Dr.Althea 345 RELIEF CREAM 50ML
Dr.Althea 345 RELIEF CREAM (Barrier Repair for Sensitive, Irritated Skin)
Dealing with skin that feels sensitive, irritated, or is recovering from breakouts can be frustrating. This cream offers a gentle, science-backed solution to help calm inflammation, repair your skin's natural defenses, and restore a healthy balance, even in Mauritius's demanding climate.
Values You Can Trust: Halal-Friendly* / Vegan-Friendly* / Cruelty-Free* / 100% Authentic Guarantee
*Self-assessed by Adilsons based on available ingredient data (no ethanol/denat.; no haram animal-derived ingredients detected). / Brand-stated; not certified by an independent body.
At-a-Glance (30s) (who it's for, what to expect)
This is a lightweight gel-cream designed to soothe, hydrate, and strengthen the skin barrier. Its name refers to a blend of ingredients targeting blemishes, nourishment, and calming.
- Who it's for: Ideal for combination, oily, acne-prone, and sensitive skin types. Excellent for those dealing with redness, irritation, or post-acne marks.
- What it does: Calms inflammation, strengthens the skin's moisture barrier, provides lightweight hydration, and helps fade the appearance of blemishes and dark spots.
- Texture: A silky, non-greasy gel-cream that absorbs quickly without a heavy or sticky feel.
Quick Start (60-second routine) (essentials for beginners)
- Cleanser: Wash your face with a gentle cleanser.
- Dr.Althea 345 Relief Cream: Apply a pea-sized amount to your face and neck.
- Sunscreen (AM) / Thicker Layer (PM): In the morning, always follow with sunscreen. At night, this can be your final step.
Mindful Tip: If you already have a barrier-supporting cream, finish that one first. Substitute, don't stack, to avoid waste and irritation.
AM Routine Guide (morning order) (how to use in the morning)
Minimalist Routine (3-4 Steps):
- Cleanser: Start with a gentle, low-pH face wash.
- Hydrating Toner (Optional): A layer of soothing toner can boost hydration.
- Dr.Althea 345 Relief Cream: Apply a pea-sized amount to calm and moisturize.
- Sunscreen: Finish with a broad-spectrum sunscreen of SPF 30 or higher. This is essential to protect your healing skin.
Wait Times: Allow 30-60 seconds between watery layers and 1-2 minutes after the cream before applying sunscreen to prevent pilling.
PM Routine Guide (evening order) (recommended for starting)
Minimalist Routine (3 Steps):
- Cleanser: If you wear makeup or water-resistant sunscreen, start with an oil cleanser, then follow with a water-based cleanser (double cleansing). Otherwise, a single gentle cleanse is fine.
- Dr.Althea 345 Relief Cream: Apply a pea-sized amount. You can apply a slightly thicker layer at night for more intensive repair.
- Occlusive (Optional): If your skin is extremely dry or you sleep in air conditioning, you can layer a very thin film of an occlusive balm over the cream on the driest areas.
Texture Rule: Always apply products from the thinnest consistency to the thickest.
How to Use (Beginner-friendly) (amount, frequency, and tips)
- Amount: A pea-sized amount is sufficient for the entire face. Add a little more for the neck.
- Apply to: Clean face and neck. Avoid direct contact with eyes.
- Method: Gently smooth over the skin and pat lightly until absorbed.
- Frequency: Use daily, both morning and evening.
If-This / Then-That:
- If your skin is very oily: Use a thin layer. The gel-cream texture should feel comfortable and may be enough without an additional hydrator before sunscreen.
- If your skin is dehydrated or in AC: Layer it over a hydrating toner or essence to lock in more water.
- If your skin is highly irritated: Use this as your sole leave-on product after cleansing for a few days to calm the skin down before reintroducing other serums.
- If you're using strong actives (Retinoids, AHAs/BHAs): This cream is an excellent buffer. Use it after your active has absorbed to soothe the skin and support your barrier.
Makeup Tips (No Pilling): To prevent pilling under makeup, ensure you use only a thin layer of the cream and wait at least 1-2 minutes for it to fully absorb before applying sunscreen or primer.
Safety: For external use only. Discontinue use if a rash or irritation occurs. Patch test before first use. Teens should focus on a simple routine of cleanser, this moisturizer, and sunscreen.
