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Activated charcoal, also called activated carbon, is a form of carbon commonly used to filter contaminants from water and air, among many other uses. It is processed (activated) to have small, low-volume pores that increase the surface area available for adsorption or chemical reactions. Activated charcoal is a substance that can bind to bacteria and toxins on the skin and help unclog pores, remove dead skin cells and heal damaged skin. Activated charcoal is rumored to improve the appearance of acne and blemishes while brightening the skin.
Allantoin is a synthetic, free-flowing hygroscopic powder widely used in cosmetic, dermatological and pharmaceutical formulations for its soothing and anti-irritating properties. Allantoin has a moisturizing and keratolytic effect, increasing the water content of the extracellular matrix and enhancing the desquamation of upper layers of dead skin cells, increasing the smoothness of the skin; promoting cell proliferation and wound healing; and a soothing, anti-irritant, and skin protectant effect by forming complexes with irritants and sensitizing agents. Allantoin stimulates healthy, normal tissue formation even at low concentrations.
Alpha-arbutin(4- Hydroxyphenyl-±-D-glucopyranoside) is a pure, water soluble, plant-derived or biosynthetic active ingredient,that helps to brighten, fade discolorations, protect skin from oxidative stress and promote a more even skin tone.
Alpha-Arbutin blocks epidermal melanin synthesis by inhibiting enzymatic oxidation of Tyrosine and Dopa. Arbutin appears to have fewer side effects than hydroquinone at similar concentrations - presumably due to the more gradual release.
It is the more effective, faster and safer approach to promoting skin-brightening and an even skin tone on all skin types. It also minimizes liver spots and meets all the requirements of a modern skin-brightening and skin depigmentation product.
Astaxanthin is a dark red antioxidant, and it is the primary carotenoid found in the marine world of algae and aquatic animals.
They are responsible for the orange and red colors in plants and algae and the wide range of blue, purple, and reddish colors in aquatic animals. Astaxanthin, often referred to as "the king of antioxidants," is produced from the microalgae Haematococcus Pluvialis, the richest known natural source of this antioxidant. This distinct carotenoid can effectively protect against oxidative and environmental stress while softening and restoring skin texture.
Astaxanthin is Reported to be:
*550 times stronger than vitamin E
*800 times more powerful than CoQ10
*6000 times more potent than vitamin C
*500 times more powerful than catechins found in green tea.
Bakuchiol (a meroterpene), is the first natural alternative to retinol without having any of the negatives associated with retinol. Bakuchiol modulates retinoid-binding and metabolizing genes. It significantly improves multiple dermal and dermo-epidermal junction genes/proteins.
Bakuchiol has been shown to activate a number of chemical pathways in skin cells that ultimately lead to improved collagen production, decreased collagen breakdown and reduction of melanin (pigment) synthesis.
Our Brightening complex contains proven ingredients to help reduce melanin formation, combined with skin-soothing Oat Oligopeptides to help even skin tone for a healthier looking complexion. With a unique combination of ingredients, Our Brightening complex uses a dual approach by soothing skin to quell the inflammatory mediators that lead to upregulation of tyrosinase, while also acting as a tyrosinase inhibitor to reduce melanin production.
The Brightening Complex contains Oat Oligopeptides, combined with Ethyl Ascorbic Acid, and Alpha-Arbutin in optimized ratios to brighten the skin in 2-4 weeks.
Bentonite clay is considered by many as a healing clay and has been widely used. When applied to the skin, it is thought to absorbs toxins and poisons that get trapped in the skin.
The clay typically originates from the mountainous Wyoming region and mined directly from the earth.
a-Bisabolol is a naturally occurring active ingredient that accelerates the healing process of skin and protects it from the effects of daily stress.
Known to have anti-irritant and anti-inflammatory properties, a-bisabolol has been shown to reduce UV-induced erythema in-vivo. Bisabolol may offer some discoloration fading properties.
Coenzyme Q10(also known as ubiquinone) is a fat-soluble vitamin-like substance present in every cell of the human body. A coenzyme is a substance that necessary for the action of enzymes.
Coenzyme Q10 is a coenzyme vital to production of energy within cells. Topically applied, CoQ10 can penetrate the cell layers of the skin and may attenuate the depth of wrinkles due to photo aging, as well as epithelial cell turnover.
