2026 Winners Announced

HY C Recovery Serum – Sanctum Organics

FINALIST
Best Micro Batch Skincare 2025

$39.95

Sanctum Organics HY C Recovery Serum features a 95.96% Certified Organic formula that hydrates, brightens and restores skin. Enriched with Vitamin C, Hyaluronic Acid and Gotu Kola, it combats ageing while soothing and protecting. It is made in Byron Bay, Certified Cruelty Free and Vegan.

Formulated with excellent clean, mostly organic ingredients. 95% organic.
Sanctum Organics exclusively utilises ethically and sustainably sourced Certified Organic ingredients from trusted suppliers. Their products are 100% certified Cruelty Free, approved by Cruelty Free International and Leaping Bunny and all formulas are certified Vegan by the Vegan Society. Each formula incorporates a natural preservative system, challenging shelf-life expectations but aligning with their commitment to toxin-free products. The brand actively ensures that all suppliers comply with fair labour practices, avoiding any use of child labour. Since 1992, Sanctum Organics has developed and created products in Byron Bay, Australia, emphasising ingredient transparency with complete lists available online. Their range is entirely toxin-free, and they implement regular supplier audits and independent Sedex SMETA audits to uphold ethical and sustainable practices.
Sanctum Organics produces a Certified Organic range that avoids synthetic pesticides and fertilisers, protecting soil health and waterways. They utilise eco-friendly packaging, including recyclable glass bottles in compostable cartons and tubes made from Post-Consumer Recycled materials. The brand has eliminated unnecessary cartons to reduce waste, uses compostable packing peanuts for shipping and is transitioning to biodegradable packing tape. Their sustainable micro-batch production minimises waste and carbon footprints. Each ingredient is sustainably sourced, supporting eco-friendly farming practices. Furthermore, the team is committed to carbon offsetting and continuously seeks improvements in their environmental footprint by assessing production processes, packaging options and shipping methods.
Sanctum Organics supports various local and global charities that align with their values, focusing on health, environmental issues and vulnerable communities, with donations made to organisations like the Jane McGrath Foundation and Baby Give Back, as well as local primary schools and daycares. Since its inception in 1992, this family-run business has committed to the local economy by sourcing local ingredients and supporting local sports organisations. Under the leadership of GM Katrina Main, Sanctum Organics promotes a diverse and inclusive workplace, providing equal opportunities for all employees regardless of race, gender, or background. The brand emphasises education on clean beauty and healthy lifestyles through their factory outlet, online presence and blog. Employee well-being is prioritised with fair wages, flexible work options, access to learning opportunities and an Employee Assistance Program (EAP). Additionally, Sanctum Organics is dedicated to ethical sourcing, adhering to fair trade and responsible farming practices that benefit the global community.

Product Reviews by Experts


This serum has a beautiful, light texture that absorbs quickly and layers well without pilling which is a big win if you’re using it under other skincare or makeup. My skin felt noticeably more hydrated and fresh after just a few uses and there was a nice subtle glow without any stickiness. I also loved that it didn’t irritate my skin (which can be reactive to some Vitamin C products) it feels gentle but effective, especially for brightening and calming redness. Sanctum Organics continues to stand out for how comprehensive and authentic their ethical approach is. The commitment to certified organic, cruelty-free and vegan formulations is one thing, but they also back it up with supplier audits, natural preservative systems and ingredient transparency that’s actually easy to follow. The fact they’ve been doing this for decades and are still refining and evolving says a lot about the depth of their values, not just the marketing. Love!


Sanctum’s HY C Recovery Serum is lightweight with a bright, clean fragrance. My skin takes a beating from constant sun and salt exposure, so I love honing skincare with data driven ingredients like Vitamin C and Hyaluronic Acid, which are the stars of the HY C Recovery Serum. I like how quickly it absorbs and calms my skin after a long day in the elements. Sanctum has a multifaceted approach to their longstanding sustainability journey. I’m impressed by their investment in Vegan, Cruelty Free and Organic certifications- no doubt lengthy and expensive processes! Their focus on ethical sourcing and creating a supportive work culture speak to the deep sustainability baked into Sanctum’s brand values.


