Anthemis Nobilis (Chamomile) Flower Extract*
DEFINITION
Anthemis Nobilis is also known as the Roman chamomile or English chamomile. Anthemis Nobilis Flower Extract, Anthemis Nobilis Flower Oil, Anthemis Nobilis Flower Powder and Anthemis Nobilis Flower Water are ingredients made from the flowers of the plant Anthemis Nobilis.
USAGE
Anthemis Nobilis is used for skin conditioning and is known for its soothing, skin rejuvenating and anti-inflammatory properties. Some studies even demonstrated that chamomile works as an antioxidant, anti-microbial and anti-platelet agent.
EWG Rating: 1
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Aloe Barbadensis Leaf (Aloe Vera Gel) Juice*
DEFINITION
Aloe Barbadensis Flower Extract, Aloe Barbadensis Leaf, Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Extract, Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Juice, Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Polysaccharides and Aloe Barbadensis Leaf water are ingredients made from the plant Aloe Barbadensis which is also commonly called aloe vera.
USAGE
We use Aloe-derived ingredients to enhance the appearance of dry or damaged skin by reducing flaking and restoring suppleness. Aloe is typically obtained from the leaves of aloe plants. Historically, it has been believed that Aloe improves wound-healing and skin inflammation.
EWG Rating: 1
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Arctium Lappa (Burdock)*
DEFINITION
Arctium Lappa commonly called Burdock is a biennial plant. Its use dates back to the Middle Ages where it was used as a vegetable for consumption. Burdock’s long history also includes use in traditional Chinese medicine.
USAGE
Clinical studies have proven that Arctium Lappa improves the signs of aging skin. According to one study:
"A. lappa fruit extract significantly improves the metabolism of the dermal extracellular matrix and leads to a visible wrinkle reduction in vivo. In conclusion, A. lappa fruit extract represents a targeted means to regenerate dermal structures and, thus, offers an effective treatment option for mature skin."
Find the full study HERE
EWG Rating: 1
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Avena Sativa (Whole Oat)
DEFINITION
Avena Sativa (Whole Oat) and Colloidal Oatmeal are both ground kernels of oats from the oat plant.
USAGE
Avena Sativa is high in vitamin B and is used in products to treat skin conditions such as eczema, dermatitis, itchiness and dryness.
EWG Rating: 1
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Butyrospermum Parkii (Shea) Butter
DEFINITION
Butyrospermum Parkii (Shea) Butter is derived from the shea tree. Butyrospermum Parkii (Shea) Butter and the other ingredients made from the shea tree are used in many types of cosmetics and personal care products including bath products, cleansing products, eye makeup, lotions, creams, lipstick and hair care products. The shea tree is native to Central Africa, where it is used as a source of vegetable oil.
USAGE
Shea Butter is mostly used for its emollient/skin softening properties; some report that Shea Butter has anti-inflammatory properties as well as a limited capacity to absorb UV radiation.
EWG Rating: 1
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Calendula Officinalis (Calendula) Oil
DEFINITION
Calendula oil is extracted from the Calendual Officinalis plant also commonly known as pot marigold.
USAGE
Calendual Officinalis are rich in triterpenoid esters (an anti-inflammatory), antioxidants and carotenoids. The plant is known to promote skin healing and repair.
EWG Rating: 1
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Camellia Sinensis Leaf (Green Tea) Extract
DEFINITION
An extract from the leaves of the tea plant Camellia Sinensis. Commonly referred to as green tea extract.
USAGE
Most skin experts generally recommend green tea as a powerful antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and anti-aging ingredient. Studies have shown that the catechins in green tea have UV protecting capabilities, making green tea a natural SPF provider. Combined with its antioxidant abilities, green tea is one of our secret all natural UV fighters.
For a great article on green tea CLICK HERE
EWG Rating: 2
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Cannabis Sativa (Hemp) Seed Oil*
DEFINITION
Hemp Oil is extracted from the seeds of the Cannabis Sativa plant.
USAGE
Cannabis Sativa is packed with omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids. Dermatologists tout the benefits of fatty acids because they are responsible for skin cell membrane health. Ann Yelmokas McDermott, PhD, a nutritionist at the Jean Mayer USDA Human Nutrition Research Center on Aging at Tufts University said:
"since the membrane is what influences the cells ability to hold water, having a nice, healthy barrier yields moister, softer, more subtle, and more wrinkle-free skin."
