Confirmation of IKOU's vegan and cruelty-free standards across the full product range.

<h2 id="are-all-ikou-products-vegan-and-cruelty-free">Are all IKOU products vegan and cruelty-free?</h2>At IKOU, being vegan and cruelty-free isn&apos;t a marketing claim &#x2014; it&apos;s a founding principle that runs through everything we do.100% VeganIKOU is a 100% vegan company. As founders, Naomi and Paul are both vegan &#x2014; and that commitment is reflected across every product in our range. You won&apos;t find any animal-derived ingredients anywhere in what we make.Genuinely Cruelty-FreeWe are proud to be a genuinely cruelty-free brand. Here&apos;s what that means at IKOU:<ul><li style="font-family: Georgia, serif;">We never test on animals &#x2014; and never will</li><li style="font-family: Georgia, serif;">We use no animal-derived ingredients across our entire range</li><li style="font-family: Georgia, serif;">Despite high demand, we refuse to sell into countries where animal testing is mandatory at import &#x2014; including China</li></ul><blockquote>IKOU has never, and will never, test on animals. Our cruelty-free commitment is absolute &#x2014; not conditional on market opportunity.</blockquote> Still need help?We&apos;re here for you. If you couldn&apos;t find what you were looking for, our customer care team is happy to assist.&#x1F4E9; <a href="https://ikou.com.au/pages/contact-us" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Contact Customer Support</a>&#x1F550; Customer Care Hours (AEST)Mon &#x2013; Thu: 9:00am &#x2013; 5:00pm Fri: 9:00am &#x2013; 3:00pm

Are IKOU Products Vegan and Cruelty-free?

Why your skin may feel tight after cleansing and what it means for your skincare routine.

<h2 id="why-does-my-skin-feel-tight-after-cleansing">Why Does My Skin Feel Tight After Cleansing?</h2>Your skin should feel clean, comfortable, and balanced after cleansing &#x2014; not tight, dry, or stripped. If you&apos;re noticing that tight feeling, here&apos;s what may be behind it and how to help.Why Does Skin Feel Tight After Cleansing?A tight feeling after cleansing can be a sign that the skin barrier may be lacking hydration or support. Common causes include:<ul><li style="font-family: Georgia, serif;">Over-cleansing &#x2014; cleansing too frequently can disrupt the skin&apos;s natural balance</li><li style="font-family: Georgia, serif;">Harsh products &#x2014; using cleansers that are too strong for your skin type</li><li style="font-family: Georgia, serif;">Environmental factors &#x2014; cold weather, wind, or air conditioning can dehydrate the skin</li><li style="font-family: Georgia, serif;">Over-exfoliation &#x2014; too much exfoliation compromises the skin barrier over time</li><li style="font-family: Georgia, serif;">Naturally dry or dehydrated skin &#x2014; some skin types are more prone to tightness</li></ul>Supporting Your Skin BarrierA few gentle adjustments to your routine can make a real difference:<table style="margin-right: calc(-3%); width: 103%;"><thead><tr><th scope="col" style="width: 50%;">Recommendation</th><th scope="col" style="width: 49.8527%;">Why It Helps</th></tr></thead><tbody><tr><td style="width: 50%;">Use a gentle, low-irritant cleanser</td><td style="width: 49.8527%;">Cleanses without stripping the skin&apos;s natural oils</td></tr><tr><td style="width: 50%;">Avoid excessive exfoliation</td><td style="width: 49.8527%;">Protects the skin barrier from over-stimulation</td></tr><tr><td style="width: 50%;">Apply hydration and moisturiser after cleansing</td><td style="width: 49.8527%;">Replenishes moisture and locks it in</td></tr><tr><td style="width: 50%;">Consistent skincare rituals</td><td style="width: 49.8527%;">Supports long-term skin health and balance</td></tr></tbody></table> The IKOU ApproachAt IKOU, we believe skincare should feel as good as it looks. Our formulas are designed to support healthy-looking, balanced skin through gentle, sensory rituals &#x2014; never harsh, never stripping.If tightness persists after adjusting your routine, it may be worth booking a skin consultation with our team for personalised product recommendations.&#x1F449; <a href="https://ikou.com.au/pages/treatments#treatment-booking" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Book a Skin Consultation</a>Still need help?We&apos;re here for you. If you couldn&apos;t find what you were looking for, our customer care team is happy to assist.&#x1F4E9; <a href="https://ikou.com.au/pages/contact-us" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Contact Customer Support</a>&#x1F550; Customer Care Hours (AEST)Mon &#x2013; Thu: 9:00am &#x2013; 5:00pm Fri: 9:00am &#x2013; 3:00pm

