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Terminology That's Good to Know
Abyssinica Seed Oil
Derived From: Flower source; natural; vegan*
Description: Abyssinica oil forms a protective membrane that helps prevent moisture loss, making it good for hand and hair creams. Helps promote natural luster and has emollient properties.
Actiplex Herbal Blend
Derived From: Unique blend of 7 natural herbal glycerite extracts; natural; vegan*
Description: Promotes healthy hair.
Algae Extract
Derived From: Plant source; natural; vegan*
Description: Used to moisturize the skin helping reduce the appearance of fine lines.
Allantoin
Derived From: Man made ingredients; nature identical; vegan*
Description: This water-soluble crystal is known for its ability to encourage skin healing and prevent skin irritation.
Almond Oil Sweet
Derived From: Pressed almonds; natural; vegan*
Description: This popular carrier oil is commonly used as a cosmetic ingredient for softening and moisturizing. It nourishes skin cells and improves elasticity.
Almond Flavor
Derived From: Hydrolysis of peach pits; natural; vegan*
Description: Used to add a natural fragrance to personal care formulations.
Aloe Vera
Derived From: Plant source; natural; vegan*
Description: Topically, Aloe has been shown to protect and hydrate the skin against premature aging, soothes and cools burns, and is also known to stimulate cellular regeneration.
Aminosoap
Derived From: L-lysine and coconut; naturally derived; vegan*
Description: Used as a surfactant and to enhance effectiveness.
Apricot Oil
Derived From: Fruit source; natural; vegan*
Description: More affordable than almond oil but used in the same way to soften skin.
Arnica
Derived From: Flower source; natural; vegan*
Description: Used for temporary relief from muscle soreness, bruises and stiffness.
Ascorbic Acid
Derived From: Synthesized; modified natural; vegan*
Description: Acts as an antioxidant and natural preservative.
Ascorbyl Palmitate Powder
Derived From: Synthesized; modified natural; vegan*
Description: An ester of ascorbic acid (vitamin C), which is used as an antioxidant and preservative in personal care products.
Avocado Oil
Derived From: Fruit source; natural; vegan*
Description: Contains collagen-supporting amino acids and protein as well as vitamins A, D and E. Helps increase epidermal elasticity while moisturizing and softening skin.
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Babassuamidopropyl Betaine (Makam BAB™)
Derived From: Babassu palm oil; modified natural; vegan*
Description: Its main functions are as an emulsifier and viscosity builder.
Benzyl Alcohol
Derived From: Man made ingredients; nature identical; vegan*
Description: Use as part of a preservative system to prevent microbial growth, commonly used in foods and personal care.
Behentrimonium Chloride (Incroquat Behenyl)
Derived From: Ben Oil; modified natural; vegan*
Description: Used as an “antistatic” in conditioners, to prevent hair from being frizzy.
Bergamot Essential Oil
Derived From: Cold-pressed from the peel of the plant's fruit; natural; vegan*
Description: Possesses a sweet, uplifting citrus aroma that has made it a favorite in many potpourri products: both stimulating and energizing in essence.
Berry Essence
Derived From: Plants, flowers, or bark; natural; vegan*
Description: A combination of 100% pure essential oils blended together, to scent personal care products.
Biotin
Derived From: Fermentation; natural; vegan*
Description: Building block of protein, used to strengthen hair and keep it healthy.
Boswellian Extract
Derived From: Plant source; natural; vegan*
Description: A soothing ingredient that can be used in ointments to ease transient pain.
Blank Anchored Liposomes
Derived From: Mixture of water and phospholipids; natural; vegan*
Description: Absorbs water soluble nutrients and vitamins, once applied to the skin and hair the nutrients are released.
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Caprylyic/Capric Triglyceride
Derived From: Coconut and Palm source; natural; vegan*
Description: Used as an emollient/emulsifier in personal care products, penetrates and has good spreading properties.
Capsaicin
Derived From: Plant source; natural; vegan*
Description: Helps to relieve temporary pain and provides soothing relief with a warming sensation.
