Ingredients Database

The following is a compilation of the commonly used ingredients in beauty, makeup. and health supplements made by ZENMED.

A

Acerola: Acerola is a fruit rich in vitamin C, vitamin A, thiamine, riboflavin, and niacin. It is used for its medicinal properties due to its strong Vitamin C content.

Alcohol: Small amounts used as cleaning agents.

Algin: a chemical taken from brown seaweeds. In manufacturing medications, algin is used as a binding agent for tablets, as a binding and soothing agent in throat lozenges, and as a film in peel-off facial masks.

Allantoin (Source: Comfrey Root): a healing, moisturizing, soothing, anti-irritating, keratolytic and non-toxic agent useful in dermatological, cosmetic and veterinary preparation. Allantoin is a valuable cell-proliferating healing agent which stimulates healthy tissue formation.

Aloe Vera Gel (Certified Organic): Aloe (often called aloe vera) is a plant related to cactus. Aloe gel is the clear, jelly-like substance found in the inner part of the aloe plant leaf. It is used topically, as a remedy for skin conditions. Some chemicals in aloe gel seem to be able to kill bacteria.

Aloe Vera (Leaf): Aloe (often called aloe vera) is a plant related to cactus. Aloe latex comes from just under the plant's skin and is yellow in color. Some aloe products are made from the whole crushed leaf, so they contain both gel and latex.

Alpha Lipoic Acid: Alpha-lipoic acid is considered an antioxidant.  Alpha-lipoic acid can help to prevent certain kinds of cell damage in the body, and also restores vitamin levels such as vitamin E and vitamin C.

Althea (Marshmallow): a plant whose leaves and root are used to make medicine.  Marshmallow leaf and root can be applied directly to the skin for pockets of infection (abscesses) and skin ulcers; and as a poultice for skin inflammation or burns, and for other wounds.

Aluminum Silicate (Kaolin): Kaolin is a type of clay found in nature.  Kaolin can be applied directly to the skin in a wet dressing (poultice) or as a dusting powder. It is used to dry or soften the skin.

Amylase: naturally occurring in the body, it breaks starches into sugars. It is involved in anti-inflammatory reactions such as those caused by the release of histamine and similar substances.

Arbutin: Arbutin is a derivative of hydroquinone (a topical skin lightener). It works by suppressing melanin production in the skin by blocking an essential pathway that is essential to create pigment in the first place. When used on hyperpigmentation it acts by blocking new pigment from forming and hence decreasing the darkness. 

Argan Oil: Oil produced from the kernels of the argan tree, endemic to Morocco, that is valued for its nutritive, cosmetic and numerous medicinal properties. Argan oil restores the natural freshness and adds to the softness of the skin and face. It is astoundingly rich in Vitamin E, Vitamin A, and essential fatty acids. It is a one stop shop for beauty.

Ascorbic Acid (Vitamin C): Vitamin C is an important vitamin. Some animals can make their own vitamin C, but people must get this vitamin from food and other sources. It is commonly used for treating and healing infections including gum disease, acne and other skin infections.  Vitamin C can also be applied to the skin to protect it against the sun, pollutants, and other environmental hazards. Vitamin C is also helpful in healing damage from radiation therapy.

Astragalus (Root): also called huang qi or milk vetch, this comes from a type of bean or legume. It contains many antioxidant effects that inhibit free radical production.

Avobenzone: an oil soluble sunscreen agent that works by absorbing UV rays over a wide wavelength, and then converting them to less damaging infrared radiation (heat). It is marketed as a “broad spectrum” sunscreen because it protects the skin against the sun’s entire range of UVA rays.

 

B

Balm Mint: This extract comes from the leaves and flowers of the Balm Mint plant (Melissa Officinalis). It has an antibacterial and anti-inflammatory effect with calming, soothing skin properties.

Barley Malt (Fiber): Barley is a plant. Barley extract is helpful in healing wounds when applied to the skin.

Beeswax: a product made from the honeycomb of the honeybee and other bees. Yellow and white beeswax are used as natural thickeners, emulsifiers, and as stiffening agents in cosmetics. Beeswax absolute is used as a natural fragrance in soaps and perfumes.

Benzethonium Chloride: in addition to having highly effective antimicrobial activity, benzethonium chloride is positively charged. This positive charge attracts it to the skin and hair. This contributes to a soft, powdery after feel on the skin and hair, as well as long-lasting persistent activity against microorganisms.

Benzyl Alcohol: an organic alcohol found in many fruits and teas. It works as an antiseptic to help prevent the growth of bacteria on the skin.

Bisabolol: a colorless, thick oily liquid that is the main component of the essential oil made from the German chamomile plant. Useful in enhancing the appearance of dry or damaged skin by reducing flaking and restoring suppleness.

Black Walnut (Husk): a tree with many uses such as a gargle, a natural hair dye or for treating wounds.

Borage Oil: a plant whose flowers and leaves, as well as the oil from its seeds, are used for skin disorders including eczema, seborrheic dermatitis, and neurodermatitis.

Bromelain: an enzyme found in pure pineapple juice and in the pineapple stem. Bromelain helps to fight pain and swelling (inflammation) in the body.

Burdock (Burdock Root Seed) a plant whose root, leaf, and seed are applied to the skin for its antibacterial and anti-inflammation and to help dry skin (ichthyosis), acne, psoriasis, and eczema.

C

C12-15 Alkyl Benzoate: An ester of benzoic acid used mainly as an emollient and thickening agent. It's also been shown to act as an antimicrobial agent and a natural preservative, particularly in products containing UV absorbers.

