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Skincare Ingredients Vocabulary

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This is a short list of some of our favorite ingredients!

Activated Charcoal An ingredient that mostly absorbs toxins in the body, activated charcoal cleanses the skin and helps in pulling toxins out which leaves you with a fresh, smooth, and supple face.
Aloe Vera Aloe Vera a naturally-derived ingredient and is rich with vitamins, amino acids, and phytosterols, which give it the soothing and healing properties which make it a common treatment for burns or dry skin. Aloe vera also has vitamins A, C, D, and E, and the minerals zinc, potassium, and magnesium. These help reduce inflammation and lightens the skin, making it useful against blemishes
Arbutin Arbutin is derived from berries, and regulates the pathway that produces pigmentation/melanin. This gives it the ability to brighten skin. It also helps to reduce age spots, blemishes, scars, and hyperpigmentation. It is considered gentle to the skin and can reduce the degree of skin darkening by blocking the production of tyrosinase, an enzyme involved with melanin production.
Argireline An amino acid peptide which is used in the improvement of existing fine lines and wrinkles. It also greatly assists in reducing folds and prevents further wrinkle formations. Acts to relax the muscles around the eye and face which lead to wrinkle formation.
Avocado Oil Pressed from the pulp of the avocado fruit, Avocado oil is loaded with omega-3 fatty acids and vitamins A, D, and E which are all important for the skin. It helps to moisturize and nourish the skin, accelerates healing properties, and its anti-inflammatory properties can help against eczema and psoriasis. It also has the ability to serve as a carrier oil and help other active ingredients reach the deeper layers of skin
Azelaic Acid Azelaic acid is a naturally occurring acid found in grains such as barley, wheat, and rye. It has antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties, which make it effective for people with blemishes or rosacea. It can help prevent future skin outbreaks and reduce bacteria that come into contact with your pores
Bakuchiol Derived from the seeds and leaves of the Psoralea corylifolia plant, this natural vegan ingredient is thought of as a Vitamin A/Retinol analog because it acts on the same retinoid receptors on our skin. Bakuchiol functions similar to Retinol in increasing cell turnover and collagen production, but with less skin irritation than some find with Retinols. 
Bamboo Extract The bamboo tree is full of natural silica, an essential mineral that promotes healthy skin. It is also rich in amino acids and flavonoids which protect the skin from oxidative stress. Bamboo extract also displays anti-microbial and healing properties to repair the skin and prevent breakouts and blemishes.
Cacao Powder Cacao beans are often used to make chocolate, but cold-pressed cacao beans gives us the highly beneficial Cacao Powder. When used on the skin, it retains its anti-oxidant properties as well as nutrients and omega-6 fatty acids. Cacao powder is high in antioxidants that assist in reducing toxins. Flavanols help protect the skin and increase dermal blood flow. The same fatty acids seen in cocoa butter are present in cacao powder to nourish the skin.
Caffeine While known for its benefits in daily beverages, caffeine has several key benefits to the skin. When used in topical applications, it shows excellent anti-oxidant properties to help reduce fine lines and wrinkles. Also has the ability to reduce subdermal fat deposits which contribute to puffiness. Caffeine also increases blood flow within the skin
Cannabidiol (CBD) Cannabidiol (CBD) acts on CB1, CB2 and CBN receptors, which are present on skin cells. CBD has powerful anti-inflammatory properties and can moisturize and hydrate the skin without clogging pores.
Capsaicinoids  Capsaicinoids are compounds from the capsicum (peppers) family. When applied topically, it helps to stimulate blood circulation and helps minimize fat deposits in the skin.
Carnitine Assists in making skin supple and plump, it also reduces irritants on the skin by producing new cells that is evenly distributed to the areas that need it.
CBD Cannabidiol (CBD) acts on CB1, CB2 and CBN receptors, which are present on skin cells. CBD has powerful anti-inflammatory properties and can moisturize and hydrate the skin without clogging pores.
Cococin Derived from coconut solids, Cococin aids in healthy skin regeneration, assists in skin elasticity, and increases the effect of skin hydration.
Co-enzyme Q10 Co-enzmye Q10 (CoQ10), also known as ubiquinone, which is a natural body enzyme found in every cell of the human body. It is vital for energy production in cells. As a topical ingredient, it is important to replenish CoQ10 levels in the skin keep cells active and energized to help rid themselves of toxins. It is also important for collagen synthesis, as well as evens skin tone via its effects in regulating melanin production.
