FAQ

  • How do I reset my password?
  • How much is shipping?
  • How do I track my order?
  • When can I expect my order?
  • Where do you ship?
  • What will my bottle come shipped in?
  • What will my refill tablet packs come shipped in?
  • How much does it cost to ship to my address?
  • Can I cancel or change my order once it has processed?
  • Where can I find my processing or past orders?
  • When will my order ship?
  • Is there an order minimum?
  • What is your return policy?
  • How do I return my order?
  • When will I see my refund?
  • How do I get a new return label?
  • What methods of payment do you accept?
  • When will my card be charged?
  • How do I reset my password?
  • What can I do if I can’t login to my account?
  • I’m a subscriber, but why am I not receiving any emails?
  • How do I change my delivery address on the checkout page?
  • What can I do if I can’t place an order on the website?
  • What can I do if I had trouble with the payment process and not sure if I’ve been charged twice?
  • How does my MONO subscription work?
  • If I sign up for a MONO subscription, will it renew automatically?
  • How do I access my subscription settings?
  • How do I make changes to my MONO subscription?
  • How do I update my billing address, shipping address, or credit card information for my subscription?
  • Will I be charged for cancelling my MONO subscription?
  • How much does a MONO subscription cost?
  • I won't be needing MONO products for a while. How do I put my subscription on hold?
  • Can I gift a MONO subscription to a friend?
  • Do I have to sign up for a MONO subscription?
  • When is my card charged?
  • Will I get a reminder email before my next shipment?
  • Can I apply a gift card to my next payment for my upcoming refill order on my MONO subscription?
  • What do I do if I need more MONO products before my next refill order?
  • Can I buy a kit without signing up for a subscription?
  • Where are the products made?
  • Are the products tested on animals?
  • Are the products vegan?
  • Are the products 100% Natural? Certifed Organic?
  • Can infants and children use our products?
  • Can I use MONO products during pregnancy?
  • Do MONO products need refrigeration?
  • Are there any negative side effects to MONO products?
  • Why your pH level (potential Hydrogen Level) matters?
  • Q: How long does it take to see results with MONO products?
  • What are Microbiomes?
  • What are Microbiotas?
  • What are Probiotics?
  • What are Prebiotics?
  • Q: Prebiotics : Are they weapons for preservatives?
  • Q: How do probiotics work for the human body?
  • Q: How do topical probiotic treatments work for skin care?
  • How does MONO products work?
  • What is the main probiotic in MONO’s products?
  • What are the benefits of using MONO over other skin care products?
  • Why shouldn’t I just use antibiotics or benzoyl peroxide to address these issues?
  • I use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer, and I’ve noticed my skin drying out, cracking and bleeding. Can MONO help?
  • Making your MONO product is as easy as 1-2-3.
  • How long will one bottle last?
  • Do I need to use hot water?
  • Does the bottle have to be completely empty before refilling?
  • Do I need to shake the bottle to dissolve?
  • How many times can I reuse the bottle?
  • How much liquid does one tablet pack make?
  • Can I use a bottle or container I have at home?
  • Why the MONO bottles arrive empty?
  • How many tablets do I need to use when I make my products?
  • How many refill packs do I need?
  • Can I use a different tablet with a different bottle?

My Order

How do I reset my password?

On your account’s login page, click ‘Forgotten password’ and you'll be prompted to enter your email address. You should receive an email containing a link to reset your password. Follow the instructions by entering your new password and you should receive an email confirmation to notify you that your new password has been changed.                                                                                                                                                                                        

How much is shipping?

Shipping is free on orders over USD150. For any order less than USD 150, our shipping is caluculated at check out based on your delivery address. Digital products such as gift cards and donations do not count towards your order total to qualify for free shipping.

Shipping Table 

Free Shipping From($) Shipping Fee ($) Countries
150 29.9 Australia, Canada, China, India (36 of 37 states), Israel, Japan, Russia, South Korea, Thailand, United States, Vietnam, New Zealand
150 24.9 Algeria, Finland, Greece, Iceland, Morocco, Norway, Tunisia, Turkey, Cyprus
150 21.9 French Polynesia, Southern French Territories, Wallis and Futuna, New Caledonia
125 19.9 Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Hungary, Latvia, Lithuania, Poland, Slovakia, Slovenia, Sweden
125 19.9 Guadeloupe, Martinique, Mayotte, Reunion, Saint Barthélemy, Saint Martin, Saint Pierre and Miquelon, French Guyana
100 11.9 Switzerland, Singapore, Taiwan
100 8.9 Germany, Austria, Ireland, Italy, Luxembourg, Netherlands, Portugal, Spain, United Kingdom
100 7.5 Belgique, Macau, Monaco
75 6.5 France, Hong Kong

For countries outside the European Union, customs charges may apply. They are at your expense and will be requested upon delivery of your package by the country's customs office.