Calendula: a plant applied to the skin to reduce pain and swelling (inflammation) and to treat poorly healing wounds and leg ulcers. It can also be applied to the skin (used topically) for varicose veins, hemorrhoids, and inflammation of the lining of the eyelid (conjunctivitis).

Capric Caprylic Triglycerides (Coconut Oil):  an oily liquid made from coconut oil which slows the loss of water from the skin by forming a barrier on the skin’s surface. It is also used to naturally alter the thickness of liquid products.

Carbomer: a term used for a series of polymers primarily made from acrylic acid and are useful in keeping emulsions from separating into their liquid and oil counterparts.

Cascara Sagrada (Bark): a shrub. The dried bark is used in the processing of some sunscreens.

Cellulose:  a naturally occurring component found in the cell walls of plants. It is used in cosmetics for its absorbent, anticaking, binding, bulking, emulsion stabilizing, film forming, skin conditioning, and viscosity increasing nature.

Centillica Asiatica: (also known as gotu kola, Indian Pennywort and Mandookaparni) has been used for centuries as a medicinal herb and is commonly used for wound healing, detoxifying the body, treatment of skin disorders (such as psoriasis and eczema), revitalizing connective tissue, burn and scar treatment, clearing up skin infections, and strengthening of veins (varicose veins), just to name a few.

Ceramide 3: Naturally occurring skin lipids (fats) that are major structural components of the skin’s outer structure. Skin as a barrier system inhibits water movement via its extracellular matrix, which has a unique composition of 50% ceramides, 25% cholesterol, and 15% free fatty acids. Adding ceramides to skin-care products can help to restore the skin’s barrier system

Cetearyl Alcohol/ Cetyl Alcohol: Cetearyl Alcohol and the other fatty alcohols keep an emulsion from separating into its oil and liquid components. These ingredients are also used to alter the thickness of liquid products and to increase foaming capacity or to stabilize foams.

Cetyl Phosphate: Potassium Cetyl Phosphate is the potassium salt of a complex mixture of esters of phosphoric acid and Cetyl Alcohol, a multi-functioning fatty alcohol.  Cetyl Phosphate is an anionic emulsifier and stabiliser for the preparation of stable and homogeneous oil-in-water emulsions for cosmetic utilisations.

Chamomile (Chamomile Extract): an herb applied directly to the skin to decrease pain and swelling and as a germ-killer in ointments and creams.  Also commonly used topically for wounds, burns, eczema, frostbite, diaper rash, bedsores and hemorrhoids.

Chaste Tree (Vitex Agnus-Castus): Vitex agnus-castus is the fruit of the chaste tree commonly applied to the skin to flush out parasites and to prevent insect bites and stings. Also used for acne.

Chlorhexidine Gluconate:  classifed as an antimicrobial, oral care, and preservative. It is a cleanser for surgical scrub, skin wounds, germicidal hand rinse, antibacterial dental rinse.

Citric Acid (Alpha Hydroxy Acids): a group of natural acids found in foods. Alpha hydroxy acids include citric acid (found in citrus fruits), glycolic acid (found in sugar cane), lactic acid (found in sour milk), malic acid (found in apples), tartaric acid (found in grapes), and others.  Various alpha hydroxy acids are applied to the skin (used topically) for moisturizing and removing dead skin cells, for treating acne and improving the appearance of acne scars, for improving the appearance of photo-aged skin, and firming and smoothing skin.

Citrus Bioflavonoids: a group of plant pigments which are responsible for the colors of many flowers and fruits. Citrus bioflavonoids are those bioflavonoids, or flavonoids, found in citrus fruits such as lemon, orange, tangerine, grapefruit, etc. These substances possess antioxidant activities, which help fight poor health and aging. Citrus bioflavonoids have been investigated for their biological activity, with both anti-inflammatory and -carcinogenic effects being reported.

Citrus Pectin (Fruit): Pectin is a fibre found in fruits. Commonly applied to the skin to protect raw or ulcerated mouth and throat sores.

Cocamide DEA (Source: Coconut): a viscous liquid or waxy solid. These ingredients are fatty acids derivatives of diethanolamine (DEA). Generally used to thicken the aqueous (water) portion of personal care products.

Coenzyme Q10: is a vitamin-like substance found throughout the body, but especially in the heart, liver, kidney, and pancreas. Coenzyme Q-10 is an important vitamin-like substance required for the proper function of many organs and chemical reactions in the body. It helps provide energy to cells. Coenzyme Q-10 also seems to have antioxidant activity.

Coco-Caprylate Caprate: Plant-derived alcohols, coco, mixed esters with octanoic and decanoic acids used as a traditional, medium spreading emollient, typically used at 1-15%.

Cocoa Butter: the plant from which chocolate is made. Long regarded as a food treat, cocoa is now also used to treat skin issues such as moisturization, wrinkles and stretch mark prevention.

Cocamidopropyl Betaine (Source: Coconut): a synthetic surfactant derived from coconut oil and dimethylaminopropylamine commonly used as an emulsifying agent and thickener.

Colloidal Oatmeal: ground kernels of oats which temporarily protects injured or exposed skin from harmful or annoying stimuli, and may therefore provide relief to the skin.

Coltsfoot: a plant commonly used to fight pain and swelling (inflammation).

Comfrey (Comfrey Extract): Comfrey is a plant whose leaf, root, and root-like stem (rhizome) are commonly applied to the skin for ulcers, wounds, joint inflammation, bruises, rheumatoid arthritis, swollen veins (phlebitis), gout, and fractures.

