Frequently asked questions
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Questions and answers that aim to help you. If you can't find what you are looking for don't hesitate to reach out, we will be more than happy to answer any further questions.
Skin & Results
Is Apo.Ge suitable for acne-prone skin?
Yes. Mānuka honey contains methylglyoxal (MGO), a compound studied extensively for its ability to inhibit Staphylococcus aureus and other bacteria commonly associated with breakouts. A 2020 systematic review of 32 studies published in Antibiotics confirmed that mānuka honey demonstrates antimicrobial activity against bacteria linked to skin infections. Our mānuka honey is sourced at MGO 510+ (UMF 15+), a concentration considered medical grade. Products like the Deep Hydration Face Cream and Clarifying Milk Cleanse are formulated to cleanse and hydrate without disrupting the skin's natural microbiome, making them well-suited for skin that breaks out easily.
Can I use Apo.Ge products if I have sensitive or eczema-prone skin?
Yes, and sensitive skin is actually the skin type our formulas were built around. A 2017 randomized controlled trial published in Immunity, Inflammation and Disease found that mānuka honey significantly reduced severity scores in atopic dermatitis patients and lowered inflammatory signaling in skin cells. Our formulas are free from synthetic fragrances, petroleum-based ingredients, and known irritants. If your skin is particularly reactive, we recommend starting with the Discovery Set to try each product in small amounts before committing to a full size. As always, patch testing is a good idea for any new skincare.
Will mānuka honey clog my pores?
No. Mānuka honey is naturally non-comedogenic, meaning it does not block pores. Its humectant properties draw moisture into the skin without leaving a heavy or occlusive layer. Hemp seed oil, the other core ingredient in Apo.Ge formulas, scores zero on the comedogenic scale and actually helps regulate sebum production. If you have oily or combination skin, the Clear Bar and Deep Hydration Face Cream are formulated to hydrate without adding excess oil. Many of our customers with congestion-prone skin report that their skin feels balanced rather than weighed down.
How long until I see results?
Most customers notice changes in texture, hydration, and clarity within four weeks of consistent use. That timeline aligns with your skin's natural 28-day cell turnover cycle, which is how long it takes for new skin cells to form and reach the surface. Some customers with reactive or congested skin notice an initial adjustment during the first one to two weeks as the skin adapts to a new routine. This is normal and typically settles. For best results, use your products consistently morning and evening rather than alternating with other routines.
Are your products suitable for all skin types?
Yes. Apo.Ge was designed for all humans, not a single skin profile. The formulas are lightweight enough for oily or combination skin and nourishing enough for dry or mature skin. Hemp seed oil and mānuka honey work together to support the skin's natural sebum balance without clogging pores. If you're not sure which products are right for you, the Discovery Set is the best way to try across the full line and find what works for your skin.
The Science of Mānuka Honey
What does mānuka honey actually do for skin?
Mānuka honey has four bioactive properties that make it especially effective for skincare: antimicrobial activity, anti-inflammatory action, humectant moisture retention, and antioxidant protection. Research published in the International Journal of Dermatology found that mānuka honey's methylglyoxal compound disrupts bacterial cell division and stimulates the skin's natural healing mechanisms. MGO inhibits a broad range of bacteria, including strains associated with breakouts and skin infections. Mānuka honey has also been shown to reduce inflammatory signaling in skin cells, which may help skin appear calmer and less red. As a natural humectant, it draws and retains moisture without heaviness. It's also rich in phenolic compounds that help defend skin from free radical damage. Colleen formulates around these properties because they address the most common skin concerns in a single ingredient.
How does your mānuka honey compare to what's in other honey skincare products?
Most skincare products that include honey use food-grade or cosmetic-grade honey at concentrations of 1 to 3%. Apo.Ge sources MGO 510+ (UMF 15+) mānuka honey, a grade considered medical quality based on its methylglyoxal content. MGO is the primary bioactive compound responsible for mānuka honey's well-documented antimicrobial and antioxidant activity. The higher the MGO concentration, the more therapeutically active the honey. MGO is the basis of how mānuka honey is graded and certified in New Zealand. Our formulas use mānuka honey at meaningful concentrations because it's the active ingredient, not a label claim.
What is mānuka and where does it come from?