Copper A natural mineral that helps reduce inflammation and improves the skin's overall condition.
Copper Peptides Copper peptides work as an antioxidant, to promote collagen and elastin production in the skin. They help to reduce fine lines and wrinkles as well as improving skin firmness and smoothness. 
Date Palm Extract Date palm extract, Phoenix dactylifera, has been scientifically proven to reduce visible signs of aging. Extracted from the date fruit, it contains natural anti-oxidants and phytohormones which result in improved skin elasticity, brighter skin, and a decrease in redness and hyperpigmentation. The phytochemicals and phytosterols impart intense hydrating properties to the skin as well.
DMAE Dimethyl MEA (DMEA), which is composed of amino acids and choline, a nutrient that boosts cell growth and metabolism. Dimethyl MEA reduces inflammation, improves lines and wrinkles, and increases firmness, along with other many therapeutic uses. 
Ellagic Acid Ellagic acid is a powerful anti-oxidant, which is found in superfoods as pomegranites, cranberries, walnuts, and pecans. It also has the ability to directly inhibit certain known carcinogens, such as nitrosamines and polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons, from binding to DNA. This further protects skin on a cellular level against the UV radiation.
Emblica Emblica is derived from the ancient Indian gooseberry fruit. It contains strong antioxidants and Vitamin C that provide long-term protection against free radicals, as well as natural elements to brighten the skin.
Eucalyptous Oil The Eucalyptus species of plants is most often found in Australia. Eucalyptous oil is an essential oil that is high in flavonoids and other anti-oxidants to protect the skin and reduce signs of aging. It also has high levels of ceramides, which are fatty acids normally found in skin which help retain moisture. It also thought to have anti-inflammatory properties and anti-microbial properties as well which could help against inflammatory conditions like eczema or psoriasis.
Ferulic Acid Ferulic acid is derived from plant cell walls such as rice, wheat, and apples. It is an antioxidant in its own right, but also stabilizes Vitamin C and Vitamin E to create a powerful synergistic effect and reduce signs of aging and fight free radicals.
Glutathione An antioxidant peptide, glutathione is used to hold moisture in the lip area, hydrating and giving lips a fuller, plumper look
Glycine Glycine is a non-essential amino acid which is a major building block of collagen and elastin, the skin proteins that maintain strength and flexibility. Glycine greatly aids in the body’s ability to repair damaged skin and tissue.which keeps the skin and connective tissue firm and flexible. It is called a glucogenic amino acid, which means it supplies glucose for energy. Without glycine, the body would not be able to repair damaged cells.
Glycolic Acid Glycolic acid is the smallest alpha-hydroxy acid (AHA), derived from sugar cane. Its small size allows it to penetrate the deeper layers of the skin. Glycolic acid is an effective exfoliator to remove dead skin cells and loosen buildup of oils and debris which lead to breakouts. Glycolic acid helps to separate skin cells in the outer layers of skin without rough, mechanical exfoliation techniques. This speeds up cell turnover and bring fresher, younger cells to the surface. It has effective skin-renewing properties, reduces inflammation, evens skin tone, and gives the skin a soft, supple feel
Grape Fruit Extract Grapefruits are rich in vitamin C, which is a powerful anti-oxidant for the skin. Grapefruit extract also is rich in flavanoids, polyphenols, and anti-microbial properties which help it reduce pores, reduce breakouts, and reduce signs of aging.
Green Tea Extract Green Tea is made from the Camellia sinensis leaves, but they have not undergone the withering and oxidative process used to make other teas. This allows it to retain its nutrients and powerful anti-oxidant properties. It can help to improve blemishes, reduce oily skin, and make your skin look younger. It contains polyphenols, flavonoids, and other key nutrients which help protect the skin and retain moisture.
Gylcolic Acid Glycolic acid is the smallest alpha-hydroxy acid (AHA), derived from sugar cane. Its small size allows it to penetrate the deeper layers of the skin. Glycolic acid is an effective exfoliator to remove dead skin cells and loosen buildup of oils and debris which lead to breakouts. Glycolic acid helps to separate skin cells in the outer layers of skin without rough, mechanical exfoliation techniques. This speeds up cell turnover and bring fresher, younger cells to the surface. It has effective skin-renewing properties, reduces inflammation, evens skin tone, and gives the skin a soft, supple feel
Hemp Seed Oil Hemp Seed Oil is manufactured from a variety of the c. sativa plant that does not have high levels of THC. It is high in omega-3 and -6 fatty acids to help to hydrate the skin. Those fatty acids also give it antibacterial properties, making it a well-balanced mosturizer that doesn't clog pores but still hydrates. It also is helpful to reduce oil production and breakouts
Hyaluronic Acid Hyaluronic acid occurs naturally in the dermis, the layer of skin immediately under the surface. In newborns, it’s quite plentiful, but gradually diminishes as we age. Returning hyaluronic acid to the skin improves elasticity and tone, alleviates dry skin, and speeds up wound healin. Hyaluronic acid holds 1000x its weight in water, and helps to replenish and retain moisture.
