Pioneers in natural skincare in Aotearoa for nearly 20 years, Antipodes is constantly examining the space where nature meets science. Founder Elizabeth Barbalich came to the business with a background in science and a desire to fuse groundbreaking in-vitro testing and clinically proven efficacy with world-class natural ingredients in order to make products on par with prestige brands.

Antipodes has since gone from strength to strength, garnering a cult following from further than the antipodes, and constantly working on new product development that pushes molecular properties of ingredients found in nature to help both our skin and reduce impact on the environment. One of these products is the recently launched Lime Caviar Collagen-Rich Firming Cream which has received rave reviews since launch with Australian media hailing it as better than Botox.

Featuring lime caviar, a naturally occurring alpha-hydroxy acid sourced from the pulp of the Australian finger lime that promotes collagen production, Sepilift™ DPHP, a high-tech peptide that works on the uppermost layers of the skin (farewell fine lines and wrinkles) and avocado oil, which acts as a conditioning agent, an antioxidant and a binding ingredient all in one, while reducing inflammation and rejuvenating skin, Antipodes Lime Caviar is causing much buzz among those who’ve used it.

So we tasked an ensemble of Kiwi readers to answer the question. Does Antipodes Lime Caviar, which is available locally at Farmers stores nationwide, live up to the hype? Herewith the results.

Myra, 42. Dry, ageing skin

How long did you use Antipodes Lime Caviar for?

I used Antipodes Live Caviar for just over two weeks (16 days).

Did you notice any difference in the texture of your skin?

As soon as the product hits your skin you feel it begin to absorb in quickly; much quicker than I expected. You can feel it tightening your skin instantly.

Did you notice an improvement in the lines and/or an increase in collagen?

Early stages of use, but my skin feels much smoother and nourished. The cream is like butter, thick, but quickly absorbs into your skin without leaving an oily residue.

Did you find your skin to look more radiant and/or look more nourished?

As soon as you open the lid, you smell nourishment. The gorgeous lime cocktail vibes instantly hit you, and you know this is made from nature and all the good things it should be. My skin immediately felt nourished, with the product seeping into all those fine lines and crevasses that we so badly want gone.

Will I continue to use this product?

Yes! It is hard to find something that smells good, is made from natural ingredients, and that you notice results from. Plus, it’s a great price point and made locally in NZ.

What did I enjoy the most?

The smell. Antipodes always hit the beautiful scents of nature. It smells clean, fresh, and so fruity. I also loved that it made my skin feel hydrated and firmer. It does what it says on the box!

Have I used Antipodes products before?

Yes, I am an Antipodes fan girl. I love the Kiwi Seed Oil Eye Cream and the Eve Bio-Retinol Line Reduction Serum. Anything that states anti-aging, I’ll give it a go.

Katy, 45. Fine lines and less collagen

How long did you use Antipodes Lime Caviar for?

Two weeks.

Did you notice any difference in the texture of your skin?

I have noticed more pronounced fine lines around my eyes and mouth in recent years so I was keen to try this cream for the 'firming' qualities it professed to have.

The first application was a real treat. It smelled like a zesty key lime pie dessert when I opened the jar and was easily absorbed when I rubbed it into my face and neck. Waking up in the morning, my skin still felt slightly dewy which I liked. I used the cream morning and night over the trial period and found my makeup was easily applied over it in the morning.

Did you notice an improvement in the lines and/or an increase in collagen?

I definitely feel like my skin is firmer since using the cream. It feels plumper all over (similar to after having a facial) and I feel less jowly around my chin and neck area. I also think it made my cheeks and forehead smoother to the touch.

Did you find your skin to look more radiant and/or look more nourished?

I’ve had comments from a couple of friends and my usually hyper-critical kids on how good my skin is looking, so I am sold for life now!

Overall I’m extremely happy with this cream for everyday use both morning and night and will continue using it.

Sarah, mid-50s. Dry, flakey and sun damaged skin

How long did you use Antipodes Lime Caviar for?

Seven days.

Did you notice a difference to the texture of your skin?

As a Gen X’er I need plumping and firming. Hydration and elasticity are what I'm looking for in skincare. The Lime Caviar made my skin feel smoother and plumper.

Did you notice an improvement in fine lines and/or an increase in collagen?

Yes.

Did you find your skin to look more radiant and or/look more nourished?

Definitely more hydrated without being shiny. This was a rich creamy product that was easily applied and quickly absorbed with a non greasy finish. My skin no longer felt parched by the end of the day.

Are issues such as natural ingredients, low-waste and supporting local, as championed by Antipodes, important to you?

I love that it has natural ingredients, low-waste and supports local – these are values I look for in any purchase.

Ella, 42. Combination skin with some redness.

How long did you use Antipodes Lime Caviar for?

Nine days.

Did you notice a difference to the texture of your skin?

Yes. And the product itself has a lovely rich texture, very moisturising and smoothing.

Did you notice an improvement in fine lines and/or an increase in collagen?

Yes, and it was just a lovely product to use. Rich and decadent, I felt like it smoothed out my skin and appearance of fine lines, and the smell was glorious.

Did you find your skin to look more radiant and or/look more nourished?

Yes. I would definitely continue using this product, it has become a cherished part of my daily beauty routine, and I’m so glad I found it! I also love the Antipodes brand ethos.

Antipodes Lime Caviar Collagen-Rich Firming Cream (RRP$61.95) is available from Farmers

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