This serum had lovely packaging, and I really liked the feel of it on my skin – it visibly brightens. I love that this brand is local, low environmental impact, holds their suppliers to high standards and uses all clean and beautiful ingredients. The packaging was minimal and eco-friendly too.

HY C Recovery Serum – Sanctum Organics
$39.95
Review This serum has a beautiful, light texture that absorbs quickly and layers well without pilling which is a big win if you’re using it under other skincare or makeup. My skin felt noticeably more hydrated and fresh after just a few uses and there was a nice subtle glow without any stickiness. I also loved that it didn’t irritate my skin (which can be reactive to some Vitamin C products) it feels gentle but effective, especially for brightening and calming redness. Sanctum Organics continues to stand out for how comprehensive and authentic their ethical approach is. The commitment to certified organic, cruelty-free and vegan formulations is one thing, but they also back it up with supplier audits, natural preservative systems and ingredient transparency that’s actually easy to follow. The fact they’ve been doing this for decades and are still refining and evolving says a lot about the depth of their values, not just the marketing. Love!

–Lee Sutherland

Review Sanctum’s HY C Recovery Serum is lightweight with a bright, clean fragrance. My skin takes a beating from constant sun and salt exposure, so I love honing skincare with data driven ingredients like Vitamin C and Hyaluronic Acid, which are the stars of the HY C Recovery Serum. I like how quickly it absorbs and calms my skin after a long day in the elements. Sanctum has a multifaceted approach to their longstanding sustainability journey. I’m impressed by their investment in Vegan, Cruelty Free and Organic certifications- no doubt lengthy and expensive processes! Their focus on ethical sourcing and creating a supportive work culture speak to the deep sustainability baked into Sanctum’s brand values.

–Lauren L. Hill

Review This serum had lovely packaging, and I really liked the feel of it on my skin – it visibly brightens. I love that this brand is local, low environmental impact, holds their suppliers to high standards and uses all clean and beautiful ingredients. The packaging was minimal and eco-friendly too.

–Chloe Pacey

Sanctum Organics HY C Recovery Serum features a 95.96% Certified Organic formula that hydrates, brightens and restores skin. Enriched with Vitamin C, Hyaluronic Acid and Gotu Kola, it combats ageing while soothing and protecting. It is made in Byron Bay, Certified Cruelty Free and Vegan.
$39.95
Review This serum has a beautiful, light texture that absorbs quickly and layers well without pilling which is a big win if you’re using it under other skincare or makeup. My skin felt noticeably more hydrated and fresh after just a few uses and there was a nice subtle glow without any stickiness. I also loved that it didn’t irritate my skin (which can be reactive to some Vitamin C products) it feels gentle but effective, especially for brightening and calming redness. Sanctum Organics continues to stand out for how comprehensive and authentic their ethical approach is. The commitment to certified organic, cruelty-free and vegan formulations is one thing, but they also back it up with supplier audits, natural preservative systems and ingredient transparency that’s actually easy to follow. The fact they’ve been doing this for decades and are still refining and evolving says a lot about the depth of their values, not just the marketing. Love!

–Lee Sutherland

Review Sanctum’s HY C Recovery Serum is lightweight with a bright, clean fragrance. My skin takes a beating from constant sun and salt exposure, so I love honing skincare with data driven ingredients like Vitamin C and Hyaluronic Acid, which are the stars of the HY C Recovery Serum. I like how quickly it absorbs and calms my skin after a long day in the elements. Sanctum has a multifaceted approach to their longstanding sustainability journey. I’m impressed by their investment in Vegan, Cruelty Free and Organic certifications- no doubt lengthy and expensive processes! Their focus on ethical sourcing and creating a supportive work culture speak to the deep sustainability baked into Sanctum’s brand values.

–Lauren L. Hill

Review This serum had lovely packaging, and I really liked the feel of it on my skin – it visibly brightens. I love that this brand is local, low environmental impact, holds their suppliers to high standards and uses all clean and beautiful ingredients. The packaging was minimal and eco-friendly too.

