These ingredients are found within the items
we have. At times, we may put definitions with a
specific product and will not include them in this
list.
Macadamia Nut Oil
(Macadamia ternifolia) - There was a great deal
of
excitement in the cosmetic industry at the end of
the 1980s
with the discovery of the unique compatibility of
Macadamia
Nut Oil with the human skin. The oil, obtained from
the nuts
of the Macadamia Tree, contains a high concentration
of
Palmitoleic acid, and is very similar to mink oil
and to the
sebum of human skin. No other known plant oil has a
similar
composition. Macadamia Trees were originally native
to
Madagascar and Australia. Called "kindal-kindal" by
the
aborigines who ate the nuts for hundreds of years
before
outsiders settled the continent, they are named for a
scientist from Scotland, Dr. John Macadam, who
enthusiastically wrote about the fine flavor of the
nut
while living in Australia during the first half of
the 19th
century. Macadamia Trees grow from 50 to 60 feet
high and
have long, narrow leaves and long clusters of pink
or white
flowers. The round, hard-shelled nuts grow in
clusters and
are covered with husks that split when they are
ripe. The
Macadamia has the hardest shell of any nut.
Macadamia Trees
are free from diseases, from damage by insects
and/or
animals. Outside of Australia, no part of the tree,
not even
the nut, is eaten by wildlife. The Macadamia Tree
grows
best in volcanic soil. Hawaii was the ideal location
for
Macadamias, where the evergreen was introduced in
1878.
Today, Macadamias are the third largest crop in
Hawaii. The
island of Hawaii, known as the Big Island, provides
99% of
the Hawaiian Macadamias and 95% of the world
supply.
Macadamias are extremely costly to harvest because
there is
no real season when all the nuts are ripe - they
ripen
anywhere from late spring to November. In addition,
the only
way to tell if nuts are truly ripe is that they drop
from
the trees. This creates problems. Mechanical
harvesters can
scoop up the nuts from the ground where it's level.
However,
where the ground is uneven harvest must be done by
hand - a
slow and costly method. In some areas, the growers
attach
heavy netting under the tree branches. Ripe nuts,
like
children on a playground slide, roll down the net
and drop
into collection bins. Today, Macadamias are known
worldwide
for their exquisite and delicate flavor. While most
are
eaten whole, others are used in candy, ice cream or
baked
goods. And, increasingly throughout the 1990s, in
high
quality beauty care items and hair care products.
Manuka
and Kanuka - Two
wonderful wild trees, which are used in Living
Nature items.
Extracts from the leaves, bark and flowers contain a
variety
of bacteriacides, antifungacides and antibiotics.
Magnesium Aluminum
Silicate -
Absorbent, Anti-caking agent.
Magnesium
Stearate - also called octadecanoic acid,
magnesium
salt, is a white substance which is solid at room
temperature. It is a salt containing two
equivalents
of stearate (the anion of stearic acid) and one
magnesium
cation (Mg2+). Magnesium stearate melts at about 88
°C, is
not soluble in water, and is generally considered
safe for
human consumption. Because it is widely regarded as
harmless, it is often used as a filling agent in the
manufacture of medical pills. In this regard, the
substance
is also useful because it has lubricating
properties,
preventing ingredients from sticking to
manufacturing
equipment during the compression of chemical powders
into
solid pills. It is also a common ingredient in baby
powders.
When used as a filling agent in the manufacture of
pills,
such as vitamins, the source of this ingredient is
typically
beef. However, there is an increasing number of
vegetarian
options in which the product specifically indicates
it
contains magnesium stearate from vegetable sources.
Manganese Violet -
A hard and brittle metallic element of a moderate
purple.
The color additive manganese violet is a violet
pigment
obtained by reacting phosphoric acid, ammonium
dihydrogen
orthophosphate, and manganese dioxide at
temperatures above
450 [deg] F. It's probably less technical to say
it's a type
of metal ore. It's very safe and non-toxic, and one
of the
few ingredients listed as safe to use around the eye
area.
Maltodextrin - Carbohydrate used as a
controlling agent
for various botanical extracts.
Marjoram
- Good for muscular
problems,
sprains, headache, insomnia, nervous tension and
migraine.
Antispasmodic. A sedative.
Meadowfoam Oil - Is super
critically extracted from the Meadowfoam flower
seeds. A
very stable moisturizing and rejuvenating oil,
assisting
with anti-ageing. A high resistance to oxidation
and heat.
Assists with lubicity and assists in forming a
protective
barrier on the skin. It is recognized for its
outstanding
oxidative stability and contains over 98% long-chain
fatty
acids and contains higher quality triglyceride
levels
compared to other vegetable oils. It is a non
greasy
emollient that softens and smoothes the skin. The
Latin
name is Limnanthes alba.
Methylsulfonylmethane (MSM)
- Known as MSM, it is the best source of
bioavailable,
organic sulfur that is required for all plant and
animal
life.
Mica -
Any group of minerals that are found in
crystallized, thin
elastic sheets that can be separated easily. They
vary in
color from pale green, brown, black to colorless.
Known for
the shine it imparts, it can also be milled matte.
It is
used for the glide that it gives our powders.
Mimosa -
A yellow flowering
tree that
blooms in February and March, common to California.
It is
also called Acacia. The flowers contain an
ingredient that
is very good for hypersensitive skin that helps
against
allergies, irritations, itchy skin and very dry
skin.
Myrtle -
Widely spread in
California
and Florida. It is a bush, without blossoms and an
evergreen. It has a very refreshing action, cleans
the
lymph system by using it on the skin, and supports
the skin
to detoxify and breathe.
NaPCA
- is a humectant for long lasting moisturization.
See
Sodium PCA below.
Neem - (Azadriachta indica) Used
widely in India as an antibacterial, antiviral.
antifungal,
antiseptic, antiparasitic agent in toiletries, soap,
toothpaste and skin/hair care products. It is used
to treat
skin disorders such as eczema, psoriasis, ringworm,
scabies,
syphilitic sores, chicken pox etc. Helps keep
products
naturally preserved, proving once again that nature
is more
than capable of handling the job!
Neroli
-Soothing; excellent
for dry
and aging skin.
