sanctuary barrier balm
For dry & sensitive skin
An essential oil free balm in a rich yet breathable formula. A moisture-locking blend filled with nutrient-dense Amazonian butters and oils plus raw beeswax, a range of plant sterols, and phospholipids. Working in harmony to provide sanctuary for dry, sensitive conditions.
One of the key highlights is the use of unrefined phospholipids. On a cellular level, the molecules attract and hold onto water while also organizing themselves into a structure similar to natural skin. So when applied with a humectant layer, it creates an effective skin-identical moisture barrier.
This process lends to improving the absorption of restorative compounds and the delivery of sustained moisture throughout the day.
Woman Owned
Farm-Grown Organic Ingredients
Herbalist Formulated
Handmade in USA
Brand Story
Live Botanical
Carolyn McRory's herbal education began in her youth and continued formally from 1998–2002 under registered herbalist Dr. Mara Levin of Blue Heron Herbs, with additional early guidance from Sue Sierralupe.
Over the past 25 years, she has studied through numerous long‑format programs, including the Institute of Personal Care Science (where she is currently completing her cosmetic chemistry diploma), the Vitalist Herbal Practitioner Program, Herbal Academy, and various aromatherapy, herbal medicine, and herbal astrology programs. She also holds a degree from Linfield College in Business Management, Information Systems, and Environmental Literature.
Through Live Botanical, Carolyn creates herbal‑based skincare that helps people build meaningful connections with the natural world. Her formulations are designed to support personal care rituals while reminding individuals of the beauty around them — and within themselves.
Everything You Need to Know About Live Botanical
What is the freshness/best by date?
Products should be used by the date noted on the bottom of each product carton. We note the month/year and batch number. Most products have a 10-18 month range. Though products can likely last much longer we find the potency best enjoyed within a year. If you have any questions please let us know.
All water based products use proper & complete preservation and challenge tested for safety.
Are your products gluten free?
None of our ingredients have gluten in them.
Our oats and rice are certified gluten-free but not all the ingredients we have are certified. Meaning they may have been around other products with gluten in them.
Our herbs that come from local farms don’t have facilities that are “gluten-free”. Unfortunately, the ingredients with these guarantees are very limited (especially working with small and local farms) and not always available to maintain the stock needed to keep the business going.
If you have a gluten intolerance, we feel good with the ingredients given the large molecular size is not absorbable in the skin, but from a liability standpoint, we are unable to have a gluten-free guarantee or certification.
Are your products pregnancy safe?
We have quite a few options to support your skin through the cycles of your pregnancy. We suggest our essential oil free products with the exception of the Exfoliating Serum & the Clarifying Elixir...
Also, all of our masks are suitable. Our Honey Mask, it has less than .25% essential oils.
Herbalist Formulated Skincare