Historically, Hemp Oil has been used to treat eczema, dry or itchy skin and rosacea.
Find out more about hemp oil HERE
EWG Rating: 2
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Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride
DEFINITION
Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride is a mixed triester of coconut oil and glyercin. Glycerin is present in all natural fats in vegetables and is derived from the fermentation of sugar or hydrolysis (basically a reaction with water) of fat.
USAGE
Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride is used as an emollient, dispersing and thickening agent to provide a smooth after-touch feel and to moisturize the skin.
EWG Rating: 1
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Cetearyl Alcohol
DEFINITION
Cetearyl Alcohol is a mixture of cetyl and stearyl alcohols. Cetyl alcohol is a fatty alcohol derived from plants. Stearyl alcohol is a fatty alcohol derived from coconut oil or vegetable fatty acids (fatty acids are the building blocks of the fat in the human body and in our food). A fatty alcohol comes from the natural fats and oils of plants. A fatty alcohol is not an alcohol in the true sense of the word - fatty alcohols come from fatty acids that have been exposed to hydrogen. Hydrogen represents 75% of the universe's mass and every day people consume it via the water they drink or the foods they eat.
USAGE
Cetearyl Alcohol is used as an emulsifying agent.
EWG Rating: 1
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Cetearyl Glucoside
DEFINITION
Cetearyl Glucoside is naturally derived from coconut or corn oil and is formed from the condensation of cetearyl alcohol and glucose. Cetearyl Alcohol is a mixture of cetyl and stearyl alcohols. Cetyl alcohol is a fatty alcohol derived from plants. Stearyl alcohol is a fatty alcohol derived from coconut oil or vegetable fatty acids (fatty acids are the building blocks of the fat in the human body and in our food). A fatty alcohol comes from the natural fats and oils of plants. A fatty alcohol is not an alcohol in the true sense of the word - fatty alcohols come from fatty acids that have been exposed to hydrogen. Hydrogen represents 75% of the universe's mass and everyday people consumes it via the water we drink or the foods we eat.
USAGE
Cetearyl Glucoside is used as a surfactant and emulsifying agent that helps skin retain moisture and leaves a velvety after touch.
EWG Rating: 1
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Cetearyl Olivate
DEFINITION
Cetearyl Olivate is a compound made from cetearyl alcohol and the fatty alcohol from olive oil. A fatty alcohol comes from the natural fats and oils of plants. A fatty alcohol is not an alcohol in the true sense of the word - fatty alcohols come from fatty acids (fatty acids are the building blocks of the fat in the human body and in our food) that have been exposed to hydrogen. Hydrogen represents 75% of the universe's mass and everyday people consumes it via the water we drink or the foods we eat.
USAGE
Cetearyl Olivate is used as an emulsifier and helps to soften skin and give products a smooth and luxurious feel.
EWG Rating: 1
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Citrus Aurantium Dulcis (Orange) Fruit Extract (Vitamin C)
DEFINITION
Citrus Aurantium Dulcis (Orange) Fruit Extract, Citrus Aurantium Dulcis (Orange) Fruit Powder, Citrus Aurantium Dulcis (Orange) Fruit Water, Citrus Aurantium Dulcis (Orange) Fruit Juice, Citrus Aurantium Dulcis (Orange) Peel Extract, Citrus Aurantium Dulcis (Orange) Peel Oil, Citrus Aurantium Dulcis (Orange) Peel Powder, Citrus Aurantium Dulcis (Orange) Seed Extract, Citrus Aurantium Dulcis (Orange) Oil, Citrus Aurantium Dulcis (Orange) Seed Oil are all extracted from sweet oranges also known as Citrus Aurantium Dulcis.
USAGE
Citrus Aurantium Dulcis is packed with vitamin C. Vitamin C is a potent antioxidant that helps shield the skin from aging due to free radicals damage. Free radicals from environmental factors like the sun are responsible for premature aging. A study in 2005 by the Dermatology Surgery found that vitamin C:
"benefits include promoting collagen synthesis, photoprotection from ultraviolet A and B, lightening hyperpigmentation, and improvement of a variety of inflammatory dermatoses."
