Frequently Asked Questions

You’ve got questions, we’ve got answers. Below are some of the most frequently asked questions. If your query isn’t covered here, or you’d simply like the reassurance of human contact, email us at bonjour@argentumapothecary.com and we’ll be happy to help.

Are your products suitable for sensitive skin?

Yes, they are suitable for sensitive skin and all our skincare products are at least 87.8% from natural origins including the active ingredients, Silver Hydrosol & DNA HP. Silver Hydrosol is renowned for its gentle antimicrobial action and its ability to support the skin’s healing function.

Our natural fragrances les parfums infinis range from 93.33% to 98.53% from natural origins but some do contain Linalool, Eugenol, and Limonene, so please do check with us before purchase. We have used as many organic ingredients as possible, particularly our essential oils and extracts. Please be aware that even natural ingredients can cause allergic reactions, so be sure to check the ingredients before use.

The entire collection of fragrances has been clinically proven to be kind to the skin’s microbiome, leaving its delicate balance undisrupted. Containing no synthetic ingredients, alcohol, or solvents, les parfums infinis keeps skin moisturised and cared for, while scenting it with the long-lasting fragrance of natural eau de parfum.

Do your skincare products contain perfume?

Yes, some of our skincare products do contain perfume. Our signature scent, BECOME, is mostly composed of natural essential oils, which contain Limonene, Linalool and Eugenol, known to cause a contact allergy in some. Developed by our Grasse-based perfumer who specialises in using natural ingredients, the skincare collection’s natural fragrance has been specifically formulated to be kind to the skin’s microbiome and kind to the senses. If however, you know that you react to Limonene, Linalool or Eugenol, we advise against using the products except for l’étoile infinie which is unfragranced.

Is it safe to use la potion infinie with rosacea and acne-prone skin?

The feedback that we’ve had from customers is that la potion infinie has often helped to improve their acne and rosacea. la potion infinie’s main active ingredient, Silver Hydrosol, is known for its anti-irritant and antibacterial properties and combined with DNA HP, supports the skin’s healing function.

We would therefore suggest that it is safe to use, but please do always carry out a patch test.

Why is my la potion infinie a different colour and/or scent than other jars?

There can sometimes be a slight variation in colour and/or scent of la potion infinie because our ingredients are from natural origins (this can vary from batch to batch).

If you login to your ARgENTUM account you can verify your 13 digit serial code, if not you can email bonjour@argentumapothecary.com and a member of our customer care team will gladly check the authenticity and date of expiry of your product to ensure it is safe to use.

Why won't my fragrance lid come off?

To ensure that our bottles can be easily dismantled and recycled or re-used rather than placed in landfill, we don’t use traditional magnetic closures.

This means that the plastic lids are sometimes tight with the first two to three uses, to avoid leakage. Gently pull the bottle lid off in an upwards motion and never try to unscrew the lid by turning it, as this may cause breakage.

Are your raw materials ethically sourced?

Yes, we are committed to sourcing all our ingredients by selecting producers who share ethics close to our heart. This is an ongoing process which we constantly review to ensure the balance of quality and integrity.

Can I re-use or recycle the ARgENTUM packaging?

Yes, our beautiful glass jar and bottles can be reused and they protect natural ingredients from degrading due to light exposure, so you may want to re-use them to store photosensitive materials. All our packaging, excluding the plastic lids, can be recycled through your local recycling facility.

Do you test on animals?

No, we are strictly opposed to animal testing. We neither perform nor commission animal testing on any of our products or ingredients.

You may have noticed that our products are available for sale to customers in China, please be assured that these products are fulfilled outside of China (namely Hong Kong) and delivered under the Chinese cross-border e-commerce law, which by-passes any requirement for animal testing (Chinese FDA approval).

Why do you use special violet glass jars & bottles?

During our search we discovered a protective violet glass. It works by blocking the complete spectrum of visible light with the exception of violet light. Throughout the entire spectrum of light, only UVA and violet light have preserving properties. Our violet glass allows both of these to pass through and filters the remaining damaging spectrum of light. This patented glass prolongs the life span and potency of our products.