Carrageenan Gum
Derived From: Irish moss or red algae; natural; vegan*
Description: Used as a natural stabilizer, binding agent and emulsifier. Food-grade carrageenan is different from and should not be confused with degraded carrageenan, which is a known carcinogen.
Carbomer 940
Derived From: Man made ingredients; synthetic; vegan*
Description: Used as a mild thickener to increase viscosity in personal care formulations. Natural alternatives typically do not provide its characteristics.
Carrot Seed Oil
Derived From: Vegetable source; natural; vegan*
Description: Contain powerful antioxidants to help prevent free radical damage and protect skin, rich in vitamin A.
Calendula Extract
Derived From: Flower source; natural; vegan*
Description: Used to soothe, soften and heal.
Cedarbark Extract (Hinokitiol™)
Derived From: Plant bark; natural; vegan*
Description: Used as part of our preservative systems to maintain stability and protect against microbial growth.
Celadrin®
Derived From: Animal source; modified natural
Description: Used topically in higher concentrations, this novel blend of cetylated fatty acid esters can help reduce the effects of aging, and also be beneficial in relieving joint discomfort. It can protect cell membranes from the damage caused by internal and external stresses. *Byproduct of the industry, the animal is not killed for the purpose of obtaining this ingredient.
Ceteareth-20
Derived From: Coconut or Palm oil; modified natural; vegan*
Description: Used as a cleansing agent/emollient in personal care applications from hair care to moisturizers.
Cetearyl Alcohol
Derived From: Coconut or palm oil; natural; vegan*
Description: A waxy substance used as a thickener, emollient and emulsifier in personal care applications.
Cetyl Palmitate
Derived From: Coconut or Palm oil; modified natural; vegan*
Description: Used in the manufacturing of lubricants and soaps.
Cetyl Ricinoleate
Derived From: Coconut/ Palm and Castor Bean Oil; modified natural; vegan*
Description: Has skin penetrating properties and is used an emulsion stabilizer and emollient.
Cinnamon Bark Oil
Derived From: Steam distilled from Cinnamon bark; natural; vegan*
Description: Cinnamon is also a favorite for its comforting and appealing aroma.
Chamomile Oil/Extract
Derived From: Steam distilled from plant flowering tops; natural; vegan*
Description: Tranquil, mellow aroma that has a calming effect.
Cinnamon Cassia Essential Oil
Derived From: Steam distilled from leaves, bark or twigs; natural; vegan*
Description: Warm, spicy aroma is popular in aromatherapy and is often a component of potpourri.
Citric Acid
Derived From: Fermentation; natural; vegan*
Description: Used as a preservative, foam inhibitor, sequestering agent and to balance pH levels in formulations.
Caprlylic/Capric Triglyceride
Derived From: Coconut; natural; vegan*
Description: An emollient that helps the product spread thoroughly, promotes pigment dispersion.
Cocamidopropyl Betaine
Derived From: Coconut; modified natural; vegan*
Description: Effective cleanser and surfactant
Cucumber Extract
Derived From: Vegetable source; natural; vegan*
Description: Commonly used to tone, purify, and moisturize the skin.
Collasol M (Soluble Collagen)
Derived From: Marine source; natural
Description: A major component of skin that gives it structure. In any form, collagen is a good water-binding agent and aids in anti-aging.
Coconut Powder
Derived From: Fruit source; natural; vegan*
Description: Helps to moisturize and soften, and provides a natural fragrance.
Chamomile Extract
Derived From: Plant source; natural; vegan*
Description: Known for its soothing and calming properties. Often used to help reduce redness and to calm skin that has been irritated.
Citronella Essential Oil
Derived From: Plant source; natural; vegan*
Description: Is an effective insect repellent, also antiseptic and stimulating.
Clintonia Borealis Extract
Derived From: Plant source; natural; vegan*
Description: Used to comfort and soothe the skin, and to reduce irritation.
Cocoa Butter
Derived From: Cocoa beans; natural; vegan*
Description: Used as an emollient and commonly used as a moisturizer.