Find out more about vitamin C HERE.
EWG Rating: 2
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Citrus Aurantium Dulcis (Sweet Orange) Oil*
DEFINITION
Citrus Aurantium Dulcis (Orange) Fruit Extract, Citrus Aurantium Dulcis (Orange) Fruit Powder, Citrus Aurantium Dulcis (Orange) Fruit Water, Citrus Aurantium Dulcis (Orange) Fruit Juice, Citrus Aurantium Dulcis (Orange) Peel Extract, Citrus Aurantium Dulcis (Orange) Peel Oil, Citrus Aurantium Dulcis (Orange) Peel Powder, Citrus Aurantium Dulcis (Orange) Seed Extract, Citrus Aurantium Dulcis (Orange) Oil, Citrus Aurantium Dulcis (Orange) Seed Oil are all extracted from sweet oranges also known as Citrus Aurantium Dulcis.
USAGE
Citrus Aurantium Dulcis is packed with vitamin C. Vitamin C is a potent antioxidant that helps shield the skin from aging due to free radicals damage. Free radicals from environmental factors like the sun are responsible for premature aging. A study in 2005 by the Dermatology Surgery found that vitamin C:
"benefits include promoting collagen synthesis, photoprotection from ultraviolet A and B, lightening hyperpigmentation, and improvement of a variety of inflammatory dermatoses.
Find out more about vitamin C HERE.
EWG Rating: 1
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Coco Polyglucose (Vegetarian foaming agent) from Solanum Tuberosum (Potato) and Cocos Nucifera (Coconut) Oil
DEFINITION
Coco Polyglucose is made from potato and coconut oil.
USAGE
Coco Polyglucose is used as a surfactant that acts as a foaming agent.
EWG Rating: 1
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Cocos Nucifera (Coconut) Oil*
DEFINITION
Coconut Oil, also called Cocos Nucifera (Coconut) Oil, is a pale-yellow, semisolid, edible oil. Coconut Oil is obtained by expression from the dried inner flesh of the coconut, Cocos Nucifera. Coconut Oil is a source of lower chain length fatty acids, including lauric acid, capric acid, myristic acid and palmitic acid.
USAGE
Coconut Oil has a variety of uses in our formulations. Its an emollient, meaning it acts as a lubricant on the skin surface, which gives the skin a soft and smooth appearance. It enhances the appearance of dry or damaged skin by reducing flakiness and it slows the loss of water from the skin by forming a barrier on the skin.
EWG Rating: 1
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Cyamopsis Tetragonoloba (Guar) Gum*
DEFINITION
Cyamopsis Tetragonoloba (Guar) Gum is derived from the bean of the guar plant, Cyamposis Tetragonoloba.
USAGE
Cyamopsis Tetragonoloba is used as an emulsion stabilizer and viscosity increasing agent.
EWG Rating: 1
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Equisetum Arvense (Horsetail Herb)*
DEFINITION
Equisetum Arvense commonly known as horsetail is an herbaceous perennial plant that is found in temperate regions of the northern hemisphere and the arctic.
USAGE
Equisetum Arvense's history dates back to ancient times and has long been used to strengthen and soften skin. Saponins, flavonoids, and silica are found in Equisetum Arvense which are attributed to the plant's ability to strengthen and regenerate skin tissue. Bio-minerals such as manganese, magnesium, iron and copper that are essential for elastin and collagen creation can also be found in this plant.
EWG Rating: 1
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Eucalyptus Globulus Oil
DEFINITION
Eucalyptus Globulus Leaf Oil is made from the leaves of the Eucalyptus Globulus tree, also called blue gum which is native to Australia. It is used in a variety of over the counter drugs including rubs, inhalers, liniments, rash creams, and mouthwashes.
USAGE
In addition to adding a pleasant natural aroma, eucalyptus displays a variety of anti-inflammatory, antiseptic, antibacterial, and stimulating properties.
EWG Rating: 1
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Gluconolactone
DEFINITION
Gluconolactone, also called glucono delta-lactone, is an ester of Gluconic Acid. Pure Gluconolactone is a white, odorless crystalline powder. Gluconolactone is formed by the removal of water from Gluconic Acid. Gluconic Acid and its derivatives are naturally occurring substances. In mammals, Gluconic Acid is an important intermediate in carbohydrate metabolism.