Hydrogen Hydrogen is a powerful antioxidant that instantly hydrates the skin and boosts the skin’s elasticity. The small hydrogen molecules can penetrate through the subdermal layers of the skin to help scavenge free radicals and reduce oxidation within the skin
Jojoba Oil The Jojoba plant is a shrub native to the southwestern United States. Jojoba Seed Oil is rich in vitamins A, E and D, plus antioxidants and fatty acids. Jojoba oil has properties nearly identical to our skin's own natural sebum. This means it can penetrate below the top layer of skin to allow for for maximum nourishment. Jojoba also has natural antibacterial and anti- inflammatory properties
Jojoba Seed Oil The Jojoba plant is a shrub native to the southwestern United States. Jojoba Seed Oil is rich in vitamins A, E and D, plus antioxidants and fatty acids. Jojoba oil has properties nearly identical to our skin's own natural sebum. This means it can penetrate below the top layer of skin to allow for for maximum nourishment. Jojoba also has natural antibacterial and anti- inflammatory properties
Kojic Acid Kojic acid is derived from mushrooms and works to brigten and even skin by regulating melanin production in the skin. It also has antimicrobial and anti-oxidant properties. When combined with other brightening or exfoliating ingredients, it displays great synergistic effects
KuKui Nut Oil The kukui nut tree is found in Hawaii and polynesia. Kukui nut oil contains fatty acids like linoleic acid and omega-3, which can help calm the skin and reduce inflammation. This rich blend of fatty acids can easily be absorbed into the skin to help heal and form a protective barrier against environmental stressors
Lactic Acid Lactic acid is an alpha-hydroxy acid (AHA) derived from milk. It is often used to treat hyperpigmentation, age spots, an uneven complexion. Other benefits include improved skin tone and reduced pores. It also gently exfoliates and stimulates collagen production.
L-Carnitine L-carnitine is an amino acid produced naturally in the body. It helps to greatly reduce sebum/oil production. It also plays an important role in skin and fat metabolism. L-carnitine helps transform the bodies fat into energy. 
Magnesium Magnesium helps in the synthesis of collagen making it great as an anti-aging product. It also protects the skin from external damage due to its cellular regeneration properties that increases skin recovery.
Mandelic Acid Mandelic acid is an alpha-hydroxy acid (AHA) which is derived from almonds. "Mandel" is the german word for "almond." It is a larger AHA, which means it does not penetrate the skin as deeply as other AHAs, and is generally a milder AHA exfoliant. It is effective in treating hyperpigmentation, blemishes, and signs of aging.
Marula Oil The marula fruit is a fleshy fruit indigenous to Africa. It contains four times more vitamin C than a grapefruit, giving it incredible anti-oxidant properties to reduce free radicals and improve collagen synthesis and skin repair.
Myrrh Extract Myrhh extract is a natural tree resin. It has anti-inflammatory and healing properties that keeps nails healthy and rigid, and improves the skins elasticity.
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Papaya Enzyme The Papaya enzyme, Papain, is derived from the fruit of the papaya plant. It has the ability to gently remove and dissolve dead skin cells. This exfoliating power helps the skin become clean and brighter.  It also has effects in unclogging pores and as an anti-inflammatory agent.
Passion Fruit Extract Passion Fruit is considered a superfood. Passion Fruit Extract contains Vitamin C and Vitamin A which have anti-oxidant and anti-inflammatory properties to reduce signs of aging. In addition to riboflavin it can help skin retain moisture and improve blood flow, making it look younger and prevent aging and wrinkling.
Peloids Peloids, a therapeutic mud silt, consist of about 90% water and packed with organic substances, minerals, and vitamins from many years of biologic and geologic activity. Peloids are rich in minerals key for skin health, absorbs excess oils, minimizes pores, and removes dead skin cells.