Comfrey Leaf Extract
Derived From: Plant source; natural; vegan*
Description: Traditionally, a commonly used herb that acts as an astringent.
CoQ10
Derived From: Fermentation; natural; vegan*
Description: Antioxidant, anti-wrinkle and skin smoothing agent when used topically.
Cranberry Extract
Derived From: Fruit source; natural; vegan*
Description: Used to stimulate skin cellular regeneration, antioxidant, rich in Vitamin C, used for problem skin.
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D-Alpha Tocopheryl Acetate
Derived From: Vegetable fats; natural; vegan*
Description: A water soluble form of vitamin E used as an antioxidant.
De-Ionized Water
Derived From: Water treated with anionic/cationic resins that absorb the ions from water; natural; vegan*
Description: Purified water
Dong Quai Extract
Derived From: Plant source; natural; vegan*
Description: Used to help with skin problems and female balance.
Emulsifying Wax
Derived From: Coconut and Palm Oils; modified natural; vegan*
Description: Essential ingredient used in making creams in lotions; acts as the natural “glue” to hold the formulation together.
Eucalyptus Essential Oil
Derived From: Steam distilled Eucalyptus leaves; natural; vegan*
Description: Popular during cold and flu season when diffused. Used in cosmetic applications.
European Clay Powder
Derived From: Montmorillonite (a natural mineral silicate with iron and magnesium); natural; vegan*
Description: Highly absorbent and ideal for cleansing and drawing impurities from deep within the pores of the skin.
Erythritol Crystalline Powder
Derived From: Fermentation; natural; vegan*
Description: Used as a humectant and conditioning ingredient in moisturizing creams and lotions.
Evening Primrose Oil
Derived From: Pressed from seeds; natural; vegan*
Description: Acts as a moisturizer, conditions and helps soothe irritated skin.
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Fennel Essential Oil
Derived From: Steam distilled from seeds; natural; vegan*
Description: Used in mouthwash for oral care and sore throats. This oil makes a good liniment for applying to the chest, and is also used for skin health.
GABA
Derived From: Synthesized; nature- identical; vegan*
Description: Used to help relax muscles.
Geranium Essential Oil/Extract
Derived From: Steam distilled from the plant; natural; vegan*
Description: Used for its refreshing feature and is considered an anti-irritant.
Ginseng Extract
Derived From: Plant source; natural; vegan*
Description: Known as a ‘tonic’, it’s popular in skin care preparations. Has a revitalizing effect also helps increase skin elasticity.
Glucosamine
Derived From: Shellfish or fermentation sources; natural; vegan only if from fermentation*
Description: Acts as a stimulator of cartilage formation and joint health.
Glucose Oxidase & Lactoperoxidase (Biovert™)
Derived From: Natural enzymes with glucose and functional man made salts; modified natural;
Description: Two part preservation system used to stabilize personal care formulas as an antimicrobial-antioxidant protection system, trademark Biovert™.
Glycerin
Derived From: Animal source; natural
Description: Humectant absorbed by the hair follicle that softens and swells it, making the hair follicle water retentive. Also adds body, shine and moisture. Moisturizes and cleanses skin, has emollient and lubricating properties, and attracts moisture from surrounding sources.
Glycerine Vegetable
Derived From: Non-GMO palm oil; natural; vegan*
Description: Humectants absorbed by the hair follicle that softens and swells it, making it water retentive. Also adds body, shine and moisture. Moisturizes and cleanses skin, has emollient and lubricating properties, and attracts moisture from surrounding sources.
Glyceryl Stearate
Derived From: Palm Oil; natural; vegan*
Description: Used as an emulsifier to maintain stable formulations and is also considered a solvent and humectant and is used to provide consistency in formulations.
Grain Alcohol
Derived From: Grain; natural; vegan*
Description: Cosmetic grade ethanol, used as a solvent, emulsifier and antiseptic.
Grapefruit Seed Extract (Citrus Seed Extract/Citricidal™)
Derived From: Fruit source; modified natural; vegan*
Description: Used as a preservative and has cleansing properties.