Pro-Vitamin B5, is a stable racemic mixture of D-Panthenol and L-Panthenol. The human body readily absorbs DL-Panthenol through the skin and it rapidly converts D-Panthenol to Pantothenic Acid (Vitamin B5), a natural constituent of healthy hair and a substance present in all living cells. When it comes to moisturization properties- improved hydration, reducing water loss and maintaining skin elasticity and softness- this racemic mixture is 100% active. When applied for skin epithelization (wound healing), only D-Panthenol is converted to Vitamin B5 and not the L-Panthenol, so D,L-Panthenol has only half of the physiological activity of D-Panthenol.
Studies have shown D-Panthenol promotes stimulation of epithelization, granulation, mitigation of itching and has an anti-inflammatory effect. When used in formulations over the course of three to four weeks, it has the potential to improve the appearance of the skin, including dryness, roughness, scaling, pruritus and erythema.
Fruit Enzyme Complex, it is a unique blend of Pomegranate, Starfruit, Passionfruit, Mangosteen, Lychee, Indian Jujube and Guava extracts. During the manufacturing process, Alpha Hydroxy Acids (AHAs) and proteases are naturally isolated from the fruits.
It is not only capable of exfoliating and rejuvenating the skin to leave it feeling soft and smooth, but it will also provide the potent anti-aging benefits associated with pomegranates as well as the other fruits incorporated into the blend.
γ-Aminobutyric Acid (GABA), a non-protein amino acid, is naturally present in the body. Gaba is produced by lactobacillus fermentation.
Gaba is an anti-aging ingredient with the following benefits:
- Reduce wrinkles and smooth skin.
Gaba can quickly penetrate into the skin, relaxing tense muscles to reduce small wrinkles and lines. Results showed that after applying cream containing Gaba continually for 1-week, fine lines disappear, the average depth of wrinkles are reduced, and skin elasticity is increased to reveal younger, fresher looking skin. - Repair the damaged skin.
In epidermis, Gaba can improve cuticle barrier's function because it can promote the epidermal cell proliferation and synthesis of involucrin and glutathione. As a consequence, Gaba can reduce skin roughness caused by external factors such as drying, radiation and pollution. 3.4 mg/L of Gaba increases the production of epidermal cells up to 1.4 times respect to control. - Promote the synthesis of HA and collagen.
In dermis, Gaba can promote the fibroblasts proliferation and the synthesis of HA and collagen, thus improving skin moisture and elasticity, making the skin smooth and tight. 1μg/mL of Gaba can increase more than 2-fold HA secretion from dermal fibroblasts.
Ginseng is the most famous of Chinese herbs and has been praised for its remarkable therapeutic benefits for about 7,000 years. It is a soothing substance known to reduce inflammation. It also activates cell metabolism and prolongs the life of cells. It has been reputed to delay the signs of aging which makes it useful in anti-aging creams.
as an ingredient in skin care products, it can also be used to enhance microcirculation. This can help reduce fine lines and make the skin firmer. Just as it's an adaptogen internally, it's also an adaptogen externally, helping the skin adjust to stress.
Although research on its topical applications is in the early stages, initial studies are finding that it combats the free radicals caused by sun and aging, which are the ultimate culprits behind damaged skin.
Rich with antioxidants and nutrients, green tea is loved by many for it benefits.
Antioxidant Powerhouse: Packed with antioxidants, especially catechins, which swoop in to protect your precious skin cells from damage caused by free radicals and environmental stressors.
The EGCG (epigallocatechin-3-gallate) in green tea has antimicrobial properties. It helps fights off acne-causing bacteria. It is anti-androgenic, which means it helps regulate sebum production.
Jackfruit extract high Vitamin A and Vitamin C content are responsible for helping to maintain a youthful complexion. Vitamin A, as well as its derivative retinoid, has high antioxidant properties that help protect against wrinkle-causing free radicals. Vitamin A has astringent and exfoliating properties that can assist with problem skin by clearing clogged pores and sloughing away dead skin cells, making skin smooth with a radiant glow. Vitamin C is imperative for the skin’s production of collagen. This vitamin helps to block the free radicals that promote the formation of collagenase, the enzyme responsible for breaking down the skin’s building blocks, causing unsightly wrinkles. For these reasons, these two vitamins, are essential for maintaining an even complexion and supple, youthful skin.
Jackfruits also contain lignans, isoflavones and saponins these phytonutrients have anti-aging
properties such as serving as free-radical blockers to help prevent cell degeneration. In addition,
lignans have also been shown to help prevent UV induced damage while helping promote an even skin tone.
