INGREDIENTS & BENEFITS
“Nature does not hurry, yet everything is accomplished.”
~ Lao Tzu ~
•_Skin: Our Largest Organ_•
Every single thing you put on your body is absorbed through your skin, your lips, your nose, your eyes, your scalp, and even your fingernails. If you have never taken a look at exactly how safe your favorite products are, then check them out here. It breaks down the exact chemicals, and the toxicity levels. It can be pretty enlightening!
https://www.ewg.org/skindeep/
•_Toxicity_•
We like our products like our relationships, Non-Toxic. When we dye our products, we only use food grade ingestible dyes to protect our customers from the 8,000 synthetic chemicals that are used in synthetic dye formulations. Unfortunately most natural dyes are extremely inconsistent and can completely fade or change, but as soon as we find improved versions, we will be more than happy to make the switch!
•_Transparency_•
While we recognize the importance of all natural or plant based materials, the reality is that products created from natural ingredients are much more expensive to make, thus causing the prices to go up. So we decided that we will offer 2 product lines.
A simple biodegradable, environmentally conscious, product line that is more affordable, and a 95% + plant based line. Both will be clearly marked, and all ingredients for both lines will be listed on our Product Analysis Page, at the bottom of our site. Should you have any questions, please reach out to us, and we will do our best to get you the information you need!
•_In the Know_•
With so many choices, it can be over whelming trying to figure out which natural ingredients will best benefit you. So we have taken some of the work out of it for you, and started to compile a list of the main ingredients we work with, in alphabetical order.
This list is ever evolving, so if you don’t see something that should be on here, please send us the ingredient/material name, and benefits, so we can add it to our list! Any help is appreciated from our Community!
Antioxidant: is a molecule that inhibits, or stops, the oxidation of other molecules. They occur naturally in plants, animals and plant based foods like vegetables, tea, wine and chocolate. Our own bodies also naturally produce a complex system of antioxidants to combat oxidation or the chemical reactions that create free radicals.
Emollients: are waxy lubricating agents that contain a mixture of compounds used to soften, smooth and hydrate the skin. They also contain occlusive properties, meaning they provide a layer of protection which helps prevent water loss. There are a variety of emollient ingredients including plant oils, mineral oils, shea butter, cocoa butter, triglycerides, stearates and fatty acids like lanolin.
Emulsifier: are substances that stabilize or prevent emulsions from separating, like the combination of oil and water.
Free Radicals: are ions or molecules that have an unpaired electron which causes them to be highly chemically reactive towards other substances, including our skin cells. They attach and bind themselves to other molecules which changes the chemical structure and results in damage or destruction of the original molecule.
Thankfully, we’ve evolved to create important defenses (i.e. antioxidants) to protect our cells and especially our DNA from free radicals.
Humectant: is a substance that attracts water molecules (usually from the deeper layers, like the dermis), to the epidermis or upper layer of the skin. By doing so, it prevents dryness and maintains the skin’s suppleness.
One of the most well-known humectants is glycerin which naturally occurs in all lipids (i.e. fats), including our own skin. Note that a lot of humectants have emollient properties, while not all emollients have humectant properties. A combination of the two make for the best moisturizers.
Sebum: is a complex oily mixture of glycerides, fatty acids, wax, squalene and cholesterol that’s produced by the sebaceous glands. Except on our palms and soles, these glands are found all over our body with the highest concentration found on our back, forehead and chin (around 2600-5800 sebaceous glands per square inch).
Sebum is vital to our skins health. It provides a layer of protection from bacteria and fungi as well as reducing water loss from the inside but also providing a waterproof shield from the outside. We need just the right amount of sebum for optimal protection, however, too much can lead to clogged pores and eventually acne.
Polyphenols (also known as phenolics): are naturally occurring phytochemicals or micronutrients that are found abundantly in fruit, vegetables, red wine, tea, plant oils to name but a few. They influence and contribute to the bitterness, astringency, color, flavor, odor and oxidative stability of the food or liquid.
Phytochemicals are important because they have potent antioxidant properties which helps protect cells from free radicals.
They also have a range of other positive biological effects like inhibiting angiogenesis (growth of blood vessels that feed tumors), reducing inflammation and promoting normal blood pressure and blood sugar levels.