Corydalis Tuber: a plant. People use the tuber and root for its medicinal healing properties.

Cucumber (Cucumis Sativus) Extract: Cucumber Seed Extract functions as a skin conditioning agent and emollient.

 

D

Dandelion (Dandelion Root): an herb whose ground up parts are commonly used to treat eczema, and bruises. It is also used as a skin toner.

Deionized Water: Distilled water and deionized (DI) water are the most common forms of purified water.

Diazolidinyl (Diazolidinyl Urea): Diazolidinyl Urea is a fine white powder used to prevent or retard bacterial growth and thus prevent personal care products from spoilage.

Dimethicone: Dimethicone is a silicone based polymer used for its skin conditioning, film formers, and skin protecting agents.

Dipotassium Glycyrrhizate: specific compounds isolated from licorice plants. These ingredients are used to enhance the appearance of dry or damaged skin by reducing flaking and restoring suppleness.

Disodium C 14-16 Olefin Sulfonate (Source: Coconut):  a form called Sodium Alpha-Olefin Sulfonates clean the skin and hair by helping water to mix with oil and dirt so that they can be rinsed away.

Disodium Oleamido Sulfosuccinate (Source: Coconut): Used in personal care products for its antistatic, cleansing, foam, boosting, foaming, hydrotrope, and surfactant functions.

DMDM Hydantoin:  prevents or retards microbial growth, thereby protecting cosmetics and personal care products from spoilage.

 

E

Echinacea Augustifolia (Root): Echinacea is an herb whose leaves, flower and root are commonly applied to the skin to treat boils, abscesses, skin wounds, ulcers, burns, eczema, psoriasis, herpes simplex and hemorrhoids.

Echinacea Extract: an herb whose extract is commonly used to treat boils, abscesses, skin wounds, ulcers, burns, eczema, psoriasis, UV radiation skin damage, herpes simplex, bee stings, and hemorrhoids.

Emulsifying Wax: used to thicken lipid (oil) portion of cosmetics and personal care products and help keep emulsions from separating into their oil and liquid components. These waxes lessen the brittleness of stick products and add strength and stability to personal care products.

Erucamide:  a non aqueous viscosity increasing Agent with opacifying and viscosity controlling functions.

Ethylhexylglycerin: A natural preservative used as a safer alternative to parabens. Derived from glycerine and can also be used as a deodorizer and skin conditioner.

Ethylhexylpalmitate: A derivative of palm oil lipid and is an ultra-mild, skin smoothing ester. Used in cosmetic formulations as a solvent, carrying agent, pigment wetting agent, fragrance fixative and emollient.

Eucalyptus Essential Oil: a tree whose dried leaves and oil are diluted and used directly on the skin to help pain and swelling of respiratory tract mucous membranes, joint pain, genital herpes, and nasal stuffiness.

Evening Primrose: the oil from the seed of the evening primrose plant. Evening primrose oil is used for skin disorders such as eczema, psoriasis, and acne.

 

F

Flax Seed Oil: Flaxseed is the seed from the plant Linum usitatissimum. Oil from the seed can be applied to the skin to sooth irritations or soften roughness.

Forsythia (Forsythia Fruit): a plant whose extracts are thought to decrease inflammation.

 

G

Gardenia: Flower extract used in cosmetics to impart natural fragrance; also functions as an antioxidant.

Geranium: Flower extract used in cosmetics to impart natural fragrance; also functions as a skin conditioning agent and emollient. It is also commonly used to promote circulation and balance and rejuvenate the body.

Ginger (Root): Ginger is an herb which can be used fresh, dried and powdered, or as a juice or oil. Some people pour the fresh juice on their skin to treat burns. The oil made from ginger is sometimes applied to the skin to relieve pain.

Gingko Biloba Extract: an herb whose extracts contain substances that might kill the bacteria and fungi that causes infections in the body.

Glycereth-7 Cocoate: A mild coconut-derived surfactant designated as a safe organic skincare ingredient commonly used as a gentle cleansing agent and thickener.

Glycerine:  Glycerol is natural occurring and commonly used for its moisturization properties.

Glyceryl Monolaurate: Occurs naturally in breast milk. Derived from glycerine, it is commonly used as an emollient, skin-conditioner and emulsifier.

Glyceryl Stearate: slows the loss of water from the skin by forming a barrier on the skin’s surface.

Glycolic Acid (Alpha hydroxy acid): a group of natural acids found in foods. Glycolic acids (found in sugar cane) are applied to the skin (used topically) for moisturizing and removing dead skin cells, for treating acne and improving the appearance of acne scars, for improving the appearance of photo-aged skin, and firming and smoothing skin. Alpha hydroxy acids are also used topically to treat extremely dry skin (xerosis), an inherited disease marked by dry, scaly skin (ichthyosis), and a condition that causes darkening of the skin (melasma).

Goldenseal (root) Extract: an herb applied to the skin for rashes, ulcers, wound infections, itching, eczema, and acne.

Green Tea Extract (dried leaves):  Green tea is a product made from the Camellia sinensis plant. An “extract” can be made from the leaves to use as a skin smoother. Instead of drinking green tea, some people apply green tea bags to their skin to soothe sunburn and prevent skin cancer due to sun exposure. Green tea bags are also used to decrease puffiness under the eyes.