Weekly Planner (Example & Alternating Actives) (how to schedule use)
This cream is designed for daily use and works well to support skin that is using stronger active ingredients.
- Daily Use: Apply AM and PM as the moisturizer step in your routine.
Example Week (for skin also using exfoliants):
- Mon PM: Gentle Cleanse β Hydrating Toner β 345 Relief Cream
- Tue PM: Gentle Cleanse β Exfoliant (AHA/BHA) β 345 Relief Cream (wait 10-15 min after exfoliant)
- Wed PM: Gentle Cleanse β Hydrating Toner β 345 Relief Cream
- Thu PM: Gentle Cleanse β Retinoid (if using) β 345 Relief Cream (wait 20-30 min after retinoid)
- Fri/Sat/Sun PM: Focus on soothing and hydration with the 345 Relief Cream.
Rule of Thumb: Use this cream every day to maintain a healthy barrier, which improves your skin's tolerance to stronger treatments like exfoliants or retinoids used 1-3 times per week.
What to Expect (Results Timeline) (immediate β 8+ weeks)
- Immediate: Skin feels soothed, hydrated, and calmed. The lightweight texture absorbs quickly, reducing any tight or uncomfortable feeling.
- 1-2 Weeks: Visible reduction in redness and irritation. Skin barrier begins to feel stronger and more resilient. Some users report a decrease in the inflammation of active breakouts.
- 4-8+ Weeks: With consistent use, post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (dark marks from old pimples) may appear lighter and less noticeable. Skin tone looks more even and balanced.
Individual results vary. Consistent use, especially with daily sunscreen, is key to seeing the best results.
Myth Replacement (Why this, not that) (safer, effective alternatives)
- Why use a barrier cream for acne, not just drying treatments? H harsh, drying products can damage your skin barrier, leading to more inflammation and even more breakouts as your skin overproduces oil to compensate. A soothing barrier cream like this one calms the inflammation (the root of acne's redness and pain) and helps your skin heal properly, preventing a cycle of irritation.
Compatibility Guide (layering) (what to pair it with)
-
Works Well With:
- Hydrating Toners & Essences: (e.g., Centella, Heartleaf, Hyaluronic Acid) - Apply before the cream to boost hydration.
- Most Actives: (Vitamin C, Niacinamide, Retinoids, Exfoliating Acids) - Apply this cream *after* your active serums to soothe the skin and support the barrier, potentially reducing irritation.
- Sunscreens: Layers well under most sunscreens, provided you allow it to absorb first.
-
Use Carefully:
- Facial Oils: Apply facial oils *after* this cream. Because this is a gel-cream, a heavy oil applied before might prevent it from absorbing properly.
Skin Type Compatibility (best fits and cautions)
- Excellent for: Oily, Combination, Acne-Prone, Sensitive Skin.
- Good for: Normal Skin.
- Use with caution: Very Dry Skin may find this too lightweight, especially in drier climates or winter. It can be used as a soothing serum step before a richer moisturizer, like the Dr.Althea 147 Barrier Cream.
Targeted Concerns (what it helps to solve)
- Acne and Blemishes
- Redness and Irritation
- Compromised or Damaged Skin Barrier
- Dehydration
- Post-Acne Marks (Post-Inflammatory Hyperpigmentation)
- Sensitivity
Product Identity & Provenance (official details)
- Official Korean Name: λ₯ν°μμμ 345 릴리ν ν¬λ¦Ό (Romanized: Dakteoelsia 345 Rillipeu Keurim)
- Reformulation Note: A "Ver. 2" of this cream has been noted in community discussions as of late 2024/early 2025, which may have a slightly different ingredient list (e.g., addition of Tea Tree Water). The version stocked is as per the ingredient list below. Always patch test.
- Shelf Life: Typically 30-36 months from date of manufacture.
- Period After Opening (PAO): 12 months.
- Date Markings: Look for "μ μ‘°" (manufacture date) or "κΉμ§" (use-by date). Format is usually YYYY.MM.DD.
- Country of Manufacture: South Korea.
Conscious & Permissible Formulation (Halal, Vegan, Animal Testing)
- Halal Status: Halal-Friendly*. This product is formulated without alcohol (ethanol/denat.) or animal-derived ingredients forbidden in a Halal framework.