There are 4 major types of polyphenols to look for:
- flavonoids (fruits, vegetables, legumes, red wine and green tea)
- stilbenes (red wine and peanuts)
- lignans (flax, legumes, cereals, grains, fruits and algae)
- phelonic acid (coffee, blueberries, kiwifruits, plums, apples, and cherries).
• The List •
A
ALOE VERA (Aloe Barbadensis Miller)
Description
You can find this little succulent in tropical climates all over the world. It’s a versatile plant that’s used in many consumer products from beverages to cosmetics to lotions.
What It Contains
A host of biologically active substances, including vitamins B1, B2, B6, C, choline, niacin amide, glycoprotein, enzymes, phenolic compounds, a variety of amino acids, phytochemicals and salicylic acids.
Uses
Besides the benefits of ingesting it (which is a whole other post), it’s most well-known for its anti-inflammation, healing and epidermal development properties for sunburn and wounds.
Thanks to its bioactive make-up it’s also been used as an antifungal, antiviral, anti-parasitic and regenerative treatment.
Like almond oil it’s also effective in reducing progression and itching of striae (i.e. stretch marks from pregnancy).
From skin diseases to infections to insect bites this is an all-purpose super ingredient to look out for in skin and body care products. Just bear in mind though that moderation is key for this one as it can be pretty potent (depending on the formulation and % of aloe in the product).
APPLE CIDER VINEGAR (Acetic Acid)
Description
This ingredient is basically fermented liquid distilled from apple cider. It’s cheap and has a variety of uses. You can consume it or apply it to your skin, either way there are handy benefits.
What It Contains
One of its main (and active) constituents is acetic acid.
Uses
For topical advantages, it’s really effective as a cleanser and for treating acne thanks to its natural exfoliating properties that assist in balancing sebum and removing hyperkeratosis (i.e. where the outer skin cells are replaced with keratin).
It also provides anti-fungal properties.
Bear in mind that because it is an acid it can be sensitizing.
ARGON OIL (Argania Spinose)
Description
From the fruit of the Moroccan Argon tree, this non-fragrant oil is used in both food (think of the oil used for dipping bread) and cosmetics. It’s packed with nutrients. Overall a real powerhouse ingredient for maintaining strong, supple and elastic skin.
What It Contains
A very high % of lipids and fatty acids (linoleic, oleic acid and palmitic acid), vitamins A and E (tocopherol) and other minor components (polyphenols, tocopherols, sterols, squalene, and triterpene alcohols).
Uses
Its emollient nature assists with hydration. It has been shown to repair the skin’s barrier function as well as balance and regulate the production of sebum.
As with all plant oils, a diluted solution works best. This ingredient is often found in baby care products.
AVOCADO OIL (Persea Gratissima)
Description
This is a super fatty (but nourishing) ingredient. It’s one of the few plant oils that’s not derived from seeds but rather pressed from the pulp that surrounds the avocado pip.
What It Contains
A heap of essential nutrients and phytochemicals, such as vitamins A, B1, B2, B12, D, E, lipids, polyhydroxylated fatty alcohols and beta carotene.
Uses
A natural non-fragrant skin replenishing and emollient plant oil that also shown to be an effective ingredient in the long term treatment for psoriasis.
It’s also used as an anti-inflammatory for skins diseases like vulvar lichen sclerosis and as a protective agent against UV-induced skin damage.
B
BENTONITE CLAY
Description
Bentonite clay is an absorbent aluminum based clay and is found fairly abundantly in nature.
It’s named after Fort Benton, Wyoming where some of the largest deposits of the mineral are found.
What It Contains
Aluminum based, consisting mostly of montmorillite which are a very soft group of minerals that form crystals, commonly known as clay.
Uses
Human kind has used a variety of clays (internally and externally) for maintaining health for many centuries. In terms of Bentonite’s efficacy for skin treatment, studies have shown it has been effective in the use against irritant and allergic dermatitis, as a moisturizing agent for hand dermatitis and diaper dermatitis for common skin disorders of infancy.
It’s also been shown to act efficiently in healing lesions and ulcers.
Some sun lotions containing specific proportions of Bentonite have reported a greater ability to absorb some of the highest levels of UV light.