Grape Seed Oil
Derived From: Fruit source; natural; vegan*
Description: A powerful antioxidant that protects skin’s collagen, elastin and hyaluronic acid. Penetrates into the skin easily and is rich in flavonoids.
Green Tea Extract
Derived From: Plant source; natural; vegan*
Description: An antioxidant that helps to improve the anti-aging process and helps protect against free radical damage.
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Horsetail Extract
Derived From: Plant source; natural; vegan*
Description: Contains amino acids, phytosterols and silica which help to strengthen and condition hair. Reduces buildup of oils in the hair and scalp.
Hydrated Silica
Derived From: Sand; modified natural; vegan*
Description: Removes unwanted tissue or foreign materials from various body surfaces, commonly used in toothpaste.
Hydrolphaline Asia
Derived From: Bamboo, lotus and water lily plants; natural; vegan*
Description: Used as a moisturizer and promotes cellular regeneration.
Hydroxyethl Cellulose (Natrosol 250)
Derived From: Cellulose; modified natural; vegan*
Description: Used as a binder; emulsion stabilizer, film former, and increases viscosity in formulations.
Hydroxylated Soy Lecithin
Derived From: Soy Lecithin; natural; vegan*
Description: Used in skin products as an emulsifier.
IGF-1 (Insulin-Like Growth Factor 1)
Derived From: Deer antler velvet, cold process extracted; natural
Description: Helps support athletic performance and general health.
Jojoba Oil
Derived From: Jojoba seeds; natural; vegan*
Description: Similar to human sebum, this oil penetrates skin effectively and is used as a carrier oil and in personal care formulations as a skin moisturizer and for cell renewal.
Keratec IFP PE
Derived From: Sheep wool; natural
Description: Provides a protective coating on the hair to protect it from environmental stressors. Strengthens hair from the root to the tip, and adds a silky feel.
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Lanablue™
Derived From: Algae source; natural; vegan*
Description: Used for smoothing and thickening the epidermis.
Liquid Lanolin
Derived From: Sheep wool; natural
Description: Used as an emollient and emulsifier in personal care formulations.
Lauryl Glucoside
Derived From: Coconut & sugar source; natural; vegan*
Description: A surfactant, used as a cleansing agent in personal care.
Lavender Essential Oil
Derived From: Steam distilled from the flower; natural; vegan*
Description: Helps calm and renew the skin and has excellent moisturizing properties.
L-Carnosine
Derived From: Man made ingredients; nature-identical; vegan*
Description: Increases the amount of oxygen available to fat cells.
L-Arginine
Derived From: Fermentation; natural; vegan*
Description: Amino acid that is used to promote hair growth and strengthen follicles.
L-Cysteine
Derived From: Whey or Chicken Feathers; natural
Description: Amino acid that promotes hair growth and helps restore damaged hair.
Lecithin (Deoiled)
Derived From: Soybeans; natural; vegan*
Description: Used as an emulsifier, spreading agent and attracts moisture to the skin.
Lecithin Liquid
Derived From: Soybeans; natural; vegan*
Description: Contains high amounts of phospholipids which are extremely important for cellular health. Moisturizing and a natural emulsifier.
Lemon Flavor
Derived From: Fruit source; natural; vegan*
Description: Used for its refreshing and cleansing properties.
Lemongrass Essential Oil
Derived From: Steam distilled from the plant; natural; vegan*
Description: Has refreshing and toning properties, is also antiseptic and helps soothe muscle aches.
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M
MSM
Derived From: From wood pulp; modified natural; vegan*
Description: A form of sulfur necessary for the production of collagen and keratin protein. Helps maintain good elastin levels in the skin. Aids in repairing body tissues and damaged skin.
Mango Butter
Derived From: Fruit source; natural; vegan*
Description: Acts as a lubricant for the skin, promotes cell rejuvenation with effective moisturizing properties similar to cocoa butter.
Marigold Extract
Derived From: Calendula flower; natural; vegan*
Description: Increases blood flow to the specific area to aid in collagen production.