- Vegan Status: Vegan-Friendly*. The brand markets this product as vegan. Our review of the ingredients did not detect any animal-derived components.
- Animal Testing Policy: Cruelty-Free*. The brand states it is a cruelty-free brand and does not test on animals.
*Self-assessed by Adilsons based on available ingredient data (no ethanol/denat.; no haram animal-derived ingredients detected). / Brand-stated; not certified by an independent body.
Regulatory & Claims Basis (K-Beauty Truth Box) (official classification)
- MFDS (Ministry of Food and Drug Safety, South Korea) Class: Functional Cosmetic for Brightening & Wrinkle-Improving.
- Functional Ingredients: Niacinamide (Brightening), Adenosine (Wrinkle-Improving).
- "Brightening" Nuance: In the context of MFDS functional cosmetics, "Brightening" refers to improving skin radiance and helping to even out skin tone (e.g., fading sun spots or post-acne marks). It does not change or lighten your natural skin color.
- Medical Disclaimer: This is a cosmetic product, not a medical treatment. It is intended to improve the appearance of the skin. For persistent or severe skin conditions, please consult a medical professional.
Complete Ingredient Transparency (key actives + full INCI)
Key Actives Explained:
- Niacinamide (Vitamin B3): Helps to brighten skin tone, fade dark spots, regulate oil production, and strengthen the skin barrier.
- Panthenol (Pro-Vitamin B5): A powerful humectant that attracts and holds moisture, soothing redness and helping to repair the skin barrier.
- Centella Asiatica Extract: A renowned K-beauty ingredient that calms inflammation, soothes irritated skin, and promotes healing.
- Ceramide NP: A skin-identical lipid that reinforces the skin's natural barrier, helping to lock in moisture and protect from external irritants.
- Resveratrol: A potent antioxidant that helps protect the skin from environmental damage and signs of aging.
- Hyaluronic Acid (Hydrolyzed): A low-molecular-weight form of hyaluronic acid that penetrates deeper to provide lasting hydration.
Full INCI List:
Water, Propanediol, Glycerin, Cyclohexasiloxane, 1,2-Hexanediol, Niacinamide, Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride, Polyglycerin-3, Panthenol, Polyglyceryl-10 Stearate, Hydrogenated Poly(C6-14 Olefin), Hydrogenated Polydecene, Dicaprylyl Carbonate, Ammonium Acryloyldimethyltaurate/VP Copolymer, C14-22 Alcohols, Laminaria Japonica Extract, Eclipta Prostrata Leaf Extract, Melia Azadirachta Flower Extract, Melia Azadirachta Leaf Extract, Curcuma Longa (Turmeric) Root Extract, Ocimum Sanctum Leaf Extract, Corallina Officinalis Extract, Houttuynia Cordata Extract, Centella Asiatica Extract, Opuntia Ficus-Indica Stem Extract, Oenothera Biennis (Evening Primrose) Flower Extract, Hibiscus Sabdariffa Flower Extract, Lavandula Angustifolia (Lavender) Oil, Rosmarinus Officinalis (Rosemary) Leaf Oil, Citrus Aurantium Dulcis (Orange) Peel Oil, C12-20 Alkyl Glucoside, Fructooligosaccharides, Beta-Glucan, Lecithin, Butylene Glycol, Hydrolyzed Hyaluronic Acid, Tocopherol, Ceramide NP, Resveratrol, Cholesterol, Palmitic Acid, Stearic Acid, Myristic Acid, Adenosine, Ethylhexylglycerin, Linalool, Limonene.
Allergens & Fragrance Disclosure (scent profile and potential irritants)
- Fragrance Status: Contains essential oils (Lavender, Rosemary, Orange Peel). No artificial fragrance is added.
- Scent Intensity: 1/5 (Very light, natural herbal scent that dissipates quickly).
- EU Allergens Declared: Linalool, Limonene (naturally occurring in the essential oils).
Though formulated for sensitive skin, those with known allergies to specific essential oils should perform a patch test before use.
Full Safety & Patch Test Protocol (important precautions)
Who Should Use With Caution:
- Individuals with a known allergy to any of the listed ingredients, particularly essential oils like Lavender or Orange Peel.
