ACETYL HEXAPEPTIDE-8
Origin
Enzymatic synthesis (Biotechnology)
Description
This is a synthetic peptide derived from botulinum toxin. Acetyl hexapeptide-8 is a neuropeptide that reduces wrinkles by limiting facial muscle contractions.
Properties
Acetyl Hexapeptide is used in cosmetic skin care to strengthen and redefine the contours of the lips and eyes.
Acetyl Hexapeptide reduces the depth of lines and wrinkles on the face caused by contraction of facial expression muscles, particularly in the forehead and around the eyes. It repairs the skin and prevents future damage.
Studies have shown that Acetyl hexapeptide-8 has the ability to inhibit complex formation as well as the release of catecholamines. Consequently, muscle contraction is attenuated and the formation of expression lines is prevented or diminished.
GLYCYRRHETINIC ACID
Origin
Natural
Description
Glycyrrhetinic acid is obtained by hydrolysis of glycyrrhizic acid (diglycuronic ester of glycyrrhetic acid in the form of magnesium and calcium salts in the plant). It is the main component of licorice root (Glycyrrhiza glabra).
It releases by hydrolysis 2 molecules of D-glucuronic acid and one molecule of glycyrrhetic acid.
It is often used in the form of aluminum salts, it is a white powder without odor or taste.
Properties
Glycyrrhetinic acid is a powerful:
- anti-inflammatory
- lenitive
- softener
It is used for its anti-inflammatory properties in cases of:
- solar erythema
- seborrheic dermatitis
- insect bites
- hemorrhoid crisis
- vulvar pruritus
Widely used in products for sensitive skin and in after-sun products.
In combination with panthenol, it increases its anti-inflammatory power for sensitive skin and skin with redness.
HYALURONIC ACID
Origin
Biotechnology
Description
Hyaluronic Acid belongs to the family of Glycosaminoglycans. Its name comes from its presence in fibro-hyaline tissues (vision).
Hyaluronic Acid is a substance naturally present in the dermis. It is an essential component of the structure of the skin because it helps to hydrate the tissues. It contributes significantly to cell proliferation and migration.
Properties
Hyaluronic Acid has the property of fixing a large quantity of water (up to a thousand times its own weight) and its influence on the mechanical characteristics of the skin has been scientifically demonstrated.
In critical conditions such as sun exposure, skin dehydration and injuries, Hyaluronic Acid induces the recovery and relief process.
Hyaluronic Acid is part of a family of ingredients that are found in many body tissues, such as skin tissue, bone tissue, nerve tissue, cartilage. These molecules, in association with proteins, bind water and other cellular elements in order to preserve tissue integrity and protect cells from mechanical shocks.
Hyaluronic Acid reshapes the cheeks, lips and face, which thus regains all its energy and vitality. Thanks to its volume and moisturizing effect, Hyaluronic Acid fills in wrinkles and thus restores facial volume.
ALLANTOÏNE
Origin
Plant, Animal, Synthetic
Description
Allantoin, known for many years for its therapeutic action on skin tissue, is widespread in animal and plant organisms. It is a nitrogenous chemical compound of organic or plant origin discovered in the amniotic fluid of cows and other mammals.
Allantoin has the appearance of a white crystalline powder and is virtually odorless.
Properties
Allantoin promotes cell proliferation and rapid epithelialization in the
areas of the skin that are superficially injured, exposed to the weather.
Skin irritation, roughness, chapped skin, and other unpleasant features disappear. The application of Allantoin on intact skin on the face and body makes the skin extraordinarily soft, smooth and healthy.
An interesting and no less important property of Allantoin is its beneficial influence on skin moisture, which emphasizes the biological balance repeatedly noticed by dermatologists and beauty specialists.
At the level of cosmetic products, Allantoin promotes cell regeneration of skin exposed and weakened by external factors. The application of care products containing Allantoin to the intact skin of the face and body results in a soft, smooth and healthy appearance.
ALOE VERA EXTRACT
Origin
Botany
Description
Aloe Vera is native to North Africa, it is grown all over the world and especially in Spain, Mexico and the southern United States.
Aloe Vera is a plant with thick, fleshy leaves, most often spiny at the edges.
These are the leaves that contain the active ingredients of Aloe Vera, namely Aloe Juice and Aloe Gel.
Properties
Aloe Vera is frequently used in cosmetic products thanks to its moisturizing properties. Indeed, it acts at the level of the retention of water in the skin thus allowing a deep hydration.