Ground Walnut Shells: English walnut is a tree. The fruit (nut) is a popular food. The nut, the nut’s shell (hull), and the leaf are used directly on the skin for skin diseases, skin infections, and eyelid swelling.

Guar Gum (Leaf): Guar gum is a fibre from the seed of the guar plant commonly used as a binding agent in tablets, and as a thickening agent in lotions and creams.

 

H

Hespiridin: classified as a citrus bioflavonoid. It is known to be an anti-allergen and anti-inflammatory agent. Hesperidin is an important nutrient that works together with Vitamin C to maintain the health of collagen. Sagging and wrinkling of the skin is due to the result of a breakdown of collagen.

Honeysuckle (Honeysuckle Flower): a plant that is sometimes called “woodbine.” Extracts from the flower, seed, and leaves are applied to the skin for inflammation and itching, and to kill germs.

Horsetail:  a plant who’s above ground parts are applied directly to the skin to treat wounds and burns.

Hyaluronic Acid: substance that is naturally present in the human body. Common uses include healing wounds, burns, skin ulcers, and as a moisturizer. There is also a lot of interest in using hyaluronic acid to prevent the effects of aging. In fact, hyaluronic acid has been promoted as a "fountain of youth."

Hydrogenated Castor Oil: Castor oil is produced by pressing ripe seeds that have had their outer covering (hull) removed. Castor oil has been used as medicine for centuries. Commonly used topically to soften skin, bunions and corns; and to dissolve cysts, growths, and warts.

Hydrolysed Soy Protein: Soy comes from soybeans. The beans can be processed into soy protein, which is a powder. Soy contains "isoflavones" which are changed in the body to "phytoestrogens," which are similar to the hormone estrogen.

Hydrolyzed Wheat Protein: Low-molecular weight protein derived from soft wheat. Provides amino acids & high glutamine levels to skin & hair.

Hydroxyethylcellulose: Cellulose is a naturally occurring component found in the cell walls of plants. Commonly used for its absorbent, anticaking, binding, bulking, emulsion stabilizing, film forming, skin conditioning, and viscosity increasing nature.

 

I

Isatis Root: an herb whose dried leaf and root have been used as medicine since ancient times. In Traditional Chinese Medicine, Ban Lang Gen refers to the isatis root. Isatis is applied directly to the skin for a skin conditions, usually psoriasis. Some people also take isatis by mouth for this condition.

 

J

Jojoba Oil/Beads: Jojoba is a shrub that is grows in dry regions of northern Mexico and the southwestern US. Jojoba oil and wax are produced from the seeds and used for treating skin conditions such as acne, psoriasis, sunburn, and chapped skin. It is also used topically to encourage the regrowth of hair in people who are balding.

 

K

Kaolin: Kaolin is a type of clay found in nature. It can be applied directly to the skin in a wet dressing (poultice) or as a dusting powder. It is used to dry or soften the skin.

Kelp (Bladderwrack): Bladderwrack is a type of seaweed. People use the whole plant to apply to the skin for skin diseases, burns, aging skin, and insect bites.

Korean Ginseng Root (Panax): Panax ginseng is a plant whose root is commonly used in soaps and personal care products.

 

L

Lactic Acid (Alpha hydroxy acid): Alpha hydroxy acids are a group of natural acids found in foods. Lactic acids (found in sour milk) are applied to the skin (used topically) for moisturizing and removing dead skin cells, for treating acne and improving the appearance of acne scars, for improving the appearance of photo-aged skin, and firming and smoothing skin.  Alpha hydroxy acids are also used topically to treat extremely dry skin (xerosis), an inherited disease marked by dry, scaly skin (ichthyosis), and a condition that causes darkening of the skin (melasma).

Lactobacillus Acidophilus: Lactobacillus is a type of bacteria. Lactobacillus is used for skin disorders such as fever blisters, canker sores, eczema (allergic dermatitis); and acne.

Lavender Essential Oil: Lavender is an herb whose flower and the oil of lavender are used as a natural fragrance and for its soothing properties.

Lavender Hydrosol: Lavender hydrosol is gentle, balancing for all skin types, cooling in summer's heat, soothing sunburns, healing irritation, gently tones oily, dry and mature skin, cleanses gently and safely. Lavender has always been recommended for fragile or damaged skin. The hydrosol makes a wonderful ingredient for face masks for all skin types, a gentle toner or cleanser; and a great mister to ease sunburn or windburn.

Lemon Essential Oil: Lemon is a plant. The fruit, juice, and peel are used in cosmetic preparations. Lemon contains antioxidants called bioflavonoids.

Licorice Root Extract: Licorice is a plant whose root is commonly used in personal care products for its natural fragrance and to reduce oiliness in the hair.

Lime Essential Oil: Lime is a citrus fruit. Oil pressed from the crushed fruit is known as “distilled lime oil.” Oil pressed from the unripe peel is known as “expressed lime oil.” It can be applied directly to the skin to kill germs, treat nausea, and as a stimulant.

Lipase: Lipase is a digestive enzyme that is found in many plants, animals, bacteria, and moulds. An enzyme is a protein that speeds up a particular biochemical reaction in the body.

Lycium Fruit: Lycium is a native Chinese deciduous shrub with bright red berries. The dried berries and root bark are used in personal care preparations. Traditionally, lycium has been used to promote longevity

 

M

Magnesium: Magnesium is a mineral that is present naturally in relatively large amounts in the body. Commonly applied to the skin to treat infected skin ulcers, boils, and carbuncles; and to speed up wound healing.