Oatmeal
- A natural cleanser
and
toner, its mild exfoliating action makes it an
excellent
addition to facial masks. It has a slight bleaching
effect
and is said to help fade or remove age spots and
other skin
discolorations.
Olive Oil
- A natural sun
screen, very
emollient and good for sensitive skin and babies.
(Olea
europaea) Olive oil is obtained by crushing and
pressing the
fruit of the olive tree. The olive tree is native to
the
Mediterranean area, but can be grown in other
tropical and
warm areas. The olive tree is an evergreen. An
important
historic oil used extensively in ancient times.
Highly
nutritive and stable. Contains protein, minerals and
vitamins. Superior penetrating power. It is a yellow
or
greenish. Has acidic and antioxidant values. Olive
oil is
high in unsaponifiables, which is a large group of
compounds
called plant steroids or sterolins. They soften the
skin,
have superior moisturizing effect on the upper layer
of the
skin and reduce scars. Oils with the highest
unsaponifiables
are shea butter, avocado oil, sesame oil, soybean
oil and
olive oil.
Olive Oil Castile
- Saponified with salt, it becomes an excellent
soap, mild
and soothing to the skin. A natural emollient.
Olive Squalane
- Boosts the skin's ability to naturally regenerate,
nourish, hydrate, oxygenate and protect itself.
Squalane is
a saturated hydrocarbon, also known as
perhydrosqualene. It
is obtained through hydrogenation of Squalene, an
alphatic
trierpene. Marcelet, Tsujimoto and Chapman obtained
Squalane
in the beginning of the 20th century by isolating
shark
liver oil. Squalene has been known to exist in
substances
such as Wheat Germ Oil, Rice Bran and Olive Oil
since
ancient times. However, it was obtained primarily
from Shark
Liver Oil up until recently, since it was not
commercially
feasible to obtain Squalene from substances such as
Olive
Oil. When Squalene was found in human sebum, it
acquired
great importance because of its possible
applications in
cosmetics and other pharmaceutical applications.
However,
its high unsaturation gave it instability against
oxidation.
The success of total hydrogenation to obtain
Squalane
provided a highly stable compound, which contributed
to its
wide success in the cosmetics sector by the 1950's.
Squalane is free from toxicity and irritation,
providing
very suitable use in a variety of cosmetic
applications. It
is highly pure, stable against oxidation, free from
heavy
metals and is totally innocuous to the skin. It
adheres to
the skin and its natural lipids better than other
oils and
lanolines. Squalane from vegetable extraction is a
low
viscosity neutral oil, imperceptible odor, agreeable
to the
touch, gives it better compatibility in cosmetic
formulations. Squalane has a fixed and constant
composition
in contrast with mineral oils. Its emollient and
moisturizing properties; its affinity with the skin;
its
emulsion ability with human sebum and other
compounds and
its penetration power, makes it irreplaceable in a
variety
of cosmetic formulations such as:
- Cleansing
creams and milks
- Makeup
bases and Lipsticks
-
Moisturizing and Anti-wrinkle creams
- Hair
Cosmetics and Preparations
- Lotions
and Massage and bath oils
Organo Silicone -
Made from sand that is a combination of minerals but
largely
comprised of quartz. This state-of-the-art
ingredient
replaces the need for oils and is the coating on our
Micronized Titanium Dioxide. Organo Silicone aids
spreading,
is transfer resistant and imparts a remarkable
smoothness
and creaminess to the overall product. It also
improves
coverage without adding heaviness. And, it is
non-comedogenic
and highly water repellent. It gives Real Purity®'s
titanium
dioxide the highest light refractive ability of any
titanium. This outstanding ingredient is one of the
driving
forces behind the creative evolution of color
cosmetics.
PABA (Para-Aminobenzoic Acid) ** -
A substance which absorbs UV light, acting as a
sunblock. There
are two types of PABA. One is natural (which is what
is used
in Aubrey's case), and the other is synthetic.
Natural PABA
comes from water-soluable B vitamin.
Palma Rosa
- Good for skin
infections,
scars, sores, wrinkles and acne. An antiseptic
cellular
stimulant, moisturizes the skin, regulates sebum
production,
hydrating.
Panthenol - A vitamin B
Complex Factor. It is excellent for skin and scalp.
It
strengthens hair follicles, makes hair look thicker
and
fuller, gives it body and improves the shine. It
also
decreases damage from chemical treatments such as
perms,
dyes and relaxers.
Passion Fruit Oil -
Passion Fruit Oil comes from the Passion Fruits of
the
tropic. The Passion Fruit vine is a shallow-rooted,
woody,
perennial, climbing by means of tendrils. The
alternate,
evergreen leaves, deeply 3-lobed when mature, are
finely
toothed, 3 to 8 in (7.5-20 cm) long, deep-green and
glossy
above, paler and dull beneath, and, like the young
stems and
tendrils, tinged with red or purple, especially in
the
yellow form. A single, fragrant flower, 2 to 3 in
(5-7.5 cm)
wide, is borne at each node on the new growth. The
bloom,
clasped by 3 large, green, leaf-like bracts,
consists of 5
greenish-white sepals, 5 white petals, a fringelike
corona
of straight, white-tipped rays, rich purple at the
base,
also 5 stamens with large anthers, the ovary, and
triple-branched style forming a prominent central
structure.
The flower of the yellow is the showier, with more
intense
color. The nearly round or ovoid fruit, 1 1/2 to 3
in (4-7.5
cm) wide, has a tough rind, smooth, waxy, ranging in
hue
from dark-purple with faint, fine white specks, to
light-yellow or pumpkin-color. It is 1/8 in (3 mm)
thick,
adhering to a 1/4 in (6 mm) layer of white pith.
Within is a
cavity more or less filled with an aromatic mass of
double-walled, membranous sacs filled with
orange-colored,
pulpy juice and as many as 250 small, hard,
dark-brown or
black, pitted seeds. The flavor is appealing, musky,
guava-like, subacid to acid. Because of its unique
and
aromatic flavor characteristics, Ecuadorian Passion
Fruit is
increasingly desirable in the world market. Passion
Fruit is
known to be high in Vitamin A and Potassium. There
are two
commercially grown varieties: purple and yellow. Due
to its
great nutritional contribution, the yellow variety
is used
to elaborate juices, desserts, and cocktails, among
others.