- While some find it suitable for fungal acne-prone skin, the formula contains some ingredients that could potentially be a trigger for highly sensitive individuals. Individual responses vary.
Patch Test Protocol:
- Apply a pea-sized amount of the cream to a small, clean area of skin, such as behind your ear or on your inner jawline.
- Wait 24 hours. If you experience any redness, itching, or irritation, do not use the product on your full face.
- If no reaction occurs, you can proceed with using the cream. Re-check the area at 48 and 72 hours for any delayed reaction.
Discontinue use immediately if you experience a burning rash or persistent irritation.
Sensory & Chemical Profile (texture, feel, and formulation)
- Texture & Finish: A lightweight, silky gel-cream. It absorbs quickly into the skin, leaving a hydrated, subtle glow without any greasy or sticky residue.
- Scent: A very faint, natural herbal scent from the included essential oils. It is not overpowering and fades upon application.
- pH: Not officially published by the brand, but estimated to be in the skin-friendly range of 5.5 - 6.5.
- Fungal Acne (Malassezia) Compatibility: Contains some ingredients like Hydrogenated Poly(C6-14 Olefin) and Polyglyceryl-10 Stearate that can be a trigger for some. However, many users with FA-prone skin report using it without issues. Patch testing is strongly advised if you are highly sensitive.
Troubleshooting Guide (fix common issues) (quick solutions)
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Issue: The cream feels a bit sticky after application.
Solution: You may be using too much. A pea-sized amount is all you need. Ensure you are patting it in until it is fully absorbed. Applying to slightly damp skin can also help with absorption. -
Issue: My skin feels a bit tight after it dries down.
Solution: Your skin may be very dehydrated. Try layering the cream over a hydrating toner or essence to provide an extra layer of water-based moisture for the cream to lock in. -
Issue: I'm experiencing small new breakouts (purging).
Solution: While this cream is not an active exfoliant that typically causes purging, new products can sometimes cause a temporary reaction. The Niacinamide may contribute to some initial clearing of pores. If it's just a few small whiteheads that clear up quickly, continue use for 1-2 weeks. If you experience deep, painful, or persistent breakouts, discontinue use.
Climate Fit for Mauritius (local usage advice)
- Humid Summer: The lightweight gel-cream texture is excellent for Mauritius's hot and humid summers. It provides necessary hydration and barrier support without feeling heavy or greasy on the skin. Oily skin types may find it sufficient as a standalone moisturizer in the morning before sunscreen.
- Drier Winter / Air-Conditioning: During the cooler, drier winter months or if you spend significant time in air-conditioned environments, you may want to layer this cream over a more hydrating serum or under a light facial oil at night to boost its moisturizing properties.
Authenticity & How to Verify (our sourcing guarantee)
Adilsons sources all products, including the Dr.Althea 345 Relief Cream, directly from the brand or their authorized distributors in South Korea. We guarantee 100% authenticity.
- Packaging Cues: Look for the official Dr.Althea branding, a mix of Korean and English text, and a clear batch number and expiration date printed on the crimp of the metal tube and the box.
- Verification: If you have any doubts about the authenticity of your product, please contact us on WhatsApp at +230 5 778 2336 with your order number and photos of the product.
Evidence & Sources (the science behind the product) (brand vs independent data)
- Ingredient Rationale: The formula's effectiveness is based on the established benefits of its key ingredients. Niacinamide is clinically proven to improve barrier function and reduce hyperpigmentation. Ceramides, Cholesterol, and Fatty Acids are the building blocks of the skin barrier, and topical application is known to aid in its repair. Centella Asiatica has a strong body of evidence supporting its anti-inflammatory and wound-healing properties.
- Brand Claims: Dr. Althea states the product is dermatologist-tested and suitable for sensitive skin. These are brand-stated claims; the specific testing protocols and datasets are not publicly available for independent verification.
Brand claimβno public dataset available for independent verification.
Value, Cost-per-Use & Reorder Cadence (how long it lasts)
With a standard pea-sized amount (approx. 0.5ml) per application, the 50ml tube offers excellent value.
- Total Uses: Approximately 100 uses per 50ml tube.
- If used once per day: The tube will last approximately 3 months.
- If used twice per day (AM & PM): The tube will last approximately 1.5 months.
Reorder Cue: Consider reordering when the tube is about two-thirds empty to ensure you don't run out.