We do not ship to the following countries:
 
Afghanistan, Åland Islands, Albania, Andorra, Angola, Anguilla, Antigua and Barbuda, Argentina, Armenia, Aruba, Azerbaijan, Bahamas, Bahrain, Bangladesh, Barbados, Belarus, Belize, Benin, Bermuda, Bhutan, Bolivia, Bosnia and -Herzegovina, Botswana, Bouvet Island, Brazil, British Indian Ocean Territory, British Virgin Islands, Brunei, Bulgaria, Burkina Faso, Burundi, Cambodia, Cameroon, Cape Verde, Caribbean, Netherlands, Cayman Islands, Central African Republic , Chad, Chile, Christmas Island, Cocos (Keeling) Islands, Colombia, Comoros, Congo - Brazzaville, Congo - Kinshasa, Cook Islands, Costa Rica, Croatia, Cuba, Curaçao, Ivory Coast, Djibouti, Dominica, Dominican Republic, Ecuador, Egypt, El Salvador, Equatorial Guinea, Eritrea, Eswatini, Ethiopia, Falkland Islands, Faroe Islands, Fiji, Gabon, Gambia, Georgia, Ghana, Gibraltar, Greenland, Grenada, Guatemala, Guernsey, Guinea, Guinea-Bissau, Guyana, Haiti, Heard & McDonald Islands, Honduras, India (1 of 37 states), Indonesia, Iran, Iraq, e of Man, Jamaica, Jersey, Jordan, Kazakhstan, Kenya, Kiribati, Kosovo, Kuwait, Kyrgyzstan, Laos, Lebanon, Lesotho, Liberia, Libya, Liechtenstein, Macao SAR China, Madagascar, Malawi, Malaysia, Maldives, Mali, Malta, Mauritania, Mexico, Moldova, Mongolia, Montenegro, Montserrat, Mozambique, Myanmar (Burma), Namibia, Nauru, Nepal, Netherlands Antilles, Nicaragua, Niger, Nigeria, Niue, Norfolk Island, North Korea, North Macedonia, Oman, Pakistan , Palestinian Territories, Panama, Papua New Guinea, Paraguay, Peru, Philippines, Pitcairn Islands, Qatar, Romania, Rwanda, Samoa, San Marino, São Tomé & Príncipe, Saudi Arabia, Senegal, Serbia, Seychelles, Sierra Leone, Saint Martin, Solomon Islands, Somalia, South Africa, South Georgia and the South Sandwich Islands, South Sudan, Sri Lanka, St. Helena, Saint Kitts and Nevis, Saint Lucia, Saint Vincent and -the Grenadines, Sudan, Suriname, Svalbard and Jan Mayen, Syria, Taiwan, Tajikistan, Tanzania, Timor-Leste, Togo, Tok elau, Tonga, Trinidad and Tobago, Turkmenistan, Turks and Caicos Islands, Tuvalu, Uganda, Ukraine, United Arab Emirates, Uruguay, Uzbekistan, Vanuatu, Vatican City, Venezuela, Western Sahara, Yemen, Zambia, Zimbabwe

How do I track my order?

Go to your Account page and click on the order you're interested in tracking. You'll find the order number next to each of the items that has shipped. Once we ship your order, we'll also send you an e-mail with your tracking information so you'll have it on hand.

When can I expect my order?

We typically ship 2 - 3 business days after we receive your order. Depending on where you live, you can expect to have your order delivered to you in 7 - 10 business days.

Where do you ship?

For now we ship anywhere in the USA, Europe, UK, SEA, Hong Kong, Japan and Australia.  

What will my bottle come shipped in?

Your Refillable Bottle will be shipped in recyclable cardboard.

What will my refill tablet packs come shipped in?

Your refill tablet packs will be wrapped in aluminium packaging and shipped in paper padded mailers made from more than 50% recycled fibers.

How much does it cost to ship to my address?

Shipping and taxes will automatically be calculated at checkout. Shipping will vary based on your specific location, what shipping method you choose and which products you purchase. We currently don't ship everywhere but we're working diligently to be able to offer that to you soon!