USAGE
Gluconolactone combined with Sodium Benzoate acts as our natural based preservatives. They have Ecocert approval as a preservative in cosmetics. Gluconolactone also exhibits hydrating and moisturizing properties. Additionally according to a study featured in Dermatologic Surgery journal, it may also function by scavenging free radicals, thereby protecting skin from some of the damaging effects of UV radiation. According to the Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, it may also show improvements in patients with rosacea,and is gentle on sensitive skin.
EWG Rating: 1
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Glycerin*
DEFINITION
Glycerin is a sugar alcohol that can be obtained from natural sources or can be synthesized. In cosmetics and personal care products Glycerin may be found in soaps, toothpaste, shaving cream, and skin and hair care products. Glycerin, also referred to as Glycerol, is a component of all vegetable fats and oils. It is also found naturally in skin.
USAGE
Glycerin acts as a skin protectant, an ingredient that temporarily protects injured or exposed skin from harmful or annoying stimuli, and that may provide relief to such skin. It is also a humectant, meaning it increases the water content of the top layers of the skin by drawing moisture from the surrounding air.
EWG Rating: 2
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Glyceryl Isostearate
DEFINITION
Glyceryl Isostearate is a mixture of glycerin and isostearic acid. Isostearic acid is liquid fatty acid produced by the reaction of oleic acid with a natural mineral catalyst. Oleic acid is a fatty acid that occurs naturally in various vegetable fats and oils. Some synonyms for Glyceryl Isostearate include Glyceryl Monostearate, Glyceryl Monoisostearate, Glycerol Isostearate, Glycery Stearate, Glyceryl Isostearate and Glyceryl Monoesters.
USAGE
Glyceryl Isostearate is used as an emollient and thickening agent. In 2000, 43 glyceryl monoesters were reviewed for their safety. Based on the study, the Cosmetic Ingredient Review (CIR) Expert Panel found that these glyceryl monoesters are safe as cosmetic ingredients in the present practices of use and concentration.
Find out more about this 2000 study HERE.
EWG Rating: 1
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Glyceryl Stearate (Palm Kernel)
DEFINITION
Glyceryl Stearate is a fatty acid that can be derived from palm kernel, vegetable or soy oil and is also found naturally in the human body.
USAGE
Glyceryl Stearate is used as a surfactant and emulsifying agent. Glyceryl Stearate also slows the loss of water from the skin and has been shown to protect the skin from free radical damage.
EWG Rating: 1
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Helianthus Annuus (Sunflower) Seed Oil*
DEFINITION
Helianthus Annuus (Sunflower) Seed Oil is a clear, slightly amber-colored liquid. Helianthus Annuus (Sunflower) Seed Oil is the oil expressed from the seeds of the sunflower, Helianthus annuus, consisting primarily of triglycerides of linoleic and oleic acids. It is commonly used in food as a frying oil and supplies more vitamin E than any other vegetable oil.
USAGE
Sunflower Seed Oil is primarily used for its emollient/skin softening abilities. It helps create a nice product consistency and softens the skin.
EWG Rating: 1
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Lavandula Angustifolia (Lavender)*
DEFINITION
Lavandula Angustifolia or lavender is an aromatic plant that is grown in the Mediterranean, southern Europe, Australia, and the United States.
USAGE
Lavandula Angustifolia is used as a skin-conditioning agent and by herbalists to treat skin acne, eczema and wounds.
EWG Rating: 1
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Lecithin*
DEFINITION
Lecithin is a naturally occurring mixture of the diglycerides of stearic, palmitic and oleic acids. Lecithin can be found in all living organisms and is a predominant component of nervous tissue. It can be obtained from soybean, corn, and egg yolks.
USAGE
Lecithin improves the appearance of dry or damaged skin by reducing flakiness. Additionally, Lecithin helps formulas bind together by reducing the surface tension of combined ingredients.
EWG Rating: 2-3 (depends on usage)
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Nelumbo Nucifera (Lotus Bean) Gum*
DEFINITION
Nelumbo Nucifera is a water plant that goes by the names sacred lotus, Indian lotus, lotus bean of India or simply lotus. It has been used as a medicinal herb in India and China for over 400 years.