Why Does My Skin Feel Tight After Cleansing?

How frequently to use IKOU face masks based on your skin type and concerns.

<h2 id="how-often-should-i-use-a-mask">How Often Should I Use a Mask?</h2>There&apos;s no one-size-fits-all answer when it comes to masking &#x2014; and that&apos;s a good thing. The best frequency for you depends on your skin type, your skin concerns, and the type of mask you&apos;re using.General Usage Guide<table style="margin-right: calc(7%); width: 93%;"><thead><tr><th scope="col" style="width: 43.4142%;"><div style="text-align: center;">Mask Type</div></th><th scope="col" style="width: 56.4125%;"><div style="text-align: center;">Suggested Frequency</div></th></tr></thead><tbody><tr><td style="width: 43.4142%;"><div style="text-align: center;">Hydration-focused masks</div></td><td style="width: 56.4125%;"><div style="text-align: center;">1&#x2013;3 times per week</div></td></tr><tr><td style="width: 43.4142%;"><div style="text-align: center;">Exfoliating or active masks</div></td><td style="width: 56.4125%;"><div style="text-align: center;">Less frequently &#x2014; depending on skin sensitivity</div></td></tr></tbody></table> Consistency is often more important than overuse. A regular, gentle masking ritual will always serve your skin better than overdoing it.Listen to Your SkinYour skin will always tell you what it needs. If after masking your skin feels:<ul><li style="font-family: Georgia, serif;">Sensitive or reactive</li><li style="font-family: Georgia, serif;">Tight or uncomfortable</li><li style="font-family: Georgia, serif;">Overwhelmed or overstimulated</li></ul>These are signs to reduce your masking frequency and shift your focus to hydration and barrier support for a little while.Good to Know<ul><li style="font-family: Georgia, serif;">Always follow the usage instructions provided with your individual product</li><li style="font-family: Georgia, serif;">When introducing a new mask, start slowly &#x2014; once a week is a great place to begin</li><li style="font-family: Georgia, serif;">If your skin is going through a sensitive period, it&apos;s perfectly fine to pause and hydrate before reintroducing</li></ul>&#xA0;Not Sure Which Mask Is Right for You?Our team is always happy to help guide you toward the right product for your skin. Book a skin consultation and we&apos;ll take the guesswork out of your skincare routine.&#x1F449; <a href="https://ikou.com.au/pages/booking?type=virtual-appointment" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Book a Skin Consultation</a> Still need help?We&apos;re here for you. If you couldn&apos;t find what you were looking for, our customer care team is happy to assist.&#x1F4E9; <a href="https://ikou.com.au/pages/contact-us" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Contact Customer Support</a>&#x1F550; Customer Care Hours (AEST)Mon &#x2013; Thu: 9:00am &#x2013; 5:00pm Fri: 9:00am &#x2013; 3:00pm

How Often Should I Use a Mask?

Guidance on safely combining active skincare products from the IKOU range.