C
CETEARYL ALCOHOL
Description
At first, we thought this was just another harmful chemical (at least it sounds like it) but we assure you this is not the same as ethyl or the rubbing alcohol which is known to dry skin out. It can be derived naturally from, for example, coconut (we suggest keeping an eye out for this one), palm oil or animals or it can be made synthetically.
What It Contains
A mixture of fatty acids (mostly cetyl and stearyl alcohols).
Uses
Cetearyl alcohol is actually a really handy and effective emollient and emulsifier. It’s also used as a texture enhancer, thickener and carrying agent for other ingredients which essentially helps the spreadability (e.g. foaming) of the product.
Note: Also look out for cetearyl olivate and sorbitan olivate (usually found together in cosmetic and body care solutions) which are also effective emulsifier’s derived from olive oil. These ingredients are hypoallergenic so there is very little chance that they will cause an allergic reaction
CHAMOMILE (Matricaria chamomilla / Anthemis chamomilla)
Description
There are two common varieties of chamomile, the German chamomile and the Roman Chamomile.
In Greek, chamomile means “earth apple” and this ingredient is a skin care chameleon.
What It Contains
The major bio-active ingredients are various flavonoids (apigenin, luteolin, patuletin, and quercetin), bisabolol oxides A and B and chamazulene, farnesene, lactones, glycosides, hydroxycoumarins, flavonoids, coumarins, terpenoids, and mucilage.
Uses
It’s most famous for its effective anti-inflammatory properties with its ability to penetrate into the deeper layers of the skin.
It’s also effective for treating moderate cases of eczema (in one study chamomile was 60% more active than 0.25% hydrocortisone cream – used for swelling and inflammation), skin irritations, sunburns, rashes and sores.
It’s shown to increase and strengthen wound healing and is used in the treatment of hemorrhoids.
CHARCOAL
Description
Charcoal or activated charcoal (when oxygen is added to charcoal) is just a simple form of carbon that’s typically used in the medical community for treating poison and nausea.
What It Contains
Carbon
Uses
Charcoal has really low volume pores which significantly increase its surface area (a gram of charcoal can cover 3000m2) and in turn its absorption properties. In fact, it can adsorb between 100 and 200 times its weight in impurities.
Thanks to these unique qualities, anecdotal evidence shows that it’s effective as a topical treatment in drawing excess oil, dirt, bacteria, poisons and chemicals from the skin. Its also widely used by doctors in eliminating pungent odors from chronic wounds.
COCOA (Theobroma Cacao)
Description
The use of cocoa in food and medicine goes back some 3000 years to the times of the Mayans and Aztecs. Apart from consuming the most popular ingredient in the world, cocoa (as an extract or butter) also has some great benefits when applied to the skin.
What It Contains
A rich source of bio-active phytocompounds, phenolic antioxidants (flavonoids, but the most notable and active ones are catechin, epicatechin, and procyanidins), essential minerals, vitamin E, omega 3 fatty acids and theobromine.
Uses
This super-effective natural skin emollient protects the skin by neutralizing oxidative stress. Its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties enhance the skin’s photoprotection against the sun’s UV rays which is crucial to skin health.
It has also been shown to inhibit the production of collagenase and elastase (i.e. enzymes that degrade skin cells) which slows the skin’s aging process and reduces the risk of wrinkles. It’s an effective nourishing moisturizer.
If you’re prone to acne, be cautious when applying cocoa butter as it can clog up your pores.
COCONUT (Cocos Nucifera)
Description
This is one of the most versatile ingredients (for skin and food) around. Originally from the palm family, coconut trees are now found in tropical areas the world over
What It Contains
Depending on the part of the coconut, heaps of beneficial and bio-active compounds, including triglycerides (medium chain fatty acids – mostly lauric acid, alpha tocopheral myristoleic acid and palmitoleic acid), phenols, tannins, flavonoids, steroids, alkaloids and triterpenes.
It also contains vitamin E and it’s one of the few oils that’s hypoallergenic.
Uses
Treatment of chronic skin diseases like eczema, dermatitis, psoriasis and cuts and wounds thanks to its anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, antiviral, antifungal properties.
It’s also perfect for dry skin as its emollient nature and high concentration of lipids improves barrier function which provides (and maintains) the skin’s hydration and moisture.