The purple variety is sold in fresh fruit markets.
The
by-products of Passion Fruit have many applications.
The
aroma is used for the preparation of essences, the
ground
seeds to elaborate feed with a high percentage of
proteins
and the oil extracted from the seeds is used to
produce
cosmetics or food.
Patchouli - Penetrating, long
lasting, musty, woody fragrance. Anti-inflammatory,
cell
regenerator, rejuvenating. Good for skin
inflammations,
fungal infections, acne, wrinkles and eczema.
Alleviates
depression and anxiety, uplifting, confidence
builder.
Stimulant at low doses, sedative at high doses.
Insect
repellent.
Pennyroyal
- A member of the mint family,
pennyroyal is
a strong purifier, antiseptic and freshener. A good
insect
repellent. Stimulating. Do not use if pregnant, can
be
abortive in high doses. High doses can also cause
death to
user.
Pentapeptide (Matrixl) -
Matrixyl(tm) 3000 contains twp matrikines(tm),
Pal-GHK and
Pal-GQPR which act in synergy to restore and
maintain skin's
youthful appearance. These matrikines which are
messengers
of cutaneous restructuration and repair. They can
used in
formulations for: anti-aging, face-lifting and
wrinkle
treatment products; suitable for gels, serums,
lotions and
creams.
Peppermint Oil
- An excellent antiseptic and
astringent. An
anti-inflammatory, it soothes and tones blemished,
irritated
skin. Relieves nausea, muscle & joint pains,
cold symptoms.
Vitalizing; uplifting.
Peru Balsam
- A soothing, vanilla like oil that
is good
for cleansing, moisturizing and softening.
Phenoxyethanol - A
paraben free preservative that safely and
effectively
preserves cosmetics. This is not used in most items
we offer
at Natural Solutions. Only a few items include it.
Below is more information that Honeybee Gardens
supplied:
"It is not PH dependent, and
not a formaldehyde releaser. Phenoxyethanol has been
tested
on the skin and eyes and it is non irritating and
non
sensitizing at levels of 2.2% or lower. The Cosmetic
Ingredient Review expert panel has deemed
phenoxyethanol as
a safe cosmetic ingredient as currently used. It is
paraben
free. It is not considered an irritant or an
allergen. It is
used in cosmetics to prevent bacterial and microbial
contamination of products. While there is a risk of
irritation from ANY type of ingredient, the risk to
skin and
eyes from using a contaminated product is considered
by
scientists to be even greater. Phenoxyethanol is
created by
treating phenol with ethylene oxide in an alkaline
medium.
When these ingredients react they create a broad
spectrum,
safe and effective preservative. Individually any
chemical
can be harmful, but together they create a
beneficial
product. For instance, lye alone is extremely
dangerous, but
after it reacts with oil and water to create castile
soap it
is harmless and useful. Other companies claim that
phenoxyethanol is derived from rose oil, sage oil,
minerals,
plant derivatives and even coconut. But honestly,
phenoxyethanol is not even remotely related to these
ingredients. It is, however, very safe. It does not
react
with other ingredients, air or light. It is very
stable. It
is even gentle enough to use on or around mucus
membranes.
A product such as mascara must be carefully
preserved. It is
something you are using around the eyes. If the
product is
not preserved, a staph infection could result which
could be
catastrophic. We cannot take this chance. We know
the
product must be adequately preserved, and the
combination of
essential oils we use in the majority of our
products is not
effective enough in this particular formulation. We
test all
of our products for effectiveness and stability - we
need
them to be safe. Our only other option for
preservatives was
parabens and it is our policy not to use those
ingredients.
We chose phenoxyethanol due to it's track record of
safety,
stability and low toxicity."
Pine Needle Oil
- Antimicrobial and antibacterial,
sometimes
used as a fragrance. Reviving, balancing,
regulating,
purifying.
Polyglyceryl -10 Laurate -
Potassium Iodide
- Natural mineral used as a thickener and
preservative.
Potassium Sorbate -
A Potassium salt
version of
Sorbic Acid, a polyunsaturated fat used to inhibit
mold
growth. It was first discovered by the French in the
1850's,
having been derived from the Mountain Ash Tree. It
is widely
used in the food industry and few substances have
had the
kind of extensive, rigorous, long-term testing that
Sorbic
Acid and its salts have had. It has been found to be
non-toxic even when taken in large quantities, and
breaks
down in the body into water and Carbon Dioxide in
the Krebs
Cycle. Many food producers use Potassium Sorbate as a
natural preservative to provide freshest, taste, and
safety
to their products; naturally inhibit microbes,
particularly
mold. It is used in natural sunscreens for similar
reasons.
Pot Marigold - see Calendula
Proline
- An amino acid that helps water to penetrate the
skin.
Phytic Acid
- Chelating agent,
derived
from rice, used to improve sudsing in hard water by
binding
calcium and magnesium ions.
Purified Water -
Self-explanatory. But just in case: A clear,
colorless,
odorless, and tasteless natural liquid, H2O,
essential for
most plant and animal life and the most widely used
of all
natural occurring solvents. Purification by
distillation
eliminates all impurities.
Raw Honey
- Used in Earth's Beauty Cosmetics: the honey is
grown by
Amish people who are impeccable. They do not use
pesticides
and leave the propylis in the honey which is a
natural
antibacterial. Bacteria does not grow in honey
because of
its natural antibacterial properties. The reason it
is
stated as raw, is that it is not heated up over 70
degrees
because honey loses all of its natural antibacterial
properties when heated up (which is an Ayurvedic
belief).
There are also no antibiotics used on the bees as
well.
Rice Bran Oil - Rice Bran
Oil is the product obtained from the extraction of
oil from
rice bran kernels. Rice Bran Oil is primarily used
in
cooking or for feed supplements for horses. It is a
desirable cooking oil because of its antioxidant
content and
cholesterol-lowering properties giving foods a
pleasant
flavor. Rice Bran Oil's secret lies in its
antioxidants. It
contains natural Vitamin E, Ferulic acid, and is a
natural
antioxidant. It reduces cholesterol better than
Olive Oil,
which is considered the heart-healthy choice.