Complete Your Routine (Recommended Pairings) (build an effective regimen)
Starter Essentials (AM Barrier Support)
- Anua HEARTLEAF QUERCETINOL PORE DEEP CLEANSING FOAM 150ML β A gentle yet effective cleanser to prep the skin without stripping it.
- Dr.Althea 345 RELIEF CREAM β To calm, hydrate, and protect the skin barrier.
- Beauty of Joseon RELIEF SUN : RICE + PROBIOTICS 50ML β A non-irritating, hydrating sunscreen to protect your skin from UV damage, which is crucial for healing.
Targeted Results (PM Soothing & Repair)
- Anua Heartleaf 77% Soothing Toner 250ml β Deeply soothes and hydrates the skin, creating the perfect canvas for your cream.
- Dr.Althea 345 RELIEF CREAM β The primary treatment step to repair and strengthen the skin barrier overnight.
- SKIN1004 MADAGASCAR CENTELLA HYALU-CICA SLEEPING PACK 100ML β Use 2-3 times a week as a final step over the cream for an intensive hydration and soothing boost, especially on dry or irritated days.
Compatibility Note: Avoid using strong acids and strong retinoids on the same night.
Is This the Best Choice for You? (Mindful Alternatives) (other options to consider)
This cream is an excellent choice if your primary concerns are sensitivity, redness, and barrier repair, especially for oily to combination skin types.
- For a Lighter, Gel Texture: Beauty of Joseon RED BEAN WATER GEL 100ML β Choose this if you have very oily skin or prefer an ultra-lightweight, oil-free gel for hydration and sebum control in high humidity.
- For More Intense Soothing: SKIN1004 MADAGASCAR CENTELLA SOOTHING CREAM 75ML β Choose this if your main concern is calming active inflammation and redness from breakouts. Its gel texture is also very lightweight and focuses heavily on the soothing power of Centella Asiatica.
- For Richer Barrier Repair: Dr.Althea 147 BARRIER CREAM 50ML β Choose this if you have dry, flaky, or severely compromised skin that needs a richer, more occlusive cream to lock in moisture and provide intensive repair.
- For Brightening and Barrier Care: APLB GLUTATHIONE NIACINAMIDE FACIAL CREAM 55ML β Choose this if your goal is to tackle dullness and dark spots while still getting the barrier-supporting benefits of a niacinamide cream.
Mindful Use: If you already have a comparable barrier cream at home, finish it first to avoid waste and get a fair assessment of its results on your skin.
Packaging, Sustainability & Practical Details (bottle, storage, and travel)
- Format: 50ml in a metal tube. This type of packaging helps protect the formula from air and light, but can be difficult to get the last bit of product out of.
- Hygiene: The tube format is hygienic as it minimizes contact with the bulk of the product.
- Recycling (Mauritius): The cardboard box is recyclable. The metal tube may be recyclable depending on local facilities; check with your local recycling program.
- Storage: Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight to maintain the formula's integrity.
Genuine Community Experiences (unbiased, real-user feedback)
Aggregated sentiment from online communities. Individual experiences may vary.
- Reddit review (r/AsianBeauty, 2024): A user with dehydrated, oily, and sensitive skin reported, "This cream has healed my skin barrier in ways that the Illiyoon ceramide concentrate couldn't... made my skin feel so hydrated from within... also helped with clogged pores and rough texture on my cheeks."
- Amazon customer review (2025): A customer with sensitive, oily, acne-prone skin on their 4th tube says, "It is very hydrating but still light weight, it's not sticky and makes your face glow with out looking greasy."
- YesStyle review (2025): One reviewer noted that while the cream is lightweight and absorbs quickly, "After the first three days of using this cream, I noticed minor signs of skin purging in the form of tiny whiteheads, which are common for my very sensitive skin." However, they continued use and saw redness fade after a week.
- Fair Caveat (OLIVE YOUNG Global review, 2025): One user reported an allergic reaction, stating, "Not suitable if you have a damaged skin barrier/ sensitive skin and prone to fungal acne." This highlights the importance of patch testing, as individual sensitivities can vary.
About the Brand: Dr.Althea (their philosophy)
Dr. Althea is a Korean skincare brand that focuses on combining natural ingredients with advanced dermatological science. Their philosophy is to create gentle, effective, and safe formulas for all skin types, especially sensitive skin. They prioritize ingredient transparency and aim to provide relief and balance to stressed skin.
