Essential Oils

Essential Oils have been used for centuries and offer safe and deep revitalisation to all skin layers. Essential oils are the natural plant essences made up of small molecules that can penetrate the surface layer of the skin to revitalise the lower layers where they can positively effect collagen and elastin, the skin’s building blocks. Unlike nanoparticle technology, the latest buzz application in skin care, essential oils do not carry the potential risk of nanotechnology. They have been proven to be rejuvenating, anti inflammatory, increase cell metabolism, are anti bacterial, calming, soothing and cleansing. Essential oils are very powerful as they are concentrated essences of the plants, rich in vital energy and nutrients.

Cistus/ Labdanum

Cistus ladaniferus is antiseptic to wounds, acne and dermatitis. It is specific for sun damaged and mature skin.

Clary sage

Salvia sclarea balances sebum for oily to dry skin, it purifies, energizes and refreshes the skin. It is soothing, helps to address hormonal imbalance. It revitalises and conditions mature skin.

Cypress

Cupressus sempervirens treats poor circulation,allergic reactions and skin injuries, favoured oil to reduce cellulite.

Chamomile, German

Matricaria recutita is excellent for all skin types, it revitalises appearance of the skin. It is perfect for dehydrated skin as it helps to moisten, lubricate and makes skin feel softer. It moisturises ageing skin and smooths wrinkles. German chamomile has anti inflammatory properties,
it is calming and soothing, it reduces irritation caused by the elements, protectsskin from harsh weather conditions so is excellent in sensitive skin preparations.

Frankincense – Boswellia carteri
Excellent to help dry, sensitive, mature, couperose and sun damaged skin. Regenerative cell properties help to heal wounds and prevent scars.
It strengthens and diminishes the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.

Geranium

Pelargonium graveolens reduces inflammation and enhances skin repair. Cleans and purifies all skin types. Removes oil and stimulates skin. Revitalises dull complexions. Forms and promotes elasticity. Soothes and tones the skin. It balances all skin types including couperose and mature skin and delays wrinkles.

Grapefruit white

Citrus paradisi cleans skin, refreshes and removes oil. Cleanses acne-prone skin. Restores skin vitality. Tonic, astringent, stimulant.

Immortelle

Helichrysum angustifolium stimulates production of new cells so it is beneficial in treatment for scar tissue, burns, couperose, mature and sun damaged skin. It also protects skin from ultraviolet ray damage. It is valuable in treating pre cancerous skin conditions.

Jasmine

Jasminum grandiflorum refreshes skin. Moistens skin dried by the elements. Diminishes the appearance of wrinkles. Soothes irritation and itchiness of dry skin. Brightens the complexion. It is recommended for dry, sensitive and mature skin.

Lavender

Lavendula angustifolia cleanses and purifies all skin types. A cell regenerator that helps prevent scaring and stretch marks, it has reputation for diminishing wrinkles. It is used on sun damaged skin and there is no better remedy for burns than lavender. Because of its anti infectious properties, it is used for skin infections and anything that is swollen. Protects dry skin from the elements. Lubricates, softens, refreshes and revitalises appearance and helps to prevent premature ageing.

Lemon

Citrus limon refreshes skin. Cleanses acne-prone skin. Removes oil and helps purify the skin. Refreshes, firms and smooths skin. Tonic, astringent. Brightens the complexion. Slows down the signs of ageing and helps the skin look radiant.

Mandarin

Citrus reticulata cleanses acne-prone skin. Removes oil and refreshes skin. Firms top layer of skin and makes the skin feel fresher and smoother. Tonic, stimulant, tightening.

Neroli

Citrus aurantium revitalises appearance of healthy skin. Smoothes skin and promotes elasticity. Helps make the skin less sensitive and soothes. Moisturises and energises the skin to improve complexion. Neroli helps to repair scars and reduces the signs of ageing due to its cell regenerative properties.

Orange sweet

Citrus sinensis cleanses acne-prone skin. Helps prevent the signs of ageing. Makes skin feel fresher. Soothes the irritation of dry skin. Invigorates and revitalises tired, dull complexions.

Patchouli

Pogostemon patchouli as a cell regenerator and antiseptic, patchouli is a treatment for acne, eczema, inflamed, cracked, sensitive and mature skin. Refreshes, purifies and cleanses skin. Makes the skin feel fresher and softer. Smoothes, nourishes and protects skin. Emollient, tonic, stimulant. Improves skin vitality.