USAGE
Nelumbo Nucifera is high in polyphenolic compounds which are known for their antioxidant benefits.
EWG Rating: 1
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Octyl Palmitate
DEFINITION
Octyl Palmitate is a derivative of palm oil. The Palmitates are produced using palmitic acid, a naturally occurring fatty acid found in plants. Octyl palmitate is a clear, colorless liquid at room temperature with a slightly fatty odor.
USAGE
It is an ultra mild, skin-smoothing ester that has a 'dry-slip' feel that is very similar to silicone's texture. It is primarily used as an organic replacement to silicone.
EWG Rating: 1
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Oenothera Biennis (Evening Primrose) Oil
DEFINITION
Evening Primrose oil is extracted from Oenothera Biennis, a plant native to North America.
USAGE
Oenothera Biennis is used as an emollient. It contains omega-6 an essential fatty acid and gamma-linolenic acid (a rare essential fatty acid) which are both beneficial to skin health.
EWG Rating: 1
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Olea Europaea (Olive) Leaf Extract
DEFINITION
Olea Europaea (Olive) Leaf Extract is an extract of the leaves of the olive tree, Olea Europaea.
USAGE
Olea Europaea (Olive) Leaf Extract is used as a preservative. Olives also contain three major antioxidants: vitamin E, polyphenols, and phytosterols.
EWG Rating: 1
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Olea Europaea (Olive) Oil*
DEFINITION
Olive Oil is obtained from the ripe fruit of the olive tree, Olea Europaea.
USAGE
When used as a skin-condition agent, Olea Europaea is known for its moisturizing and anti-inflammatory properties. Olive Oil contains three major antioxidants: vitamin E, polyphenols, and phytosterols.
EWG Rating: 1
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Persea Gratissima (Avocado) Oil*
DEFINITION
Avocado Oil is extracted from the fruit of the avocado tree, Persea Gratissima.
USAGE
Persea Gratissima is known for its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. Avocados are high in vitamin B, C, E, and K.
EWG Rating: 1
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Polyhydroxystearic Acid
DEFINITION
Polyhydroxystearic Acid is a polymer closely related to stearic acid. Stearic acid is a naturally occurring fatty acid in vegetables. Fatty acids are the building blocks of the fat in the human body and in our food.
USAGE
Polyhydroxystearic Acid is used as a suspending agent and emulsifier.
EWG Rating: 1
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Prunus Amygdalus (Sweet Almond) Oil
DEFINITION
Prunus Amygdalus Dulcis (Sweet Almond) Oil is a pale, straw-colored or colorless oil obtained from almonds. Prunus Amygdalus Dulcis (Sweet Almond) Oil consists mainly of oleic and linoleic triglycerides. It consists of proteins, carbohydrates, fat, fiber, sugar and up to 10% water.
USAGE
Prunus Amygdalus Dulcis (Sweet Almond) Oil acts as a lubricant on the skin surface, which gives the skin a soft and smooth appearance. It is also a bulking agent and abrasive.
EWG Rating: 1
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Punica Granatum (Pomegranate) Extract
DEFINITION
Punica Granatum is the extract from the pomegranate fruit.
USAGE
Pomegranate is used for its high levels of vitamin C and antioxidants which can help prevent cell damage. Pomegranate also plays a positive role in repairing sun damaged and aging skin.
EWG Rating: 1
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Rosa Rubiginosa (Rosehip) Extract*
DEFINITION
Rosehip extract is obtained from the seeds of the rose bush, Rosa Rubiginosa, which is found in the southern Andes.
USAGE
Rosa Rubiginosa is used as skin-conditioning agent for its nutrient rich properties as it contains both vitamin C and vitamin A. One study found the daily application of Rosa Rubiginosa Seed Oil helped reduce wrinkles, fade age spots and diminish sun damage.
EWG Rating: 1
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Rosa Rubiginosa (Rosehip) Oil*
DEFINITION
Rosehip oil is derived from the seeds of the rose bush, Rosa Rubiginosa, which is found in the southern Andes.