<h2 id="can-i-use-active-products-together">Can I Use Active Products Together?</h2>Active skincare ingredients can be&#xA0;incredibly effective &#x2014; but layering&#xA0;them incorrectly can sometimes do more&#xA0;harm than good, especially for&#xA0;sensitive or reactive skin. Here&apos;s how&#xA0;to approach them with confidence.What Are Active Ingredients?Active ingredients are the powerhouse components in skincare that target specific skin concerns. Common examples include:<ul><li style="font-family: Georgia, serif;">Retinoid alternatives &#x2014; for skin renewal and radiance</li><li style="font-family: Georgia, serif;">Exfoliating acids &#x2014; for smoothing and resurfacing</li><li style="font-family: Georgia, serif;">Vitamin C &#x2014; for brightening and antioxidant support</li><li style="font-family: Georgia, serif;">Niacinamide &#x2014; for barrier support and tone evening</li></ul>Can They Be Used Together?Some actives complement each other beautifully &#x2014; others can be too strong when layered at the same time, particularly on sensitive skin.<table style="margin-right: calc(3%); width: 97%;"><thead><tr><th scope="col" style="width: 49.4337%;">Generally Works Well</th><th scope="col" style="width: 50.4045%;">Use With Care</th></tr></thead><tbody><tr><td style="width: 49.4337%;">Niacinamide + most actives</td><td style="width: 50.4045%;">Vitamin C + exfoliating acids together</td></tr><tr><td style="width: 49.4337%;">Hydrating serums + actives</td><td style="width: 50.4045%;">Multiple exfoliating acids layered at once</td></tr><tr><td style="width: 49.4337%;">Retinoid alternatives + barrier support</td><td style="width: 50.4045%;">Strong actives on sensitised or reactive skin</td></tr></tbody></table> At IKOU, we always recommend introducing active products gradually and keeping your skin barrier healthy and supported throughout.Tips for Using Active Products Safely<ul><li style="font-family: Georgia, serif;">Introduce one new active at a time &#x2014; give your skin 1&#x2013;2 weeks to adjust before adding another</li><li style="font-family: Georgia, serif;">Avoid over-layering multiple strong actives at once, especially when starting out</li><li style="font-family: Georgia, serif;">Prioritise hydration and barrier support &#x2014; a healthy barrier handles actives far better</li><li style="font-family: Georgia, serif;">Always monitor how your skin responds &#x2014; it will tell you if something isn&apos;t working</li></ul>&#xA0;If Your Skin ReactsIf your skin becomes uncomfortable, sensitised, or reactive after introducing an active product:<ul><li style="font-family: Georgia, serif;">Simplify your routine &#x2014; strip it back to gentle cleansing and hydration</li><li style="font-family: Georgia, serif;">Give your barrier time to recover before reintroducing any actives</li><li style="font-family: Georgia, serif;">Consult a healthcare professional or dermatologist if sensitivity persists</li></ul>Not Sure What Works for Your Skin?Our team is always happy to help guide you toward a personalised skincare ritual that suits your skin type and concerns &#x2014; no guesswork needed.&#x1F449; <a href="https://ikou.com.au/pages/booking?type=virtual-appointment" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Book a Skin Consultation</a> Still need help?We&apos;re here for you. If you couldn&apos;t find what you were looking for, our customer care team is happy to assist.&#x1F4E9; <a href="https://ikou.com.au/pages/contact-us" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Contact Customer Support</a>&#x1F550; Customer Care Hours (AEST)Mon &#x2013; Thu: 9:00am &#x2013; 5:00pm Fri: 9:00am &#x2013; 3:00pm

Can I Use Active Products Together?

Why natural IKOU products may vary slightly in colour or scent between batches.