Be aware though that some information on the interwebs claims that coconut oil is good for acne and sun protection but there has been no scientific evidence to back this up
E
ETHYL MACADAMIATE
Description
Ethyl macadamiate is a non-volatile, non-greasy, clear, colorless liquid. It spreads very easily and comes from the process known as saponification (conversion of fat or oil into soap and alcohol by using heat and an alkali).
What It Contains
It’s the ester of ethyl alcohol and the fatty acids derived from the macadamia seed oil. The primary constituents of it are ethyl oleate and ethyl palmitoleate.
Uses
It’s used as a moisturizer. The antioxidant properties neutralize free radicals and scavenge reactive oxygen species.
While not many studies have been conducted specifically in relation to macadamia nuts (or nuts in general), it’s been suggested that the phenolic compounds of nuts have a higher antioxidant capacity than nutrient antioxidants such as Vitamin E and selenium.
F
FRANKINCENSE (Boswellia Carterii)
Description
Interestingly, “Frankincense” is derived from old French which means high quality incense. As an ingredient, it’s an aromatic resin that’s obtained from the Boswellia tree.
It’s best known for its balsamic / lemony / conifer fragrance.
What It Contains
Mostly the organic compounds known as terpenes (such as monoterpenes, sesquiterpenes, monoterpenoles, sesquiterpenols and ketones).
Uses
Besides its property as a fragrance, this ingredient has shown to have effective antimicrobial and anti-fungal activity against all micro-organisms, which makes it ideal as a topical treatment for eradicating skin and nail infections like acne and eczema.
Note, like most natural fragrances, frankincense can be sensitizing to the skin.
G
GLYCERIN / GLYCEROL
Description
Glycerin, a non-toxic, odorless and colorless liquid, may sound like a synthetic but this ingredient is in fact naturally occurring in all lipids (i.e. fats), including skin.
It’s usually derived from animals and plants but it can also be synthetically manufactured – look out for propylene glycol and PEG silicone. While these are considered humectants, and may make your skin feel smooth and supple they contain no nutrients, can cause skin irritation, rashes and increase risk of dermatitis.
What It Contains
It’s a simple polyol compound, which is an alcohol made of various chemical (e.g. oxygen, hydrogen) bonds
Uses
Because of its humectant nature, this ingredient is a body care staple – it’s often used as the base formulation for natural and organic bodywash, for example. It attracts (mostly from the deeper layers, like the dermis), binds and holds moisture to the epidermis or upper layer of the skin. By doing so, it prevents dryness and maintains the skin’s suppleness.
However, the lower layers of skin if not replenished properly will be sapped of their own moisture. That’s why glycerin is usually combined with oils or other occlusive emollients to provide a layer of protection on the skin to reduce moisture loss.
GREEN TEA (Camellia Sinensis)
Description
Originating from China, green tea has been around since the early twelfth century and quickly spread to many other countries in Asia. Now, it’s a favorite beverage the world over.
What It Contains
Heaps of antioxidants known as flavonoid phytochemicals or polyphenols (mainly epigallocatechin-3-gallate).
Uses
Its strong antioxidant, anti-carcinogenic and anti-inflammatory properties are likely to slow down the process of aging, repair or improve the appearance of sun-damaged skin, and reduce topical oxidative stress.
It’s also been known to inhibit matrix metalloproteinases (i.e. enzymes that contribute to skin degradation).
H
HEMP SEED OIL (Cannabis Sativa)
Description
Not to be confused with hash oil which comes from the cannabis flower, hemp seed oil is obtained by pressing hemp seeds. It has a nutty aroma and is dark to light green in color.
What It Contains
Vitamins A, B, B1, C and E, iron, proteins, sodium, phosphorus, magnesium, copper, calcium, iodine, beta carotene, phlorotannins and essential amino acids.
Uses
Thanks to its trace elements and minerals it helps to maintain the skin’s natural functions. Algae also has antioxidant and anti-photoaging properties which have shown to effectively inhibit skin oxidation stress and matrix metalloproteinases (i.e. enzymes that contribute to skin degradation).
It’s a natural humectant preserving the upper layer of the skin’s moisture.
HIMALAYAN SALT / SEA SALT (Sodium Chloride)
Description
Himalayan salt is found in the Punjab region of Pakistan whereas sea salt is, obviously, found in the sea!
What It Contains
Trace minerals and nutrients, including iron, magnesium, calcium, zinc, potassium and selenium.