Peppermint

Mentha piperita refreshes the skin. Helps to soothe irritation or itchiness of the skin due to dry skin. Cleanses the skin. Cools the skin and makes the skin feel fresher.

Rose

Rosa damascena and Rosa centifolia a cell rejuvenator, rose is appropriate for all complexion types, including sun damaged and couperose skin. Reduces the signs of ageing. Makes skin smoother, moistened, feel and look more youthful. Rose is an excellent emollient and soothes
and relieves skin irritation. Rose is softening and hydrating, promotes regeneration of cells, revitalises the skin’s appearance and prevents
lines and wrinkles.

Rosemary

Rosemarinus officinalis tonic, purifies and cleanses all skin types. Revitalises the appearance of the skin. Rosemary helps sluggish, under active skin and is used on dry, mature and couperose skin .Researches found that rosemary is a beneficial antioxidant in creams to minimise free radical damage and protect the skin from cellular damage.

Rosewood

Aniba rosaeodora regarded as cell stimulant and tissue regenerator it is ideal for treatment of ageing skin. Ideal for dry,
sensitive and inflamed skin.

Sandalwood
Santalum album is suitable for all skin types, especially inflamed and mature skin. Revitalises appearance of skin, moisturises ageing skin and diminishes the appearance of wrinkles. Sandalwood soothes and relieves itching and the irritation of dry skin, nourishes and softens.

Tea Tree

Melaleuca alternifolia refreshes, revitalises tired, dull complexions. Purifies and leaves the skin feeling cleansed. Researches found that it protect skin from radiation burns during cancer therapy.

Tuberose

Polianthes tuberosa mistress of the night is one of most expensive flower oil with sensual and aphrodisiac fragrance.

Ylang Ylang

Cananga Odorota is a tonic that balances all skin types, most often recommended to correct dry skin. It moistens skin dried by the elements. It is softening and nourishing. Helps revitalise appearance of healthy skin.

 

Carrier Oils

Oils are composed of fatty acids. Fatty acids also provide therapeutic benefits that include cancer fighting capability of oleic acid. The most beneficial fatty acids for skin heath are polyunsaturated essential fatty acids, omega-6 and omega-3. Essential fatty acids are vital for many functions of the body in addition to strength and structure of cells. Topical application of oils containing essential fatty acids has been shown to benefit the skin. The ability of essential fatty acids and essential oils to carry other compounds into the epidermis and bloodstream is evident in their use as a carrier for pharmaceutical patches. Polyunsaturated oil high in omega -3 and omega-6 fatty acids protect and benefit skin. Polyunsaturated fats may provide an excellent topic remedy for compromised lipid barrier function of the skin. Carrier oil containing omega-6, omega-3 and monounsaturated omega-9 (oleic acid) are extremely beneficial for repairing the lipid barrier function and help regenerate the skin’s natural lipid barrier. Many seed, fruit and nut oils are excellent therapeutic choices when used in combination with essential oils.

Almond sweet

Prunis amygdalus dulcis is moisturising, softening, fast penetrating, rich in essential fatty acids, oleic acid, alpha -linoeic acid and vitamins A and E. It relieves itching, dryness and burns.

Apricot kernel

Prunus armeniaca is emollient, moisturizing, high in essential fatty acids, nourishing. It has nice silky texture which is easily absorbed.

Avocado virgin

Persea gratissima is restorative oil because of high vitamin content, high in mono and polyunsaturated fatty acids content and other skin nourishing compounds.
Moisturising, emollient, superior skin penetration, rich in vitamins A,C,D,E and proteins. Revitalises the appearance of the skin, it is softening and protective. Well suited to dry skin conditions.

Camellia

Camellia oleifera is rich in vitamins A,B,E and other minerals. Moisturising. Promotes elasticity of the skin and prevents the appearance of ageing.

Evening primrose

Oenothera biennis is moisturising, rejuvenating, very rich in omiga-6 (linoleic) and omega-3 (linolenic) fatty acids beneficial for dry ageing skin also to address problems with hormonal imbalances. Revitalizes the skins appearance. Softens lines, smooths.