However, it is
also a primary component of cosmetics, especially in
Japan
where it is believed to greatly enhance the beauty
of skin
and hair. Rice Bran Oil applications are a regular
part of
beauty treatments in the best salons in Japan. Many
persons
with dry or scaly skin find marked improvement
within a week
of taking Rice Bran Oil - one to two tablespoons
daily. Rice
Bran Oil applied externally to the hair adds body
and
healthful luster. Rice Bran Oil is used in cosmetics
because
it's a great moisturizer. It contains natural
Vitamin E,
flows on yet not "watery", provides moderate
penetration and
leaves no greasiness or stickiness on the skin.
Rose
- Used for anxiety, depression, menopausal problems
and an
antiseptic and tonic. Reputed to give youth. Good
for broken
capillaries, dry skin, eczema, herpes, mature and
sensitive
complexions, wrinkles.
Rose Hip Seed Oil
- High in
linoleic and
linolenic acids as well as Vitamin C, essential for
the
health of the hair and skin. A tissue regenerator.
Rose Hip
Oil, from the seeds of the wild rose bush Rosa
Affinis
Rubiginosa (scientific name), offers healing
properties to
damaged skin. Rose Hip Oil is found in South
America,
especially in Peru, Argentina and Chile. Grown in
the cool,
lush mountainous rain valleys of the southern Andes,
the
Rosa Mosqueta by the people of Chile has been a
well-kept
secret for centuries. Rose Hip Oil is obtained from
the
seeds contained in the intensely red berry-like
fruits - or
hips - of the wild rose-bush. Due to scientific
research in
recent years in Chile and other parts of the world,
the
beneficial effects and healing properties of the
natural oil
extracted from the Rosehip seeds for skin has been
validated
by the cosmetic and dermatological industries world
wide.
Rose Hip Oil can be obtained in oil form or in
lotions. Rose
Hip Oil in certain lotions offers a natural
moisturizing
solution for sensitive, allergic, sun damaged, hyper
pigmented, aged, and scared tissue. It contains
natural
retinoic acid, a derivative of Retonol (Vitamin A)
for the
treatment of eye wrinkles, stretch marks, and
unsightly
spots. It improves burned skin and aids in the
relief of
dermatitis. Rose Hip Oil is also an excellent
preventative
for skin photo aging and immediate relief for dry
skin and
eczema. The Rose Hip Oil belongs to the Rosaceae
family,
subfamily Rosoideae, genus Rosa. The Oil obtained
from the
seeds has a high content of non-saturated fatty
acids, like
Oleic, Linoleic and Linoleic Acid. Due to its
physical and
chemical characteristic as well as it behavior it is
considered a siccative oil. It is commercially
obtained by
extraction with organic solvents and its
purification is
achieved through winterization, in order to
eliminate the
triglycerides of higher saturation. Stabilizers are
added to
avoid rancidity. The final product is a transparent
liquid,
yellow-reddish color with a characteristic odor.
Besides the
mentioned non-saturated fatty acids, the presence of
coordinates, Flavonoids, Vitamin C, a ketonic
compound
(namely 3-pentenpropyl-kentoe) and lately
trans-rhodanic
acids have been detected, which could be responsible
for the
pharmacological and therapeutic properties of the
Rose Hip
Seed Oil. The unique properties of Rosa Mosquenta -
Rose Hip
Oil were discovered 1983 through a research team
from the
Faculty of Chemistry and Pharmacology at the
University of
Concepcion, a prestigious private university in
Chile. The
study was to evaluate the positive action of the oil
in the
skin regeneration process. Later in 1988, two
doctors
published their own extensive findings in a paper
titled
"Contributions to Identification and Application of
Active
Components Contained in Rosa Affinis Rubiginosa.
Rosemary
- Toner and purifier, with antimicrobial properties,
beneficial to both hair and skin. Skin rejuvenator,
general
stimulant, invigorating, reduces mental strain and
fatigue,
promotes confidence by minimizing anxiety.
Rosewater
- A water-based
dilution of
the essence of roses used in cosmetics since the
10th
century. Used for conjunctivitis.
Rosewood
- A cellular stimulant, tissue regenerator.
Uplifting,
antidepressant, tonic. Calming.
Sacred
Birch Tree - It is a tall evergreen tree native
to
savannas of Tropical Africa.
Sage
- A purifier and
tonic. Its
mild antibacterial action makes it nonirritating and
ideal
for sensitive skin or scalp. Strengthens overall;
cellular
stimulant. Astringent. May be toxic if used over
long
periods of time.
Sandalwood
- Aids many skin ailments; may relieve cough/cold
symptoms.
Astringent, antispasmodic. Euphoric, meditating
qualities;
antidepressant, stress reducer, uplifting.
Aphrodisiac.
Shea Butter
- A butter obtained
from the
nut of the Mangifolia tree (the karite tree) in
Central
Africa. An excellent emollient for skin
moisturizers, a
natural sunscreen, good for wrinkles and capillary
circulation. It is extremely therapeutic, helping
to heal
cracked, aged and damaged skin. Its chemical
constituents
help to heal bruising and soreness. Shea butter
penetrates
the skin and leaves it feeling soft and smooth. It
has
vitamin A, E and is highly compatible with skin.
Shea butter
has a high content of unsaponifiables and cinnamic
esters,
which have antimicrobial and moisturizing properties
and
provide protection from the UV rays of the sun.
Unsaponifiables are a large group of compounds
called plant
steroids or sterolins. They soften the skin, have
superior
moisturizing effect on the upper layer of the skin
and
reduce scars. Shea butter is expeller pressed
without use of
solvents, making a lipid suitable for soaps,
cosmetics and
toiletries. Shea butter is renowned for is skin
softening
and moisture retaining ability
Silk Sericin
- A natural protein derived from the "glue" that
holds the
silk fibers together; bonds to hair fibers and
strengthens
them.
Silica -
Derived from sand. Used as a protectant and coloring
agent.