USAGE
Rosa Rubiginosa is used as skin-conditioning agent for its nutrient rich properties as it contains both vitamin C and vitamin A. One study found the daily application of Rosa Rubiginosa Seed Oil helped reduce wrinkles, fade age spots and diminish sun damage.
EWG Rating: 1
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Rosmarinus Officinalis (Rosemary)*
DEFINITION
Rosmarinus Officinalis is an ingredient made from the whole plant of Rosemary. Rosmarinus Officinalis (Rosemary) Flower Extract, Rosmarinus Officinalis (Rosemary) Leaf, and Rosmarinus Officinalis (Rosemary) Water are ingredients made from part of the plant.
USAGE
Rosmarinus Officinalis is used as an antioxidant, deodorant and skin-conditioning agent. Benefits of Rosmarinus Officinalis range from improving skin moisture to supporting healthy collagen development.
EWG Rating: 1
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Simmondsia Chinensis (Jojoba) Oil*
DEFINITION
Simmondsia Chinensis (Jojoba) Seed Oil is obtained by pressing the seed kernels of an evergreen shrub native to the Sonoran and Mojave deserts of Arizona, California and Mexico. This oil is different from other common plant oils in that it is composed almost completely (97%) of wax esters of monounsaturated, straight-chain acids and alcohols with high molecular weights (carbon chain lengths from 36 to 46). This makes Jojoba Oil more similar to sebum and whale oil than to traditional vegetable oils.
USAGE
It lubricates the skin, reduces skin flakiness, restores suppleness, regulates your natural sebum production, and slows the loss of water from the skin. It is the closest match to human sebum (oil) of all the plant oils and is thus
a great moisturizer alone or in a formula with other ingredients.
EWG Rating: 1
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Sodium Benzoate
DEFINITION
Sodium Benzoate is a salt of Benzoic acid, found naturally in cranberries, prunes, plums, cinnamon, ripe cloves, and apples.
USAGE
Combined with Gluconolactone, sodium benzoate acts as our natural preservative base and is approved by Ecocert. As a preservative, it prevents bacteria and fungi from developing in products and formulas and changing their compositions. It is also used as a fragrance ingredient, masking ingredient, and anti-corrosive agent.
EWG Rating: 3
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Sodium Chloride (Salt)
DEFINITION
Sodium Chloride, or commonly known as table salt, is a white crystalline solid.
USAGE
Sodium Chloride is used as a preservative, binding and thickening agent.
EWG Rating: 1
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Sodium Laurylglucosides Hydroxypropylsulfonate
DEFINITION
Combining glucose with the natural fatty alcohol from coconut oil derives Sodium Laurylglucosides Hydroxypropylsulfonate. It is a naturally derived alternative to using sulfate in personal care products.
USAGE
Sodium Laurylglucosides Hydroxypropylsulfonate is used a sugar-based surfactant that acts as a foaming agent,
EWG Rating: 1
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Sorbitan Olivate
DEFINITION
Sorbitan Olivate is derived from olive oil and sorbitol. Sorbitol is a sugar alcohol that comes from plants or vegetables.
USAGE
Sorbitan Olivate is used as a surfactant.
EWG Rating: 1
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Tagetes Erecta (Marigold)*
DEFINITION
Tagetes Erecta is also known as the Mexican marigold or Aztec marigold and is a flower native to Central American Mexico. Tagetes Erecta has a long history of medicinal and therapeutic use. The Cherokee used the marigold as a skin wash.
USAGE
The leaves and juices of Tagestes Erecta have multi-uses. They have anti-viral benefits, are used to treat sores and eczema, remove skin lesion, and decrease inflammation.
EWG Rating: 1
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Theobroma Cacao (Cocoa) Seed Butter
DEFINITION
Cocoa Seed Butter is the natural, edible fat obtained from the roasted seeds of Theobroma Cacao. Cocoa Seed Butter is extracted during the process of making chocolate and cocoa powder. It contains approximately 34-36% stearic acid, 30-40% oleic acid and 24-29% palmitic acid.
USAGE
Theobroma Cacao (Cocoa) Seed Butter temporarily protects injured or exposed skin from harmful or annoying stimuli and may provide relief to the skin. Theobroma Cacao (Cocoa) Seed Butter also slows the loss of water from the skin by forming a barrier on the skin’s surface.