Jojoba virgin – Simmondsia chinensis
Actually a wax it is similar to natural sebum of the skin. Contains nutrients ideal for dry ageing skin. Emollient, moisturising, fast penetrating, high in vitamins. Provides skin protection, keeping it supple and helps to restore the skins regular pH level. Soothes the irritation of dry skin.

Macadamia virgin

Macadamia ternifolia has a high concentration of oleic, palmitoleic and palmitic acids and is very similar to sebum, our skin’s natural oil. Emollient, moisturising for ageing skin, absorbs well, soothes the irritation of dry skin, provides lubrication.

Olive Squalane

Human sebum is 25 percent squalane, so it is thought to absorb particularly well into the skin. It protect skin and leaves it feeling smooth and silky.

Rose hip

Rosa canina is high in omega-6 fatty acids and vitamin C, it is extremely beneficial for skin maintenance and for repairing damaged skin. Rose hip is the very best for regenerative skin care and reduces wrinkles, stretch marks, scars and sun damage. It helps with hormonal imbalances and slows ageing process when used daily. It helps prevent signs of ageing and gives skin a healthy glow.

Sea Buckthorn

Hippophae rgamnoides – the seeds from edible berries are a potent antioxidant that reduces redness, promotes skin repair. It is the most beneficial oil for ageing skin. It is a source of herbal medicine with vitamins and nutrients used in anti ageing and medicinal skin care products. It is used to promote health of the skin. Due to the high content of nutrients essential for the metabolism of skin cells, sea buckthorn oils is applied to combat wrinkles, dryness and other symptoms of premature ageing. The oil has antioxidants and essential fatty acids that may help reverse damaging effects of sun radiation, block UV ray damage, promote the skin’s natural restorative process, reduce inflammation and minimise long term effects of sun exposure such as pigmentation spots, wrinkles and dryness.

Wheatgerm virgin

Triticum vulgare is high in vitamin B, and because it contains the antioxidant vitamin A and E it promotes skin elasticity and helps with inflamed skin. It softens and smoothes the skin improving appearance of the complexion.

 

Infused oils

Calendula

Calendula officinalis flowers are used to make infused oil, which is very healing and soothing to the skin. Calendula is specifically recommended for treatment of burns and is also antimicrobial, making it suitable for the treatment of many types of skin infections. It can be use to soothe rashes and inflamed skin and for wound healing to reduce scarring.

Carrot oil

Daucus carota roots are used in making of this oil. It is rich in beta-carotene (vitamin A) and is used to rejuvenate dry and mature skin.

Hypericum oil

Hypericum perforatum oil is excellent for treatment of inflamed, irritated skin conditions, for burns and bruises and for wound healing. Oil is high in healing constituent hypericin and beneficial for use on a damaged complexion or on injured skin.

 

Anti-oxidants

Antioxidants are body’s defense against free radical damage and are used to prevent free radical damage. Free radicals have been associated with disease and ageing so by using a cream with high concentration of antioxidants you can maintain healthy skin. Valid studies on antioxidants such as beta-carotene and vitamin E document their effectiveness when used topically. Studies show these compounds prevent excessive ageing of the skin and sun damage. Vitamins A,C and E provide antioxidant protection. Other supplements valued for antioxidant properties are, co-enzyme Q10 and proanthocyanidins which are compounds found in many foods, such as blueberries, pomegranates and green tea. Their action helps to prevent cancer. Studies has shown that they increase longevity and provide anti ageing capabilities. Topical use in cosmetics is supplied by ingredients such as grape skin, cocoa and green tea and many fruits. Cocoa butter is an excellent skin conditioner and softener with antioxidant properties.
Incorporating nutrients into formula for topic use may increase the therapeutic activity of formulas. It is difficult or impossible to extract some of these substances from a natural source so they are developed in lab and are synthetic ingredients. They are not natural and it is like adding vitamins to you diet. In our high stress and environmentally toxic culture it is necessary to support a healthy diet and natural skin care with stronger emphasis on antioxidants and anti inflammatory nutrients.

Vitamin A palmitate – (carotenes, Retinyl, Retinol, Retin-A, Retinyl palmitate

Products containing vitamin A are well known for their anti oxidant properties and support of skin cell regeneration. Retin -A has minor side effects that include peeling, redness and sun sensitivity. Vitamin A penetrates into the skin, reducing appearance of age lines, promotes elasticity. Using carotenoids such as beta-carotene and naturally occurring plant oils such as carrot and sea buckthorn is more holistic and natural method of supplying vitamin A to the skin.Caretenids are precursors to vitamin A and can be applied without any side effects while Retinol may be necessary to treat severe skin conditions.