Can I cancel or change my order once it has processed?

Unfortunately we can't cancel or change your order once it's been placed. But contact us at hello@monoskincare.com and we'll help you figure out what we can do.

Where can I find my processing or past orders?

Log into your Account page and you'll be able to see your full order history for both past and in process orders.

When will my order ship?

We typically ship 2 - 3 business days after we receive your order.  Depending on where you live, you can expect to have your order delivered to you in 7 - 10 business days.

Is there an order minimum?

Not at all! You can order as little or as much as you'd like.

What is your return policy?

We want you to be happy with your MONO products and offer returns on orders 30 days after they are shipped. If for any reason, you're not happy with your purchase contact us at hello@monoskincare.com and we'll do everything we can to make it right. The 30-day window begins on the day the product is shipped and returns must be received within 60 days after return label instructions are issued to you. To be eligible for a return, your item must be returned to us, unused and in the same condition that you received it and require a receipt or proof of purchase. Once your return is received and inspected, we will send you an email to notify you that we have received your returned item. We will also notify you of the approval or rejection of your refund. If you are approved, then your refund will be processed, and a credit will automatically be applied to your credit card or original method of payment, within a certain amount of days. We do not refund any donations made to non-profit partners.

How do I return my order?

We're sorry to hear you didn't enjoy your MONO products. To return your order, e-mail us at hello@skincare.com with your order number in the subject line to expedite the process.

When will I see my refund?

Your refund should post to your credit card statement 5 - 7 days after we've received and processed your return.

How do I get a new return label?

E-mail us at hello@monoskincare.com to receive a new return label. Make sure to include "Return Label for Order No." and your order number in the subject line to expedite the process.

What methods of payment do you accept?

We accept all major credit cards (VISA, Mastercard, American Express), PayPal, and Apple Pay.

When will my card be charged?

Your credit card will be charged as soon as you place your order and receive an e-mail confirmation.

Website

How do I reset my password?

On your account’s login page, click ‘Forgotten password’ and you'll be prompted to enter your email address. You should receive an email containing a link to reset your password. Follow the instructions by entering your new password and you should receive an email confirmation to notify you that your new password has been changed.                                                                                                                                                                                        

What can I do if I can’t login to my account?

If you receive a message that says your email address/password isn't recognized, please follow the steps below: Make sure you are using the same email address and password you are registered with. If you can't remember your password click on the 'forgotten password' link on the log in page. You'll be prompted to enter your email address and we'll send you an email with a link that will allow you to create a new password for your account. If you are still having trouble logging in, please email our customer care team and provide as much information as possible including screen shots of any online error messages at hello@monoskincare.com and we will be happy to help.                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                               

I’m a subscriber, but why am I not receiving any emails?

When you sign up to our newsletters, you should receive an email to confirm your subscription. Click on the verification link and you should receive a variety of emails from us. There could be several reasons why you aren’t receiving our emails:                                                                                                              

Your email software may be marking our emails as junk mail. To avoid this from happening, please add hello@monoskincare.com to your email address book.                                                                                                              

Make sure you typed in the correct email address when you signed up with us. Just sign in to your account (if you can remember which email address you used) to check this.                                                                         

Check that you’ve confirmed to receive our newsletters. When logged into your account, click the ‘Account information’ section and click ‘Subscribe’ under ‘Newsletters’ to make sure you are subscribed to our newsletters.                                                                                                              

If you’re still having trouble, please email your details to our customer care team at hello@monoskincare.com and we will be happy to help.                                                                         

How do I change my delivery address on the checkout page?

When you are on the checkout page, untick ‘Deliver to the same address’ under ‘Billing information.’ This should give you a dropdown menu. Select ‘New address’ and this will give you an option to enter a new delivery address. You can save the address by ticking ‘Save in address book’ below the address field at the bottom of the page.                                                                                                                                                                                        

What can I do if I can’t place an order on the website?

We recommend trying these options to help with the process:

  • Clear cookies on your browser                                    
  • Try using a different browser or device                                    
  • Open a new incognito page                                  
  • If you've tried all the above and are still having problems, please contact our customer care team by phone at (852) 6695-9680 or by email at hello@monoskincare.com and we will be happy to help.                                                                         

What can I do if I had trouble with the payment process and not sure if I’ve been charged twice?

When payment is authorised on MONO website, a screen appears confirming your order number and states your order was placed successfully. If this page doesn’t appear, payment will not be taken and the order won’t be placed. 