Peptides Peptides are the building blocks to the protens which are present throughout our bodies. In skin care, they stimulate collagen production and strengthen and stimulate healthy skin cells. Their small size allows them to penetrate through all layers of the skin. They help to firm and tone the skin, increase collagen production, improve hydration, and reduce the appearance of fine lines
Phytic Acid Phytic acid is a alpha-hydroxy acid (AHA) which is naturally present in legumes and seeds. It is generally considered one of the milder AHAs used in skincare. It is able to simultaneously exfoliate and brighten the skin. It has the ability to regulate the synthesis of melanin in the epidermis.
Polyglutamic Acid (PGA) Comprised of several molecules of the amino acid Glutamic Acid, PGA has the ability to hold up to 5000x its weight in water! This gives it incredible hydrating and humectant properties. This natural ingredient works synergistically with Hyaluronic Acid (HA) to prevent the breakdown of HA by the enzyme hyaluronidase. PGA has been scientifically shown to reduce signs of aging, create a protective barrier for the skin, and hydrate!
Polyhydroxy Acid (PHA) Poly-hydroxy Acids (PHA) are a gentle acid exfoliants which are similar to AHAs. Their larger molecule size means that they absorb more slowly and don't penetrate as deep, which means a more gentle exfoliant with less irritation. PHAs are also unique because they also serve as incredible humectants, to draw moisture back to the skin.
Pullulan Pullulan is a polysaccharide starch that gives the skin a tightening effect and helps to absorb and retain moisture
Pumpkin Seed Extract Pumpkin seed extract (Cucurbita pepo) contains more than 100 nutrients. It contains vitamin A and C which help prevent oxidative stress and increase collagen production. Also, the alpha hydroxy acid fruit enzymes serve to help exfoliate and soften the skin. Cucurbita pepo extract gets absorbed quickly into the skin, to deliver fast and effective results.
Reservatrol Reservatrol is a powerful anti-oxidant found in grapes and wine. As a polyphenol, it has incredible anti-oxidant properties to reduce free radicals, protect collagen and skin, and also even skin tones.
Resorcinol It is used in breaking down rough, scaly, or hardened skin which helps in treating breakouts, seborrheic dermatitis, eczema, psoriasis, and other skin disorders.
Roe Enzyme The Roe enzyme is a natural enzyme derived from fish eggs that brightens and tightens the skin while softening dead skin cells. The enzyme can provide gentle exfoliation of the skin without causing thinning or inflammation. It leaves your skin feeling soft and supple
Rose Water Rose Water has incredible anti-oxidant and anti-inflammatory benefits to the skin, making it effecting against breakouts and redness. It is also effective in hydrating and balancing the skin's natural oils.
Rosehip Seed Oil Rosehip seed oil is extracted from wild rose bushes. This oil is very high in Vitamin A. It helps to brightens and even out the skin, and helps with anti-aging, elasticity, and collagen production. It helps to reduce scars and stretch marks while mosturizing, healing, and improving skin flexibility.
Safflower Oil Safflower is one of the oldest cultivated crops, its use dating back to ancient Egypt. The oil pressed from the safflower seeds is very high in vitamin E, which offers many health benefits. In addition to vitamin E, safflower oil also contains omega-6 fatty acids. These give it anti-oxidant, anti-inflammatory, and healing properties to the skin. Additionally, the omega-6 fatty acids help with moisture retention and balance, without clogging pores
Salicylic Acid Salicylic acid is a beta-hydroxy acid (BHA) which is derived from willow bark. As a BHA, it is fat-soluble and can penetrate into the lipid layer of the skin to unclog pores, reducing breakouts and blemishes. 
Silt Obtained from bodies of water. This component has a strong absorbent nature, Silt is rich in humic acid and essential minerals like zinc and magnesium
Squalene Squalene is a natural organic compound, produced by the body. It comprises about 10% of the skin's oil. It is a fatty molecule which helps in retaining the skin’s moisture and hydration. It is a natural anti-oxidant and is useful for anti-ageing and anti-inflammatory properties, as well as reducing fine lines and redness.
Sunflower Oil The Sunflower is a plant species native to North America. Sunflower oil is rich in vitamin E, A, C, and D, which are all effective anti-oxidants to reduce free radicals in the skin and minimize signs of aging and breakouts. It is highly absorbant in the skin, and its high levels of omega-6 fatty acids and vitamin E gives it emollient properties to help skin retain moisture.