Mānuka honey comes from the nectar of the mānuka tree (Leptospermum scoparium), a flowering plant native to New Zealand that thrives in remote coastal and volcanic regions. The tree blooms for just two to six weeks each year, and beekeepers must time hive placement precisely to capture the nectar during that narrow window. What makes mānuka honey different from conventional honey is its unusually high concentration of methylglyoxal (MGO), the compound responsible for its bioactive properties. Research published in Foods found that mānuka trees growing in less fertile soils produce nectar with higher levels of dihydroxyacetone (DHA), the precursor to MGO. Harsher growing conditions actually contribute to more therapeutically active honey. Every Apo.Ge formula starts with MGO 510+ mānuka honey sourced directly from New Zealand.
What is MGO and why does the rating matter?
MGO (methylglyoxal) is the naturally occurring compound that gives mānuka honey its unique bioactive properties, including antimicrobial and skin-soothing activity that standard honey doesn't have. The MGO rating tells you the concentration of this compound in milligrams per kilogram. A higher MGO number means more bioactive potency. In 2006, Professor Thomas Henle at the Technical University of Dresden identified MGO as the specific compound behind mānuka honey's effectiveness, solving a mystery researchers had been working on since the 1980s. A 2024 review in the International Journal of Dermatology confirmed that MGO disrupts bacterial cell division and stimulates the skin's natural repair processes. Apo.Ge uses MGO 510+ (equivalent to UMF 15+), which is considered high-grade mānuka honey.
What's the difference between UMF and MGO?
UMF (Unique Mānuka Factor) and MGO are both grading systems for mānuka honey potency, but UMF is more comprehensive. MGO measures only the methylglyoxal concentration. UMF tests for MGO plus two additional markers: DHA (the precursor compound) and leptosperin (a chemical unique to authentic mānuka nectar). The UMF grading system is managed by the UMF Honey Association in New Zealand and requires independent laboratory testing for every batch. This makes UMF a stronger indicator of both potency and authenticity. A UMF 15+ rating corresponds to MGO 514+, which is what we use in all Apo.Ge formulas. If you're comparing mānuka products, look for UMF certification. It confirms the honey is genuine New Zealand mānuka and has been independently verified.
How do I know if my mānuka honey is real?
Authentic mānuka honey is verified through independent lab testing that measures MGO content, DHA levels, and leptosperin, a marker compound unique to mānuka nectar. New Zealand's Ministry for Primary Industries (MPI) requires scientific testing before any honey can be labeled and exported as mānuka. The most reliable indicator is a UMF certification from the UMF Honey Association, which tests for all three markers and audits producers for quality control. Products that list only an MGO number without independent certification may not have been verified by a third party. Apo.Ge sources UMF 15+ certified mānuka honey directly from New Zealand beekeepers. Every batch is tested and traceable.
Why is mānuka honey so rare in skincare products?
Mānuka honey is rare in skincare because high-grade mānuka honey is expensive, difficult to formulate with, and most brands aren't willing to use it at effective concentrations. The mānuka tree blooms for only a few weeks per year in remote parts of New Zealand, making supply inherently limited. Certified high-MGO honey can cost ten to twenty times more than conventional honey. Beyond cost, mānuka honey is challenging to work with in cosmetic formulation. It's sticky, water-soluble, and sensitive to heat and pH changes. Getting it to stay stable and effective in a cream or cleanser requires formulation expertise that most skincare labs don't specialize in. Most brands that claim mānuka honey use it at concentrations below 1 to 3%. Apo.Ge formulas use MGO 510+ mānuka at meaningful concentrations because our founder formulates specifically around this ingredient.
How to Use
Can I use Apo.Ge with other active ingredients like retinol, acids, or vitamin C?
Yes. Mānuka honey's low pH and humectant properties make it a good complement to most active ingredients. With AHAs and BHAs, apply Apo.Ge products first, then your acid treatment. With retinol, apply retinol first, then layer Apo.Ge on top to seal in moisture and support barrier recovery. With vitamin C, there are no known interactions. Both are antioxidant-rich and work well together. If you experience any irritation when combining products, reduce frequency and consult a dermatologist.
Can mānuka honey skincare simplify my routine?
