FAQ

THE PRODUCT

Q: How does the peel-off lip stain work?
You apply a generous, even layer to clean, dry lips. Leave it on for 10 minutes while you do the rest of your makeup or hair. Then peel it off in one satisfying move to reveal tinted lips that last up to 12 hours. No smudging. No reapplying. No lipstick on your coffee cup.

Q: How long does the stain actually last?
Up to 12 hours for most people. The exact duration depends on your lip chemistry, what you eat and drink, and how long you leave the product to set before peeling. Leaving it on for the full 10 minutes (and up to 20 for a deeper colour) makes a big difference.

Q: Is it really coffee-proof, gym-proof, and kiss-proof?
Yes. The stain works by depositing tint into the top layer of your lips - it's not sitting on top like lipstick, so it doesn't wipe off. Hot drinks, sweaty workouts, and kissing won't budge it. It will fade gradually throughout the day, just like a skin stain would.

Q: Do I need to exfoliate my lips first?
Not essential, but it helps. If your lips are dry or flaky, a quick exfoliation beforehand gives the product a smoother surface to work with and improves colour evenness. Most importantly, your lips need to be clean and completely free of any balm, gloss, or product before you apply. Residue will stop the stain from setting properly.

Q: Can I wear it over lip balm or gloss?
Not underneath - apply to clean, dry lips only. However, once you've peeled and your stain is set, you can absolutely layer gloss or our Velvet Lip Gloss on top for a stunning glossy finish.

Q: What if I make a mistake during application?
If you get product outside your lip line before it dries, clean it up quickly with a cotton bud dipped in micellar water or makeup remover. Once it's dried and set, it's much harder to remove from skin.

INGREDIENTS & SAFETY

Q: Is Shadey safe to use?
Yes. Our lip stain formula is cosmetic-grade and designed for safe use on lips. We strongly recommend performing a patch test on the inside of your arm before first use, especially if you have sensitive skin or known cosmetic allergies. Discontinue use and consult a doctor if any irritation occurs.

Q: Is Shadey vegan and cruelty-free?
Yes. Shadey Cosmetics does not test on animals and our formulas do not contain animal-derived ingredients.

Q: Does the lip stain contain latex?
No, our formula does not contain latex.

Q: What are the main ingredients?
Our peel-off lip stain is built on a Polyvinyl Alcohol (PVA) base — the same film-forming ingredient used in the viral peel-off stain trend globally. Full ingredient lists are available on the product packaging.

Q: What is the shelf life?
Best used within 12 months of opening. Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight.

Q: I have sensitive lips — is it suitable for me?
We recommend a patch test on the inner arm first. Avoid applying to any broken, chapped, or irritated skin. If you have a history of reactions to nail polish or cosmetic films (PVA-based products), consult with a dermatologist before use.

ORDERS & SHIPPING

Q: How long does shipping take in NZ?
We dispatch within 1–2 business days Monday to Friday. Standard NZ delivery is 2–5 business days via NZ Post or CourierPost. You'll receive a tracking number by email once your order has been dispatched.

Q: Do you ship to Australia?
Yes! We ship to Australia. Rates and delivery times are calculated at checkout. Please note that international orders may be subject to customs duties upon arrival, which are the customer's responsibility.

Q: Can I get free shipping?
Yes — all NZ orders over $70 NZD qualify for free standard shipping. If you're close to the threshold, adding a second product or a bundle is the easiest way to get there.

Q: My order hasn't arrived — what do I do?
First, check your tracking link (in your dispatch confirmation email). If the tracking shows delivered but you haven't received it, check with neighbours and your building. If you're still stuck, email us at contact@shadey.co.nz with your order number and we'll investigate with the carrier.

Q: Can I change my address after ordering?
If you need to update your shipping address, email us at contact@shadey.co.nz as soon as possible with your order number. We'll do our best to update it before dispatch, but we can't guarantee changes once an order has been processed.

RETURNS & REFUNDS

Q: What is your returns policy?
We accept returns within 14 days of delivery for unused, unopened products in original packaging. Due to hygiene reasons, we cannot accept returns on opened or used cosmetics. Return shipping for change-of-mind returns is at your cost. See our full Returns Policy for details.

Q: My product arrived damaged — what do I do?
We're so sorry to hear that. Email us at contact@shadey.co.nz within 7 days of delivery with your order number and photos of the damage. We'll either replace the product or refund you in full — your choice. We'll cover return shipping in these cases.

Q: I had a reaction to the product. Can I get a refund?
We're sorry this happened. Please discontinue use immediately and consult a healthcare professional if needed. Contact us at contact@shadey.co.nz and we'll review your situation personally. We strongly recommend performing a patch test before first use as individual skin sensitivities vary.

Q: How long does a refund take?
Once we receive and inspect your return, refunds are processed within 5 business days. Allow a further 3–10 business days for the funds to appear in your account depending on your bank.

GENERAL

Q: Where are Shadey products made?
Shadey Cosmetics is proudly Kiwi owned and run. Our products are designed in New Zealand with Kiwi women, skin tones, and lifestyles in mind.

Q: Where can I buy Shadey in person?
Check our Stockists page for the latest list of physical stockists. We're growing fast — if you'd like to see Shadey in a store near you, let us know at contact@shadey.co.nz.

Q: Can I become a stockist?
We'd love to hear from you. Email us at contact@shadey.co.nz with details about your store and we'll get back to you.

Q: Do you do collaborations or gifting?
Yes! We love working with creators and media. Email contact@shadey.co.nz with your proposal.

Q: I have a question not answered here — how do I get in touch?
Email us at contact@shadey.co.nz or send us a DM on Instagram @shadeyco_. We aim to respond within 1–2 business days.