<h2 id="why-has-my-product-colour-or-scent-slightly-changed">Why Has My Product Colour or Scent Slightly Changed?</h2>At IKOU, we craft our products using naturally derived ingredients and pure essential oils &#x2014; and nature, beautifully, is never perfectly uniform.&#xA0; Why Does This Happen?Slight variations in colour, scent, or texture are a completely normal characteristic of plant-based formulations. No two botanical harvests are identical &#x2014; and that&apos;s a sign of genuinely natural ingredients at work.Factors that can influence these natural variations include:<ul><li style="font-family: Georgia, serif;">Seasonal crop changes &#x2014; ingredients harvested at different times of year can vary naturally</li><li style="font-family: Georgia, serif;">Botanical sourcing &#x2014; slight differences between growing regions and conditions</li><li style="font-family: Georgia, serif;">Natural ingredient batches &#x2014; each batch of natural raw material carries its own unique profile</li><li style="font-family: Georgia, serif;">Exposure to heat or light over time &#x2014; can subtly influence colour and aroma</li></ul> What This Means for Your ProductThese subtle differences do not indicate a problem with your product. Your IKOU product is still:<ul><li style="font-family: Georgia, serif;">Safe to use</li><li style="font-family: Georgia, serif;">Effective and on-formula</li><li style="font-family: Georgia, serif;">Crafted to our quality standards</li></ul>Think of it the way you might a fine botanical tea or a cold-pressed oil &#x2014; natural variation is part of what makes it real.&#xA0; &#xA0;How to Keep Your Products at Their BestTo minimise the effects of natural variation over time:<ul><li style="font-family: Georgia, serif;">Store products in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and heat</li><li style="font-family: Georgia, serif;">Keep lids and caps tightly closed after each use</li><li style="font-family: Georgia, serif;">Use within the recommended period after opening shown on the product label</li></ul>&#x1F449; See <a href="https://ikou-r24guzgdoke.gorgias.help/en-US/how-should-i-store-my-ikou-products-6062055" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">How should I store my IKOU products?</a> for our full storage guide. Something Doesn&apos;t Seem Right?At IKOU, we embrace the beauty of naturally derived ingredients while maintaining strict quality and formulation standards.If your product looks, smells, or feels significantly different &#x2014; beyond a subtle natural variation &#x2014; or if you have any concerns about a product you&apos;ve received, please don&apos;t hesitate to get in touch. Our team is happy to help. Still need help?We&apos;re here for you. If you couldn&apos;t find what you were looking for, our customer care team is happy to assist.&#x1F4E9; <a href="https://ikou.com.au/pages/contact-us" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Contact Customer Support</a>&#x1F550; Customer Care Hours (AEST)Mon &#x2013; Thu: 9:00am &#x2013; 5:00pm Fri: 9:00am &#x2013; 3:00pm

Why Has My Product Colour or Scent Slightly Changed?

IKOU

Answers to common skincare questions — ingredients, usage, and what to expect from IKOU products.

IKOU Skincare FAQs

Product Information

About iKOU

Experience IKOU

Where can I find IKOU in store?

What is Clean Beauty?

Transparency You Can Trust

Vegan & Cruelty-Free Commitment

Sustainably Sourced Ingredients

Our Responsibility Beyond Products

Ethical Partnerships

Understanding Clean Beauty

The IKOU Experience

How to Prepare for Your Spa Treatment

What Should I Wear to My Appointment?

What Happens During an IKOU Treatment?

SPA | Our Guests' Journey

What is IKOU's Shipping & Delivery Policy?

Where is my order? (Tracking Guide)

How to find tracking email?

How long does delivery take?

Do you ship internationally?

Why is my order delayed?

What happens if my order is out of stock?

My order arrived damaged or missing items

Can I change or cancel my order after placing it?

Orders & Shipping

Candle Care Recommendations

What is the recommended burn time for candles?

Why Is My Candle Scent Not Projecting Strongly?

What should I do if my candle gets too hot or shows signs of overheating?

IKOU Candles FAQs

How Do I Use and Heat My IKOU Eye Pillow?

Can I Heat or Chill My IKOU Eye Pillow?

What Are the Benefits of Using an IKOU Eye Pillow?

How Do I Clean and Care for My IKOU Eye Pillow?

Is the IKOU Eye Pillow Suitable for Sensitive Skin or Eyes?

IKOU Eye Pillow FAQs

How Do I Dry Brush My Body Effectively?

What Are the Benefits of Dry Brushing?

How Often Should I Dry Brush?