Aloe Vera accelerates cell regeneration and protects the epidermis against irritation. It therefore has regenerating, softening and protective properties.
Aloe Vera stimulates collagen protection and helps maintain healthy metabolism by promoting microcirculation.
Aloe Vera also very effectively protects the skin against stretch marks. This plant has healing properties due to the stimulation of the complement linked to polysaccharides, to the great wealth of water giving Aloe Vera gel moisturizing, insulating and protective properties.
Acting directly on collagen fibers, Aloe Vera promotes skin elasticity.
The multiplicity of complex polysaccharides, capable of retaining large amounts of water, make the skin soft, smooth and elastic and allow the resorption of wrinkles.
ASIATICOSIDE & MADECASSOSIDE
Origin
Botany
Description
Centella Asiatica is a polymorphous herb that grows wild in humid, shady areas, at an ideal altitude of 600 meters.
Centella Asiatica belongs to the family Umbelliferae (Apiaceae), particularly to the subfamily Hydrocotyles.
Properties
Centella Asiatica extract contains a mixture of 4 pentacyclic triterpenes, which are in the form of aglucones. These terpenes include asiaticoside and madecassoside.
Collagen is one of the major components of the skin. The aging of it is linked to a decrease in collagen levels. The asiaticoside contained in the extract of Centella Asiatica exerts a preferential stimulation on the synthesis of collagen and thus, improves the appearance of the skin by reducing wrinkles and signs of aging.
A strong antioxidant power is contained in the extract of Centella Asiatica which provides antioxidant protection essential for healthy skin.
In the field of cosmetics, Centella Asiatica heteroside acts effectively on damaged and atopic skin. Its healing and antiseptic efficacy helps treat superficial skin wounds, eczema and psoriasis.
Centella Asiatica heteroside is used in particular in anti-aging treatments. It acts as a dermal restructuring agent.
SHEA BUTTER
Origin
Natural
Description
Shea Butter, also called vegetable butter, is an edible substance. It is extracted from the fruit of the shea which is a tree that grows in the savannahs of West Africa.
Shea is an organic product by nature because its tree (Butyrospermum Parkii) grows only in the wild.
The fruits of the tree are ovoid nuts. Inside this nut is a whitish almond which will give after transformation the famous Shea Butter.
Properties
In the medical field, shea butter promotes the increase of local capillary circulation, which would allow tissue reoxygenation and improve the elimination of metabolic waste. Shea Butter is also known in the pharmaceutical field for its healing properties on wounds.
Its moisturizing properties of the superficial layers of the skin allow it to be nourished in depth. Its Vitamin F content helps regulate skin hydration while protecting it against external aggressions. The elasticity of the skin is thus regained.
Composed of Vitamin A, Shea Butter helps repair damaged skin and dry skin.
BISABOLOL
Origin
Botanical, Synthetic
Description
Bisabolol is one of the key components of chamomile essential oil (between 10 and 20%).
Properties
Bisabolol protects and treats the skin against the effects of daily stress. It is a natural component that accelerates skin healing.
Bisabolol is mainly used for its soothing properties. Even in low doses, this ingredient manages to reduce skin irritations, namely redness, flaking or various feelings of skin discomfort. It also contributes to the rapid healing of damaged skin tissue and to the fight against any microbes embedded in the surface of the skin.
Endowed with anti-inflammatory properties, bisabolol can be used in various cosmetic formulations and especially in products designed for sensitive skin, such as baby products, aftershave and after-sun.
CHAMOMILLA RECUTITA FLOWER WATER
Origin
Botany
Description
Chamomile is a plant belonging to the Asteraceae family.
The leaves and flowers of this plant have a strong but not unpleasant odor, and a very foul foul taste, but the flowers are more bitter and aromatic than the leaves.
Chamomile is the national flower of Russia, and is known to reduce stress.
Matricaria Chamomile Floral Water is the hydrosoluble fraction of the natural essential oil and is obtained by molecular distillation.
Properties
It can be used in lotions, tonics, creams, baths and other cosmetic preparations or directly on the skin. It is natural and contains no additives.
It prevents moisture loss, soothes irritation and calms erythema after sunburn. It is also suggested for inflamed and tired eyes, relief, as a skin refresher, or for rinsing light hair.
Matricaria Chamomile Water is often used in cosmetics as it has mild tonic and cleansing properties for the skin. It is safe for all skin types, including sensitive skin, as well as babies and children.
FLOWER WATER ORANGE
Origin
Botany
Description
Orange blossom water comes from the hydrodistillation of bitter orange blossoms to produce neroli essence.