Meadowfoam Seed Oil
Derived From: Plant source; natural; vegan*
Description: Similar to grape seed oil, it lubricates well, and has high stability due to over 98% long chain fatty acids.
Menthol
Derived From: Peppermint; natural; vegan*
Description: Found in many sport products, used to provide temporary relief for muscle pain and tension.
Methyl Salicylate
Derived From: Plant source; natural; vegan*
Description: A form of wintergreen used to aid in joint support formulations.
Montanov 68/Cetearyl Glucoside
Derived From: Fruit and coconut oil; modified natural; vegan*
Description: Known as cetearyl alcohol & cetearyl glucoside. Used as an emulsifier in personal care formulations.
Multifruit Extract
Derived From: Blend of botanical derived alpha hydroxy acids; natural; vegan*
Description: Used to promote healthy skin and scalp.
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Natural Vanilla
Derived From: From vanilla beans; natural; vegan*
Description: Provides natural fragrance (and flavor) to personal care products.
Neem Oil
Derived From: Cold pressed from plant seeds; natural; vegan*
Description: Used for skin problems by itself or in personal care formulations, similar in its properties to tea tree oil.
Nettle Extract
Derived From: Plant source; natural; vegan*
Description: Used as an astringent. Also tones and purifies hair.
Niacinamide (Vitamin B3)
Derived From: Fermentation of man made ingredients; nature identical; vegan*
Description: Enhances blood circulation in the scalp. Stimulates the metabolism of hair follicles when applied topically.
Nutmeg Essential Oil
Derived From: Steam distilled from seeds; natural; vegan*
Description: Used for its spicy aroma, warms the body and stimulates the mind.
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Octyl Palmitate (Ethylhexyl Palmitate)
Derived From: Palm oil; modified natural; vegan*
Description: Commonly used as an emollient and humectant.
Olive Oil Extra Virgin
Derived From: Olives; natural; vegan*
Description: A powerful antioxidant that is used as a carrier oil with excellent lubricating properties.
Organic Green Tea Extract
Derived From: Plant source; natural; vegan*
Description: An antioxidant that helps improve the anti-aging process and helps fight free radical damage.
Organic Lavender Essential Oil
Derived From: Steam distilled from the flower; natural; vegan*
Description: Helps calm and renew the skin and has excellent moisturizing properties.
Organic Natural Cocoa Butter
Derived From: From cocoa beans; natural; vegan*
Description: Used as an emollient and commonly used as a moisturizer.
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Palmarosa Essential Oil
Derived From: Steam distilled from fresh or dried grass; natural; vegan*
Description: Has a rosy aroma, mixes well with other oils and is revitalizing.
Papain
Derived From: Papaya fruit and leaves; natural; vegan*
Description: Used for digestive function and acts as a natural whitener in toothpastes.
Panthenol
Derived From: Multiple sources; nature identical
Description: Used as a penetrating moisturizer, part of a water soluble Vitamin B complex (B5)
Patchouli Essential Oil
Derived From: Steam distilled from non-flower leaves; natural; vegan*
Description: Rich earthy aroma that has odor fighting properties.
Peppermint Essential Oil
Derived From: Steam distilled from flowering herb; natural; vegan*
Description: Used to flavor or for fragrance. Has a refreshing, cooling effect.
Phenoxyethanol
Derived From: Man made ingredients; nature identical; vegan*
Description: Water soluble compound commonly used as a preservative in personal care formulations to help maintain shelf stability.
Pine Needle Essential Oil
Derived From: Steam distilled from needles, twigs, and buds; natural; vegan*
Description: Has fresh lively scent.
Phospholipids
Derived From: Soy beans; natural; vegan*
Description: Reduces moisture loss in skin and acts as a carrier in personal care formulations to penetrate deeply.
Plantaren Lauryl Glucoside
Derived From: Coconut oil and sugar; natural; vegan*
Description: Used as a surfactant and cleansing agent.
Pomegranate Extract
Derived From: Fruit source; natural; vegan*
Description: Used for its skin softening properties and as an exfoliant.