Simply contact our customer care team by phone on (852) 6695-9680 or by email at hello@monoskincare.com with any concerns you may and we will be happy to help.                                                                         

Our Subscriptions

How does my MONO subscription work?

It’s simple! First, pick which product you’d like to purchase. Then, choose how often you’d like refills to be delivered to you. You can select delivery for every 2, 3 or 4 months. As an example the following refills are delivered with each set or kit:                         

3-Step Balanced Skin Set
Kit 3 étapes Peau Equilibrée
These 3 refills will be delivered each time (every 2, 3 or 4 months based on your subscription type): 1 Ultra-Gentle Face Cleanser Tablet (50ml) + 1 pH-Balancing Toner Tablet (50ml) + 1 Face Moisturizer Tablet (50ml)
Body Trio
Coffret Soins du Corps
These 10 refills will be delivered each time (every 2, 3 or 4 months based on your subscription type: 4 Hand & Body Cleanser Tablets (200 ml) + 2 Deodorant Tablets (100ml) + 4 Rejuvenating Body Mist Tablets (200ml)
Mono Starter Kit
Coffret Découverte Mono
These 16 refills will be delivered each time (every 2, 3 or 4 months based on your subscription type: 2 Ultra-Gentle Face Cleanser Tablets (100ml) + 4 Rejuvenating Body Mist Tablets (200ml) + 2 Deodorant Tablets (100ml) + 4 Hand & Body Cleanser Tablets (200 ml) + 4 Calming Shampoo Tablets (200ml)
Monolistic Kit
Coffret Mon-olistique
These 12 reflls will be delivered each time (every 2, 3 or 4 months based on your subscription type: 2 Ultra-Gentle Face Cleanser Tablets (100ml) + 2 Face Moisturizer Tablets (100ml) + 4 Hand & Body Cleanser Tablets (200 ml) + 4 Calming Shampoo Tablets (200ml)
Intense Hydration Night Serum 100ml These 2 reflls will be delivered each time (every 2, 3 or 4 months based on your subscription type: 2 intense Hydration Night Serum (100ml)
Sérum Nuit Hydratation Intense

Finally, enter your shipping and billing information, and you’re all set. If something changes, don’t worry. You can cancel, pause, or skip your subscription deliveries in your account at any time. Just log into your account at www.monoskincare.com to make any adjustments.                          

If I sign up for a MONO subscription, will it renew automatically?

Yes, your subscription will MONOew automatically every 2, 3 or 4 months depending on the frequency you selected during your initial purchase. If you want to modify, change the date of your next order, skip your next order, or cancel your subscription, log into your account on our website. Once you’re logged in, click on ‘My Subscriptions’ and select the subscription you’d like to update.                                      

How do I access my subscription settings?

You will need to log in to your account. If you do not have an account, you will need to sign up for one using the same e-mail address you used to purchase your subscription. Once you’ve logged in, select ‘My Subscriptions’. If you have multiple subscriptions, choose which one you’d like to manage and select ‘Manage Subscriptions.’                                      

How do I make changes to my MONO subscription?

To make any changes to your subscription, log into your account on our website and select ‘My Subscriptions’. Select the subscription you’d like to adjust and select Manage Subscription. You can then:                                      

ADD A PRODUCT: The Subscription page will present items that you can “Add One-Time” for an additional charge. Note: you cannot remove any of the fixed items included in your subscription.                                       

CHANGE FREQUENCY: Under Subscription Settings, click “Subscription Frequency” to manage how frequently you’d like to receive refills. Options include every 2, 3 or 4 months.                                      

CHANGE SHIPPING DATE: Under Subscription Settings, click the box that says “Next box ships on”. A calendar will pop up for you to select the date you’d like to your next shipment to ship out. Once you’ve selected your desired shipping date, click “Update Shipping Date”.                                       

CHANGE QUANTITY: Under Subscription Settings, click on any of the items included in your subscription that you’d like to adjust. When the pop up box appears, use the +/- buttons to change the quantity of refills to include in your next order for an additional charge. Once you’re done editing, click “Save Product”. Note that subscription refill bundle quantities are fixed, so any additional products are charged in addition to the subscription cost. Also, please note that any product included in the subscription bundle cannot be excluded from or exchanged for another product in your refill orders. 