It has a very fragrant, sweet flavor.
Properties
Orange blossom water regenerates the skin. It acts as a very gentle lightener to restore radiance and light to the complexion.
It is a gentle tonic, soothing and delicately refreshing the skin.
It is an ideal ingredient for dull complexions, normal skin, sensitive mature skin and for delicate skin, such as that of babies.
ROSE FLORAL WATER
Origin
Botany
Description
Rose Water or rose hydrosol is obtained by the distillation of rose petals.
The Rose is grown in the heart of the Swiss Alps. By soaking up the air of the Swiss mountains, the rose appropriates the pure and wild air.
Properties
Rose water has moisturizing, softening, toning and purifying properties. It is suitable for all skin types, even the most sensitive.
It is both balancing and regulating. It is especially indicated for skin with dilated pores because it has an astringent effect. Also excellent for irritated skin, prone to redness and mature skin thanks to its soothing properties.
The extract or water is used to perfume, moisturize, purify and soften the skin.
ECTOIN
Origin
Natural
Description
Ectoin is a protective cell created in nature. It is an amino acid derived from and belonging to the group of Extremolytes, which are small anti-stress molecules that protect micro-organisms against extreme conditions in their habitats (salt water, hot springs, icy environment or deserts).
Properties
Ectoin is a powerful and “safe” molecule of natural origin with multiple functions. Not only does it block and prevent cell damage, but it also provides restorative and regenerating effects to sensitive, stressed or damaged skin.
Several clinical studies have confirmed the positive effects on the anti-aging treatment and on the cell protection properties of Ectoin. Its mechanism is very simple: by building a protective layer through the water molecules in the skin, the latter is protected from the extrinsic and intrinsic factors responsible for skin aging and cell damage.
Similarly, Ectoin acts on the repairing functions of cells which are responsible for the health and beauty of the skin.
Not exclusive to skin care, Ectoin is active for hair care. Its effects on the follicles have been tested and have proven how Ectoin works against the aging process of the follicles. In general, Ectoin positively and significantly influences the restoration of cells subjected to oxidative stress. It significantly reduces DNA damage.
APRICOT KERNEL OIL
Origin
Plant
Description
The apricot is the fruit of a generally small tree called the apricot tree, of the Rosaceae family.
It is a fleshy fruit with a rounded shape, having a hard core containing a single large seed, or almond.
Apricot kernel oil is extracted from the almond located in the kernel of the fruit, and has been used for a very long time for hygiene and facial care.
Properties
Apricot kernel oil is nourishing, moisturizing, regenerating and softening for the skin.
It is mainly composed of oleic and linoleic acid. Applying apricot kernel oil to the skin moisturizes and softens, while protecting against pruritus and irritation, without leaving a greasy film on the skin. For these reasons, it is often used against mild eczema and skin inflammation.
Rich in vitamins A, C and E, this oil works as an anti-aging agent, as well as an anti-oxidant agent. It revitalizes, strengthens, nourishes, softens and delays the aging of the skin. It can also protect against UV-induced oxidative stress, and serve as a sunscreen provided UV exposure is not prolonged.
Apricot kernel oil can also be used in hair masks to restore shine and beauty to your hair. Apricot Kernel Oil makes hair soft and shiny, and keeps strands nourished and hydrated.
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APRICOT EXTRACT
Origin
Botany
Description
The apricot is the fruit of a generally small tree called the apricot tree, of the Rosaceae family.
It is a fleshy fruit of rounded shape, possessing a hard core containing a single large seed, or almond.
Properties
Apricot extract is an important antioxidant that fights damage caused by pollution and free radicals.
Apricot extract contains emollient properties that serve as an exfoliator and moisturizer for the skin.
Thanks to its moisturizing properties, apricot kernel extract can help the skin retain moisture, eliminate dry skin and relieve inflammatory conditions such as eczema, psoriasis and rosacea.
Apricot extract is known to improve the complexion, it is used in the composition of several creams intended to revive the radiance of the skin. Mixed with clay, it makes an excellent face mask to rejuvenate and brighten the skin. It can also be used as a sunscreen in case of too long exposure.
Apricot extract can be used as an extra gentle cleanser, hair mask to restore shine and beauty to your hair.
GINSENG EXTRACT
Origin
Botany
Description
Ginseng is a herbaceous plant with palmate leaves composed of 5 leaflets, bearing umbels of whitish flowers and small red berries.
Ginseng is part of the Araliaceae family.
