Ingredients Glossary

Rich in mineral salts and Vitamin C antioxidants (up to 100 times more than oranges) Malpighia Punicifolia boosts immune effectiveness. Used in cosmetics, it re-mineralises and hydrates tired and stressed skin, promotes capillary conditioning, combats free radicals and evens skin tone by inhibiting tyrosinase, making it beneficial in the treatment of melasma.

A cream-coloured fat derived from cocoa beans, Theobroma Cacao is a renowned moisturizer used for centuries to keep skin soft and supple. It melts at body temperature, absorbing easily to retain moisture. Rich in cocoa mass polyphenol (CMP), it treats eczema and dermatitis by inhibiting irritant immunoglobulin IgE, creating a protective barrier.

A triglyceride is an ester derived from glycerol and three fatty acids. It is one of the main constituents of body fat in humans. In our cosmetics we use vegetable Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride, derived from coconut oil. It is a skin-compatible emollient and humectant that attracts and holds moisture with good lubricating and spreading properties.

Silica, a key component of collagen, supports skin elasticity and youthfulness. Essential for immune function, it's commonly used in cosmetic face powders for a smooth texture and even application. Silica gel's high specific surface area adsorbs water and toxins, mattifying oily skin, reducing blemishes, and providing a cooling, anti-inflammatory effect.

Extracted from a flower related to sunflowers and daisies, Echinacea Pallida is a natural botanical astringent. It stimulates infection-fighting cells, reduces inflammation, and promotes wound healing by inhibiting bacteria’s access to cells. Used by Native American to treat snake bites, it acts as a mild antibiotic, antiseptic, antibacterial, antiviral, antifungal agent, and helps rebalance oily skin.

Extracted from mature coconuts, Cocos Nucifera is rich in saturated fats, repairing the skin's barrier and trapping moisture. It’s as effective as mineral oil for moisturizing dry skin, forming a protective layer against the elements. Coconut oil soothes rashes, supports healing, and alleviates atopic dermatitis. The lauric acid in its fatty acid composition offers antimicrobial, antifungal, and anti-inflammatory properties.    

A natural emollient from the Chihuahuan Desert in Mexico, Euphorbia Cerifera Cera protects skin by forming a barrier. It effectively treats skin inflammation, including acne. Widely used as a non-toxic glazing agent, it creates a shiny appearance on citrus fruits, chocolate, and lipsticks.

Kaolin, one of the oldest cosmetic ingredients, is valued for its oil-absorbing and translucent properties, ideal for oily skin. This white, insoluble powder draws out impurities, excess oil, and toxins. It also stimulates organic skin processes and acts as a remineralizer, helping to clear and rejuvenate the skin.

Rosa Canina Fruit Oil, taken from Rose Hips, is rich in antioxidants from phenolic compounds, carotenoids, and tocopherols. It offers superior antioxidative properties, reduces crow’s-feet wrinkles, improves skin elasticity, and increases cell longevity. Quercetin in Rose Hip also inhibits tyrosinase, lightening skin and fading scars. Rich in essential fatty acids, especially linoleic acid, it helps manage acne.

Derived from African Shea Tree kernels, Butyrosperumum Parkii has a history of anti-inflammatory and analgesic uses, supported by modern research. Rich in triterpenes, it enhances tissue repair and wound healing. Shea Butter also improves atopic dermatitis and minimizes keloid scar growth. Its buttery texture, high in stearic and oleic acids, makes it ideal for rich creams.

Derived from the corn kernel's endosperm, Zea Mays gives skin a fresh, dry feeling and soothes irritation. In makeup, it provides sheer coverage, a velvety feel, and hides flaws while allowing the skin to breathe. Containing many natural vitamins and minerals, its anti-inflammatory properties offer smoothing and clarifying benefits.

A smooth vegetable oil from castor beans, Ricinus Communis Oil penetrates deep into the skin due to its low molecular weight. Its lubricant properties ease rough or dry skin and act as a humectant, attracting and retaining moisture. Rich in ricinoleic acid, it boasts anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, and healing properties, reducing age spots, stretch marks, and itching.

Sodium Hyaluronate, the salt of Hyaluronic Acid, is a potent humectant that naturally occurs in skin and connective tissue, retaining up to 1000 times its weight in water, and 370% more moisture even than collagen. Ageing reduces Hyaluronic Acid production, causing dryness, thinning, and wrinkles. Applying it topically re-plumps cells, improving skin appearance and smoothing out fine lines.

