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Skincare Ingredients Glossary

Skincare ingredients

Browse our skincare ingredients dictionary to learn more about our products' key properties and rejuvenating qualities.

A – G

Acai
Acai is packed with antioxidants that protect your body from free radicals, and assist in repairing the damage they cause. They can also help fight off cancer and strengthen your immune system.

Used in:

Allantoin
Superior anti-irritant and soothing botanical agent derived from the root of the comfrey plant. Specially appropriate for sensitive, irritated or stressed skin. Can be found in many sun, acne and sensitive skin products, and also used in toothpastes, mouthwashes and shampoos due to its astringent properties. Used in small concentrations due to active properties.

Used in:

Aloe Vera Extract (Aloe barbadensis)
Obtained from the aloe vera plant, a stemless, spiky-leaved plant well-recognized for its moisturizing, healing and anti-inflammatory properties. Used in formulations for sensitive or stressed skin. Has been credited with treating burns, cuts, inflamed skin and dry skin conditions. The clear gel-like sap of the aloe plant has also been used internally as a laxative. There are over 400 species of aloe in the world today.

Used in:

Alpha Hydroxy Acids (AHA)
Family of naturally occurring acids used professionally for exfoliating and moisturizing the skin. (See Glycolic Acid, Lactic Acid and Malic Acid).

Alpha Lipoic Acid
An ultra-powerful antioxidant that is both water and oil soluble, meaning it can penetrate all areas of the cell to protect against damage caused by free radicals. Works with other antioxidants to boost their levels of effectiveness.

Used in: Age Control

Antioxidants
Powerful substances critical to the body's maintenance because they help block the damaging effects of free radicals through oxidation. Oxidation is a naturally occurring process where cells are constantly created and destroyed in the body. Free radicals are byproducts of oxidation. When free radicals react with certain body chemicals, they can interfere with normal cell function and seriously damage cells. Antioxidants work to neutralize free radicals before damage can be done. Vitamins A, C, E, selenium and zinc are powerful antioxidants available in fruit, leafy vegetables, nuts, beans, green and black teas and red wine. Antioxidants can also be used externally on the skin's surface to improve its appearance.

Ascorbic Acid (Vitamin C)
See Magnesium Ascorbyl Phosphate.

Avocado Extract
A flower well-renowned for its powerful soothing and anti-inflammatory features. Refreshes and revives delicate skin, especially the area surrounding eyes.

Used in:

Benzoyl Peroxide
An antibacterial ingredient prescribed by dermatologists as the preferred topical medicine for safe treatment for acne. Benzoyl Peroxide absorbs into the skin and clears acne-causing bacteria (Propionibacterium acnes) on the surface. It also acts as a drying agent to absorb excessive oils and clear pores, while promoting greater cell exfoliation and renewal. Because of these properties, Benzoyl Peroxide may in some cases cause irritation, dryness or peeling during the first days of usage before a tolerance is built up. It is recommended that sun protection be worn when using Benzoyl Peroxide and exposed to the sun's rays.

Bentonite and Kaolin Clays
Bentonite and Kaolin are natural purified clays extracted from natural deposits from volcanic and geological origin. They have been used in medicine and skincare for their unique abilities to absorb large amounts of proteins, oily residues and natural sebum, thus removing skin impurities and pore-clogging residues.

Used in: Face Mask

Beta Glucan
Beta-glucans are a diverse group of molecules from cellulose plants, bran, cereal grains, and certain fungi. They help protect the skin from aging, aid in skin hydration, significantly improve skin firmness, tone, and elasticity while diminishing fine lines and wrinkles.

Used in: Age Control

Beta Hydroxy Acids (BHA)
See Salicylic Acid.

Borage
Contains the essential fatty acid, Gamma Linolenic Acid, which relieves dryness, inflammation, scaliness, and itchiness. Penetrates the surface of the skin and delivers GLA to its cells. As a result, the skin cells retain more moisture It also relieves the pain and swelling of joints.