Pro vitamin B5 - D-panthenol

Deep penetrating moisturizer, soothes irritated dry skin. When applied to skin it helps to aid tissue repair. It holds water or attracts water from the environment resulting in penetrating moisturising effect. Vitamin C - Ascorbic Acid and Ascorbyl Palmitate
Ascorbic acid is not very stable and breaks down very quickly and it will have very little activity by the time it is used on the skin. It is water soluble and has a potential to irritate skin. Fat soluble form was developed to stabilize the vitamin and make it soluble in the skin. Ascorbyl palmitate is vitamin C ester formed by combining L-ascorbic acid with the fatty acids of palm oil. The skin derives antioxidant protection through the use of ascorbyl palmitate. It also promotes the development of healthy collagen. Helps prevent signs of ageing and age lines. Smoothes wrinkles. Protects against drying effects of the sun.
Main benefits are: protects against free radical damage, reduces inflammation and promotes healthy collagen and elastin.

Vitamin E – d-alpha tocopheryl - acetate Non-GMO

Helps prevent and slow signs of ageing. Smoothes wrinkles. Vitamin E penetrates skin quickly and provides superior protection against UV light, induced oxidative stress and damage of skin cells. Main Benefits are: protects against free radical damage, reduces inflammation, provides UV protection and promotes wound healing. It has been clinically proven to improve skin’s moisture content. It has protecting, smoothing and healing properties. It reduces the effects of free radicals formed from sun damage.

Coenzyme Q10

Q10 is made naturally in the body and supports energy production. It acts as antioxidant and anti inflammatory and has the ability to stimulate immune system.Q10 is cancer preventative, it is suggested for use as a supplement to prevent age related damage. It is thought to repair sun damaged skin, energise new cell growth and posses firming properties.

Rosemary leaf extract is derived from natural anti-oxidants present in rosemary.

Exotic Butters

Cocoa butter

Theobrama cacoa is obtained from cocoa seed it is excellent emollient, which gives long lasting protection, it is high in vitamin E and it softens and lubricates. Cocoa butter Cocoa butter is an excellent skin conditioner and softener with antioxidant properties.

Shae nut butter

Butyrospermum parkii is obtained from shae nut kernel. It protect skin from harsh weather conditions, improves its suppleness and elasticity and promotes healing.

 

Herbal Extracts

Herbal medicine combines well with aromatherapy and herbs work synergistically with essential oils to actively help heal the skin. Plant extracts contain vitamins, minerals, anti oxidants and trace elements that help to keep skin healthy.

Aloe Vera
Has been used for centuries to heal wounds, skin abrasions, burns, sun burn and cuts. Aloe vera effectively penetrates the skin, supplying moisture directly to the tissue. It soothes irritated skin and reduces inflammation, ideal for sensitive skin treatment.

Bearberry

Arctostaphylos uva ursi brightens complexion.

Billberry

Vaccinium myrtillus is anti-couperose, vessel protective, purifies and cleanses all skin types, soothes the irritation of dry skin.

Calendula

Calendula officinalis purifies and cleansers all skin types, protective, refreshing.

Chamomile

Chamomila recutita is refreshing, purifying, soothes the irritation of dry skin.

Comfrey

Symphytum officinale has amazing wound healing properties and is very beneficial to skin’s health. It prevents scarring, increases cell regeneration and in so doing promotes wound healing.

Cucumber

Cucumis sativus is a skin refresher and a natural astringent which helps to close pores. It is moisture binding, tightening and softening. It is great home treatment for puffy eyes. Try wiping your skin with slice of cucumber on a hot day and see how refreshing it can be.

Ginseng

Panax ginseng is a well known herbal tonic and is recommended to increase strength and vitality. Chinese believe ginseng is a herb of eternal youth. It rejuvenates skin and revitalizes epidermal cells to diminish the appearance of wrinkles. It is strengthening and helps with elasticity of the skin.

Ginko

Ginko biloba is considered to be an effective anti ageing ingredient due to its antioxidant properties which help to diminishes the appearance of wrinkles. It stimulates production of collagen and elastin.