Glossary (key terms explained)
- Adenosine: A yeast-derived ingredient that functions as a soothing and skin-restoring agent. It has proven anti-wrinkle benefits.
- Ceramide: A lipid (fat) molecule found naturally in the skin. Ceramides are crucial for making up the skin's barrier and retaining moisture.
- INCI: International Nomenclature of Cosmetic Ingredients. The official naming system for ingredients on a product label.
- MFDS: Ministry of Food and Drug Safety (South Korea). The regulatory body that oversees cosmetics, food, and drugs, similar to the FDA.
- Niacinamide: A form of Vitamin B3. A versatile ingredient that brightens, calms, controls oil, and strengthens the skin barrier.
- Panthenol: Pro-vitamin B5. A humectant that attracts and holds moisture, soothes, and helps repair the skin.
- PAO: Period After Opening. The symbol on a product (an open jar with a number like "12M") that tells you how many months it will stay fresh after being opened.
Retailer & Contact (Mauritius) (official contact details)
Adilsons | WhatsApp: +230 5 778 2336 | Email: info@adilsons.mu
The Adilsons Promise (our commitment to you)
At Adilsons, we are committed to bringing you authentic, effective, and safe K-beauty products. We carefully curate our selection based on evidence and suitability for the Mauritian climate. We guarantee that every product we sell is 100% authentic, sourced directly from brands or their authorized distributors in South Korea.
Frequently Asked Questions (your questions, answered)
- Is this cream good for hot, humid weather?
- Yes, its lightweight gel-cream texture is specifically well-suited for hot and humid climates like Mauritius as it hydrates without feeling heavy or greasy.
- Can I use this if I have very dry skin?
- While it provides good hydration, very dry skin types might find it too light to use as a standalone moisturizer. It works wonderfully as a soothing serum step before a richer cream, like the Dr.Althea 147 Barrier Cream.
- Will this help with my acne scars?
- It can help with the red or brown marks (post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation) left behind by acne, thanks to ingredients like Niacinamide and Centella Asiatica. It is not designed to treat pitted or indented scars.
- Is it safe to use during pregnancy?
- The formula does not contain ingredients that are typically contraindicated during pregnancy (like high-strength retinoids). However, it does contain essential oils. We recommend consulting with your doctor before introducing any new skincare product during pregnancy or breastfeeding.
The Final Verdict (At-a-Glance) (summary of pros and cons)
Best For: Those with oily, combination, or sensitive skin looking for a daily moisturizer that calms redness, repairs the barrier, and helps with blemishes without feeling heavy.
Key Benefits:
- Soothes and reduces inflammation and redness.
- Strengthens the skin's moisture barrier.
- Provides lightweight, non-greasy hydration.
Keep in Mind:
- May not be rich enough for very dry skin types.
- Contains essential oils, which could be a concern for those with specific allergies. Always patch test.
Delivery & Returns β Mauritius (At-a-Glance) (policies & links)
- Coverage: Island-wide delivery (Mauritius).
- Processing & Timing: Orders process in 1β2 business days; usually ready by Day 3 for pickup by our delivery partners/regional team. Partner collection can take up to 1 week. After pickup, delivery typically takes 1β5 business days (weekdays only).
- Express: May be available by region; request on WhatsApp: +230 5 778 2336.
- Liquids/Sensitive Items: Serums, toners, liquid makeup (and kits containing liquids) are pickup or door-to-door only; checkout enforces this.
- Scheduling: Deliveries run by region on set schedules; weβll contact you the evening before.
- Pickup: Citadelle Mall pickup available.
- Returns: No change-of-mind exchanges.
- Refunds (Summary): For defective/damaged on receipt (report within 48h), wrong item, or manufacturing defect within 6 months. Refunds via bank transfer (7β10 business days); card refunds may incur a 5% processor fee (fee not charged for defects/order errors). Opened skincare/personal-care items are non-returnable (except if damaged on delivery).
Source of Truth: This is a quick snapshot. If anything differs, the policy pages are final.
- Refunds & Returns: https://adilsons.mu/policies/refund-policy
- Shipping: https://adilsons.mu/policies/shipping-policy