Olive Squalane, derived from olive oil, is structurally akin to the squalene in human sebum which supports the skin’s natural barrier, protecting against water loss and irritants. It smooths and softens skin, retaining moisture and leaving a silky, non-greasy finish. It’s vegan, non-comedogenic, and enhances the absorption of active ingredients.

This natural wax from the Brazilian Wax Palm Tree, Copernicia Prunifera Cera forms a protective barrier on skin and lips, retaining moisture. It ensures lipsticks remain firm in high temperatures due to its high melting point. Additionally, it's widely used as a natural glazing agent and protective coating.

The gel in Aloe Vera's cactus-like fronds contains biologically active compounds like acetylated mannans, polymannans, anthraquinone, and lectins, which cool, soothe, moisturize, and soften skin. With antibacterial and anti-inflammatory qualities, it's been used for over 6000 years to treat sunburn, blisters, and burns, promoting exfoliation and healthy cell growth.

Vitamin C, or l-ascorbic acid, has photoprotective and antioxidative properties, reducing hyperpigmentation and supporting firmer, smoother skin. It increases collagen production, neutralizes free radicals, and reduces oxidative damage. Finally, it decreases melanin synthesis, brightening skin and preventing pigmentation. We use the most stable and least sensitising version Sodium Ascorbyl Phosphate.

Derived from the bark and leaves of a shrub rich in gallic acid and tannins, Hamamelis Virginiana has long been used in folk medicine to heal minor wounds. Modern research confirms its value as a toner, pore minimizer, and anti-inflammatory agent. It helps treat eczema, psoriasis, and other inflammatory skin concerns, offering a calming and soothing effect. We only use alcohol-free Witch Hazel.

A by-product of the wine industry, Vitis Vinifera is a light moisturizer ideal for sun-damaged or stressed skin. High in antioxidants, including vitamins E and C, and potent polyphenols, it helps retain the normal structure of epithelial cells, protecting against premature aging and reducing stretch marks.

Rich in catechins, flavonoids, and caffeine, Camellia Sinensis protects cells from free radical damage. Its biochemical properties include antioxidant, anticarcinogenic, anti-inflammatory, and anti-radiation effects. This helps to shield and rejuvenate skin, making it a helpful ingredient in skincare formulations.

Lanolin, a naturally derived emollient from sheep's wool, is a wonder ingredient for skin. It softens and protects skin, acting as an occlusive moisturizer that reduces trans-epidermal water loss by 20-30%. Lanolin improves skin smoothness, has antimicrobial properties, and is excellent for dry, cracked skin. In the refined form we use, it also has low allergy sensitivity.

Extracted by steam distilling Bulgarian Damask Rose petals, Rosa Damascena is a true essential oil, distinct from chemically extracted Rose Absolute or Rose De Mai. It has antiseptic, antiviral, astringent, and cicatrisant properties, offering excellent emollient and hydrating benefits for dry, sensitive skin. Its scent has also been shown to promote feelings of relaxation.

Glycerol, or glycerin, is a colorless, odourless liquid used in pharmaceuticals and food. It reduces wound inflammation and is approved for wound care and skin grafts. In skincare, its humectant properties draw moisture to the skin, mimicking the natural moisturizing factor, enhancing hydration, resiliency, and youthfulness without triggering allergies.

The Opuntia Ficus Indica plant, native to Mexico, produces oil from its seeds. Rich in linoleic acid, more Vitamin E than Argan Oil, polyphenols, and phytosterols, it promotes skin integrity, hydration, and collagen production. It also has antimicrobial and wound-healing properties. Exceptionally light and easily absorbed, it’s ideal for maintaining healthy skin.

Sodium Lactate is the soluble salt of Lactic Acid which forms when foods such as milk go through the process of fermentation. Cleopatra famously bathed in sour milk for beautiful skin. Nowadays the vegan and milk-free ingredient is a fantastic humectant which helps maintain hydration in the skin’s stratum corneum. It enhances skin elasticity, supports barrier function, and aids natural exfoliation by activating enzymes that shed dead skin. Sodium lactate also enhances the performance of AHAs and Vitamin C.

Produced by honey bees, Cera Alba is ideal for skin creams and ointments. It forms a protective layer, prevents moisture loss, improves elasticity, and relieves chapped skin. Beeswax is non-toxic, hypoallergenic, and has antibiotic and warming properties. Our beeswax meets the highest British Pharmacopeia purity standards, ensuring quality and effectiveness.