Uses
As a topical scrub to exfoliate and remove dead skin cells. Bear in mind this can be sensitizing if left on the skin for too long.
J
JOJOBA OIL (Simmondsia Chinensis)
Description
Jojoba has a variety of names like goat nut, deer nut, quinine nut and coffee berry. The non-fragrant oil is produced from the seed of the jojoba shrub which is native to the west coast of the USA and northwestern Mexico.
What It Contains
A variety of different fatty acids (mostly eicosenoic, erucic and oleic acid) and alcohols.
Uses
Its chemical structure closely resembles human sebum (i.e. the oil or lubrication that our skin produces) so it’s easily absorbed into the skin and is effective as a moisturizing and balancing agent for the skin’s natural oils, without clogging pores. It also has anti-inflammatory, antioxidant and antibacterial properties.
It’s not only a great moisturizer for dry and chapped skin but it’s also great for healing burns, sores, scars, dermatitis, acne, psoriasis and sunburn. Definitely keep an eye out for this one if you want to rejuvenate and enhance your skins natural suppleness.
L
LIQUORICE ROOT EXTRACT (Glycyrrhiza glabra)
Description
The benefits of Liquorice root have been well known since the days of ancient China.
What It Contains
Its main constituents are the bio-active compounds known as glycyrrhizin / glycyrrhizic acid and licochalcone. It also contains the phytoestorogen known as glabridin.
Uses
It increases the production and migration of skin cells. It’s also been shown to have antiviral, antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory and skin soothing effects and is used in the treatment for several skin disorders like rosacea, eczema, psoriasis and dermatitis.
It has a natural skin lightening agent for the treatment of hyperpigmentation, uneven skin tone, melasma and other pigmentation disorders of the skin.
If that’s not enough it’s also been shown to have anti-inflammatory and anti-microbial properties, making it useful in the treatment of acne.
L-ASCORBIC ACID (Vitamin C)
Description
It’s probably the most famous (and popular) vitamin for consumption but, as it turns out, it’s also really good for your skin too.
There’s a variety of vitamin C derivatives and it’s naturally found in a heap of ingredients already mentioned in this list (rosehip, sea buckthorn and aloe vera) but L-ascorbic acid is the most well studied.
What It Contains
This essential nutrient is a weak acid that’s structurally related to glucose.
Uses
It’s a strong antioxidant that’s shown to be effective as an anti-aging supplement when formulated properly (i.e. a pH level of 3.5 or less is required for the skin to absorb it).
It assists in the repair of sun-damaged skin, stimulates collagen production and has also been shown to inhibit the production of melanin and skin cancer. When L-ascorbic is applied to the skin regularly it’s also been shown to even out skin tone and improve hydration.
Note that like all anti-oxidants, L-ascorbic acid can break down fairly easily when exposed to air and light, so best to make sure the product you buy is contained in an air tight bottle, tube or pump, clear jars are susceptible to light so avoid these.
LAVENDER OIL (Lavandula)
Description
There are about 47 species of the lavender plant and they’re found in many parts of the world, including the Canary Islands, Europe and north and east Africa. Distilled from the flower spikes of the Lavender plant, this essential oil is colorless and insoluble in water.
What It Contains
The exact composition of Lavender oil can differ from species to species but its primary constituents are a complex of phytochemicals, including linalool and linalyl acetate.
Uses
Besides its delightful fragrance, under in-vitro studies this ingredient has shown to promote collagen synthesis and differentiation in the skin’s fibroblasts (i.e. the most common connective tissue in our skin).
It’s also shown to be an effective therapeutic agent in repairing skin injuries and wounds, and has been used to sooth sunburn and insect bites and relieve eczema and psoriasis. Studies have also shown that it may also have anti-inflammatory properties and can reduce irritation and pain.
A word of caution though, as lavender is a fragrance it can naturally aggravate the skin.
M
MARIGOLD (Calendula Officinalis)
Description
Historically, Marigold has been around for quite a while. It’s was once upon a time a favorite of the ancient Romans, Greeks, Middle Eastern and Indian cultures for its medicinal qualities. Today, it has a variety of uses as an ingredient from pharmacology and cosmetics to those pretty (and edible) flowers that are used to add a bit of color to salads.
What It Contains
Triterpenoid esters (lipids or fatty oils), antioxidants, carotenoids, saponins, flavonoids and essential oils.