For millennia, this small forest plant, native to the mountains of Asia, from Nepal to Manchuria, was the panacea of Asian peoples.
Properties
In the field of cosmetics, Ginseng extract is commonly used in the formulation of skin products because it improves the elasticity of the skin and softens it. By fighting against free radicals, Ginseng extract is an excellent antioxidant.
It is also a tonic, stimulating and reconstituting the skin and micro-circulation. It has dermopurifying and protective properties against certain viral and bacterial agents.
Ginseng extract is also effective in stimulating tired skin. It is a good coadjuvant against wrinkles.
DEVIL’S CLAW EXTRACT
Origin
Plant
Description
Perennial climbing plant, growing in the semi-desert regions of Central and Southern Africa (Namibia, Botswana, South Africa).
Devil's claw root extract is a natural extract from the root of harpagophytum procumbens.
Properties
Devil's Claw Extract aids in skin regeneration, resulting in minimal transepidermal water loss, leaving skin feeling rich and hydrated. Clinical trials also show a significant reduction in skin redness immediately after application of the extract.
Devil's claw contains iridoid glycosides, compounds believed to have powerful anti-inflammatory effects.
ROSEMARY EXTRACT
Origin
Botany
Description
Rosemary is a woody, perennial herb with evergreen, fragrant needle-like leaves.
It is native to the Mediterranean region. It is a member of the mint family, Lamiaceae, which also includes many other herbs.
Properties
Rosemary is antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial. The antioxidant activity of rosemary is stronger than that of vitamin E.
Rosemary helps prevent cell damage caused by free radicals. Rosemary has anti-inflammatory properties and is used for its antiallergic activity.
It also tightens sagging and loose skin to help it appear firmer and more elastic. Additionally, rosemary stimulates biological activity and cell growth to reduce fine lines and wrinkles.
Rosmarinic acid (the main component of rosemary leaf extract) is powerfully soothing for skin conditions such as eczema and acne.
GREEN TEA EXTRACT
Origin
Botany
Description
Green tea comes from the tea plant which is a small shrub from the rainy forests of India and eastern China.
Green tea contains caffeine and phenolic compounds called catechins.
Properties
Green tea extracts are an essential resource for cosmetics, thanks to their antioxidant, astringent and sebum-regulating principles, perfect for maintaining toned and luminous skin.
Green tea extract is one of the most powerful natural antioxidants, thanks to the very high rate of polyphenols contained in its leaves, which gives it highly beneficial protective and anti-aging effects, which make it an ally of choice in care products for mature skin.
Its astringent, softening and toning effects are highly appreciated for facial care and for sensitive combination skin.
UVA-UVB FILTERS
Origin
Synthetic
Description
UVA-UVB filters are substances used in sun product formulas with the aim of creating an effective barrier against ultraviolet rays.
Properties
UVA rays penetrate deep into the skin and damage collagen and cells in the dermis (bottom layer of the skin). UVB rays have a shorter wavelength; they affect the epidermis (upper layer of the skin) and cause sunburn when our skin is not protected.
UVA rays act quickly and the skin tans faster, they are considered responsible for aging and skin allergies.
UVB rays take longer to act and the tan will appear later, they can modify the structure of DNA (risk of cancer) and they can cause sunburn after several hours. UVB rays are capable of causing melanoma.
UVB Protection:
It is very important to protect the skin against UVB rays because of their negative effects on the skin (DNA damage). UVB filters are efficiently absorbed and photostable. UVB filters absorb, scatter and reflect UVA-B rays.
UVA protection:
UVA filters are essential for safe and effective UVA protection in skin and sun care. They have a reliable and long-lasting action thanks to an exceptional photostability. They provide maximum protection against free radical induced damage.
UV filters are used in sun protection preparations to prevent UV rays from reaching the skin, either by absorption or by reflection. They protect against sunburn, photoaging and reduce the risk of melanoma and squamous cell carcinoma.
VERBENA ESSENTIAL OIL
Origin
Botany
Description
Verbena belongs to the Verbenaceae family. It is an annual herbaceous plant, 30 to 70 cm high, with hairy, erect and branched stems.
The major active principle of verbena is the iridoid verbenaline.
Properties
Thanks to its richness in geranial and neral, lemon verbena has powerful anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties.
Verbena is also an extremely powerful antioxidant that can protect the skin from UV rays and skin aging.