Magnesium Aluminum Silicate: a clay-like ingredient based on silicates. It is used in cosmetics due to its abrasive, absorbent, anticaking, bulking, opacifying, and viscosity increasing agents.

Magnesium Ascorbyl Phosphate (High Grade Vitamin C): Vitamin C is a vitamin. Some animals can make their own vitamin C, but people must get this vitamin from food and other sources. It is commonly used for infections including gum disease, acne and other skin infections. Vitamin C can be applied on the skin to protect it against the sun, pollutants, and other environmental hazards. Vitamin C is also applied to the skin to help with damage from radiation therapy.

Magnesium Stearate: The Stearate salts are used for their lubricating properties. They also help to keep emulsions from separating into their oil and liquid components. The Stearate salts increase the thickness of the lipid (oil) portion of cosmetics and personal care products and reduce the clear or transparent appearance of finished products.

Marshmallow (Root): Marshmallow is a plant. Marshmallow leaf and root can be applied directly to the skin for pockets of infection (abscesses) and skin ulcers; and as a poultice for skin inflammation or burns, and for other wounds.

Matrixyl: Metrixyl is a peptide. It is a long-term anti-wrinkle system that attempts to boost collagen production or repair DNA.

Menthol (Peppermint) Essential Oil: Peppermint is a plant whose leaf and oil can be applied to the skin for itchiness, allergic rash, bacterial and viral infections.

Methyl Gluceth-20: a mild humectant and emollient. It is a water soluble emollient and humectant produced from Glucose and Methyl Alcohol and originally derived from corn sugar and corn starch. It is a versatile, gentle, effective humectant, emollient, and foaming agent that imparts a smooth feel to the skin. It is specifically used for its moisture retentive qualities and ability to open pores and follicles

Methyl & Propyl Paraben: Parabens are technically known as esters of para-hydroxybenzoic acid. They develop in nature from an organic acid and an alcohol.

Methylisothiazolinone: a preservative used in cosmetics and personal care products alone, or it may be used in combination with Methylchloroisothiazolinone. Also used to prevent or retard bacterial growth, and thus protect cosmetics and personal care products from spoilage.

Milk Thistle: a plant whose seeds are more commonly used than other parts. Milk thistle gets its name from the milky sap that comes out of the leaves when they are broken. It also seems to have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects. Milk thistle plant extract might enhance the effects of estrogen.

Montmorillonite: a clay-like ingredient that are based on silicates. It is frequently used in cosmetics due to its abrasive, absorbent, bulking, emulsion stabilizing, opacifying and viscosity increasing agents.

Myrcia Oil (Bay Oil): West Indian Bay essential oil is extracted from the Laurus nobilis tree, of the Lauraceae family and is also known as sweet bay, laurel and Mediterranean bay. Bay oil can be a potent antioxidant.

 

N

Natural Phytosterol (Beta-sitosterol): Beta-sitosterol is a substance found in plants. Chemists call it a “plant sterol ester.” It is found in fruits, vegetables, nuts, and seeds. It is applied to the skin for treating wounds and burns.

Neem: Neem is a tree. The bark, leaves, and seeds are used to make medicine. Less frequently, the root, flower, and fruit are also used. Some people apply neem directly to the skin to treat head lice, skin diseases, wounds, and skin ulcers; and as a skin softener.

 

O

Oat Bran (Seed Kernel): Oat is a plant whose seeds (oat), leaves and stem (oat straw), and bran (the outer layer of whole oats) are applied topically. Oats are used for skin conditions including itchiness, dryness, oiliness, weeping eczema, and contact dermatitis. Oats are also applied to the skin for chicken pox, osteoarthritis, liver disorders, and added to foot baths for chronically cold or tired feet.

Octinoxate (Octyl Methoxycinnamate): most often employed to absorb UV-B rays and protect the skin from incurring sun damage.

Octisalate (Ethylhexyl Salicylate): an active sunscreen ingredient. Octisalate is an organic compound used as an ingredient in sunscreens and cosmetics to absorb the full range of UVB rays from the sun. The salicylate component absorbs ultraviolet light and protects the skin from the harmful effects of exposure to sunlight.

Octyl Palmitate (Source: Coconut): a derivative of palm oil often used as an organic replacement to silicone. It is an ultra-mild, skin-smoothing ester that has a ‘dry-slip’ feel that is very similar to silicone’s texture.

Olive Squalane: a pure, botanically derived squalane produced by the total hydrogenation of the squalene source in olive oil. It is a non-animal alternative to shark-derived squalane. A few drops of Squalane applied to the skin will keep the skin moist and wrinkle free. Squalane has also been used to speed wound healing. Known as a miracle ingredient.

Oregano Essential Oil:  Oregano is a plant. The leaf is used to make medicine. It is applied to the skin for skin conditions including acne, athlete's foot, oily skin, dandruff, canker sores, warts, ringworm, rosacea, and psoriasis.

Oregon Grape Root: Oregon grape is a plant. The root and root-like stem (rhizome) are used to make medicine. Oregon grape is applied to the skin for a skin disorder called psoriasis and as a disinfectant.

Oxybenzone (Benzophenone-3): Oxybenzone is an active sunscreen ingredient. Oxybenzone is primarily used as a photostabilizer and sunscreen. By absorbing UV rays, it also helps prevent the integrity of other cosmetic ingredients from deteriorating under the sun. For this reason, Oxybenzone is often used in conjunction with other sunscreen agents.