Do you use GM ingredients?

We do not use any genetically modified ingredients of any kind, as this goes against our belief of creating ground-breaking products from natural origins, proven by scientific efficacy.

Do you use nanotechnology?

No we do not use nanotechnology. Silver Hydrosol is composed of natural nano particles ~ they are not synthetically engineered.

Do your products cause Argyria?

We use the finest Silver Hydrosol in our products, which is not associated with causing Argyria.

Research has shown that there is no possible risk of Argyria associated with Silver Hydrosol, even at dosages as high as 1000mcg/ml. However, the same cannot be said about other types of colloidal silvers, since other silver compounds (silver salts and silver proteins) have much higher toxicity that may lead to Argyria.

How natural are your ingredients?

Our ingredients range from 87.8% to 100% from natural origins including the active ingredients, Silver Hydrosol & DNA HP. We have used as many organic ingredients as possible, particularly our essential oils and extracts. The protective qualities of the violet glass and the naturally antibacterial properties of Silver Hydrosol have allowed us to use only the very mildest combination of two food grade preservatives. Sodium benzoate is derived from the benzoic acid found in cocoa powder, cranberries, prunes and cinnamon. Potassium sorbate is derived from the ascorbic acid which occurs naturally in the European Rowan berry.

Is your formula suitable for Vegetarians or Vegans?

Vegetarian ~ YES  |  Vegan ~ NO

Our patented formula contains DNA extracted from salmon milt, therefore as an animal by-product it is not suitable for vegans. However, as our DNA HP does not contain any animal proteins but simply a sequence of nucleotides, our patented formula is suitable for vegetarians.

What is DNA HP and why is it beneficial?

DNA HP is a natural marine-sourced ingredient from wild Alaskan salmon (a by-product of the fishing industry that would otherwise go to waste). It promotes cell regeneration by supporting the production of collagen and elastin and reducing lipid peroxidation. A high molecular weight means rapid absorption, enabling optimum hydration (DNA HP is 10 times more effective than Hyaluronic Acid as a water carrier). The synergistic action between Silver Hydrosol and DNA HP results in tissue regeneration and acts as a powerful antioxidant ~ a bioactive formula that delivers a visibly healthier complexion.

What is Silver Hydrosol and why is it beneficial?

Silver Hydrosol is the purest and highest grade (made of 99.99% pure silver) of all the silver categories. It has a high content (96%) of ultra-fine, positively charged silver ions (Ag+), suspended in pharmaceutical-grade purified water. It has powerful anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties, regulates skin flora, increases the process of tissue regeneration, decreases irritant effects caused by oxidative stress and stimulates skin elasticity.

What is Water Plant EmulsionⓇ and why is it beneficial?

Our fragrance collection les parfums infinis uses Water Plant EmulsionⓇ (WPEⓇ) technology. This means that they are free from solvents and alcohol, composed of water and natural oils, including essential oils, but have the staying power of a traditional eau de parfum. They are moisturising for the skin and hair and avoid the risk of photo-ageing, which happens when sunlight comes into contact with alcohol-based perfumes on the skin. Without any synthetic ingredients, the entire collection of fragrances has been clinically proven to be kind to the skin’s microbiome, leaving its delicate balance undisrupted.

Why is there Caffeine in your patent and what does this do?

Our unique patented formula is enhanced with Caffeine. It contains antioxidants and promotes microcirculation by constricting small blood vessels which reduce irritation. This is helpful for example in minimising the appearance of dark circles and sagging skin under the eyes.

Will your ingredients clog my pores?

Our products are non-comedogenic, which means they will not clog your pores. We use only natural oils and extracts with non-comedogenic properties which are easily absorbed by the skin. By comparison, synthetic oils such as petrochemicals and silicones are highly comedogenic since they form a heavy film on the surface of the skin not allowing it to breathe.

Do you have any clinical trials?

Clinical trials have been conducted on two of our skincare products ~ la potion infinie and l’etoile infinie. Results of both can be found here. 

The complete collection of les parfums infinis has been clinically assessed and shown to support the skin's microbiome. More information can be found here.

How does your formula deal with the causes of ageing?