SKIP SUBSCRIPTION: Under Subscription Settings, there is the option to “Skip Next Refill”. If you select this option, you will not receive your next scheduled refill order. To successfully skip your next refill order, please be sure to select this option before 11:59 PM the day before the order is scheduled to ship.                                      

PAUSE SUBSCRIPTION: Under Subscription Settings, there is the option to “Pause Subscription”. If you select this option, all subscription refill orders will be paused until you unpause your subscription. To successfully pause your subscription, please be sure to select this option before 11:59 PM the day before the order is scheduled to ship if you don’t wish to receive your next refill order. To unpause your subscription, click “Unpause Subscription”.                                       

CANCEL SUBSCRIPTION: Under Subscription Settings, there is the option to “Cancel Subscription” at the bottom of the page. By selecting this option, you will effectively cancel all subscription refill orders.                                      

Please note that Refill orders are processed on the day of the month that you began your subscription. To effectively cancel your subscription, those changes need to be made by 12 PM EST the day before the order is processed. You can find this date in your account under “Subscription”. If you run into any trouble, email hello@monoskincare.com and we'd be more than happy to assist you.                                      

How do I update my billing address, shipping address, or credit card information for my subscription?

Scroll down to the ‘More Settings’ section of the associated subscription you selected. To edit any of this information, click on the information that needs to be updated and a box will appear on the right hand side of the page. After the information is input as needed, click either 'Save Address' or 'Update Card.'

Will I be charged for cancelling my MONO subscription?

Nope. You can cancel your subscription free of charge. Refill orders are processed on the day of the month that you began your subscription. To cancel your subscription, those changes need to be made by 12 PM EST the day before the order is processed. To cancel your subscription, log into your account on our website and click ‘My Subscriptions’ and select the subscription you’d like to update. You’ll find the option to “Cancel Subscription” at the bottom of the page. If you run into any trouble, please email hello@monoskincare.com and we'd be more than happy to assist you. 

How much does a MONO subscription cost?

With your MONO subscription, you save 10% on the initial order AND refills! Shipping is added separately and calculated at checkout; orders over $150 ship for free.

I won't be needing MONO products for a while. How do I put my subscription on hold?

You certainly can pause your MONO subscription. To do so, sign into your account on our website and click on ‘My Subscriptions’. Select the subscription you want to adjust, select Frequency and choose ‘Pause’ to put your subscription on hold. You will not be charged for any subscription refills while your subscription is on hold. You can also choose to skip your next refill order by selecting 'Skip Refill Order' under Subscription Settings. 

Can I gift a MONO subscription to a friend?

While we don't have a formal gifting option at this time, you can set up a subscription using the recipient's email and shipping address, but use your credit card information. If you need help, reach out to hello@monoskincare.com and we can assist you further.                                      

Do I have to sign up for a MONO subscription?

We get that subscriptions aMONO't for everyone. That's why we offer a buy now, one time purchase option on every product. The benefit of a subscription is a 10% discount on your initial order and every refill shipment. And you never need to remember to re-order!                                      

When is my card charged?

For all MONO orders, your card will be charged when the order is processed. Subscriptions are processed on the day that they’re scheduled to ship. You can view your next scheduled shipping date in your account under 'Subscription' in the box that says 'Next box ships on.'                                       

Will I get a reminder email before my next shipment?

Yes, you will receive a reminder email 3 days before your refill subscription order is processed and shipped.                                      

Can I apply a gift card to my next payment for my upcoming refill order on my MONO subscription?

No, at this time you cannot apply a gift card to your subscription refill purchases.                                      

What do I do if I need more MONO products before my next refill order?

If you need any (or all!) of your products before your next refill order, log in to your MONO account. When you go to Subscription Settings, you’ll find items that you can “Add One-Time” for an additional charge. Once you add those to your cart, you will be given the option to “Ship Now” to receive your products before your next refill order. This will not affect the date of your next refill order.                                      

Can I buy a kit without signing up for a subscription?

Yes, we offer all of our products for one-time purchase on our website on our Shop page. Shipping is calculated separately and added at checkout; orders over $150 ship for free. You can find pricing for one-time purchases on each product page on the website www.monoskincare.com  

Our Products & Science Behind

Where are the products made?

All our products are manufactured in a laboratory in Belgium.

Are the products tested on animals?

No. As all products launched in the European Union since 2005, our products have never been tested on animals.

Are the products vegan?

Yes. We have no ingredients coming from animal origin in any of our products.

Are the products 100% Natural? Certifed Organic?