 

P

Panthenol (Vitamin B5): Pantothenic acid is a vitamin, also known as vitamin B5. It is widely found in both plants and animals including meat, vegetables, cereal grains, legumes, eggs, and milk. It is applied to the skin for itching, promoting healing of mild eczemas, and other skin conditions. Pantothenic acid is important for our bodies to properly use carbohydrates, proteins, and lipids and for healthy skin.

Papain: Papain is taken from the fruit of the papaya tree. It is used for pain and swelling (inflammation) as well as fluid retention. Some people apply papain directly to the skin to treat infected wounds, sores, ulcers, and psoriasis.

PEG-7 Glyceryl Cocoate: PEG-7 Glyceryl Cocoate is polyethylene glycol ether of Glyceryl Cocoate. PEG-7 Glyceryl Cocoate acts as a lubricant on the skin’s surface, which gives the skin a soft and smooth appearance. It also helps to form emulsions by reducing the surface tension of the substances to be emulsified.

PEG-20 Methyl Glucose Sesquistearate: an emollient and surfactant that is minimally absorbed by skin because of its low molecular weight.

Peppermint Essential Oil: Menthol (Peppermint) Essential Oil: Peppermint is a plant whose leaf and oil are used as medicine. Peppermint oil is applied to the skin for itchiness, allergic rash, bacterial and viral infections.

Phenoxyethanol: Phenoxyethanol is a glycol ether. It is used in cosmetics as a preservative as an alternative to parabens. Phenoxyethanol is also used as an anti-bacterial in cosmetics as well as a stabilizer in perfume.

Plant-derived Cellulose: Cellulose is a naturally occurring component found in the cell walls of plants. It is used in personal care products for its absorbent, anticaking, binding, bulking, emulsion stabilizing, film forming, skin conditioning, and viscosity increasing nature.

Potassium Sorbate:  Sorbic Acid and Potassium Sorbate kill microorganisms, or prevent or retard their growth and reproduction, and thus protect cosmetics and personal care products from spoilage.

Provitamin B5: Provitamin B5 penetrates readily into skin & hair. It is a potent moisturizer & softener of the skin, makes the skin more elastic, soothes irritated skin (anti-inflammatory effects), and heals minor wounds (promotes epithelialization).

Propylene Glycol: Propylene Glycol is an organic alcohol. It is one of the most widely used ingredients in cosmetics and personal care products. Propylene Glycol attracts water and functions as moisturizers to enhance the appearance of skin by reducing flaking and restoring suppleness.

Psyllium Seed Husk (Blond): Blond psyllium is an herb. The seed and the outer covering of the seed (husk) are used to make medicine. It has soothing properties and is commonly applied to the skin as a poultice for boils.

Purified Water: Filtered water used in cosmetics. All water used in cosmetic formulations goes through this process to remove components that could interfere with a product’s stability and performance.

 

R

Red Dahlia: Dahlia roots and petals have been studied extensively in Asia for their effects on glucose levels. In South America, dahlias were used extensively in skin compounds for their medicinal and nutritional properties.

Red Peony Root: Peony is a plant. The root and, less commonly, the flower and seed are used to make medicine. Peony is sometimes called red peony and white peony. This does not refer to the color of the flowers, which are pink, red, purple, or white, but to the color of the processed root. It can be especially helpful to the skin for healing cracked skin.

Reishi Extract (Fruit): Reishi mushroom is a fungus that some people describe as “tough” and “woody” with a bitter taste. The fruiting body (above-ground part) and mycelium (filaments connecting a group of mushrooms) are used as medicine. Reishi mushroom contains properties that seem to have a variety of potentially beneficial effects to the skin and body.

Rice Bran (Fibre): Rice is a plant. The outer layer of the grain (bran) and the oil made from the bran are used for medicine. Rice bran oil is popular as a “healthy oil” in Japan, Asia, and particularly India. It is a great treatment for eczema.

Rice Flour: Rice Flour is an excellent and deeply nourishing panacea for your skin. The rice flour and starch, due to their high derma-compatibility, are always widely used in many cosmetics forms such as aspersorium powder, dermal paste and products for baby skin, delicate skin and skin that is prone to redness

Rose Essential Oil (Certified Organic): Rose oil is an astringent in that it lifts skin, and contracts muscles thereby giving protection from untimely fall of wrinkles. It is also a Bactericidal and can cure external infections on skin. Most importantly, for cosmetics, it is a Cicatrisant, giving it the ability to fade scars and after marks of boils, acne and pox etc.

Rose Ether: used extensively in geranium and rose accords to boost the floral freshness.

Rose Geranium: Rose geranium oil is extracted from the leaves and stem of the rose geranium plant. It can be applied directly to the skin for nerve pain, especially pain following shingles. It is also commonly used topically as an astringent to tighten skin.

Rose Hip Oil: Rose hips are the round portion of the rose flower just below the petals. Rose hips contain the seeds of the rose plant. Dried rose hips and the seeds are used together to make medicine. Rose hips are as a natural source of vitamin C.

Rosemary Essential Oil: Rosemary is an herb. Oil is extracted from the leaf and used to make medicine. Rosemary is used topically for wound healing and treating a skin condition called eczema.

Rosewood Essential Oil (Bois de rose oil): Bois de rose oil is made from the wood from the Aniba rosaeodora tree. It is used for its healing properties and natural fragrance.

Rutin: a plant pigment (flavonoid) that is found in certain fruits and vegetables. The major sources of rutin for medical use include buckwheat, Japanese pagoda tree, and Eucalyptus macrorhyncha. Other sources of rutin include the leaves of several species of eucalyptus, lime tree flowers, elder flowers, hawthorn leaves and flowers, rue, St. John's Wort, Ginkgo biloba, apples, and other fruits and vegetables.

