Frequently asked questions.

Paracress (Acmella oleracea) is a flowering plant native to South America, used for centuries in traditional medicine for its natural anti-inflammatory and muscle-relaxing properties. In skincare, its active compound Spilanthol has been studied for its ability to gently moderate facial muscle contractions, which over time contribute to fine lines and wrinkles.

Spilanthol is a naturally occurring myorelaxant alkaloid. When applied topically, it may help reduce the frequency and intensity of micro-contractions in the underlying facial muscles. These repeated contractions are a primary contributor to expression lines around the eyes, mouth, and brow. By gently moderating them, Spilanthol allows the skin above to relax and, with consistent use, appear smoother.

Paracress works at a muscular level rather than through exfoliation or increased cell turnover, which means it is generally well tolerated by sensitive skin types. It does not typically cause the redness, peeling, or adjustment period associated with some other active ingredients. As with any new skincare product, we recommend patch testing before first use.

No. Paracress is a topical, plant-derived ingredient. It works at the skin's surface and the muscle layer beneath it. It is not injected, does not enter the bloodstream, and has no systemic effect. Results are gradual and vary between individuals.

Parācress™ is formulated at 5% Acmella oleracea extract. This is the concentration used in clinical studies examining Paracress as a topical anti-ageing ingredient, and the level at which measurable results were observed.

In clinical studies using a 5% Acmella oleracea serum, participants showed visible improvement in wrinkle depth after 14 days of twice-daily application. Individual results vary depending on skin type, age, and consistency of use. We recommend giving Parācress™ at least 14 days before forming a view.

Apply one pump morning and evening to thoroughly cleansed skin, before your moisturiser. Press gently into the areas where you would like to see the most improvement, such as around the eyes, mouth, jawline, neck, or décolletage. Consistency matters with Paracress. The results build over time.

Yes. Parācress™ sits after cleansing and before moisturiser in your routine. It is compatible with most skincare products. If you use other active ingredients such as retinol or exfoliating acids, we recommend applying Parācress™ first and allowing it to absorb fully before applying anything else.

One 30ml bottle of Parācress™, used morning and evening as directed, will last approximately four to six weeks.

No. Parācress™ is cruelty-free and has never been tested on animals at any stage of development.

Yes. Parācress™ contains no animal-derived ingredients.

Yes. Every ingredient in Parācress™ has been reviewed for use during pregnancy and breastfeeding. As always, if you have specific concerns, we recommend checking with your healthcare provider.

Absolutely. Parācress™ is gender neutral — good skin has no gender. The formula works the same way on all skin.

Parācress™ contains no artificial fragrance of any kind. What you may notice is the natural, subtle scent of its botanical ingredients — nothing added, nothing masked.

The complete INCI list is published on the product page, and our ingredient glossary explains what every single ingredient does, in plain language.

Truth Through Nature was founded by Simonne Stodel-Gordon, who set out to find a skincare product she could actually trust — and when she could not find it, partnered with one of South Africa's leading cosmetic laboratories to make it.

Parācress™ is formulated and made in South Africa, in partnership with one of the country's leading cosmetic laboratories.

Yes — and every subsequent product will be held to the same formulation and packaging standards as Parācress™. Join the letter to hear about launches first.

Parācress™ is available directly from this site. It ships free, dispatched within two days.

Yes. Subscribing saves 15% on every delivery, billed every 4 weeks. You can skip, pause or cancel any time from your account — nothing is locked in.

We are always happy to answer questions directly. Write to us via the contact page or email hello@truthnature.co.za — we reply within one business day.