Uses
Its bio-active and antioxidant properties have been shown to promote collagen synthesis and cell tissue regeneration in the innermost part of our skin. It’s effective against UV-induced oxidative stress and is used for treating a host of issues including: inflammation / swelling, dry / sensitive skin, eczema, bruises, insect stings / bites, and fungal disorders like athletes foot.
This is a really useful ingredient and definitely one to look out for in skin and body care products.
O
OLIVE OIL (Olea Europaea)
Description
Olive oil is essentially the liquid fat obtained from olives. According to archaeological evidence it’s been cultivated between 6000-4500 BC in Palestine and (not surprisingly) it’s been used as a skincare remedy since the time of the Egyptians and ancient Greeks.
What It Contains
Essential fatty acid content together with the emollient squalene (i.e. one of the most common fats produced by human skin cells), phenolic compounds, and specifically polyphenols.
Uses
Very effective as a moisturizer yet super sensitive (appropriate in the right formulations with newborns). In virto tests have shown the bio-active derivatives of olive oil support the production of adult fibroblasts which not only aid in the repair of the skin’s connective tissue but also in the appearance of aged skin.
It’s also been used to treat minor skin problems like acne and is also effective in healing wounds and burns.
There is a very low potential for this ingredient to be sensitizing or harmful, however, it’s usually combined with other beneficial ingredients.
P
POMEGRANATE EXTRACT (Punica Granatum)
Description
Pomegranates, the tennis ball-sized fruit, are technically considered a berry. Originating from the middle east, they were soon cultivated throughout the Mediterranean and northern India.
There’s a few good reasons why this has made the super-fruit league.
What It Contains
Most of the pomegranate, including its roots, bark, peel, oil, seeds, juice and the vibrant red flesh that surrounds each of the pomegranate seeds contain nutrients and beneficial compounds. Polyphenols, punicalagins and punicic acid are examples of some of the powerful antioxidants that it contains.
Uses
So many things! It’s been shown to:
- reduce inflammation
- strengthen the dermal membrane which protects against oxidative stress (thanks to its polyphenols)
- assist in the repair of our DNA
- inhibit the effects of UV-induced damage and matrix metalloproteinase (i.e. enzymes that contribute to skin degradation)
- stimulate growth of fibroblasts (the cells responsible for collagen production) which reduces wrinkle activity
- promote regeneration and thickening of the epidermis
PRIMROSE OIL (Oenothera Biennis)
Description
Primrose is also known as evening primrose, evening star, sun drop German rampion, King’s cure-all and fever plant. Native to central and eastern North America where it was used for its medicinal qualities by the indigenous tribes (Cherokee, Iroquois, Ojibwe and Potawatomi), it was only in the 17th century that it was introduced to Europe as an ornamental plant.
What It Contains
Rich in fatty acids and gamma linolenic acid
Uses
It’s known to have skin soothing properties and its emollient nature helps smooth and hydrate dry and rough skin.
It’s also proved to be an effective ingredient in the treatment of eczema and dermatitis and assists with the absorption of other ingredients into the skin.
R
ROSE HIP OIL (Rosa Canina)
Description
An exotic ingredient native to Africa, Europe and West Asia
What It Contains
Its phytochemical composition includes ascorbic acid, phenolic compounds, a high concentration of essential fatty acids (omega 3 and 6), bio-flavonoid molecules. It also contains a heap of vitamins from A to E, with lots of C in between.
Uses
Thanks to its anti-oxidant, anti-inflammatory and anti-viral properties this ingredient is widely used for treating and strengthening dry, irritated and weathered skin, burns, scars and reducing the signs of aging.
Note that this ingredient is different to Rose Oil which is distilled from the Damask rose, which is a more volatile oil and has been known to aggravate skin.
ROSEMARY EXTRACT (Rosmarinus Officinalis)
Description
This woody herb is another one of those ingredients that’s best known for its fragrance. However, there’s a lot more to this one than just the scent.
What It Contains
A number of bio-active phytochemicals but most importantly rosmarinic and caffeic acid.
Uses
It’s been used as a photo-therapeutic agent for healing wounds. It’s been shown to inhibit the harmful effects of UV skin induced damage and prevent DNA damage in certain cells.