Yes. Because mānuka honey delivers antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, and deep moisturizing properties in a single ingredient, a skincare routine built around it can be simpler than you'd expect. Instead of layering multiple targeted products, you get overlapping benefits from fewer steps. Apo.Ge formulas are designed with this in mind. The Deep Hydration Face Cream combines mānuka honey with hemp seed oil, ceramides, and niacinamide to support hydration, skin barrier function, and a more even-looking complexion in one step. A complete routine can be as simple as cleanse, treat, moisturize. If you're not sure where to start, the Essentials Set includes the core products for a streamlined daily routine.
Is Apo.Ge safe to use during pregnancy?
Our formulas are free from retinoids, synthetic fragrances, parabens, sulfates, and other ingredients commonly flagged during pregnancy. The Renewing Night Elixir and Botanical Relief Balm are both fully vegan and contain no honey, only wildcrafted mānuka oil. That said, we always recommend consulting your healthcare provider before introducing new skincare during pregnancy. Every body is different, and your provider knows your specific situation best.
What's the best routine for my skin type?
The right routine depends on your skin's primary concern, but the core structure is the same: cleanse, treat, moisturize. For acne-prone or oily skin, start with the Clear Bar to gently reduce excess oil and bacteria, then follow with the Renewing Night Elixir and Deep Hydration Face Cream. For sensitive, dry, or reactive skin, use the Sensitive Skin Bar paired with the Deep Hydration Face Cream for gentle cleansing and intense moisture without irritation. For combination skin or general maintenance, the Balance Bar and Deep Hydration Face Cream cover your daily needs. The Botanical Relief Balm works across all skin types for targeted areas like lips, dry patches, or irritation. Not sure which combination is right for you? The Discovery Set lets you try across the line before committing to full sizes.
How long does one bottle last?
Most Apo.Ge products last between six and ten weeks with daily use. The Deep Hydration Face Cream (100ml) typically lasts about eight weeks when applied morning and evening. Bar soaps last four to six weeks depending on how often you use them and whether you keep them dry between uses. A little goes a long way with concentrated formulas. For the Renewing Night Elixir, three to four drops per application is all you need. Store products in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight to maximize shelf life.
Supporting Ingredients
What role does hemp seed oil play in your formulas?
Hemp seed oil is one of the two foundational ingredients in every Apo.Ge formula .We pair it with mānuka honey because the two ingredients complement each other: mānuka provides antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory activity, while hemp seed oil supports barrier repair and moisture balance. Together they address the most common skin concerns without requiring a complicated routine. Every Apo.Ge product that includes hemp seed oil uses USDA certified organic, unrefined, cold-pressed oil to preserve its full nutrient profile.
What is hemp seed oil?
Hemp seed oil is cold-pressed from the seeds of the Cannabis sativa plant. Unlike extracts from other parts of the plant, hemp seeds contain no phytocannabinoids. What they do contain is one of the most nutritionally balanced oil profiles available for skincare: essential fatty acids (omega-3 and omega-6 in an optimal ratio), vitamins, antioxidants, carotenes, and phytosterols. These compounds support the skin's natural barrier function, help regulate sebum production, and deliver deep moisture without heaviness. We source oil that is gently cold-pressed and unrefined to maintain its full nutrient content.
Is hemp seed oil the same as CBD oil?
No. Hemp seed oil and CBD oil come from different parts of the same plant and have completely different compositions. Hemp seed oil is pressed from the seeds, which contain no cannabinoids. It's valued for its fatty acids, vitamins, and skin-nourishing properties. CBD oil is extracted from the flowers, leaves, and stalks of the hemp plant and contains cannabidiol. Apo.Ge formulas use hemp seed oil for its nutritional profile and skin barrier support.
How does Colleen choose the ingredients in your formulas?
Every ingredient in an Apo.Ge formula has to meet three criteria: it must be biocompatible with skin, supported by published research, and effective at the concentration we use. Colleen's background in biology and herbalism means she starts with the science, then looks for natural compounds that deliver. Mānuka honey and hemp seed oil are the foundation because they cover the widest range of skin needs. Both hemp and mānuka honey are antimicrobial, barrier supportive, boost hydration, and balance sebum. From there, Colleen builds each formula with complementary botanicals chosen for specific roles: ceramides for barrier repair, niacinamide for tone and texture, kelp bioferment for mineral-rich hydration. Nothing is included for label appeal. If an ingredient doesn't contribute to how the product performs on your skin, it doesn't make the cut.
Will hemp seed oil clog my pores?