Absorbent, anti-caking, abrasive (silica dioxide).
Real Purity®'s is organic silica (minute particules of sand) that
are bound together w/vegetable oil. They have a
spelling error on their label.
Silver
- Colloidal silver used as a natural, mineral
preservative.
Sodium Cocoyl Isethionate -
Is a
mild
primary surfactant with a dense, luxurious foam. It
is mild
on the skin, and non-drying. Can be combined with
other
surfactants to make an elegant creamy shampoo and
body wash.
It can be used as the only surfactant in a cream or
solid
bar cleanser. In both hair and skin care
applications this
surfactant creates an elegant feel during use and a
conditioned afterfeel. Works equally well in soft
or
hard water. It is also an anti-static agent in
shampoos.
Sodium Cocoyl Glutamate
- A very mild sudsing agent derived from glutamic
acid and
coconut oil.
Sodium Isostearoyl
Lactylate -
Fatty acid ester, derived from vegetable stearic
acid and
lactic acid, to improve hair texture - acts like a
moisture
magnet.
Sodium Hyaluronate -
botanically derived from microplants. Holds 200
times its
weight in water, protects and lubricates the cells.
Sodium Stearoyl
Lactylate -
Derived from beets. It is a moisture magnet that
helps the
skin maintain its water reservoirs and helps to
retain
moisture in cells.
Sodium Hydroxide - used for pH control, and
acid
neutralization. It is an ion created from salt.
Sodium PCA
- Naturally occurring in the human skin that binds
moisture,
increased skin elasticity, and softness. Is
hygroscopic, attracting moisture from the air. It is
used as
a moisturizer (humectant) for hair and skin care
products.
It is a stronger hydrating agent than the
traditional
compounds used for this purpose, such as glycerine
<http://sci-toys.com/ingredients/glycerine.html>,
propylene glycol <http://sci-toys.com/ingredients/glycols.html>,
or sorbitol <http://sci-toys.com/ingredients/sorbitol.html>.
Natural and clean.
naPCA is the same thing.
Sorbic Acid
- Used as a
preservative
system and pH buffer. It is made from starch and
vinegar.
Sorbitol
- First isolated from mountain ash berries, sorbitol
provides natural sweetness without sugar. Provides a
soft
and velvety texture to the skin.
Spearmint
- Similar beneficial
properties of Peppermint. Better suited for children
because
it is milder.
Spirulina Maxima
- Blue green algae. An excellent source of protein
and
other vitamins and minerals to help the appearance
and the
feeling of elasticity in the skin.
Stearalkonium Bentonite - Gel-forming agent,
thickener
that prevents sinking of color particles in nail
polish.
Stearates -
Natural source oil - commonly from animal fat
rendering but
can come from plants as well.
Stearic Acid
- Thickener naturally occurring in butter acids,
cascarilla
bark and other oils.
Sunflower Seed Extract
- Contains enriched phyto-nutrients, including a
specialized antioxidant that counteracts damage done
by
peroxide (a free radical). Hair can lose color when
exposed
to peroxide, whether from sun, bleach, or body
condtions.
Test prove that SSE decreases the level of peroxides
by 69%,
so it very effectively maintains rich natural hair
color and
keeps chemical color from fading. The wild Sunflower
is
native to North America, a common crop amongst
American
Indian Tribes. Evidence suggests that Indians in
present-day
Arizona and New Mexico cultivated the plant about
3000 BC.
Some archaeologists suggest that Sunflower may have
been
domesticated before Corn. Sunflower was used in many
ways
throughout the various Indian Tribes. Seed was
ground or
pounded into flour for cakes, mush or bread. Some
tribes
mixed the meal with other vegetables such as beans,
squash,
and corn. The seed was also cracked and eaten for a
snack.
There are references of squeezing the oil from the
seed and
using the oil in making bread. Non-food uses include
purple
dye for textiles, body painting and other
decorations. Parts
of the plant were used medicinally ranging from
snakebite to
other body ointments. The oil of the seed was used
on the
skin and hair. The dried stalk was used as a
building
material. The plant and the seeds were widely used
in
ceremonies. Sunflower Oil is virtually clear with a
tinge of
yellow color. It has a faint and sweet aroma and has
a thin
texture, which does not leave any oily residue.
Sweet Orange Oil
- Contains flavonoids
and
vitamins A B C and E. Mild sedative; aids
dermatitis, oily
skin; relieves cold-like symptoms. Relaxing; reduces
nervous
tension; uplifting, soothing. Good for cellulite.
Talc
-
There is a lot of confusion with this ingredient.
It
has to do with the sourcing. Logona chooses to use
certified asbestos free talc which means that it is a
good
source and a consumer can have confidence in the
ingredient.
If the manufacturer does not reveal this information
to the
vendor and public, then there may be a problem and a
consumer may want to avoid it in their
personalcare.
Talc is a metamorphic mineral resulting from the
alteration
of silicates of magnesium such as pyroxenes,
amphiboles,
olivine and other similar minerals. It is usually
found in
metamorphic rocks, often of a basic type due to the
alteration of the minerals mentioned above. A
coarse
grayish-green talc has been called soapstone or
steatite and
has been used for stoves, sinks, electrical
switchboards,
etc. Talc finds use as a cosmetic (talcum powder),
as a
lubricant, and as a filler in paper manufacture.
Talc is
used in baby powder, an astringent powder used for
preventing rashes on the area covered by a diaper
(see
diaper rash). Most tailor's chalk is talc, as is the
chalk
often used for welding or metalworking. The U.S.
Food
and Drug Administration (FDA) considers
non-asbestiform
talc, that is talc which DOES NOT contain
carcinogenic
asbestos fibers, to be Generally Recognized As Safe
(GRAS)
for use in cosmetics.
Tangerine
- Effective on oily
skin and
acne as it contains a fair quantity of vitamin A.
Tea Tree Oil
- Distilled from the
leaves
of the Australian tree Melaleuca alternifolia. An
antiseptic
and germicide. Antiviral, alleviates cough/cold
symptoms;
relieves muscle aches and pains, minimizes most skin
irritations, such as acne, cold sores, genital
herpes.