Gotu kola

Centell asiatica is temporary firming, purifying, tonic, stimulant, promotes circulation. Studies have shown that main constituent of gotu kola increases collagen synthesis and improves strength of the skin.

Green tea

Camellia synensis powerful anti-oxidant properties are tonic for ageing skin. Diminishes the appearance of wrinkles, reduces puffiness, reduces large pores and decreases inflammation and aids healing.

Pomegranate

Punica granatum - studies have shown that it has a high level of anti oxidants, containing phystragen, punicic and linolenic acid, all of which prevent the breakdown of collagen fibres. Along with stimulating collagen, pomegranate speeds skin cell turnover and slightly thickens and strengthens the skin. It can improve wound healing and promote younger looking skin. It protect from sun damage and recent studies show that when applied topically it actually reduces risk of cancer.

Witch hazel

Hamamelis virginiana is astringent for oily or couperose skin, softening.

Spirulina

Spirilina maxima is a blue algae extract with anti-oxidant due to beta carotene. When added to anti ageing products it has a hydrating effect on the surface layers of the skin.It aids tissue regeneration and improves the appearance of prematurely aged skin, lines and wrinkles. It is nourishing due to vitamin E.

Sea weed / Kelp

Laminara digitata
Micro-algae with high content of trace elements, especially iodine, nourishing and moisturising.

Wattlesed extract - Acacia victoriae
It is pore refining with anti infammatory properties. Promotes youthful looking skin due to high levels of amino acids (proteins). Anti ageing.

White Tea – Camellia sinensis
More powerful anti oxidant than green tea. Protects from drying effects of the sun. Diminishes the appearance of wrinkles.

 

Raw Materials

Emulsifying wax
It is a natural as possible emulsifier. The blend of Glyceryl Stearate and Cetearyl Alcohol and Sodium Stearoyl Lactylate and Olive oil wax is formulated from non-ethoxylated, sulfate free emulsifiers, emollients and stabilizers, as naturally derived as possible. Wax is extremely mild, non-irritating and mimics the skin’s natural lipid barrier. It is suited for use in children’s formula and individuals with chemical intolerances. If there is any palm oil in the emulsifying wax it is from organically grown sustainable palm oil. There is only 5% of emulsifying wax in our creams.

Cetearyl Alcohol

is often confused with ethyl alcohol which can dry skin. Cerearyl Alcohol is a white waxy substance that provides the creamy texture and prevents oil and water from separating. It is a combination of two fatty acids made from coconut and palm oil sauced from organically grown sustainable palm oil.

Glycerine
Vegetable Glycerine is plant derived from vegetables and coconut and offers water binding and moisture retaining properties that can balance skin’s natural moisturising factor. This aids in keeping the skin healthy and assists in maintaining the structure of epidermis (outer layers of the skin). Vegetable derived, glycerine is a humectant with good water binding and moisture retaining properties.

Lecithin
Derived from soy beans (non-GMO) is a natural emollient (skin softener) and an emulsifier (binding, thickening and spreading agent) and a natural anti-oxidant, it is also a mild preservative. Lecithin stabilises the natural skin barrier and provides protection from water loss.

Kaolin
China white clay which cleanses and deodorises skin.

Exfoliating granules will lift and remove dry or dead skin cells, leaving skin looking & feeling more radiant.

Ground walnut shell - firm irregular granules.

Jojoba wax beads – Hard, free flowing microspheres offering gentle yet effective exfoliation. Non -irritating and non-abrasive.

Tea tree powder – dried and crushed powder which offers mild astringent action and medium exfoliation.

Clays

The cosmetic purpose of clays is to cleanse and revitalise the skin, bringing out its natural radiance and beauty. Clays will draw out dirt and impurities from the skin’s pores, allowing skin to breathe and glow. Clays will also smooth and soften the skin, leaving it feeling youthful and toned.

Australian Organic green clay Bentonite
A detoxifying clay can help revitalise tired, dull complexion. It leaves skin glowing with vitality.

Australian Pink Clay Kaoline and iron oxide blend
is noted for its ability to firm and tone the skin.

French green clay Argile verte superfine Montmorillonite
The best and most active clay with superior absorbency capacity, cleanse, clarifies and purifies the skin. Soft and revitalising with remarkable results.