EWG Rating: 1
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Tocopherol (Vitamin-E)
DEFINITION
Tocopherol, or vitamin E, a fat-soluble vitamin is a naturally occuring antioxidant which can be isolated from vegetable oil. When isolated Tocopherol, is a viscous oil that varies in color from yellow to brownish red. It is a fat-soluble vitamin which is found in vegetable fats and oils, dairy products, meat, eggs, cereals, nuts, and leafy green and yellow vegetables.
USAGE
We use tocopherol for its excellent anti-oxidant and moisturizing properties. As an anti-oxidant it prevents or slows deterioration in the body due to chemical reaction with oxygen. Some also say that tocopherol protects from UV damage, increases the efficacy of sunscreens, and reduces the severity of sunburns.
EWG Rating: 1
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Tocopheryl Acetate (Vitamin E)
DEFINITION
Tocopheryl acetate is made from acetic acid and tocopherol (vitamin E) which is isolated from vegetable oil.
USAGE
Tocopherol or vitamin E, a fat-soluble vitamin is a naturally occurring antioxidant. As an antioxidant it prevents or slows deterioration in the body due to chemical reaction with oxygen. Some also say that tocopherol protects from UV damage, increases the efficacy of sunscreens, and reduces the severity of sunburns.
EWG Rating: 3
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Trifolium Pratense (Red Clover) Extract
DEFINITION
Trifolium Pratense (Red Clover) Extract is an extract of the flowers of the clover, Trifolium Pratense, a species of clover native to Europe, Western Asia and northwest Africa.
USAGE
Trifolium Pratense (Red Clover) is used as a preservative and in some studies it was effective in reducing skin aging induced by estrogen deprivation.
EWG Rating: 1
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Vaccinium Angustifolium (Blueberry) Extract
DEFINITION
Vaccinium Angustifolium (Blueberry) Fruit Extract is an extract from a blueberry, Vaccinium angustifolium.
USAGE
Vaccinium Angustifolium (Blueberry) Extract is used as a preservative. Blueberries are also high in antioxidants like selenium and vitamin A, C and E.
EWG Rating: 1
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Vitis Vinifera (Grape) Skin Extract*
DEFINITION
Vitis Vinifera is a species of grape known as wine grape, European grape or grapevine. The grape skin extract is extracted from the skin of the grape.
USAGE
Vitis Vinifera functions as an antioxidant, skin-conditioning agent and also has built in UV absorbers. Vitis Vinifera contains malic acid which is considered an alpha hydroxyl acid (AHA). AHAs can exfoliate the top layer of skin while still promoting moisture restoration.
EWG Rating: 1
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Xanthan Gum
DEFINITION
Xanthan Gum is a polysaccharides derived from the fermentation of carbohydrates. Xanthan Gum is derived from glucose or corn syrup.
USAGE
Xanthan gum primarily acts as a binder, meaning it holds together the ingredients in formulas. Xanthan gum also functions as an emulsion stabilizer, skin conditioning agent, and viscosity increasing agent. Which means it stabilizes formulas, reduces skin flakiness and increases the thickness of formulations.
EWG Rating: 1
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Zemea Propanediol
DEFINITION
Zemea Propanediol is an eco-friendly, bio-based solvent, naturally derived from glucose. Zemea Propanediol is certified natural by the Natural Products Association and approved by Ecocert. Zemea Propanediol can be used to replace petroleum-based glycols such as propylene glycol and butylene glycol.
USAGE
Zemea Propanediol is used as a preservative-boosting humectant.
EWG Rating: 1
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Zinc Oxide
DEFINITION
Zinc Oxide, a white powder, is the oxide of zinc. It has a formula of ZnO. Zinc Oxide is used in a wide range of cosmetics, personal care products, and OTC drugs including makeup, nail products, baby lotions, bath soaps, foot powders, diaper rash ointments, and sunscreen products. It is a naturally occurring inorganic compound.
USAGE
We use zinc oxide because it is the single broadest spectrum UVA and UVB reflector that is approved for use as a sunscreen by the FDA. It sits on top of the skin and reflects the sun’s UV rays making it safer than chemical sunscreens that penetrate the skin and absorb and reflect the sun’s rays.
EWG Rating: 2-3 (depends on usage)
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