Kojic Acid Dipalmitate (KAD) is a diesterified derivative of Kojic Acid. It is considered to be superior to Kojic Acid in its whitening ability and is more stable than Kojic Acid in cosmetic formulations.
By inhibiting tyrosinase activity, Kojic Acid Di- palmitate is capable of suppressing skin pigmentation. Its ability to suppress melanin formation makes it effective in whitening dark skin, or areas of dark skin.
Lemon Peel Bio Ferment is a natural and effective alternative to hydroquinone for inhibiting tyrosinase production. Lemon Peel Bio Ferment is the result of macerating whole lemon fruit and incubating it with Lactobacillus lactis. This ferment is then further processed to remove the potential allergens, citral and geraniol.
The fruit of the lemon has long been used for its, strong antioxidant benefits while more recently the peel has been found to possess strong anti-tyrosinase activity.
Niacinamide is the active form of Vitamin B3. A safe, nonirritating cosmeceutical ingredient which research shows can offer a number of benefits in improving the appearance of aged and photodamaged skin and improve skin moisturization.
Clinical studies have shown topical niacinamide to be effective in improving skin texture and the appearance of hyperpigmented spots, with improvement in red blotchiness and the reduction of the severity of fine lines.
It has been shown to stimulate collagen synthesis and production of ceramide, a lipid compound that contributes to the functional and structural integrity of the skin barrier.
Orchid Milk is made by pressing the white orchid flowers to extract the liquid. It is similar to animal milks in that it contains a mixture of carbohydrates and proteins that can enhance moisturization offering both skin and hair conditioning benefits. These components present in the milk are needed for cells to regrow, maintain and function properly.
Proteins are useful ingredients in cosmetics as they create a suitable environment for healthy skin and hair due to their ability to bind water and the skin.
Seaweed (Palmaria palmata) contains high levels of folate (vitamin b), magnesium, calcium, iron, and pantothenic acid (vitamin B5). It also has a small number of amino acids, which are valuable to the skin. These nutrients help stimulate the skin, promote healthy cell growth, and improve skin texture and appearance.
(Pterocarpus Marsupium Bark Extract) Derived from pterostilbene, a more stable analogue of resveratrol found in red sandalwood, blueberries, and grapes, PteroWhite® 90% is a natural ingredient that eliminates localized hyper-pigmentation, brightens skin, and works as an antioxidant, free radical scavenger, and anti-inflammatory agent.
PteroWhite® 90% works to inhibit melanin synthesis and inhibit tyrosinase production, which inhibits melanin production, which promotes a more even skin tone and reduces hyper-pigmentation. As a free radical scavenger and antioxidant, it works to inhibit lipid peroxidation in cells and is more effective than kojic acid or resveratrol in in vitro tests. As an anti-inflammatory, it inhibits cytokines and COX-2 enzymes and has been demonstrated to be more effective in vitro than resveratrol.
An emollient oil extracted from rice bran, the outer coat of brown rice. Rich in vitamins, minerals, proteins and essential oils, rice bran oil is also high in fatty acids and unsaponifiables. It is an excellent source of tocotrienol, an antioxidant with the potential to be much more powerful and effective than Vitamin E.
Rosemary or Rosmarinus Officinalis is known as an antioxidant powerhouse. Rosemary is said to have excellent toning and binding effects on loose, sagging skin, while at the same time increasing blood flow with its rubefacient action, which in turn promotes proper skin function.
It helps to relieve skin congestion, and the diuretic attributes help to reduce puffiness and swelling, resulting in firmer skin and better skin tone. It helps to promote a healthy-looking complexion.
An emollient butter from the nut of the African Karite tree. Shea butter has been used for centuries for its skin protectant properties. Shea butter has good skin penetrating properties, and it has been reported that ointment bases containing high levels of shea butter release actives at a faster rate than other bases.
Stable and resistant to rancidity, it also contains naturally occurring Vitamins A, D and E. Which makes it a valuable addition to creams, lotions and body butters.
Sodium lactate is the sodium salt of lactic acid. In skin care, this ingredient is used primarily as a hydrating and buffering agent (to adjust a product’s pH value). It also offers antioxidant properties as a secondary benefit, while higher amounts (5% or more) in an acidic pH can exfoliate. Regarding exfoliation, it should be noted the salt aspect of sodium lactate makes it weaker for this purpose than lactic acid.
This ingredient is part of skin’s natural moisturizing factor (NMF), helping to maintain skin’s hydration.