Potassium Sorbate
Derived From: Man made ingredients; nature identical; vegan*
Description: Used as a replacement for parabens to inhibit mold and bacteria growth.
Propylene Glycol
Derived From: Man made ingredients; synthetic; vegan*
Description: Used as a base in deodorant sticks. May be associated with skin rashes.
*We are reformulating our deodorant stick so it will not contain this ingredient.
Progesterone
Derived From: Wild Yam; modified natural; vegan*
Description: Belongs to a class of hormones called progestogens, and is the major naturally occurring human progestogen. Used in creams specifically designed for women as a natural hormone replacement. Progesterone should not be confused with progestins, which are synthetically produced progestogens.
Pycnogenol®
Derived From: Bark of maritime pine tree; natural; vegan*
Description: Used as a natural, nutrient rich emollient and powerful antioxidant.
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Red Clay
Derived From: Mineral silicate with iron and potassium; natural; vegan*
Description: Used for those with sensitive skin as a mask or to cleanse the face.
Retinyl Palmitate
Derived From: Palm Oil; modified natural; vegan*
Description: Cosmetic formulations containing retinyl palmitate are substantially more stable than those containing retinol. Furthermore, it readily penetrates into the epidermis and dermis and acts as a skin cell regulator.
Rhodiola rosea
Derived From: Plant source; natural; vegan*
Description: Being able to survive in harsh conditions, it’s known for "adaptogenic thermal stress protection” and provides protective powers to the skin.
Rose Hip Seed Oil
Derived From: Extracts of rose; natural; vegan*
Description: High in essential fatty acids. Used to rejuvenate the skin in many personal care applications.
Rosemary Essential Oil
Derived From: Steam distilled from the plant; natural; vegan*
Description: Used to stimulate scalp circulation, purifies and rejuvenates.
Rosemary Extract
Derived From: Plant source; natural; vegan*
Description: Toner, purifier, stimulating and astringent, is also beneficial to both hair and skin. Rich in natural minerals, it brightens and adds high gloss to the hair.
Rosewood/Green Tea Essence
Derived From: Plants, flowers, or bark; natural; vegan*
Description: A combination of 100% pure essential oils blended together, used to scent personal care products.
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Safflower Oil
Derived From: Seeds; natural; vegan*
Description: Rich in oleic acid, it moisturizes and softens. It won't clog pores (noncomedogenic), nourishes and firms.
Sarsaparilla Extract
Derived From: Plant source; natural; vegan*
Description: Used to help reduce the appearance of problem skin.
Satsuma Orange/Grapefruit Essence
Derived From: Plants, flowers, or bark; natural; vegan*
Description: A combination of 100% pure essential oils blended together, to scent personal care products.
Saw Palmetto Extract
Derived From: Whole berries and virgin olive oil; natural; vegan*
Description: Provides nutrients for penetration into deeper body areas. When applied topically it targets more efficient treatment for particular body areas and organs.
Sea Kelp
Derived From: Plant source; natural; vegan*
Description: Soothing and moisturizing, helps restore damaged hair.
Sea Salt
Derived From: Sea water; natural; vegan*
Description: Used in personal care for skin exfoliation and to promote circulation.
Sepilift™
Derived From: Plant source; natural source
Description: A French botanical, helps rebuild collagen in skin, resulting in reduction of wrinkles and fine lines and smoother, younger-looking skin.
Shea Butter
Derived From: Karite nut tree; natural; vegan*
Description: Moisturizing, soothing emollient fat with cell renewal properties.
Sodium Bicarbonate (Baking Soda)
Derived From: Man made ingredients: nature identical: vegan*
Description: Also known as baking soda, non-irritating, raises pH, cleanses and absorbs odor.
Sodium Hyaluronate (Hyaluronic Acid)
Derived From: Fermented of sugar beets & soy; natural; vegan*
Description: Regulates skin hydration level, moisturizes and provides a layer of protection to the skin.