 

S

Sage: Sage is an herb. The leaf is used to make medicine. Sage is applied directly to the skin for cold sores.

Salicylic Acid: Salicylic Acid is sometimes called a beta hydroxy acid (abbreviated BHA) that can be obtained from the bark of willow trees. It is a common ingredient is cosmetics due to its anti-acne, exfoliating, and skin conditioning agents.

Sarsaparilla: Sarsaparilla is a plant. The root is used to make medicine for treating psoriasis and other skin diseases.

Schizonepeta: Schizonepeta is a plant. The parts that grow above the ground are used to make medicine. It is used for skin disorders including eczema, allergic rashes, and psoriasis.

Sclerotium Gum: a natural gum that produces an instant gel base when combined with water. Commonly used as a thickening and emulsifying agent when making creams. It has natural skin smoothing and skin soothing properties, and is an excellent base for Aromatherapy treatments when a gel is preferred to a lotion, cream or oil.

Sea Kelp (Bladderwrack): Bladderwrack is a type of seaweed. People use the whole plant to make medicine. It can also be applied to the skin for skin diseases, burns, aging skin, and insect bites.

Siberian Ginseng (Root): Siberian ginseng is a plant used for healing and invigorating properties.

Slippery Elm (Bark): Slippery elm is a tree. The inner bark (not the whole bark) is used as medicine. Slippery elm is applied to the skin for wounds, burns, gout, rheumatism, cold sores, boils, abscesses, ulcers, toothaches, and sore throats.

Sodium Alginate (Algin): Algin is a natural chemical taken from brown seaweeds. It is used as a binding agent in tablets, as a binding and soothing agent in throat lozenges, and as a film in peel-off facial masks.

Sodium Benzoate (Caffeine): Caffeine is a chemical found in coffee, tea, cola, guarana, mate, and other products. Caffeine creams are applied to the skin to reduce redness and itching in dermatitis.

Sodium Cocoyl Sulfate: Sodium Cocoyl Sulfate is derived from coconut. It is a mild cleanser that won't strip or dry delicate skin and hair.

Sodium Glycolate: Glycolic Acid and Lactic Acid are naturally occurring organic acids also known as Alpha Hydroxy Acids or AHAs. Glycolic acid is common in cosmetics due to its exfoliating and pH adjusting agents.

Sodium Hydroxide: used to control the pH of cosmetics and personal care products.

Sodium PCA: In cosmetics and personal care products, PCA (pyrrolidonecarboxylic acid) is used mostly in the formulation of hair conditioners and moisturizers. PCA and Sodium PCA increase the water content of the top layers of the skin by drawing moisture from the surrounding air. They also enhance the appearance and feel of hair, by increasing hair body, suppleness, or sheen, or by improving the texture of hair that has been damaged physically or by chemical treatment.

Soy Lecithin: Lecithin is a fat that is essential in the cells of the body. It can be found in many foods, including soybeans and egg yolks. Lecithin can be taken as a medicine or applied to the skin as a moisturizer. It is especially helpful with eczema.

Spiraea Ulmaria Extract (Meadowsweet): Meadowsweet is a plant. The parts that grow above the ground are used to make medicine. Meadowsweet contains tannins, which might decrease inflammation (swelling). It also has small amounts of salicylates, which are similar to aspirin.

Stearic Acid: Stearic acid is a fatty acid that occurs naturally in some foods. It is used in cosmetics for its surfactant cleansing and emulsifying agents.

Sunflower Oil (Certified Organic): Sunflower oil is pressed from the seeds of the sunflower. The oil is used as medicine. Some people apply sunflower oil directly to the skin for poorly healing wounds, skin injuries, psoriasis, and arthritis; and as a massage oil.

Sweet Almond Oil: Sweet almond is a plant. It produces kernels (nuts) that are a familiar food. Sweet almond oil, prepared by pressing the kernels, is used to make medicine. Some people apply sweet almond directly to the skin to soften chapped skin, to soothe mucous membranes, and to kill germs.

 

T

Tangerine: Tangerine Oil Citrus Tangerina (Tangerine) Peel Oil is a volatile oil expressed from the peel of the ripe fruit, Citrus tangerina. It has calming, antiseptic, and disinfecting properties

TEA Carbomer:  an ingredient that is commonly found in sunscreen that has a SPF 15 rating and above. TEA Carbomer is routinely added to skin care products to create a chemical barrier against the harmful rays of the sun.

TEA Stearate: TEA-Stearate is the triethanolamine (TEA) salt of stearic acid. When used in the formulation of cleansing products, TEA-Stearate cleans skin and hair by helping water to mix with oil and dirt so that they can be rinsed away.

Tea Tree Oil: Tea tree oil is derived from the leaves of the tea tree. Tea tree oil is applied to the skin (used topically) for infections such as acne. It is also used topically as a local antiseptic for cuts and abrasions, for burns, insect bites and stings, and boils.

Tetrasodium EDTA: EDTA (ethylenediamine tetra acetic acid) and its salts are crystalline powders often sold as aqueous solutions. Disodium EDTA and the related ingredients bind to metal ions which inactivates them. The binding of metal ions helps prevent the deterioration of cosmetics and personal care products. It also helps to maintain clarity, protect fragrance compounds, and prevent rancidity.