–Chloe Pacey

Sanctum Organics HY C Recovery Serum features a 95.96% Certified Organic formula that hydrates, brightens and restores skin. Enriched with Vitamin C, Hyaluronic Acid and Gotu Kola, it combats ageing while soothing and protecting. It is made in Byron Bay, Certified Cruelty Free and Vegan.
Review This serum has a beautiful, light texture that absorbs quickly and layers well without pilling which is a big win if you’re using it under other skincare or makeup. My skin felt noticeably more hydrated and fresh after just a few uses and there was a nice subtle glow without any stickiness. I also loved that it didn’t irritate my skin (which can be reactive to some Vitamin C products) it feels gentle but effective, especially for brightening and calming redness. Sanctum Organics continues to stand out for how comprehensive and authentic their ethical approach is. The commitment to certified organic, cruelty-free and vegan formulations is one thing, but they also back it up with supplier audits, natural preservative systems and ingredient transparency that’s actually easy to follow. The fact they’ve been doing this for decades and are still refining and evolving says a lot about the depth of their values, not just the marketing. Love!

–Lee Sutherland

Review Sanctum’s HY C Recovery Serum is lightweight with a bright, clean fragrance. My skin takes a beating from constant sun and salt exposure, so I love honing skincare with data driven ingredients like Vitamin C and Hyaluronic Acid, which are the stars of the HY C Recovery Serum. I like how quickly it absorbs and calms my skin after a long day in the elements. Sanctum has a multifaceted approach to their longstanding sustainability journey. I’m impressed by their investment in Vegan, Cruelty Free and Organic certifications- no doubt lengthy and expensive processes! Their focus on ethical sourcing and creating a supportive work culture speak to the deep sustainability baked into Sanctum’s brand values.

–Lauren L. Hill

Review This serum had lovely packaging, and I really liked the feel of it on my skin – it visibly brightens. I love that this brand is local, low environmental impact, holds their suppliers to high standards and uses all clean and beautiful ingredients. The packaging was minimal and eco-friendly too.

–Chloe Pacey

HY C Recovery Serum – Sanctum Organics
Sanctum Organics HY C Recovery Serum features a 95.96% Certified Organic formula that hydrates, brightens and restores skin. Enriched with Vitamin C, Hyaluronic Acid and Gotu Kola, it combats ageing while soothing and protecting. It is made in Byron Bay, Certified Cruelty Free and Vegan.
Review This serum has a beautiful, light texture that absorbs quickly and layers well without pilling which is a big win if you’re using it under other skincare or makeup. My skin felt noticeably more hydrated and fresh after just a few uses and there was a nice subtle glow without any stickiness. I also loved that it didn’t irritate my skin (which can be reactive to some Vitamin C products) it feels gentle but effective, especially for brightening and calming redness. Sanctum Organics continues to stand out for how comprehensive and authentic their ethical approach is. The commitment to certified organic, cruelty-free and vegan formulations is one thing, but they also back it up with supplier audits, natural preservative systems and ingredient transparency that’s actually easy to follow. The fact they’ve been doing this for decades and are still refining and evolving says a lot about the depth of their values, not just the marketing. Love!

–Lee Sutherland

Review Sanctum’s HY C Recovery Serum is lightweight with a bright, clean fragrance. My skin takes a beating from constant sun and salt exposure, so I love honing skincare with data driven ingredients like Vitamin C and Hyaluronic Acid, which are the stars of the HY C Recovery Serum. I like how quickly it absorbs and calms my skin after a long day in the elements. Sanctum has a multifaceted approach to their longstanding sustainability journey. I’m impressed by their investment in Vegan, Cruelty Free and Organic certifications- no doubt lengthy and expensive processes! Their focus on ethical sourcing and creating a supportive work culture speak to the deep sustainability baked into Sanctum’s brand values.

–Lauren L. Hill

Review This serum had lovely packaging, and I really liked the feel of it on my skin – it visibly brightens. I love that this brand is local, low environmental impact, holds their suppliers to high standards and uses all clean and beautiful ingredients. The packaging was minimal and eco-friendly too.

–Chloe Pacey

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