Used in: Facial Cleanser

Camphor
Natural ingredient credited with anesthetic, anti-inflammatory, astringent and skin-cooling properties. Ideal for chapped, rough or damaged skin. Derived from the Asian Evergreen tree. Has a fresh, clean scent similar to eucalyptus. The scent has aromatheraputic properties, as camphor has been known to calm headaches and eye strain.

Used in: Face Mask

Chamomile
A flower well-renowned for its powerful soothing and anti-inflammatory features. Refreshes and revives delicate skin, especially the area surrounding eyes.

Used in: Facial Cleanser, Under Eye Renewal

Chrysin (Passion Flower)
The passion flower is native to the Amazon and other tropical regions of North and South America. The passion flower has been used medicinally for hundreds of years, and its benefits are scientifically documented. It is most widely known for its sedative, anti-inflammatory, analgesic and anti-spasmodic properties. It is a superior emollient rich in vitamin C, calcium and phosphorus.

Used in: Under Eye Renewal

CoQ10 (Coenzyme Q10)
Also known as Ubiquinone. First discovered in 1957 at the University of Wisconsin Enzyme Institute. Present in human mitochondria. Essential nutrient produced by the body, the levels of which diminish with age and exposure to sun. Acts as a natural antioxidant to help defend cells against aging and free-radical damage. Is being studied for use in prevention of Parkinson's Disease, metabolic disorders, heart conditions and migraine headaches.

Used in:

Cucumber
Non-irritating plant extract that has anti-inflammatory and soothing properties. The lutein component of cucumber can have an effect on suppressing melanogenesis, or the process that leads to skin discolorations.

Used in: Facial Cleanser

Glycerin
A clear, thick liquid derived from vegetable oils that appears as a byproduct of the soap making process. Humectant with impressive capability to continually absorb water from the environment and bind it to the skin. Increases the skin's softness, suppleness and elasticity. Its lubricating properties make it superior to foaming ingredients for shaving preparations.

Used in:

Glycolic Acid
Also known as an Alpha Hydroxy Acid (AHA). Naturally derived from sugar cane, as well as synthetically produced. Used by dermatologists and men's skin care professionals to gently shed upper layers of the skin, leading to smoother, softer skin, and a reduction in the appearance of fine lines, dry patches and dark spots. Works by dissolving bonds between skin cells for easier and more effective exfoliation. Encourages the production of new skin cells for a fresh, healthy complexion.

Used in:

Grapeseed
Produced from the leaves and stem of the tea plant. Powerful antioxidant with high content of catechin and phenolic acids. Plays an important role defending against free radicals, and soothing and calming stressed skin. Has been attributed with having cleansing and healing properties for over 1000 years. Recent studies have proposed use of green tea extracts in prevention and treatment of cancers, arthritis and heart disease, but claims have not been fully proven yet.

Used in: Body Cream

Green Tea Extract (Camellia Sinensis)
Produced from the leaves and stem of the tea plant. Powerful antioxidant with high content of catechin and phenolic acids. Plays an important role defending against free radicals, and soothing and calming stressed skin. Has been attributed with having cleansing and healing properties for over 1000 years. Recent studies have proposed use of green tea extracts in prevention and treatment of cancers, arthritis and heart disease, but claims have not been fully proven yet.

Used in:

H – L

Hyaluronic Acid (Sodium Hyaluronate)
Also known as a glycosaminoglycan. Dermatological-grade "hypermoisturizer" or humectant which occurs naturally in the skin. Employed mostly in high-performance professional formulations due to its high cost. Application results in increased firmness and elasticity, and improvement in the appearance of fine lines. As part of the body's natural process, it keeps body tissues and joints well-lubricated and cushioned.

Used in:

Jiaogulan
Used for many years in ancient Chinese remedies as a longevity and anti-aging compound, Jiaogulan is known as a super antioxidant that protects skin from free radical damage.