JOJOBA OIL
Origin
Plant
Description
Jojoba is a bushy dioecious shrub widespread in desert regions with low rainfall in the southwestern United States and northern Mexico, its leaves are blue-green covered with a thick cuticle limiting water loss, Buxaceae family.
Properties
This oil helps maintain an optimal level of hydration and elasticity of the skin. Ideal for moisturizers, sunscreens and foundations.
Jojoba oil contains natural forms of vitamin E. This vitamin acts on your skin as an antioxidant. This means that jojoba oil can help your skin fight oxidative stress caused by daily exposure to pollutants and other toxins.
PANTHENOL
Origin
Synthetic
Description
Panthenol (D-pantothenyl alcohol), or Provitamin B5, is a viscous, odorless liquid.
Panthenol is one of the B group vitamins. It is quickly converted and used into pantothenic acid (Vitamin B5) after penetration into the skin.
Once applied to the skin, Panthenol penetrates deep into the epidermis.
Properties
As a component of Coenzyme A, pantothenic acid has an important metabolic function in skin metabolism.
Its main properties are:
-
increase cell regeneration
-
healing
-
anti-inflammatory
-
good humectant, restores and maintains the natural moisture of the skin
-
reduces the effects of sunlight (possible antihistamine activity)
A deficiency in Panthenol causes dermatitis, depigmentation, exfoliation, as well as an important horny layer.
It is mainly used as a healing and anti-inflammatory to regenerate cells (in combination with vitamin A and allantoin), in sun preparations (before and after sun) as well as in hair products.
SQUALANE
Origin
Plant
Description
Squalane is a clear liquid that serves as an emollient and protective moisture barrier.
It is a cosmetic oil that can be used in all kinds of cosmetic preparations. It is ideal in the use of care.
Properties
Squalane provides lightweight hydration for a smooth feel. The use of this active ingredient leaves the skin non-oily. It gives the skin a satiny appearance and once dry, the skin remains soft.
It maintains the natural water balance in the skin for a more radiant appearance. It protects against moisture loss by acting as a barrier to help maintain the skin's natural moisture level. The increased hydration helps skin appear more radiant and supple.
Squalane used in shampoos leaves hair smooth and shiny. It also helps to comb them easily.
An efficacy test on the skin has shown that daily use of Squalane helps improve skin hydration.
VITAMINE E
Origin
Natural or synthetic
Description
Vitamin E is an alpha-tocopherol but this molecule is not very stable and we often prefer its ester, tocopherol acetate.
Properties
-
Vitamin E is basically:
-
an antioxidant
-
an anti-free radical: it protects cells from free radicals by capturing singlet oxygen
-
it blocks the formation of nitrosamines
-
a moisturizer (transepidermal loss is reduced)
-
softener, makes the skin more elastic (maintaining the connective tissue in optimal conditions)
-
an anti-inflammatory, it inhibits the formation of erythema and activates micro-circulation.
-
increases hair growth.
It protects against UV radiation and environmental pollutants.
It blocks lipid peroxidation of cell membranes and acts as an anti-aging agent.
Vitamin E is recommended for:
-
before, during and after sun care,
-
against eczema, acne
-
alopecia,
-
in anti-ageing care.
It is also used to stabilize vitamin A.
BETAINE
Origin
Plant
Description
These fine crystals, extracted from sugar beet, have moisturizing properties.
Properties
Used in skin or hair care, the thickening properties of Betaine help ensure better stability of your cosmetics. Recognized as an osmolyte, it protects the skin and hair from dehydration and environmental stress.
The benefits of betaine in skincare include hydration, anti-inflammation, anti-aging, and skin-soothing. Since betaine occurs naturally in the body, it is a non-irritating and safe ingredient that helps improve skin condition.
If an area is dehydrated, osmosis allows the flow of water into that area to create balance.
As an osmolyte, the structure of betaine allows it to attract moisture and help maintain the water balance of cells. This function of betaine is particularly crucial for skin cells that are dehydrated or exposed to UV rays.
SWEET ALMOND OIL
Origin
Plant
Description
Sweet Almond oil has the advantage of being very well absorbed by the skin and offering a perfectly dry touch.
Properties
Almond Oil protects the skin against harmful effects from the outside, especially UV rays.
This oil penetrates the skin very easily and provides a feeling of comfort. It is a good emollient. It helps fight against skin dehydration by depositing a greasy film on the surface of the epidermis. It restores softness and elasticity to the skin and nourishes the hair.
Thanks to its moisturizing, nourishing and revitalizing properties, Almond oil can be used in the formulations of sunscreens, shampoos or hand creams.