It also has antimicrobial and antibacterial properties so can be used as a natural preservative to prevent other ingredients in cosmetic and skincare products from oxidizing and also in the treatment of infections caused by bacteria.
Note that while Rosemary oil has many of the same properties because of its high concentration of its fragrance compounds, it’s been known to aggravate the skin.
S
SHEA BUTTER (Butyrospermum Parkii)
Description
Shea butter comes from the nut of the African shea tree. Since the days of Cleopatra’s Egypt, this ingredient has been used as a cosmetic and traded as a precious commodity.
What It Contains
A heap of beneficial components like fatty acids (mainly oleic, stearic and linoleic acid) and antioxidants (quercetin, epicatechin gallate, gallocatechin, epigallocatechin, allantoin).
Uses
It has valuable antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and emollient properties and is used to treat all types of skin disorders from rashes to sunburn, chapping, ulcers, blemishes, eczema, and dermatitis. It’s overall quite effective for moisturizing dry skin and protecting against the environment.
It’s often found in the the best face moisturizers, for example.
Some of its bio-active compounds have also shown to inhibit growth of certain types of radical and cancer cells.
SUNFLOWER SEED OIL (Helianthus Annus)
Description
Sunflower oil is a mild plant oil with no fragrance. It’s a massively popular ingredient, so much so that in 2014 alone 15.8 million tonnes of it was produced (mainly for food consumption).
What It Contains
A high concentration of fatty acids (oleic, linoleic, stearic and palmitic acid), lots of vitamin E, sterols and squalene.
Uses
It has skin barrier enhancing properties which have shown to help preserve the outermost layer of the skin as well as improve hydration (even on preterm infants).
In vitro studies have shown that some of its constituents increase lipid synthesis, reduce inflammation and activate proliferative-activated receptor-alpha (which basically stimulates keratinocyte differentiation, improves barrier function, and enhances lipid metabolism in the skin).
T
TEA TREE OIL (Melaleuca Alternifolia)
Description
Tea tree oil, also known as melaleuca oil, was first extracted from the narrow-leaved paperbark or narrow-leaved tea-tree, which is native to north eastern Australia. This camphor-like smelling essential oil has been used as a skin care remedy by the Aborigines for hundreds of years.
What It Contains
A lot of different compounds but its main constituents are terpinen-4-ol, terpinene, and α-pinene.
Uses
Tea tree oil has excellent anti-bacterial, antimicrobial and anti-fungal properties and is the reason this ingredient has been used to treat acne, lice, fungal infection, scabies, athletes foot, cuts, burns, toothache and insect bites.
Note that, as with all fragrant plant oils, tea tree oil can be sensitizing (especially if it is an old product), so do use it in the appropriate volumes and store away from light and air to avoid oxidation.
TURMERIC (Curcuma Longa)
Description
Native to Southeast Asia, the Turmeric plant is a herbaceous species that comes from the ginger family.
While it’s most well known as a yellowy / orange spice in Asian cuisine it’s also used in traditional medicines, ceremonies, clothing, as a dye and as an indicator for acidity.
What It Contains
Main constituents are bright yellowy chemical compounds called curcuminoids
Uses
Not only is turmeric a potent antioxidant it’s been shown to exhibit anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, antioxidant and anti-neoplastic (i.e. inhibits tumor growth in melanoma) properties.
It’s also been used to treat a variety of skin problems like acne, wounds, burns, eczema and psoriasis and treat sun damage and skin photoaging (i.e. loss of the skin’s youthful appearance).
U
UBIQUINONE (Coenzyme Q10)
Description
Ubiquinone or CoQ10 is a non-protein chemical compound that’s naturally produced in all animals. It plays a very important role in cell function and development is necessary for a protein’s biological activity to continue.
A lot of beauty brands use CoQ10 in their products and marketing and for good reason.
What It Contains
A fat soluble-like substance that resembles a vitamin.
Uses
The naturally produced CoQ10 in our skin, like most things, reduces over time.
So, it makes sense to simply replace what’s lost which is why the topical application and replenishment of CoQ10 has shown to augment cellular energy metabolism, reduce free radicals, increase antioxidant effects and beneficially affect mitochondrial function.
This, of course, has some really positive flow on effects like strengthening the epidermal layer of the skin, reducing the breakdown of collagen, protecting against environmental stress and photoaging, which may also slow or reverse the signs of aging.