Used in: Under Eye Renewal

Jojoba
Jojoba is a natural moisturizer for the skin. The oil is similar to the natural sebum of whale. Skin recognizes jojoba’s unique molecules as its own and lets jojoba in to deeply penetrate and soften the skin. Jojoba mixes with skin sebum and follows its pathways down to skin cell and skin matrix levels destroying bacteria, dissolving dried skin sebum and creating a deeply moisturizing barrier across the skin. It also helps restore the skin's natural Ph balance.

Used in:

Kojic Acid
High-performance ingredient derived from a fungus. Used to brighten and normalize pigmentation of the skin. Helps reduce the appearance of darkened areas, such as lentigines or areas under the eyes, by inhibiting melanin (pigment) production. Effects are similar to that of hydroquinone. Has been used with other sunscreen components to prevent UV exposure damage to skin.

Used in: Under Eye Renewal

Lavender
Calming, relaxing, sedative to the nervous system, it is a superior anti-stress agent and a good night sleep aide. With its strong aromatic fragrance, it is recognized for its disinfectant power. Also heals small wounds. By inhaling, it helps fight sore throat and bronchitis. Lavenders baths are also well known, particularly to fight rheumatism. It is also purifying, antiseptic, and can soothe sensitive, irritated and inflamed skins.

Used in: Body Cream

M – S

Magnesium Ascorbyl Phosphate
Highly active form of Vitamin C preferred by skin professionals for its stable topical characteristics. It is proven non-irritating and suitable for sensitive skin. Helps protect and repair the skin, improves its appearance due to antioxidant and skin-brightening capabilities, and assists in the production of collagen (collagen levels keep skin taut and smooth).

Used in: Age Control

Malic Acid
Naturally occurring Alpha Hydroxy Acid (AHA) found in apples and other fruits. Shares some of the moisturizing and exfoliating characteristics of other AHA's and has been shown to strengthen cells throughout the skin and body.

Used in: Body Cream

Niacinamide
Water-soluble vitamin and is part of the vitamin B group. It has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, and it is clinically proven to help rejuvenate skin.

Used in:

Olive
Recognized for its natural moisturizing, regenerating and softening properties. A great source of antioxidants packed full of polyphenols, flavanoids and catechins, all of which possess antioxidant properties, and destroy free radicals as soon as they are formed. The activated olive oil boosts the metabolism, stimulates cutaneous exchanges and promotes the elimination of toxins.

Used in:

Palmitoyl Oligopeptides
Peptides (also known as Polypeptides) are complex molecules derived from combining chains of amino acids (the body's building blocks.) Palmitoyl Oligopeptides help smooth wrinkles and fill in fine lines on the skin. Collagen supports skin's structure and keeps it firm and unwrinkled, but levels within the body decrease with age.

Used in:

Panthenol—(Vitamin B5)
Excellent nutrient with penetrating abilities to support cellular growth and tissue repair. Attracts moisture and increases elasticity while repairing damage.

Used in:

Peptides
Peptides (also known as Polypeptides) are complex molecules derived from combining chains of amino acids (the body's building blocks.) Palmitoyl Oligopeptides help smooth wrinkles and fill in fine lines on the skin. Collagen supports skin's structure and keeps it firm and unwrinkled, but levels within the body decrease with age.

Used in:

Pomegranate
Restore skin's beauty, working on the cellular level to transform its appearance, texture and luster. Pomegranate seed oil speeds skin cell turnover and slightly thickens and strengthens the skin by preserving collagen fibers and promotes the regeneration of cells in the epidermis and dermis.

Used in:

Retinol
Retinol is widely prescribed by doctors and dermatologists for the treatment of acne, darkened cells and hyperpigmentation, and signs of aging. Derived from Vitamin A, Retinol is an antioxidant vitamin that is part of the chemical family of retinoids. Because it is fat-soluble, it is able to absorb into fatty layers of skin to promote greater cell renewal and increases in collagen and elastin production.