Yes absolutely 100% of the ingredients we use are natural, 100% Clean.  Yes our productsare certified organic by the European Union, and actually far above the organic standards [five times more organic ingredients than required in organic cosmetics] - there is no 100% organic cosmetics.

Can infants and children use our products?

Yes. Our products have not yet been specifically tested on infants or children. However, they have been developed for sensitive or even very sensitive skin types and do not contain anything that could cause reactions (such as essential oils etc.), 100% natural ingredients only.

Can I use MONO products during pregnancy?

Yes. Our products have not yet been specifically tested on pregnant women. However, they have been developed for sensitive or even very sensitive skin types and do not contain anything that could cause reactions (such as essential oils etc.). 100% natural ingredients only.

Do MONO products need refrigeration?

No, they do not need refrigeration. Keep MONO products at room temperature and avoid direct sunlight.

Are there any negative side effects to MONO products?

When used properly, following the application dosage recommended on each bottle and here on our site, there should be no adverse reactions. It is not uncommon for "good" cosmetics, at a physiological pH of 5.0 in particular, to produce redness on skin roughed up by "bad" cosmetics, at pH7.0 for example. The effect wears off in two or three days. 

Why your pH level (potential Hydrogen Level) matters?

Potential hydrogen (pH) refers to the acidity level of substances - from 1 to 14 with pH7.0 considered "neutral". You might be surprised to learn that a healthy skin pH is more on the acidic side, the ideal pH level for the skin being just below 5.0. With more acidity, your skin can combat harmful microbes and damaging free radicals that might increase the aging process.our skin pH varies depending on the area of your body. Lesser exposed areas, such as the buttocks, armpits, and genital area, tend to maintain their natural acidity. This is unlike your face, chest, and hands, which tend to be more alkaline. Such differences are due to the fact that the latter areas of skin are more exposed to the elements.

Some other factors that can affect skin pH include: acne, air pollution, antibacterial soaps, change in seasons - with different humidity levels, sebum/ skin moisture, sweat, too much sun exposure.

Thanks to at-home pH kits, it may be possible to determine your skin pH on your own. It’s also possible to get a general idea of your skin pH level through careful observation.

Skin that has a soft texture without dry spots would be considered balanced. Irritation, acne, redness, and dry spots may all be signs of a high skin pH that’s leaning towards a more alkaline profile. Skin pH is just one of the aspects in overall skin health. Taking care of your skin with our MONO ultra-gentle cleanser and pH balancing toner for your skin type helps strike the right balance of oil your skin needs to stay at its healthiest. 

Our daily MONO anti-UV mist is also a must-have to protect your skin from damage from UV light and other particles. Any specific skin care concerns, such as acne or dermatitis, ought to be addressed with a dermatologist. They can help resolve any underlying skin issues and help you keep your skin healthy.

Q: How long does it take to see results with MONO products?

A: Everyone’s skin is different. This means that everyone’s reaction to MONO’s products is going to be different. How quickly and effectively your skin responds to MONO products depends on the severity of the skin issue and other mitigating or aggravating circumstances. Some of our customers who suffered from skin inflammation reported positive results in 2-3 weeks of regular use. If you are having a serious outbreak of acne, rosacea, or eczema, or, if you are using prescription medications for any of these conditions, please consult with your physician.

What are Microbiomes?

Microbiomes are microbes that live in a distinct environment. In the gut, microbiome is the entire collection of microorganisms and similarly, the skin microbiome is simply all the organisms present on the skin. 

What are Microbiotas?

Microbiotas control the (bad bacteria) colonization of potentially pathogenic organisms. It also adjusts the skin's immune response, skin barrier function and is integral for skin health.

What are Probiotics?

Probiotics are living microorganisms that can provide incredible health benefits to the skin when used orally or topically.

What are Prebiotics?

Prebiotics act as food for the probiotics and can promote the growth of both beneficial and pathogenic microorganisms. Think of them as a type of "fertilizer" for the microbiome. An imbalanced microbiome is associated with many skin diseases, including psoriasis, allergies, eczema, contact dermatitis, acne, poor wound healing, skin ulcers, dandruff, yeast and fungal infections, rosacea, and accelerated skin aging.

Q: Prebiotics : Are they weapons for preservatives?