Our patented formula deals with the principal causes of ageing by enhancing tissue protection and helping to eliminate free radicals. It works by trapping a toxic radical, namely hydroxyl, which is highly reactive to collagen and elastin, causing their oxidation and degradation. It decreases the irritant effects caused by oxidative stress and stimulates skin elasticity.

What is the science behind the patented formula?

Our patented formula utilises a combination of Silver Hydrosol & DNA HP to deliver super hydrating, restorative, anti-wrinkle skincare. Silver Hydrosol has powerful anti-irritant and antibacterial properties that help to regulate skin flora, increase the process of tissue protection and decrease the irritant effects caused by oxidative stress. DNA HP promotes cell regeneration, the production of collagen and elastin, and reduces lipid peroxidation. Its high molecular weight results in excellent absorption, enabling optimum hydration. This synergetic action results in tissue regeneration and acts as a powerful antioxidant - a bioactive formula, for a visibly healthier complexion.

Why have you patented this unique combination?

After years of research in the field of anti-ageing, we have formulated a patented fusion of two vital ingredients, Silver Hydrosol & DNA HP (PCT/EP2013/050422). Each ingredient has a catalytic effect on the other, thereby enhancing their properties and optimising the potency of our formulas.

This synergetic combination has been used where beneficial across our range of natural skincare.

How can I track my order?

Once your order has been dispatched from our warehouse, you will receive an email with the tracking number and link to track your order on the couriers website. 

Alternatively, if you have created an account, you will also be able to login to track your order once it has been dispatched from our warehouse and the tracking number is available.

International delivery options

INTERNATIONAL
£20 or FREE on all orders over £50 ~ UPS (3-6 working days)

ARgENTUM pays for all duties and taxes for orders delivered outside the UK until further notice. You won't be charged any additional costs when you receive your order.

UK delivery options

STANDARD
£5 or FREE on all orders over £50 ~ Royal Mail Tracked (2-3 working days).
Not available to the Channel Islands (including Alderney and Herm).

NEXT-DAY DELIVERY
£10.00 ~ DPD (order before midday for delivery next working day).
Not available to the Channel Islands (including Alderney and Herm).

Which countries do you deliver to?

We deliver globally from our UK warehouse to all the countries listed below. Unfortunately, we don't currently deliver to Russia, Ukraine or Spain. (See our Stockists page for Spanish retailers where you can find ARgENTUM products). 

You can also officially purchase ARgENTUM through our Tmall HK Flagship Store 天猫国际海外旗舰店