Antifungus. An insect repellent. Uplifting,
purifying,
regulating. Tea Tree is a narrow leaved paper bark
tree,
which occurs in the swamps between the Clarence and
Richmond
Rivers of South Wales, Australia. Prior to the
arrival in
Australia of European settlers, the indigenous
natives of
Australia valued the healing powers of Oil of
Melaleuca,
especially for its antiseptic and anti-fungal
properties.
The "Essential Oil" is commonly known and marketed
worldwide
as Australian Tea Tree Oil. The Oil is produced by
pure
steam distillation from the leaves of the Melaleuca
Alternifolia tree, which is native to the Australian
bush.
The Oil is a complex blend of 48 unique organic
compounds.
The main therapeutic compound is Terpinene 4-OL. It
has been
discovered that Tea Tree Oil is a broad-spectrum
germicide
and antiseptic, killing bacteria, yeast and viruses.
Tea
Tree Oil is powerful concentrated oil with an
immediate,
deeply penetrating action, is non-toxic,
non-irritant and
non-corrosive to tissue. Tea Tree Oil has been
successful in
treatment of the following:
- Head
-
dry, scaly scalp areas; dandruff; headaches
- Skin
-
acne, fungal patches; bruises; burns; insect
bites;
ringworm; itches; sweat spots; minor skin bumps;
coral
scrapes; cleansing of cuts and abrasions;
shingles;
chicken pox; impetigo; shaving nicks and ingrown
hairs;
warts; eczema; dermatitis; psoriasis; heat rashes.
- Nose
-
blocked sinuses; post nasal drip; congestion;
colds or
flu.
- Mouth
-
canker sores; scratches fro dental braces; sore
throat;
removal of plague; gingivitis; gum abscess;
toothache;
fever blisters.
- Ears
-
pierced ear infections
- Body
-
muscular and ligament discomfort; stiff neck; and
joint;
tennis elbow; hemorrhoids; chest rub
- Feet
-
swollen joints; athlete's foot; blisters; sweat
spots;
ingrown toenails; corns.
- Hands
-
swollen joints; infected fingernails; ragged and
damaged
cuticles.
- Infants
-
teething problems.
- General
Use - insect repellant humidifiers and saunas;
cleansing
and sanitizing in bathrooms and kitchens; laundry
additive
for disinfecting.
- Pets
- hot
spots; infected fleabites; flea infestation; ticks
and
lice; hoof thrush; itches and round worm; dry
cuts.
Tea
Tree Oil
came to prominence as a commercially recognized
active
ingredient in the 1930's and was widely used for the
treatment of wounds, particularly by the military.
With the
discovery of penicillin and the advance of
synthetically
manufactured antiseptics, the popularity of Tea Tree
Oil
declined. The recent development of drug resistant
microorganisms, through the excessive use of
man-made
antibiotics, has renewed interest in the medical
properties
of Tea Tree Oil. In 1994, of the approximately 150
tons
produced, over 50% was exported to the United
States.
Titanium Dioxide -
Titanium Dioxide was first discovered by William
Gregory (a
Cornish vicar and amateur chemist), in 1791 while
examining
sand from the local river Helford (rediscovered
(1795) by M.
H. Klaproth, who gave it its present name.) He used a
magnet
to extract Ilmenite (a black mineral). From the
Ilmenite, he
removed iron by treatment with Hydrochloric Acid.
The
residue, which dissolved only with difficulty in
Hydrochloric Acid, was the impure oxide of a new
element.
Gregory then carried on to discover the reactions,
which
were to form the basis of the production of
virtually all
Titanium Dioxide up to about 1960. The most
important
function of Titanium Dioxide is as a pigment for
providing
brightness, whiteness and opacity to such products
as
paints, plastics, paper, inks, fibers, food and
cosmetics.
Titanium Dioxide is widely used as a paint pigment,
especially for exterior paints. Titanium Dioxide is a
solid
and is polymorphous (it exists in three
modifications or
crystal structures, Rutile (beach sand), Anatase or
Brookite
usually associated with iron, either as Ilmenite or
Leuxocene Ores. It is commercially available in two
crystal
structures - Anatase and Rutile. Aside from its
excellent
pigmentary properties, Titanium Dioxide, as a
chemical, has
dielectric properties, high ultraviolet absorption
and high
stability, which allows it to be used in electro
ceramics,
glass and sunscreens. It is an excellent reflector;
so it is
used in solar observatories where heat makes
observing
impossible. It is used as a sunblock in suncreams,
because
it reflects, absorbs and scatters light, it does not
irritate skin, and it is water resistant -
reflectivity near
that of a Diamond. It is highly effective in the
absorption
of rays in the UV-B range. When Titanium Dioxide is
bombarded with Ultraviolet rays, it becomes a
sterile
surface and, for a long period of time afterwards,
will kill
any germs that come in contact with it.
Titanium
dioxide, a compound whose toxicity remains unclear.
Researchers now say the chemical can be absorbed by
human
skin. The compound's full effects on human health
are still
under investigation. The U.S. government's National
Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH)
labels
the chemical "a potential occupational carcinogen."
Skin &
Allergy News (February 1997, p. 15). Dr. Samuel
Epstein,
Toxicologist and author of "Safe Shopper's Bible",
says that
in dust form, not liquid, it can cause irritation to
the
lungs. While research is still required to prove the
toxicity of Titanium Dioxide, Living Nature feels if
there
are any health risks with raw materials used in
their
products, it is not up to the consumer to find out.
They
have now removed this material from their
formulations and
have replaced it with Zinc. But it is still in a few
of our
other cosmetics and also a main ingredient in the
Caribbean
Pacific's sunscreen brand.