A: Preservatives can have a devastating effect both on the balance of our main skin defence, the skin microbiota and their number. Especially in sensitive and weaker skin, such as older skin this disturbing effect on the skin microbiota may result in skin disorders. Older skin already has a reduced microbial population because of a slower proliferation of keratinocytes. High molecular weight inulin can restore and even improve the skin microbiota in the presence of seriously disturbing preservatives. High molecular weight inulin is a unique ingredient that hydrates the skin via microbial hydration. This type of Inulin derived from a mixture of chicory root and agave is a valuable aid to the formulator who would like to make future cosmetic product safer, milder and more skin friendly.

Extract from a study of preservatives and high molecular weight Inulin on the skin microbiota (here).                                                                                                                                                                                                                         

Q: How do probiotics work for the human body?

A: Probiotic bacteria on the skin and inside the human body have numerous functions. On the skin, they work synergistically with human cells to boost the immune system and keep pathogens at bay. They also aid the immune system in the intestinal tract, controlling systemic inflammation and coordinating immune responses. Although a healthy microbiome will look diffeMONOt in each individual, it is expected that overgrowth, or dysbiosis, of certain types of bacteria and other microbes can lead to inflammation, redness, pain, and breakouts.

Q: How do topical probiotic treatments work for skin care?

A: Applying a topical probiotic to the skin reintroduces healthy bacteria to an area where the microbiome has awry. More formally, probiotics help treat dysbiosis in the microbiome. The healthy and anti-inflammatory bacteria in topical probiotic products compete against overgrown and harmful bacteria for food and resources. Over time, these probiotics restore the skin flora’s optimal bacterial balance.

For a long time, we've been told that killing 99.9% of bacteria was what we wanted, that it's the best way to be clean and healthy. For decades, even centuries, we've been guided by that belief that all bacteria and microorganisms are bad. As you can imagine, this has greatly shaped our society and our everyday habits, especially in the developed world.

Everything from our hygiene routines, to our household cleaning products, to the preservatives in our skincare and food, to specialized ventilation systems for our homes and offices, all have been created to keep us separate from the outside and the microbial world (and attempt to obliterate it if possible).

We know there are definitely bad microorganisms out there. However, they are orders of magnitude outnumbered by the benign, the good, and the still unknown microorganisms that exist out there as well. In our determined attempts to be clean in order to be healthy, we've instead ended up striving for sterility, which we are now learning does not always come with healthy. Could it be that we have been getting rid of our allies in the process? Now, this is not a reason to stop washing your hands! But instead, this is about thinking about "clean." What if restoring and maintaining beneficial bacteria is key to healthy skin? What if we change the way we treat our skin, and in doing so embrace it as the living ecosystem it is? This is what our research and mission are dedicated to.

How does MONO products work?

Invisible to the naked eye, our bodies play host to trillions of microorganisms. Just like our gut relies on good bacteria and probiotics, our skin relies on good bacteria to help us be healthy as well. This elaborate ecosystem is called the skin biome.

The interactions between the biome and our skin were defined millions of years ago so that everyone wins. Beneficial bacteria and other microorganisms have a home and steady energy supply, and in turn, our skin enjoys healthful benefits.

Our skin biome is nurtured from the moment we're born, passed down to us from our mothers, and is constantly evolving throughout our lives by our environment, interaction with nature, and lifestyle.

Today, our skin biome faces many challenges. Our obsession with cleanliness & sterility have created a difficult environment for many beneficial organisms to survive. Furthermore, because our biomes are shaped by our natural environment, urban living has made it difficult for us to re-establish or maintain beneficial bacteria that we’d be regularly exposed to in nature.

These modern chemistry and lifestyle shifts have undermined this ecosystem, making it less diverse and leaving us more susceptible to many challenges including sensitivity, irritation and other skin problems.

To reverse this, we need to embrace the skin for the living ecosystem it is and help it reconnect with the balanced state that it once had. This is why it's our mission to create products that enhance and protect the skin biome. We believe restoring and maintaining beneficial bacteria is the answer to healthy skin and a great first step to a healthier lifestyle. MONO products work by coating the skin with a layer of Bacillus subtilis that compete with harmful bacteria, such as Propionibacterium acnes (P. acnes) for food and resources. By eating the excess skin and toxins that bad bacteria need to survive, the beneficial bacteria in MONO products literally starve their competition on the surface of the skin and deep in pores. With regular use, the skin flora’s optimal balance is restored and natural immunity is improved. This immune boost is vital for protection against environmental damage and maintains the glow, softness, and tightness of a healthy skin.

What is the main probiotic in MONO’s products?

The main ingredient in MONO products is Bacillus subtilis (B. subtilis), which is a beneficial bacteria found on healthy human skin, as well as in the gut, on vegetation and in the soil.