Soursop or Annona muricata is antioxidant powerhouse filled with essential vitamins and minerals.
Soursop leaves are rich in antioxidants like flavonoids and vitamin C, which help protect the skin from free radical damage, promoting a youthful glow. The anti-inflammatory properties of soursop leaves can soothe skin irritations and reduce redness.
Soursop leaves have antimicrobial properties that can help reduce bacteria on the skin's surface, promoting clearer skin and faster healing, which can help to treat acne.
Tangerine or Citrus reticulata blanco var tangerina oil is extracted from the peel of the fruit using the cold process method. It is said to brightening effects for hyperpigmentation.
Originating from Italy, the golden liquid has the typical citrus scent - fresh, radiant, and tangy sweet. With only subtle differences, it smells similar to Mandarin, with some even considering them identical.
In comparison to Sweet Orange, Tangerine can be seen as lighter with more candy-like tones.
Tetrahexyldecyl Ascorbate is a very stable, oil-soluble Vitamin C ester which has anti-oxidant activity, inhibiting lipid peroxidation. Topical use can mitigate the damaging effects of UV exposure. Studies have shown it to stimulate collagen production as well as clarifying and brightening the skin by inhibiting melanogenesis (the production of pigment) thereby promoting a more even skin tone. Unlike ascorbic acid, it will not exfoliate or irritate skin.
Tetrahydrocurcuminoids (THC) are derived from curcuminoids (extracted from the roots of curcuma longa, commonly known as turmeric root). Tetrahydrocurcuminoids are phenolic in nature, acting as antioxidants, protecting against free radicals and preventing the generation of free radicals.
Curcuminoids and therefore THC offer protection to the skin and should be considered for inclusion as functional antioxidants in topical preparations. THC scavenges free radicals that are generated through exposure to ultraviolet radiation, chemicals or other environmental stress factors which age the skin. The efficacy of Curcuminoids and THC is also concentration dependent, with THC being even more effective at lower concentrations.
Tetrahydrocurcumin has been shown to efficiently inhibit tyrosinase. As such, it is an effective skin lightening agent with multi functional topical benefits.
Tetrahydropiperine (THP), is derived from piperine, the active principle of black peppercorns (Piper nigrum) which acts as a penetration enhancer when added to water soluble ingredients. It works by enhancing the bioavailability of nutrients, including vitamins, minerals, coenzymes, and nutraceutical herbal extracts.
An increase in topical permeation was shown when combining tetrahydropiperine with products like Green Tea extract; an antioxidant rich in polyphenols, Coleus Forskohlli Extract; a skin conditioning agent and Tetrahydrocurcumin; derived from Curcuminoids as extracted from Turmeric Root, acting as a potent antioxidant.
Turmeric, or Curcuma longa, is one of the most well-known, widely researched, and commonly used Ayurvedic spices in the world. Curcumin, the main biologically active polyphenolic compound found in turmeric, has a multitude of benefits for skin and hair care, with its historical use as an, antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties.
Antioxidant benefits, from turmeric, offset free radicals to reduce UV damage that lead to fine lines, wrinkles, and accelerated signs of aging. These qualities assist in reducing the overall appearance of aging, exfoliating dead skin, and refreshing the overall complexion. In addition to its antioxidant capacity, turmeric is useful for brightening and lightening skin tone.
Undecylenoyl phenylalanine is an excellent skin lightener and brightener suitable for all skin types and ethnicities that promotes a more uniform and radiant complexion with results in as little as seven days. Studies have demonstrated an increase in skin luminosity and decrease in the number and color of hyperpigmented spots.
Undecylenoyl phenylalanine is a lipoamino acid or vectorized essential amino acid developed from phenylalanine, an amino acid involved in melanin synthesis. MSH is an alpha-melanocyte-stimulating hormone (MSH) receptor agonist developed from this amino acid that inhibits the process of melanin synthesis from the hypothalamus to produce a reduction in melanic pigments in skin cells.
DL-Alpha tocopheryl acetate, or Vitamin E Acetate, is the stable form of Vitamin E most often used in cosmetic formulations for its skin care benefits. Vitamin E protects cell membranes from damage by oxygen free radicals. It can prevent premature aging of the skin induced by UV irradiation and lipid peroxidation.
Vitamin E Acetate has been shown to increase the enzyme activity in the skin, prevent free radical induced skin damage, increase epithelization of surface wounds and increase the moisturization of the horny layer.