Used in: Age Control

Rosemary
A fragrant herb native to the Mediterranean area. Prized for centuries in skin care for its antiseptic and invigorating qualities. Used in topical applications and brewed into teas to improve blood circulation and tone skin. Has antibacterial and soothing qualities, and has been used historically to treat everything from headaches and sore throat to eczema and dandruff.

Used in: Face Mask

Salicylic Acid (BHA)
Powerful ingredient prescribed by doctors and skincare professionals for treatment of acne, ingrown hairs, and dandruff. Also used to combat the effects of aging on the skin. Has penetrating, exfoliating, antibacterial and moisturizing properties. Helps prevent pore-clogging, refines skin texture and removes oily matter on skin's surface. Also known as a Beta Hydroxy Acid (BHA).

Used in:

Shea Butter
Extracted from the nut of the African Shea tree. Is an effective, time-honored emollient that moisturizes and rejuvenates the appearance of skin, as well as restores suppleness. Is known to soothe and help heal cracked and damaged skin, promote greater cell regeneration and assist in circulation. It is non-irritating and can be used on even the most sensitive areas of the face and body.

Used in:

Soy & Olive Extracts
Soybean extract contains vitamins A, E and K, and is a non-irritating, natural moisturizer. Olive Extract has superb antiseptic properties and battles the effects of dry and damaged skin. It contains Vitamin E and beneficial fatty acids that moisturize and hydrate skin.

Squalane (or Squalene)
First discovered in Japan. A highly effective moisturizer that is extremely compatible with human skin (due to the fact that human sebum is composed of 25% squalane, allowing it to be easily absorbed). Helps maintain the skin's natural softness and suppleness. Can be produced from natural plants (such as olives) or fish oils.

Used in: Night Cream

Sweet Almond Oil
Well known for its moisturizing and softening benefits, the proteins of the almond shell also leave the epidermis firmer and more elastic. Extracted from the nut is a rich almond oil, milk, and proteins which moisturizes, nourishes, smoothes and firms the skin.

Used in:

T – Z

Tea Tree Extract
Versatile botanical extract highly beneficial to the skin. Reduces congestion, itching and irritation, and leads to more effective healing. Has been a preferred medicinal ingredient by Australian aborigines for thousands of years. Credited with antiseptic, anti-fungal and anti-inflammatory properties. Also used in animal grooming and household cleaning. Has clean, sharp scent similar to eucalyptus or pine bark.

Used in:

Turmeric
Tturmeric has been hailed for its ability to cure acne, reduce hyperpigmentation, brighten the skin, and fight free radical damage. Turmeric can remove fine lines, blackheads and dark circles under the eyes and may be able to decrease the activity of melanocytes (pigment producing cells).

Used in: Age Control

Vitamin A (Retinyl Palmitate)
Helps to improve the skin's texture, elasticity, firmness and smoothness. Plays a role in regeneration of skin cells and in anti-aging treatments. Is a key supporter of the immune, respiratory and skin systems. Can be found naturally in meat and dairy products and vegetables such as carrots, spinach, squash and kale.

Used in:

Vitamin C
See Magnesium Ascorbyl Phosphate.

Vitamin E
Considered the most important topical antioxidant and an integral supporter of the immune system. Helps the skin retain moisture and reduces the appearance of fine lines and other signs of aging by combating the effects of free radicals within the body. Can be found in such foods as nuts, grains, beans, eggs and some fruits and vegetables.

Used in:

Vitamin K (Phytomenadione)
Naturally found in dark green, leafy vegetables and required for normal functioning of the body and skin. Works to improve the appearance of darkly-pigmented or rough skin areas. Used by dermatologists to help repair of skin and even tone.

Used in: Under Eye Renewal

Witch Hazel Extract
Taken from the leaves and trunk of the witch hazel plant. A highly effective natural ingredient used to treat, heal and soothe inflamed or irritated skin. It is an ideal substance renowned for its astringent and antiseptic qualities. Used in topical form and brewed as a tea to ease headaches, backaches, strained skin, burns, cuts and bruises.

Used in: Face Mask

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