Albania, Algeria, Andorra, Angola, Anguilla, Antigua & Barbuda, Argentina, Armenia, Aruba, Ascension Island, Australia, Austria, Azerbaijan, Bahamas, Bahrain, Bangladesh, Barbados, Belarus, Belgium, Belize, Benin, Bermuda, Bhutan, Bolivia, Bosnia & Herzegovina, Botswana, Brazil, British Indian Ocean Territory, British Virgin Islands, Brunei, Bulgaria, Burkina Faso, Burundi, Cambodia, Cameroon, Canada, Cape Verde, Caribbean Netherlands, Cayman Islands, Central African Republic, Chad, Chile, China, Christmas Island, Cocos (Keeling) Islands, Colombia, Comoros, Congo - Brazzaville, Congo - Kinshasa, Cook Islands, Costa Rica, Côte d’Ivoire, Croatia, Curaçao, Cyprus, Czech Republic, Denmark, Djibouti, Dominica, Dominican Republic, Ecuador, Egypt, El Salvador, Equatorial Guinea, Eritrea, Estonia, Eswatini, Ethiopia, Falkland Islands, Faroe Islands, Fiji, Finland, France, French Guiana, French Polynesia, French Southern Territories, Gabon, Gambia, Georgia, Germany, Ghana, Gibraltar, Greece, Greenland, Grenada, Guadeloupe, Guatemala, Guernsey, Guinea, Guinea-Bissau, Guyana, Haiti, Honduras, Hong Kong SAR China, Hungary, Iceland, India, Indonesia, Iraq, Ireland, Isle of Man, Israel, Italy, Jamaica, Japan, Jersey, Jordan, Kazakhstan, Kenya, Kiribati, Kosovo, Kuwait, Kyrgyzstan, Laos, Latvia, Lebanon, Lesotho, Liberia, Libya, Liechtenstein, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Macau SAR China, Macedonia, Madagascar, Malawi, Malaysia, Maldives, Mali, Malta, Martinique, Mauritania, Mauritius, Mayotte, Mexico, Moldova, Monaco, Mongolia, Montenegro, Montserrat, Morocco, Mozambique, Myanmar (Burma), Namibia, Nauru, Nepal, Netherlands, New Caledonia, New Zealand, Nicaragua, Niger, Nigeria, Niue, Norfolk Island, Norway, Oman, Pakistan, Palestinian Territories, Panama, Papua New Guinea, Paraguay, Peru, Philippines, Pitcairn Islands, Poland, Portugal, Qatar, Réunion, Romania, Rwanda, Saint Martin, Samoa, San Marino, São Tomé & Príncipe, Saudi Arabia, Senegal, Serbia, Seychelles, Sierra Leone, Singapore, Slovakia, Slovenia, Solomon Islands, Somalia, South Africa, South Georgia & South Sandwich Islands, South Korea, South Sudan, Sri Lanka, St. Barthélemy, St. Helena, St. Kitts & Nevis, St. Lucia, St. Martin, St. Pierre & Miquelon, St. Vincent & Grenadines, Sudan, Suriname, Svalbard & Jan Mayen, Sweden, Switzerland, Taiwan, Tajikistan, Tanzania, Thailand, Timor-Leste, Togo, Tokelau, Tonga, Trinidad & Tobago, Tristan da Cunha, Tunisia, Turkey, Turkmenistan, Turks & Caicos Islands, Tuvalu, U.S. Outlying Islands, Uganda, United Arab Emirates, United Kingdom, United States, Uruguay, Uzbekistan, Vanuatu, Vatican City, Venezuela, Vietnam, Wallis & Futuna, Western Sahara, Yemen, Zambia, and Zimbabwe.

Will I have to pay Duties & Taxes for deliveries outside the UK?

ARgENTUM pays for all duties and taxes for orders delivered outside the UK until further notice. You won't be charged any additional costs when you receive your order.

How can I amend or cancel my order?

If you wish to amend or cancel your order please contact our customer care team at bonjour@argentumapothecary.com as soon as possible. Unfortunately, If your order has already been dispatched from our warehouse we are unable to make any changes and you will need to take receipt of the package and follow the return instructions.

Using a discount code

If you have a discount code and are eligible to use it on your order please enter the code at checkout. In some instances discount codes are specific to your email address, so please ensure you are logged into your account to activate the code. Discount codes cannot be used in conjunction with other offers.

What payment methods do you accept?

We accept all major credit and debit cards (Visa, Mastercard, American Express, Discover, Diners Club, Maestro, Union Pay), along with Apple Pay, Google Pay, PayPal, WeChat Pay, AliPay, Klarna and Underpay.

What is a Fragrance Reading?

Unique to ARgENTUM, a Fragrance Reading is a bespoke one-to-one 50-minute session at our atmospheric and beautiful boutique store in Notting Hill, with one of our personal fragrance readers using the unique deck of ARgENTUM archetype cards to reflect your energy.

We believe the card you draw ~ and the fragrance aligned with it ~ is the right energy and scent drawn to you in that moment. If you’re open, you will discover you are in sync with the universe, and that is magical. Be true to your inner vision ~ this fragrance connects you with the power that arises from a strong identity.

Where can I experience ARgENTUM products in real life?

We have a beautiful boutique in Notting Hill, London, which is the home of ARgENTUM. You can experience all of our products and treatments, as well as indulge in our speciality coffees and teas.

If you’re not local to London we have a number of stockists across the globe. Please see our stockists page for more details.

Where is the ARgENTUM Boutique?

You can find us at 119 Portland Road, London W11 4LN. A short walk from Notting Hill and Holland Park.

Can I return an opened product?