French Pink clay Illite and Kaolin blend
A balanced blend of iron oxide, silica and mineral salts. Medium absorbency and effective cleaner for sensitive skin. Smoothes and re-textures the skin.

Floral waters are the byproduct of essential oil distillation. They contain water soluble properties of the plant.

Chamomile Roman

Chamaemelum anthemis nobile is soothing to exposure to the sun. Suitable for use directly on the skin as a toner as well as gentle enough to use in baby care.

Lavender

Lavandula angustifolia can be used directly on the skin as a calming toner or make up remover. Spritz to rejuvenate skin in dry atmospheres, spritz to minimise shaving rash.

Neroli Orange Blossom

Citrus aurantium ssp amara can be used as toner, spritz or light perfume.

Rose

Rosa centifolia is a by-products of thousands of rose petals it is slightly acidic so it acts as a good toner, promoting regeneration, tightening of the skin and counteracting infection. It helps to retain moisture and revitalise skin. Spritz when traveling to cool and hydrate.

 

Preservatives

Preservatives have an important function in skin care products in that they prevent the growth of bacteria that maybe harmful.

Grapefruit seed Extract citrus paradisi
Natural broad spectrum anti-microbial compound. Environmentally safe. Bactericide, fungicide, anti-viral and anti parasitic.

Rosemary Leaf Extract Rosemarinus officinalis
Natural, derived from the natural anti oxidants present in rosemary. This products is effective in inhibiting rancidity within products.

Naticide – almond and vanilla extract
Approved by ACO for use in certified organic cosmetics is a vegetable origin fragrance with broad spectrum activity against Bacteria Gram-positive, Gram -negative, molds and yeasts. Allows for label claim “preservative free” as can be listed as parfum or fragrance.

Potassium sorbate
Mind, yet effective preservative. Non-toxic, non-irritating, non-sensitising. Inhibits micro-organisms, moulds and yeasts. It is natural alternative to parabens. It is the potassium salt of scorbic acid. Approved by ACO for use in certified organic cosmetics.

 

Cosmeceutical Ingredients

Cosmeceutical is a current buzzword in the world of anti-ageing, used to describe products that are a cross between cosmetics and pharmaceuticals. The essential ingredients in anti wrinkle products will need to increase skin hydration, boost and stimulate collagen production, reduce free radical damage caused by over-exposure to sun, and improve the skin’s texture and firmness.
Antioxidants, botanicals, enzymes, hyaluronic acid, amino acids and peptides are among the active ingredients expected to increase.
These products are now emerging with powerful blend of nutrient – rich botanical extracts together with potent active ingredients like:

Hyaluronic Acid
A natural moisturiser that occurs in the dermis and forms a part of tissue surrounding collagen and elastin fibres. It improves the skin’s appearance by helping to diminish fine lines and wrinkles due to its excellent water-binding capabilities.

Peptides
Peptides are the latest ingredients and many studies have shown that they can achieve significant results. They have the ability to penetrate skin and enhance skin’s protective ability, stimulate collagen formation, improve elasticity and promote elastin production as well as providing antioxidant and healing properties. Peptides can help repair sun-damaged skin and diminish wrinkles and smooth wrinkles by relaxing facial muscles.
Peptides deeply hydrate skin cells
soften lines and wrinkles by plumping the skin
provide silk smooth texture to the skin
reduce wrinkle formation
stimulate collagen and elastin production

Acetyl Hexapeptide – 8 (Argireline)

is a synthetic ingredient mostly used in cosmetics for its anti-aging properties. It is dubbed natural because it was derived from proteins. As a protein derivative, it is seen as a mild, natural, and effective ingredient in many cosmetic products. This ingredient relaxes the facial tension and reduces wrinkles almost immediately. It slows down the degeneration of collagen and elastin and helps in smoothing the skin and reduces the depth of lines and wrinkles.

Palmitoyl Oligopeptide and Palmitoyl Tetrapeptide – 7

Cosmetic Research has proven that these peptides stimulate collagen production and growth of connective tissue.