Tocopheryl Acetate
- Natural vitamin E, an anti-oxidant; processed so
that
deterioration is minimized (pure, unprocessed
vitamin E
degrades quickly in products). Natural Vitamin E
encompasses
a family of compounds called tocopherols of which
alpha-tocopherol
is the most common and most potent. These substances
are
found largely in plant materials, especially plant
oils,
alfalfa, and lettuce. They are practically insoluble
in
water but freely soluble in Oils. Vitamin E is
essential for
maintaining the activities of enzymes in the cells
and for
the formation of red blood cells. It protects lung
and skin
tissue from damage by pollutants and is a powerful
free
radical scavenger. There is convincing evidence for
the
involvement of Vitamin E in cancer prevention by
inhibiting
the formation of cancer-causing nitrosamines and
other n-nitroso
compounds. In addition, Vitamin E was shown to
inhibit skin
cancer itself. In the section of preservatives, the
important role of Vitamin E is in reducing the
formation of
free radicals inside the body. Premature aging of
the body
(and especially the skin) has been linked in several
studies
to unsaturated free fatty acid radicals and reactive
oxygen-forming toxic peroxide that damages and
permanently
destroy cells. Polyunsaturated oils are much more
prone to
form free radicals in the body than are other oils.
Consumption of polyunsaturated oils in our diet
increases
the need for additional Vitamin E. Researchers from
the
Lawrence Berkeley Laboratory in California reported
recently
that Vitamin E can more than double the lifespan of a
human
cell in an artificial test-tube environment. These
cells
usually reproduce about 50 times before dying. When
Vitamin
E is added to the cultured medium (at about ten
times the
level normally observed in human tissue) it was
found that
the cell reproduced through 120 generations. Vitamin
E,
therefore, can become a dynamic weapon against
premature
aging and to combat wrinkles. It also promulgates
the
healing of burned skin without forming scars that
contract
or remain tender. In addition, Vitamin E Linoleate
is a
proven deep moisturizer that softens and tones dry
lines of
the skin.
Thyme
- A general
stimulant,
antiseptic, anesthetic. A good deodorant.
Ubiquinone
- See also Coenzyme Q-10 or CoQ10.
Ultramarines -
Blue, green, pink, red and violet. A pigment
prepared by
powdering minerals or compounds like lapis, kaolin,
soda ash
and charcoal.
Vanilla
- A natural extract derived from the vanilla bean;
provides
soothing, fragrant effects.
Vegetable Guar Gum
- Natural thickener from ground-up nutritive seeds
of an
Asian tree.
Vegetable Glycerin
- A rich humectant, emollient and lubricant
naturally
extracted from vegetable oils, glycerin has been
used in
cosmetic formulations for thousands of years. The
synthetic
version is highly irritating.
Vegetable Xanthan Gum
- Liquid blend of Vitamin A and D3. A natural
thickener
derived from pasteurized ferment that grows on
cabbage.
Vitamin
E
Nicotinate - Alpha-tocopheryl (Vitamin E)
nicotinate is
a synthetic ester formed from d1-alpha-tocopherol
and
nicotinic acid. We use the nicotinate which is a
naturally
forming acid to esterify the vitamin E making it
more stable
and useful in cosmetic formulations.
Walnut Oil - Walnut Oil comes
from the extraction of Walnuts from the Walnut Tree,
a
common name for some members of the Juglandaceae
family,
chiefly deciduous, resinous trees characterized by
large and
aromatic compound leaves. Species of the Walnut
family are
indigenous mostly to the North Temperate Zone, but
also
range from Central America along the Andes to
Argentina and
through tropical Asia to Java and New Guinea.
Walnuts have a healthy fatty acid profile, made up
of mostly
polyunsaturated and monounsaturated (14%) lipids.
There are
two classes of polyunsaturated fatty acids --
Omega-6 and
Omega-3. Walnuts are a good source of alpha
Linolenic Acid
(ALA), the parent compound of the Omega-3 family.
Most
vegetable oils used in our diets are rich sources of
the
Omega-6 fatty acids. Chinese traditional medicine
theorize
Walnut kernels as being good for the brain,
invigorating
intelligence, nourishment for the blood, darkening
and
nourishment for hair, warming effects for the lung
and
resolving phlegm, and relieving constipation
dispelling cold
symptoms. Walnut Oil can be used in any cosmetic
product as
an active principle or as a carrier oil. It is rich
in
Vitamin A and E and is very unsaturated providing
good
moisturizing, anti-aging, regenerative and toning
properties.
Walnut
oil
can be used in:
-
Anti-wrinkle products for around the eyes
- Creams
for
dry, normal and mature skin
- Creams
for
dry hands
- Body
oils
& hygiene products
- Massage
oil
- Lip
balms
Walnut
Oil
has been used for oil painting as a drying medium.
It was
extremely common in early days of oil painting, but
is
seldom used today. It also provide artist's with a
non-toxic, environmentally responsible alternative
to
solvent based, rapid drying alkyd mediums.
Willow Herb
- Epilobium Angustifolium. Botanical extract that
provides
exceptionally fast and effective anti-irritant
action and
purifies the skin. Contains the active compound
salicin and
frequently appears in herbal analgesic formulas.
Wintergreen Oil
- A tonic stimulant
and
astringent, this aromatic oil has a heating or
warming
action on the muscles and skin. Excellent in body
rubs and
bath oils. Intensely strong, sweet and woody. Should
not be
used for aromatherapy.
Witch Hazel
- A natural astringent. Often used to treat skin
irritations, inflammation, insect bites and burns.
Wheatgerm -
Adds to sun
screening
properties. Wheat Germ Oil is extracted from the
germ of the
Wheat Kernel. It is red in color and has a strong
odor. This
oil is high in Lecithin, Vitamin A, D, and E;
Vitamin E is a
natural preservative, the highest Vitamin E content
of any
oil (250 IU per ounce). Twenty-eight pounds of wheat
germ is
required to produce one quart of oil. Wheat Germ Oil
is
normally not used as an emollient for creams and
lotions,
however, is used for its high content of several
important
active ingredients for skin care. Wheat Germ Oil
supports
the skin's natural process of regeneration and aids
muscle
and lymph function. It is particularly valuable for
treating
dry and aging skin. Creams and lotions manufactured
with
Wheat Germ Oil have a yellowish color and have the
characteristic smell of wheat that cannot easily be
masked
by the addition of other fragrances.
Wool Wax
(Lanolin) - Used as
an emulsifier in Martina Gebhardt's skincare
treatments.
The wax is an active skin care substance which is
particularly useful in the treatment of dry and
allergy-prone skin. Wool Wax has no paraffin added
unlike
traditional lanolins. No classification to label on
lanolin
as organic exists, but wool wax would be that if it
did.