No. Hemp seed oil scores zero on the comedogenic scale, meaning it does not clog pores. It's one of the lightest plant oils available and absorbs quickly without leaving a greasy residue. Hemp seed oil actually helps regulate your skin's natural oil production, which is why it works well for both oily and dry skin types. Combined with mānuka honey's non-comedogenic properties, Apo.Ge formulas are designed to hydrate and nourish without contributing to congestion or breakouts.
About Apo.Ge
What does Apo.Ge mean?
Apo.Ge (ah-po-gee) comes from two Greek roots: "Apo," meaning formed from or related to, and "Ge," meaning earth as a whole — land and life. The name reflects what the brand is built on: skincare that comes directly from the earth's most effective natural compounds. The idea for Apo.Ge began in 2018 during a trip to New Zealand, where our founders visited cofounder Tim's working mānuka honey hives and saw firsthand how the honey was harvested and tested. The experience of learning about mānuka honey's bioactive properties directly from the source became the foundation for everything Colleen would go on to formulate. Tim, a New Zealander with a deep understanding of the flora and fauna of his homeland, sources the highest-grade MGO 510+ mānuka honey for every Apo.Ge product.
Who formulates your products?
Every Apo.Ge product is formulated by our founder, Colleen Poe, a biologist and certified herbalist who develops each formula from the ground up. Colleen's approach starts with understanding the skin concern at a cellular level, then identifying natural compounds that are biocompatible and clinically supported to address it. Her training in biology and chemistry is why Apo.Ge leads with mānuka honey: it's one of the most well-researched natural compounds for skin, with peer-reviewed studies demonstrating antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties. Colleen pairs it with complementary botanicals like hemp seed oil, kelp bioferment, and ceramides to build formulas that work together rather than requiring a 10-step routine. Apo.Ge is not white-labeled or contract-manufactured. Colleen formulates, tests, and refines every product herself.
Where are your products made?
Our products are made by hand in small batches in the heart of the Redwoods of Northern California. Every formula is mixed, tested, and packaged by our team to ensure quality control at every step. Small-batch production means we can maintain the integrity of sensitive natural ingredients like mānuka honey and cold-pressed hemp seed oil, which degrade when exposed to industrial-scale heat and processing.
Are your products vegan?
Most Apo.Ge products contain mānuka honey, which is an animal-derived ingredient. The Renewing Night Elixir and Botanical Relief Balm are fully vegan and contain wildcrafted mānuka oil instead of honey. All Apo.Ge products are Leaping Bunny certified cruelty-free, meaning no animal testing at any point in the supply chain.
What does plastic-free packaging mean at Apo.Ge?
Every Apo.Ge product is packaged in glass, aluminum, and paper. Our primary packaging contains no plastic. Where small functional components are necessary for product freshness or dispensing, we choose options designed for longevity and reuse. Our pump tops, for example, are built to be kept and reused across refills rather than thrown away after a single bottle. Less than 9% of plastics are recycled in the United States, which is why we made the decision early to eliminate plastic from our packaging wherever possible. Sustainability at Apo.Ge is not a marketing angle. It's built into the product from day one: plastic-free primary packaging, Leaping Bunny certified cruelty-free, and 1% of every sale goes to marine ecosystem regeneration through 1% for the Planet.
How long do your products last before they expire?
Apo.Ge products have a shelf life of 12 to 18 months when stored properly. Keep them in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Mānuka honey is naturally antimicrobial, which helps the formulas stay stable without synthetic preservatives. If a product changes significantly in color, texture, or smell, it's time to replace it. Our glass packaging protects the formulas from UV degradation better than plastic alternatives.
Orders & Shipping
Do you charge sales tax?
Sales tax is charged depending on where you live and the items you purchase. All estimates will be calculated at checkout.
How much is shipping?
Shipping is a flat rate of $5 for all orders under $50 and will be calculated during check out.
All orders over $50 receive free shipping at check out.
When will my order ship?
It takes 1-3 days to process your order before shipping. Once we assign a shipping label to your order you’ll receive an email with your tracking number.
How long will it take my order to arrive?
All orders ship with USPS standard ground shipping. Expect 3-7 business days for your Apo.Ge purchase to arrive on your doorstep.
Can I cancel my order?
Once an order has been processed it can not be cancelled or changed.
Can you ship internationally?
Unfortunately, no. Apo.Ge only ships within the United States due to current laws and regulations.
What forms of payment do you take?
We accept all major credit cards.