Should I Dry Brush Before or After Showering?

How Do I Clean and Care for My IKOU Dry Body Brush?

Can I Use a Dry Body Brush on Sensitive or Broken Skin?

IKOU Japanese Dry Body Brush

How Do I Use My IKOU Bamboo Scalp Massage Brush?

What Are the Benefits of Scalp Massage?

Can I Use My Bamboo Scalp Massage Brush on Wet or Oily Hair?

How Do I Clean and Care for My IKOU Bamboo Scalp Massage Brush?

Is the IKOU Bamboo Scalp Massage Brush Suitable for Sensitive Scalps?

Can I Use My Bamboo Scalp Massage Brush With Hair Oils or Treatments?

IKOU Bamboo Scalp Massage Brush

Can I use essential oils on my skin?

Reed Diffuser Performance

Natural Ingredients & Seasonal Variation

IKOU Essential Oils & Diffusers

Why Does Magnesium Spray Tingle?

IKOU Magnesium Products

How should I store my IKOU products?

How Long Do Products Last After Opening?

How to Recycle IKOU Packaging

Storage Recommendations for Essential Oils & Natural Products

IKOU Products' Storage, Shelf Life, and Packaging

Where are IKOU products made?

Are IKOU products palm oil-free?

Why are there black specks in my IKOU body scrub?

Product Information & Ingredients

Are IKOU products safe during pregnancy?

Are your products safe for pets? (especially for diffusers and candles)

Safety & Special Considerations

What is your returns policy?

How do I request a return or exchange due to change of mind?

What if my product is faulty or damaged?

How long do refunds take?

What items are non-returnable?

Returns, Refunds, & Exchanges

Where Can I Use My IKOU Gift Voucher?

Is There an Expiration Date on My Gift Voucher?

Do We Offer Physical and Digital Gift Vouchers?

What Is an IKOU E-Voucher?

Can I Use My IKOU Gift Voucher at a Stockist?

Gift Vouchers

What is The Interval Loyalty Program?

How Do I Join The Interval Loyalty Program?

What Are The Interval Membership Levels?

What Counts Towards My The Interval Eligible Spend?

How Do I Move Up or Maintain My Membership Level?

Will My Previous IKOU Purchases Count Towards My Membership?

What Rewards and Benefits Can I Receive?

How Do I View and Redeem My The Interval Rewards?

Can I Use Multiple The Interval Rewards on One Order?

How Do The Interval Birthday Rewards Work?

Why Has My Membership Level or Eligible Spend Changed?

Why Hasn't My Purchase Been Added to My The Interval Eligible Spend?

What Happens to My The Interval Reward if I Return an Order?

Can I Merge or Transfer The Interval Accounts and Rewards?

IKOU Loyalty - The Interval

What is an IKOU subscription?

How do I manage or edit my subscription?

How often will I receive my subscription?

How do I cancel my subscription?

What happens if my subscription payment fails?

How do I update my subscription payment method?

Can I add one-time products to my subscription order?

How much is shipping for subscription orders?

How do I update my subscription shipping address?

Can I have more than one active subscription?

How do I skip my next IKOU subscription delivery?

IKOU Subscriptions

What payment methods do you accept?

Is my payment information secure?

Payment issues

How do I use a discount code?

Common Issues with Rewards & Discount Codes

Why isn’t my discount code working?

Does IKOU offer gift cards?

Payments, Promotions, and Discount Codes

How do I use an IKOU diffuser?

Different Diffuser Settings

Diffuser Troubleshooting

How Do I Clean & Maintain My IKOU Ultrasonic Diffuser?

Diffuser Guidance for Safe Usage

Which essential oils can I use in my IKOU diffuser?

Aromatherapy & Diffusers

How Do I Become an IKOU Stockist?

Already a Stockist?

Wholesale and Stockist Request

How do I contact IKOU?

How Do I Contact IKOU Wholesale?

How Do I Contact IKOU Marketing?

Contact & Customer Support