Titanium Dioxide 7.5%: Titanium Dioxide is the oxide of titanium. It has a formula of TiO2. Titanium Dioxide is used as a natural opacifying agent and a colorant. In OTC drug products, it is used as a sunscreen agent.

Tromethamine: a natural fragrance ingredient, buffering agent, and masking ingredient used in cosmetics and personal care products.

Tromethamine Stearate: derived from coconut oil and stearic acid. It is used in cosmetics as an emulsifier and antimicrobial ingredient.

 

U

 

Urea: Synthetic urea is manufactured for skincare use and is used mainly as a keratolytic emollient also known as a tissue softener. Keratolytic substances help break down keratin on the top of the skin to allow for moisture to reach deeper down into the skin. This allows for moisturizers to have a more penetrating effect on the skin and provide deep nourishing hydration.

 

 

V

Vegetable Glycerin (Glycerol): Glycerol is a naturally occurring chemical. Commonly applied to the skin as a moisturizer.

Vitamin A: Vitamin A is an important vitamin. It can be found in many fruits, vegetables, eggs, whole milk, butter, fortified margarine, meat, and oily saltwater fish. Vitamin A is also used for skin conditions including acne, eczema, psoriasis, cold sores, wounds, burns, sunburn, keratosis follicularis (Darier’s disease), ichthyosis (noninflammatory skin scaling), lichen planus pigmentosus, and pityriasis rubra pilaris. It is also commonly applied to the skin to improve wound healing, reduce wrinkles, and to protect the skin against UV radiation.

Vitamin B5 (Pantothentic acid):  a vitamin also known as vitamin B5. It is widely found in both plants and animals including meat, vegetables, cereal grains, legumes, eggs, and milk. Applied to the skin for itching, promoting healing of mild eczemas, and other skin conditions. Pantothenic acid is important for our bodies to properly use carbohydrates, proteins, and lipids and for healthy skin.

Vitamin C: Vitamin C is another important vitamin. Some animals can make their own vitamin C, but people must get this vitamin from food and other sources. Commonly used for infections including gum disease, acne and other skin infections. Vitamin C can be applied to the skin to protect it against the sun, pollutants, and other environmental hazards. Vitamin C is also applied to the skin to help with damage from radiation therapy.

Vitamin D3: Vitamin D is a vitamin found in small amounts in a few foods, including fatty fish such as herring, mackerel, sardines and tuna. But most vitamin D – 80% to 90% of what the body gets – is obtained through exposure to sunlight. Vitamin D is useful for skin conditions including vitiligo, scleroderma, psoriasis, actinic keratosis, and lupus vulgaris.

Vitamin E: Vitamin E is a vitamin that dissolves in fat. It is found in many foods including vegetable oils, cereals, meat, poultry, eggs, fruits, vegetables, and wheat germ oil. It is also available as a supplement. Vitamin E is commonly applied to the skin to keep it from aging and to protect against the skin effects of chemicals used for cancer therapy (chemotherapy).

 

W

Wheatgrass: Wheatgrass is a kind of grass. The above-ground parts, roots, and rhizome are used to make medicine. Wheatgrass is primarily used as a concentrated source of nutrients. It contains vitamin A, vitamin C, and vitamin E, iron, calcium, magnesium, and amino acids. It is used for removing deposits of drugs, heavy metals, and cancer-causing agents from the body; and for removing toxins from the liver and blood.

Wild Thyme: Wild thyme is an herb. The flowering parts of the plant are used to make medicine. Wild thyme can be directly applied to the skin for arthritis and sprains.

Willow Bark Extract: Willow bark is the bark from several varieties of the willow tree, including white willow or European willow, black willow or pussy willow, crack willow, purple willow, and others. The bark is used for its health benefits.

Witch Hazel Distillate: Witch hazel is a plant. The leaf, bark, and twigs are used to make medicine. You may see a product called witch hazel water (Hamamelis water, distilled witch hazel extract). This is a liquid that is distilled from dried leaves, bark, and partially dormant twigs of Hamamelis virginiana. Witch hazel can be applied directly to the skin for itching, pain and swelling (inflammation), skin injury, varicose veins, hemorrhoids, bruises, insect bites, minor burns, and other skin irritations. Witch hazel leaf extract, bark extract, and witch hazel water are used as astringents to tighten the skin.

 

X

Xanthane Gum: Xanthane Gum is thickening agent. It is used as a binder, emulsion stabilizer, emulsifying surfactant, as well as an aqueous viscosity increasing agent in cosmetics and personal care products because of its capability to hold water, enhance freeze-thaw stability, and improve shelf life and help with the stabilization of a product.

 

Y

Yarrow: Yarrow is an herb. The above ground parts are used for their healing properties.

Yellow Dock: Yellow dock is an herb. The leaf stalks are used in salads. The root is used as medicine. Historically, yellow dock has been used for skin diseases, skin inflammation (dermatitis), and rashes.

Ylang Ylang Essential Oil: Ylang ylang oil is made from the flowers of the herb Cananga odorata genuina. Ylang ylang oil is applied to the skin to promote relaxation, kill bacteria, lower high blood pressure, and increase sexual desire.

Yucca Extract: Yucca is a tree. The root of the non-flowering plant is used to make medicine. Especially helpful in healing sores, skin diseases, and dandruff.

 

Z

Zinc Oxide: Zinc is a mineral. It is called an “essential trace element” because very small amounts of zinc are necessary for human health. Zinc is also applied to the skin for helping block the skin from UV rays, treating acne, aging skin, herpes simplex infections, and to speed wound healing.