural Products Manufacturers). Details on these guidelines may be accessed online at: http://www.peta.org/ and http://www.kontrollierte-naturkosmetik.de/
My skin still feels oily/greasy after cleansing, I am used to a ‘squeaky clean’ feeling. What am I doing wrong?
It is not necessary or desirable from the perspective of healthy skin to be ‘squeaky clean’ after cleansing. Detergent-free Dr.Hauschka Cleansing Cream and Cleansing Milk effectively remove dirt and sebum and cleanse the pores, yet leave the skin’s protective hydro-lipid mantle intact.
Actually that ‘squeaky clean’ feeling is a sign of a disturbed acid mantle.
Do you have exfoliating products in your range?
Our holistic philosophy of skin care does not endorse the use of aggressive exfoliation by scrubs, peels, glycolics or alpha hydroxy acids. Daily use of Dr. Hauschka Cleansing Cream and regular Facial Steam Bath and Cleansing Clay Mask treatments support the natural exfoliation process of the skin yet respect the skins outer layer and acid mantle.
Are your products non-comedogenic? Will they clog my pores?
The term non-comedogenic is not defined and ratings of ingredients as comedogenic are accomplished by applying a substance full-strength to the skin and assessing the outcome. This approach does not reveal how ingredients affect the skin when combined in a carefully considered, holistic composition. Our products for oily skin have been used for 40 years on oily, blemished skin. They do not increase blemish production or clog pores.
Are your products hypoallergenic?
Hypoallergenic is a poorly-defined term that we prefer not to use. Our products are based on a holistic formulational philosophy and include pure, natural plant extracts, oils and essential oils and other supportive ingredients. Of course one can be allergic to anything in nature, but avoidance of irritating and synthetic scents and preservatives often allows those with chemical sensitivities and allergies to use Dr.Hauschka products without problems.
Which of your products has Vitamin C and alpha lipoic acids?
Our holistic philosophy does not subscribe to the practice of feeding the skin with vitamins or other substances the skin and body should produce itself. However many plant oils and extracts in Dr.Hauschka Skin Care products are rich in antioxidants that protect the skin against free radical damage including sea buckthorn, rose hip, horse chestnut, avocado, wheat germ, carrot, rosemary and acerola (cherry).
Cleansing Cream: What do you mean by “press and roll”?
Our unique "press and roll" cleansing method goes beyond the surface to stimulate the lymph and awaken your skin. First, dampen your face with warm water and mix a large pea size Cleansing Cream with a few drops of water in your hand. Relax your hands to gently cup the face. Beginning at the forehead, press the product in using your fingers and the tops of your palms, rolling outward from the centre and lifting as you roll. The mild suction created helps remove dead cells, dirt and oil. Work downward and outward with this press and roll motion for one to three minutes, then rinse with warm water and finish with a cool splash.
Why do some Dr.Hauschka Skin Care products contain alcohol?
Herbs and flowers are the core of Dr.Hauschka Skin Care preparations and many are extracted in a mixture of alcohol and water. A carrier of healing plant extracts, alcohol is part of our carefully composed formulations. Dr.Hauschka products contain high quality alcohol distilled from fermented fruits, potatoes or grain and denatured with essential oils. Isopropyl alcohol is never used in Dr.Hauschka Skin Care products. The percentage of alcohol in our products does not approach a concentration that is harmful or drying to the skin. A natural emulsifier and stabiliser, alcohol acts as a preservative and helps ingredients to penetrate the skin.
I am allergic to peanuts. Should I be concerned about the peanut oil used in Dr. Hauschka Skin Care products?
The peanut oil used in Dr.Hauschka products is treated with steam and subsequently filtered, completely removing all traces of the proteins that cause allergic reaction. While the likelihood of an allergic reaction to the peanut oil used in Dr.Hauschka products is extremely low, we suggest those with peanut allergy discuss this issue with their health provider.
Why is talc in some of your products?
Talc provides smooth application and even blending of mineral pigments in Dr.Hauschka Decorative Cosmetics. Talc absorbs oil, not water, so cannot support bacteria and keeps make-up vivid and fresh throughout the day. The aesthetic and functional quality of Bronzing Powder, Eyeliner pencils, Eyeshadows, Lipliners, Rouge Powders and Translucent Face Powder Compact are enhanced by talc. Studies show that talc is a safe and effective ingredient for cosmetic use. It is an inert mineral with no inherent toxicity. All talc in Dr.Hauschka Decorative Cosmetics is certified asbestos-free.
Do your products contain gluten?
Gluten, a naturally-occurring protein in wheat and other grains, is found in hydrolyzed wheat protein used in Dr.Hauschka Body Washes, Shampoos and Conditioner. Cleansing Milk contains fermented grain extract, which may also contain gluten. These products are not suitable for people with allergies to wheat. Those with celiac disease can safely use these products if they avoid getting the product in the mouth. Wheat germ oil and alcohol are wheat-derived ingredients that do not contain gluten. We have verified to the best of our ability that no other gluten or wheat substances are used during the manufacture of Dr.Hauschka Skin Care or its ingredients.
Do you use Parabens?
No, no synthetic preservatives of any kind, including parabens are ever used in Dr.Hauschka Skin Care products.
How are your products preserved? How do you maintain product freshness?
Dr.Hauschka products are formulated with a preservative system, which includes: natural preservatives like propolis and essential oils, stable ingredient compositions with natural resistance to spoilage, quality control testing of raw materials and products throughout production, high tech manufacturing facilities that minimise exposure to contaminants, packaging that supports the stability of each product. Our holistic approach to formulating and manufacturing supports our commitment never to use synthetic preservatives.
How do I know that your products are natural and safe?
Dr.Hauschka Skin Care is known for its commitment to the highest quality, safe and natural cosmetics. Now you don't just have to take our word for it, you can be assured through our participation in the Certified Natural Cosmetic program of the BDIH, which provides independent verification that our products comply with their strict Guidelines for Natural Cosmetics. To view the Guidelines see http://www.kontrollierte-naturkosmetik.de/
What exactly do Rhythmic Conditioners do?
Our most dynamic products, Rhythmic Conditioners support the health of the skin with rhythmitised dilutions of plants and minerals. Youthful skin cells have a 28-day cycle of regeneration, but as we mature, the cycle lengthens. By supporting healthy skin renewal, Rhythmic Night Conditioner brings vitality, life and colour to the skin and reduces the signs of premature aging. Use Rhythmic Night Conditioner when the skin is out of balance to help normalize either dry or oily conditions. A 28-night course of treatment is recommended during periods of transition including seasonal change, travel, stress or during introduction to the Dr.Hauschka Skin Care line. Rhythmic Conditioner, Sensitive is specially formulated for red, itchy and sensitive skin conditions. Rhythmitised copper brings movement to congested capillaries, reducing heat and redness in the skin. Use Rhythmic Conditioner, Sensitive until sensitivity improves. It is then beneficial to use Rhythmic Night Conditioner to further support balance and renewal.
Why do the Toners sometimes get sediment in them? Is it ok to use?
Toners are composed of extracts of healing plants. The sediment forms when plant residues settle to the bottom of the bottle, much like the sediment in a fine wine. Also depends on where that particular bottle was in the filling line.