Sodium Hydroxymethylglycinate
Derived From: Glycine; modified natural; vegan*
Description: Used as a preservative to prevent bacteria, mold and yeast growth. Safer alternative to SLS.
Sodium Olefin Sulfonate
Derived From: Man made ingredients: synthetic; vegan*
Description: MILD SAFE ALTERNATIVE TO SLS, Used as a cleansing and foaming agent in hair care products.
Sodium Stearate
Derived From: Palm kernel oil; modified natural; vegan*
Description: Used as a surfactant and an emulsifier in personal care applications.
Solubilisant Gamma
Derived From: Man made ingredients; synthetic
Description: Used as an emulsifier and solubilizer, helps solubilize oils in water preparations.
Sorbic Acid
Derived From: Synthesized; nature identical; vegan*
Description: Prevents yeast growth in formulations, antimicrobial and acts as a humectant.
Sorbitol
Derived From: Corn; modified natural; vegan*
Description: Used to give products a smooth feel and acts as a humectant.
Soy Lecithin
Derived From: Soy beans; natural; vegan*
Description: Excellent source of protein and helps revitalize skin and hair. High in vitamin B.
Spearmint Essential Oil
Derived From: Steam distilled from plant; natural; vegan*
Description: Used commonly to flavor products, invigorating, clean and energizing.
Squalene
Derived From: Olives; natural; vegan*
Description: Used as a moisturizer to keep skin soft and protect against harsh factors in the environment.
Stay C 50 (Sodium Ascorbyl Phosphate)
Derived From: Fermentation; modified natural; vegan*
Description: Form of vitamin C used in personal care.
Stearic Acid
Derived From: Plant source; natural; vegan*
Description: Gives cream and hair care products a “pearl” shine, softens and is useful as an emulsifier.
Sunflower Seed Oil
Derived From: Plant Seed; natural; vegan*
Description: Base oil used as an emollient, useful with higher quality oils such as olive, cocoa butter, shea butter, coconut, & jojoba oils.
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Teteahexyldecyl Ascorbate (BV-OSC)
Derived From: Fermentation; modified natural; vegan*
Description: A very stable, oil-soluble Vitamin C ester which has anti-oxidant activity, inhibiting lipid peroxidation. Topical use can mitigate the damaging effects of UV exposure. Studies have shown it to stimulate collagen production and promote a more even skin tone.
Tea Tree Essential Oil
Derived From: Steam distilled from leaves and twigs; natural; vegan*
Description: Has antiseptic properties and is commonly used for skin problems.
Thyme Essential Oil
Derived From: Steam distilled from dried leaves or flowering tops; natural; vegan*
Description: Herbaceous scented oil used medicinally.
TEA (Triethanolamine)
Derived From: Man made ingredients; synthetic; vegan*
Description: Used as a pH balancer in personal care applications and emulsifier.
Vitamin A (Retinyl Palmitate)
Derived From: Palm Oil; modified natural; vegan*
Description: Helps revitalize the skin, smoothes fine lines and protects against dryness, heat and pollution. Also used as a preservative.
Vitamin D (Ergocalciferol)
Derived From: Sheep’s wool; modified natural; vegan*
Description: Penetrates easily into the skin, helps improve skin texture and firmness with repeated use over time.
Vitamin E
Derived From: Vegetable source; natural; vegan*
Description: Excellent anti-oxidant and free-radical scavenger, well absorbed through the skin, and helps prevent moisture loss.
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Witch Hazel
Derived From: Plant source; natural; vegan*
Description: Used as an alternative to alcohol. An astringent that soothes.
Wheat Germ Oil
Derived From: Heart of the (germ) of the wheat; natural; vegan*
Description: Rich in vitamin E, this emollient oil is a free radical scavenger.
Wheat Protein
Derived From: Wheat germ; natural; vegan*
Description: Moisturizing, smoothing and firming properties. Makes hair shiny and increases hair sheen.
Wild Yam Root
Derived From: Plant Root; natural; vegan*
Description: Aids as temporary relief, used in products for women.