What are the benefits of using MONO over other skin care products?

Probiotic-based products make for a better skin care regimen. Not only are these products natural, but do not contain harsh chemicals, are environment-friendly, and are made with a water-based solution that is safe to use in the long-term. The MONO skin care line is a safer option because it does not dry your skin or cause allergic reactions, like benzoyl peroxide or salicylic acid have been known to do. Instead, it continues working long after the solution has been applied to the skin, requiring only 2 to 4 applications a day. Like a bacterial shield, it creates a protective layer of probiotics on the skin. This helps to maintain the proper and healthy level of good bacteria.

Why shouldn’t I just use antibiotics or benzoyl peroxide to address these issues?

While antibiotics are great for curing some ailments, they are not always the best for dealing with skin issues. Antibiotics kill any bacteria with which they come into contact, including beneficial bacteria that your skin needs to maintain a healthy balance. This imbalance has a negative effect and could possibly exacerbate the original condition. In contrast, benzoyl peroxide and salicylic acid—another common chemical found in skin care products—are harsh chemicals that can trigger an inflammatory reaction in the skin. This is especially true among those who already experience outbreaks of acne, eczema, or rosacea. Furthermore, even if a chemical or antibiotic prescription works initially, over time, the body may stop reacting to the treatment, worsening the problem in the long-term.

I use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer, and I’ve noticed my skin drying out, cracking and bleeding. Can MONO help?

Yes. Alcohol dries out the skin, which may cause it to crack and bleed. In addition, alcohol-based hand sanitizers say that they kill 99.5% of bacteria, which unfortunately includes good bacteria needed to keep skin healthy. Killing beneficial microbes is why this type of hand sanitizer can be problematic for people who have eczema and/or rosacea. Applying a safe topical probiotic may help repair the skin after sanitization.

How it works

Making your MONO product is as easy as 1-2-3.

1. Fill your Bottle with warm or distilled water up to the line

2. Drop in as many tablets as required (one tablet for every 50 ml of water). 

3. Wait a few hours --once the tablets are dissolved just start using the product! Shake it before each use afterwards.

How long will one bottle last?

The solution in our bottles should last you a similar length of time as a traditional skincare bottle, deodorant or shampoo. How long one bottle's worth of solution lasts depends on how often you use it, how much you use, and how many members of your family use it as well! If you need more help on identifying which products or refills you should purchase and how often, please provide more information and we'll do our very best to assist you! 

Do I need to use hot water?

Using warm water will best minimize how long you need to wait to have a tablet dissolve. Using cold or hot water is also okay, but we would recommend warm water.

Does the bottle have to be completely empty before refilling?

Yes. We recommend that you finish using the solution in your bottle and rinsing it with clean water before creating another bottle of solution with a new tablet. Each refill pack is designed to be dissolved with water to create 50ml of finished product and match the exact amount of solution our bottle is designed to hold.

Do I need to shake the bottle to dissolve?

You do not have to but you can. It will help dissolve the tablet in warm water faster. 

How many times can I reuse the bottle?

Our bottle is forever refillable, it is meant to be used forever so you never have to throw it away. Unlike many conventional disposable skincare or soap bottles, our bottles are made of glass (for small and medium ones) and BPA-free (for the 450ml ones), made of shatter-resistant material, and contain no VOCs or phthalates.

How much liquid does one tablet pack make?

One skincare tablet makes 50ml of solution.

Can I use a bottle or container I have at home?

For an easy and optimal experience we recommend you use our MONO bottles with our refill tablets as we specifically designed them for a great consumer experience, and specifically designed for reuse.

Why the MONO bottles arrive empty?

We don't want you to pay to ship water around the world and we do want to minimize our carbon footprint. You can add your own water when you receive your bottle or at your own convenience.

How many tablets do I need to use when I make my products?

Each tablet is the made to be the perfect amount for your MONO refillable bottle. Each of our tablet creates 50ml of solution, so four tablets create 200ml and 8 tablets 400ml. If your bottle shows 50ml of product use only one tablet at a time.  

How many refill packs do I need?

It depends on how often you use it and how many people use it in your family. If you need more help on identifying which refill packs you should purchase, text or e-mail us.

Can I use a different tablet with a different bottle?

You could but it is not recommended. Indeed you could use a different MONO bottle with a different tablet pack but the labels printed on the bottles are permanent so in case you do we suggest you re-label your bottle.