For hygiene reasons, we can only accept returns that are unused and unopened. If you are not happy with a product please contact our customer care team at bonjour@argentumapothecary.com who will be happy to assist you further.

Damaged or faulty products

If your package or products are visibly damaged on receipt please take photographic evidence and contact our customer care team bonjour@argentumapothecary.com within 48 hours of delivery.

What is your refund policy?

We are happy to refund your purchase up to 30 days after receipt, as long as the product is still in its original packaging and unopened. Please contact our customer care team at bonjour@argentumapothecary.com who will help to arrange your return. Please note, we do not cover the cost of returns and will deduct the return delivery amount from your refund.

Once the items are safely received at our warehouse, your refund will be processed to your original payment method. Funds can take up to 7 days to appear in your account. 

Any gifts with purchase or samples included with your order must also be returned to proceed with a full refund. Failing that, we will only be able to issue credit to be spent on our website or in our Notting Hill boutique.  

How can I draw an archetype card?

You can draw your card online, as often as you like to discover what the archetypes’ guidance may reveal to you.

How have ARgENTUM incorporated archetypes?

Since the beginning, each of our products contains 1 of 12 archetype cards CREATOR (No.I), LOVER (No.II), JESTER (No.III), EVERYMAN (No.IV), EXPLORER (No.V), CAREGIVER (No.VI), SAGE (No.VII), MAGICIAN (No.VIII), HERO (No.IX), RULER (No.X), INNOCENT (No.XI) & REBEL (No.XII). The full deck includes a thirteenth card, BECOME (No.0), which is numbered 0 because it was our first and signature scent and because it also symbolises the totality and culmination of all the other archetypes.  

Along with your product one of these cards is delivered by chance, but always with love. Each card is filled with symbolism that offers a message, which will be unique to you according to what within the imagery speaks to you.

With a sense of fun, we invite you to draw energy from the imagery and symbolism, using your intuition to help reflect your subconscious. The idea is to acknowledge inner beauty ~ focus on their message to inspire balance and harmony within...

What is 12 BECOME 1?

12 BECOME 1 is the heart of ARgENTUM ~ a pursuit of beauty through balance. We find beauty in symmetry ~ the balance of our reflection to its connection within. Through our archetypes we invite you to acknowledge your inner beauty by embracing and balancing all 12 to become 1.

What is an archetype?

ARCHETYPES are aspects of our collective unconscious ~ symbolic images reflecting inherent energies and patterns that are common to us all.

What is the monthly archetype oracle?

With every new moon explore the card that’s been drawn to you and discover what your monthly archetype oracle may reveal.

With a sense of fun, we invite you to draw energy from the poetry and symbolism, to help reflect your subconscious. The idea is to acknowledge inner beauty ~ focus on their message to inspire balance and harmony within.

Where can I follow the ARgENTUM archetypes?

You can follow the archetypes on Pinterest and Spotify.

Disclaimer: The views, opinions and interpretations expressed by our archetypes are designed for entertainment purposes only. No reliance should be placed on any prediction perceived.

How do I create an account?

Your account is designed for you to safely store your details (making it much easier at checkout), review your order history and register your jar of la potion infinie. Simply register here. Don’t forget to sign up to our newsletter to be the first to know about new product launches, exclusive events and special offers. 

How do I sign up to your newsletter?

You can sign up here to be the first to know about new product launches, exclusive events and special offers. We’ll also give you 10% off your first purchase.

How do I verify my la potion infinie unique serial code?

Each jar of la potion infinie has a 13-digit serial code ~ unique to you. Once you have created an account you will be able to verify your jar. 

Simply enter the code found on the base of your jar in the verify my jar section of your account to ensure it contains our original patented formula.

When I create an account, are my details secure?

Yes, we keep the personal details you provide us with, safe and secure. We do not share them with third parties, and honour the security standards that applicable privacy laws require. Take a look at our web address, you will see it starts with https. The 's' tells you that all activity between your web browser and our website uses the Secure Sockets Layer (SSL), which means it's encrypted. In short, when you place an order or sign-in to your account, it's safe. 

If you'd like to find out more, please read our Privacy Policy.