Sweet Almond Oil Almonds are often considered a 'superfood.' It is rich in Vitamin A to stimulate collagen production and Vitamin E to reduce oxidative damage in the skin. It also is rich in omega-3 fatty acids to help the skin retain moisture. Additional nutrients like zinc help give healing properties
Tamanu Oil Derived from the fruits of the Tamanu Tree, this ingredient improves the skin and reduces breakouts thanks to its antibacterial properties. As an antioxidant, it fights free radicals that cause premature aging.
Taurine Taurine is an amino acid which occurs naturally in the body. It provides energy and nutrients to skin cells rejuvinate and rehydrate the skin.
Titanium DiOxide Titanium DiOxide is a naturally-occuring mineral that is a key ingredient in sunscreens to help in protecting skin against UVA and UVB radiation. It serves as a physical block/barrier from the harmful UV rays of the sun
Tranexemic Acid Tranexamic acid (TXA) stops the uptake of the pigment producing cells into the upper layers of the skin, making it effect against pigmentation and discoloration issues. It also acts to reduce redness and dark under eye circles via its effects as an anti-fibrinolytic
Trichloroacetic Acid Trichloroacetic Acid (TCA) is a self-neutralizing acid, which is an analog of acetic acid. It is used to improve the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles, and discoloration. Commonly used in chemical peels, it helps treating hyperpigmentation, scarring, and wrinkles, by exfoliating and clearing dead skin cells.
Turmeric Turmeric is a powerful natural anti-inflammatory that contains curcumin, which is the active ingredient to decrease inflammation and oxidation
Vegetable Glycerin Glycerin in a powerful humectant that acts both to draw moisture back to the skin and create a protective barrier from the elements
Vitamin A (Retinol) Retinol is a form of Vitamin A (Retinoic Acid) which is a fat-soluble vitamin essential for several biological functions. Collagen production is stimulated and the skin becomes more elastic and strong, thus reducing the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles, and age spots. Vitamin A also works to help unclog pores by regulating the production of sebum. Retinol is shown to help improve uneven skin tone, promote cell turnover and reproduction, and it’s an effective treatment for a variety of skin conditions and breakouts
Vitamin B3 (Niacinamide) Niacinamide is an important nutrient for the skin, kidneys, and brain. It helps build keratin to strengthen skin, creates a lipid barrier to help the skin retain moisture, and reduces oil production. Like many important vitamins, it helps reduce oxidative stress to the skin and reduce inflammation and scars.
Vitamin C (L-Asorbic Acid) Known for its presence in citrus fruits, the most pure form of Vitamin C is actually L-Ascorbic Acid. In skin care, it is used as a powerful anti-oxidant to reduce free radicals and also is critical for collagen synthesis. This ingredient is key to minimize signs of aging, reduce fine lines, and even skin tone
Vitamin E  Vitamin E is a fat-soluble vitamin found in vegetable oils, nuts, and seeds. It has properties that overall supports the skin's immune system, reduce inflammation, and also protects against UV rays. Vitamin E lives in cell membranes, so it serves to strengthen the skin barrier and retain moisture in the skin. 
Vitamin F Vitamin F is not a typical "vitamin", but a combination of essential Fatty acids that locks in moisture (prevents TEWL), restores the natural lipid barrier of the skin, and helps give the skin a healthy glow.
Vitamin K Vitamin K is an important fat-soluble vitamin which is vital to many functions throughout our bodies. It is found predominantly in leafy green vegetables. As it relates to the skin, it serves to strengthen the connective tissues in vein and capillary walls. And, like so many important skin care ingredients, it is also an antioxidant, protecting skin from pollution and sunlight damage. We utilize its benefits to help combat skin conditions such as Rosacea, Spider Veins, and Dark Circles.
Witch Hazel  Witch hazels are shrubs indigenous to America. Witch Hazel extract acts to tone skin by shrinking pores and also reduces skin inflammation and irritation. Witch hazel has been a popular treatment for sunburns. 
Witch Hazel Extract Witch hazels are shrubs indigenous to America. Witch Hazel extract acts to tone skin by shrinking pores and also reduces skin inflammation and irritation. Witch hazel has been a popular treatment for sunburns. 
Zinc An essential mineral which lessens the formation of skin free radicals and protects the skin’s lipids. It is also effective and beneficial against breakouts and scarring.
Zinc Oxide Zinc oxide is an active ingredient that works right away. It instantly creates a physical barrier between your skin and the sun to protect you from its harmful effects. Zinc oxide does not cause any harm to the skin. It is suitable to be used on sensitive skin, and is also often used to treat minor skin irritations.
For questions about these or any of our other active ingredients, please contact us online or call us today at 1-800-951-7005.