Yarrow Tincture
- A herb rich with history. Known as
Achillea millefolium, the herb in which Achilles
stopped
bleeding to his troops wounds in Trojan wars
(Ironically
shot by an Yarrow). One of Yarrow's many uses is to
bring
down fevers in colds and flu. Taken internally in a
hot tea,
the dried herb helps promote sweating by dilating
the
capillaries at the skin surface, helping cool the
body and
remove toxins. Also used as a circulatory aid and to
lower
blood pressure. Yarrow is an amazing herb in the
fact that
not only does it hinder external bleeding, but it
can be
used to help normal menstruation and clear clots
internally.
Yarrow's mild disinfecting and soothing qaulities
reduce
general rashes and skin irritations. Caution: In
large doses
yarrow is a uterine stimulant and therefore should
be
avoided during pregnancy. Yarrow may also have an
addictive
effect with other blood pressure lowering herbs or
medication including diuretics. Please consult your
health
care provider.
Ylang-Ylang, III
- Narcotically sweet, soft, floral, exotic scent.
Euphoric,
sensual, stabilizes strong emotions; relaxing,
soothing,
uplifting, stress reducing. Antidepressant,
aphrodisiac.
Xanthan Gum -
Xanthan Gum is a type
of
vegetable gum, which originates from sources such as
seeds,
plant exudates and marine plants. It is used as a
stabilizer
to carefully control blends of various food
ingredients such
as fats or emulsifiers. It is used in cosmetics to
thicken,
and control the separation of the ingredients.
Complements
the flax gels and other plant gels. Stabilizers have
the
following characteristics:
- Control
viscosity
- Control
phase separation
- Prevent
synerisis (watering out)
- Extend
shelf life
- Retard
crystal growth
- Suspend
particulate matter
- Form
gels
- Enhance
spreadability
Zinc Oxides - Apart from the numerous
uses zinc has in our everyday life, it is used in
Living
Nature and Caribbean Pacific's sunscreen
formulations due to
its natural sunscreen properties, protecting chapped
lips
and skin from the sun's harmful rays. Zinc also
improves
healing of wounds, like surgical incisions, burns
and other
skin irritations. It does this by stimulating the
transport
of Vitamin A from the liver to the skin, helping to
protect
body tissue from damage. As a drying agent and
astringent,
zinc oxide has been used for generations to soothe
diaper
rash and relieve itching. It is also a natural
insect
repellent.
Zinc
Oxide is
an oxide of Zinc, ZnO that is nearly insoluble in
water but
soluble in acids or alkalies. It occurs as white
hexagonal
crystals or a white powder commonly known as Zinc
White.
Zinc White is used as a pigment in paints; less
opaque than
Lithopone, it remains white when exposed to Hydrogen
Sulfide
or Ultraviolet Light. It is also used as a filler
for rubber
goods and in coatings for paper. Chinese White is a
special
grade of Zinc White used in artists' pigments.
Because it
absorbs Ultraviolet Light, Zinc Oxide can be used in
ointments, creams, and lotions to protect against
sunburn.
Crystalline Zinc Oxide exhibits the piezoelectric
effect, is
luminescent, and is light sensitive. Zinc Oxide
occurs in
nature as the mineral Zincite. Zinc Peroxide,
ZnO2·1/2H2O,
is a white to yellow powder used in antiseptic
ointments.
Micronized Zinc Oxide is used as an active
ingredient in
sunscreens. It provides a high degree of UV
absorption in
both the UV-A and UV-B ranges. Protection in both
ranges is
now believed necessary to protect against not only
sunburns,
but also photoaging and photocarcinogenesis. The low
level
of absorption in the visible wavelength region
indicates a
transparency to visible light, necessary for
consumer
acceptance. Most of us remember the white Zinc Oxide
cream
used by lifeguards around the world to prevent sun
burns on
their noses and lips. Zinc Oxide ointments have been
available for 75 years in the United States and
longer in
Europe as a soothing ointment for raw skin that has
been
overexposed to sun and/or wind. Zinc Oxide has
always been a
superior protector and healer from ravages of UVR.
The
problem with Zinc Oxide in the past has been that it
was
unsightly, chalky white in appearance, and never
used in
skin care for that reason and that reason alone.
What has
changed that makes Zinc Oxide now the preferred
choice of
both medical professionals and consumers? Zinc Oxide
has
always been an inert non-irritating natural
ingredient.
However now, due to modern technology, we are able
to
micronize the Zinc Oxide into super fine particles.
Particles that have been ground up into micron size
can now
be made into a fine and light cream that when you
spread the
product on your skin, it blends very well and it is
much
less visible than regular size granulars of Zinc
Oxide-almost invisible. The use of several sunscreen
agents
to achieve the desired effects of high SPF numbers,
low
irritation potential, or broad spectrum protection,
is
becoming commonplace. Zinc Oxide in combination with
Titanium Dioxide provides a totally inorganic
sunscreen
system. It can also be used with organic additives
to boost
the final UV coverage, reduce the formula's
irritation
potential, and take advantage of synergistic
effects. Zinc
Oxide is listed as a Category I Skin Protectant by
the
United States Food and Drug Administration, and is
considered to be safe and effective for
over-the-counter
human use. It has a long history of safe use in baby
products, cosmetics and pharmaceuticals.
Recent
research has shown that it is not advisable to use
most of
the chemicals now commonly used in sunscreens, when
and if
at all possible. The concern is especially relevant
for
those areas of the body (i.e. face and hands) that
are
likely to receive greater UVR damage than those
parts of the
body that are usually protected by clothes.
The
most
widely used sunscreens are chemicals that work by
absorbing
the UV rays. Most frequently used of these compounds
are
octyl methoxycinnamate, benzophene-3 & 4, and
octyl dimethyl
PABA. The drawback of these compounds is that they
clog the
pores, cause breakouts, sensitize and irritate the
skin, and
cause allergic reactions. According to a recent
study
conducted on 330 subjects having an allergy to
cosmetic
products, 36% were allergic to UV filters of this
type.
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