Matrixyl 3000
is a mixture of Acetyl Hexapeptide – 8 (Argireline) and Palmitoyl Oligopeptide and Palmitoyl Tetrapeptide – 7,
It is a revolutionary and powerful double peptide which treats wrinkles. In clinical trials Matrixyl 3000 reduced the long term deep wrinkles by 46% over 2 months, more with longer term use. It encourages skin tissue to restore itself to a more youthful strength while promoting deep tissue repair. Collagen and elastin production is accelerated and skin appears softer and firmer and elasticity is significanty improved.

 

Common Synthetic Ingredients to Avoid in Aromatherapy

Some evidence indicates that some of these compounds may be toxic.

Parabens (Methyl, Butyl or Propyl)
are synthetic, petrochemical preservatives used in 75 to 90% of all products on the market because they are cheap, wide spectrum preservatives and provide an effective way to extend the shelf life of products. One study showed that parabens can age the skin when exposed to UV light. Studies have shown that parabens mimic the hormone estrogen. Controversy over the use of parabens was stimulated by a 2004 when parabens have been found in breast tumor tissue.

PEG (Polyethylene Glycol) and Propylene Glycol (PG)
A by-products, 1,4-dioxane, may be formed in the manufacture of product and is a known carcinogen. Their safety is much debated and many cautions are associated with them. Experts say the biggest risk involved is impurities. PEG contaminants can include the carcinogens 1,4-dioxane. PEG’s are easily absorbed through damaged skin and are associated with contact dermatitis and systemic toxicity in burn patients.

Sodium Lauryl Sulfate (SLS) and Sodium Laureth Sulfate (SLES)
These are most irritating of all ingredients in personal care products. The Journal of the American Collage of Toxicology report that SLS may be damaging to the immune system, especially within skin. Research has shown that SLS, when combined with other chemicals can be transformed into nitrosamines, a potent class of carcinogens.This data as well as results from other studies, pose a serious questions regarding the potential health threat from the use of these surfactants in shampoos, cleansers and toothpaste. SLES is considered a milder than SLS. SLES and SLS penetrate the skin and scalp easily and cannot be metabolized by the liver. They are possibly endocrine disruptors and common skin, scalp and eye irritants. The biggest concern is contamination with 1,4-dioxane.

DEA (diethanolamine) and TEA (triethanolamine)
Often seen as cocamide DEA and lauramide TEA are found in products that foam, like bubble bath, shampoos. They are known to form cancerous nitrates and transmarine and have a high potential to cause certain cancers.

Fragrance
95% of fragrance compounds used are developed in laboratories and are petroleum or coal tar-based synthetics. Symptoms related to exposure to synthetic fragrances include: headaches, dizziness, rashes, allergic skin irritation.
Please note: Authentic essential oils are therapeutic ingredients, not a fragrance compounds. Unscented product does not need to be free of essential oils.

Diazolidinyl Urea (Germall II) DMD Hydantoin; Imidazolidonyl Urea (Germall 115); Quaternium 15
These substances are preservatives that release formaldehyde, which is known sensitising agent that can cause dermatitis and itching. It is a suspected carcinogen and exposure may lead to an immune response and irritation of the eyes, nose and throat.

Chemical sunscreens
work by absorbing ultraviolet rays before they reach the skin’s surface by converting them from light to heat energy. Chemicals such as benzophonones, oxybenzone and cinnamates are used as such UV absorbing ingredients. However, there is a real question mark on the safety of it’s use as research have shown that the use of chemical sunscreen is linked to the higher incidence of skin cancer due to its free radical generating and DNA/hormone disrupting properties.
Physical blockers such as zinc oxide and titanium dioxide are the best sunscreens providing that they are not in nanoparticle form. They block and deflect UVA and UVB rays.

Nanoparticles
Current scientific research suggests that exposure to the sunscreen with nanoparticles may result in harm to human health. They are used in some mineral sunscreens to make whitish titanium dioxide look transparent. The use of nanoparticles in sunscreens is controversial. If zinc oxide or titanium dioxide are listed as an ingredient in the sunscreen you want the particles to be larger than 100 nanometres. Their smallness allows them to penetrate the skin and possibly cause cell damage. Ill effects include cancer, bioaccumulation in the body as they are not oil or water soluble and can damage genes.

Mineral Oils and petroleum products
Mineral oils disrupt the natural immune barrier of the skin and inhibit its ability to absorb nutrients and release toxins. Mineral oils would interfere with the penetration of essential oils and other therapeutic ingredients.

 

intolerances.