Wintergreen Essential Oil
Derived From: Steam distilled from mint leaves; natural; vegan*
Description: Commonly used for flavor, also added to carrier oil and used as a muscle rub.
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Xangold Oil™
Derived From: Marigold flowers; natural; vegan*
Description: Antioxidant used to aid in protecting skin tissue.
Xanthan Gum
Derived From: Fermented sugars & carbohydrates; natural; vegan*
Description: Used as a thickener in personal care formulations. Soothes.
Xylitol Powder
Derived From: Vegetable source; modified natural; vegan*
Description: Used in NOW® toothpaste formulas, to naturally sweeten and help whiten the teeth. Does not encourage bacterial growth in the mouth like other sweeteners.
Zinc Oxide
Derived From: Man made ingredients; nature identical; vegan*
Description: Used as an alternative to chemical sunscreen material. Used in deodorants, as an astringent, and used to treat skin problems.
* Vegan: in the context of personal care ingredients we consider vegan to mean non-animal sourced.
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Terminology that’s good to know;
Acid - reacts with a base alkali to form water and salt.
Antiseptic - inhibits the growth of microorganisms.
Antioxidant - a substance thought to protect body cells from the damaging effects of oxidation.
Astringent - draws skin and other tissues together, helps tighten pores and removes excess oil from the skin.
Base - alkaline; reacts with an acid to form water and salt.
Emollient - skin softener
Emulsifier - substance that keeps two or more components of a product from separating.
Essential Oils – use an aromatherapy book for a full list of applications and uses.
Esterification – use of desired acids or esters with alcohols to make new esters with desired characteristics.
Exfoliant - removes dead skin cells.
Extraction – use of water, ethyl alcohol or other necessary solvents, to remove desired ingredients from mixtures.
Fermentation – use of a yeast, mold, bacteria or enzymes to produce a desired ingredient.
Humectant - substance that promotes moisture retention.
Hydrolysis – use of water with either enzymes or chemical agents to break down a complex ingredient.
Hydroxylation – process by which an atom of hydrogen and an atom of oxygen are introduced into a compound in order to make that compound soluble.
Hypoallergenic - having a decreased possibility of causing an allergic reaction.
Modified Natural – a natural ingredient that is changed into a desired ingredient by using non-natural chemical ingredients.
Natural – a compound that occurs naturally, or is extracted from a natural source using physical means (eg. Distillation or filtration) or is derived from the natural source using a natural process such as saponification. Not made from petroleum sources.
Nature-identical – a compound found in nature; but the commercial, identical form is synthetically produced. There is no chemical or structural difference between the natural form and the synthetic form.
Noncomedogenic - does not clog pores or contribute to the formation of acne.
pH - the measure of the acidity or alkalinity(base) of a solution. The lower a pH the more acidic it is; pH ranges from 0-14. In order to balance the pH level of skin it needs to be 5.5-6.0 pH. It needs to be balanced in order for the skin to benefit from a product without being irritated.
Preservative – an ingredient used to prevent the growth of bacteria, mold, or yeast. Adding these ingredients gives personal care products a longer shelf life. Since personal care products tend to be exposed to contamination on a regular basis, especially natural formulations, these are necessary components to personal care formulations. Natural preservatives are not always potent enough by themselves to maintain a long shelf life, so when they need extra help, the mild synthetics we sometimes use help to keep the product fresh for a reasonable period of time.
Solvent - something used to dissolve or extract another substance.
Surfactant - used to change the chemical properties of something allowing it to better mix or react with something else (i.e. cleansers, wetting agents, emulsifiers, conditioning agents). Cleansers contain surfactants, in order to dissolve and remove dirt.
Synthesized – man made ingredients that can still be considered natural.
Toner - used to cleanse, refresh, tighten skin and minimize pores.
Topical or topically - to apply something topically means to apply it to a local area of the skin.
Vegan – The NOW® definition of vegan for personal care use is what we consider to be a non-animal sourced ingredient.
*ALL 100% Pure Essential Oils should be used with caution and be properly diluted before applying to skin. Consult a professional source before using them as individual ingredients.
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