AVOCADO OIL - (Persea Gratissima) can function as an emollient and as carrier oil in cosmetic preparation, helping transport active substances into the skin. Its skin benefiting properties include bactericidal and soothing, particularly to sensitive skin. Current speculation among researches is that avocado oil may mobilize and increase the collagen of connective tissue. This would keep the skin moist and smooth in addition to having a favorable influence in the treatment for minor skin conditions. Avocado oil has one of the highest penetration rates among similar oils. Avocado oil has also demonstrated sun screening characteristics, and has high concentration of vitamins A, D, and E. This oil is obtained from the ripe avocado fruit. Read more about Avocado Oil.
ANTIOXIDANT - refers to the ability of a chemical or ingredient to counteract or block the damaging effects of free radical activity.
ALLANTOIN- healing and soothing botanical extract. It is considered an excellent anti-irritant and is believed to aid acne skins. Found in comfrey root, it is considered nonallergenic.
ASCORBIC ACID- see Vitamin C. Ascorbic acid has skin-lightening and antioxidant properties.
ALOE BARBADENSIS- Aloe Vera. It has hydrating, softening, healing, antimicrobial, and anti- inflammatory properties. Its moisturizing ability is its mots widely recognized characteristic. Aloe Vera penetrates the skin, supplying moisture directly to the tissue. Other properties include moisture regulation and apparent ability to absorb UV light. It has a slightly relaxing effect on the skin, making it beneficial for sensitive, sunburned, and sun-exposed skins. Aloe Vera is derived from the sap of the aloe leaf, and was used medicinally for more than three thousand years. More about Aloe Vera.
ACHILLEA MILLEFOLIUM- Yarrow extract. Has astringent, anitseptic, anit-inflammatory, healing, stimulant and calming properties. One of herbs constituents is salycilic acid, therefore it is considered good in the care of oily and acne skins. The plant also has a long history as a powerful 'healing herb' used topically for wounds, cuts and abrasions.
ARCTIUM LAPPA- Burdock root extract. Credited with anitbacterial and antifungal properties and an apparent ability to help regulate/normalize oil production. Usually used in the treatment of mild acne conditions. It is also considered highly effective for relieving bruises and inflammation.
ARNICA MONTANA- Mountain Arnica. A botanical credited with a wide variety of properties including anitseptic, astringent, antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, anticoagulant, circulation-stimulant, healing, and stimulating. It also promotes the removal of waste from the skin, aids in promotion of new tissue growth, and is antiallergenic. Traditionally used at the appearance of couperose condition, arnica extract is also considered excellent for an acne condition. Treats damaged, reddened, or tired skin.
ALPHA HYDROXYACID- AHA. the family name for a group of naturally occurring acids often referred to as "fruit acids". AHA's are used as moisturizers, emollients, and exfoliants. The benefits attributed to these active substances include a reduction of fine lines and superficial wrinkles, a lightening of surface pigmentation, and softer, suppler skin with improved hydration.
ALMOND OIL- An emollient with soothing properties. It is a rich source of Vitamin E and antioxidants. Read more about Almond Oil.
AMYGDALIC ACID- it is an alpha hydroxy acid, derived from Bitter Almonds. Mandelic acid is unique in that it possesses antibacterial properties. It is an appropriate treatment for a wide variety of skin concerns, from acne to wrinkles.