Extracted from the seeds of an American shrub, Simmondsia Chinensis is unique for its high composition of liquid wax esters, unlike other plant-derived oils rich in triglycerides. This makes it highly stable and heat-tolerant, as well as bio-compatible with human sebum. Anti-inflammatory, non-comedogenic, and highly moisturizing, it’s ideal for all skin types, especially dry, mature skin.

Naturally occurring Titanium Dioxide – of which we use the microfine, but non-nano form - is used as a white pigment in foundations, concealers and sunscreens. As well as looking good, it absorbs UV light, and reduces free radical production, ensuring all makeup has at least some built-in mineral sun protection factor.

Tocopheryl Acetate is a naturally occurring, fat-soluble antioxidant that limits lipid peroxidation in skin exposed to UV light and pollutants. This photoprotective effect serves to reduce free radical generation and DNA damage. Vitamin E also acts as an anti-inflammatory agent.

Citric Acid is an AHA (alpha-hydroxy-acid) derived from citrus fruits through fermentation. Their AHA action reduces wrinkles, brightens skin, and provides antioxidant and toning properties. With a natural preservative effect and a lemon-like fragrance, citric acid can effectively enhance many skincare formulations.

Ceramides are essential lipids in skin cells, comprising 30-40% of the epidermis. They retain moisture and support the skin's barrier function. Decreased ceramide levels lead to dryness and irritation. Applying Ceramides topically improves skin hydration, protect against environmental damage, and guard against aging, eczema, and other skin conditions by restoring and maintaining skin health. We use Ceramides 3, 6 and 9.

A fermented prebiotic active made from oats (Avena Sativa) and Lactobacillus Ferment that protects and maintains a healthy microbiome. It increases the biodiversity of skin microbiota, enhances resistance to oxidative stress and DNA damage, locks in moisture, helps stimulate cell regeneration and improves skin texture by maintaining the integrity of the extracellular matrix.

An astringent and tonic herb, Acmella Oleracea has been used traditionally for its analgesic constituent, spilanthol, to relieve toothache. In skincare, it offers myorelaxant properties, reducing muscle contractions that cause wrinkles. A recent study showed significant wrinkle reduction, making it a natural alternative to Botox for smoother, younger-looking skin.

Peptides are amino acids that serve as building blocks for the proteins which maintain skin’s structure and firmness. The Palmitoyl Tripeptide-38 we use boosts collagen production and reduces the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. It also supports fibronectin, laminin and elastin, improving skin firmness and elasticity and making it a key age-supporting ingredient.

Encompassing the incredible cornucopia of vegan colourants used in varying quantities to create the vibrant shades which define lip and eye makeup. They in turn are derived from clever combinations of mineral petroleum and metal salts. We like to micro-mill our pigments to reduce particle size and obtain optimal colour development.

Modern acrylate and polymer materials that help create a weightless, pliable yet water-resistant film on the surface of the skin. This makes makeup products last longer and be less likely to dissolve, smudge or melt away when they encounter sebum and moisture from your skin and the environment.

Referring to a group of modern polymer materials including nylon and silicones chosen for their fluid properties and sensory benefits. They improve the look and feel of skin, filling in fine lines and pores to create a smooth, flawless and silky skin texture. Oil-free and non-comedogenic, with a unique molecular structure, they feel light and breathable.

Encompassing Magnesium Carbonate (used in antacids) and Calcium Carbonate (the main component of chalk), these naturally occurring minerals are useful in cosmetics for their mattifying and oil-absorbing properties, and for offering a smooth, safe and inert binding agent for the pigments and oxides in mineral powder formulas.

Emollients is an umbrella term for substances that help soothe, soften, and reduce moisture loss in the skin. They are used to prevent or treat dry skin, protect the skin against irritation and as a texture enhancer. The term covers a host of esters that are largely derived from mineral (paraffin) or vegetable (palm oil, coconut oil) sources.

Derived from natural minerals found in the earth, these are used to create skin colour in cosmetics, providing the even flawless coverage desired from foundations and concealers. Red, Yellow and Black Oxides are mixed in exact quantities to reflect the full spectrum of natural skin tones. They also offer a slight UV-protective effect.

A mineral which, when coated with various layers of a chosen oxide, creates beautiful prism effects and sparkle in an array of colours. The smaller particle sizes create a shimmer effect, while larger particles create a glitter effect. Since natural mica is mined without proper concern for child labour practices, we use only synthetic mica – fluorophlogopite.

Clay-like silicates chosen for their ability to thicken formulations weightlessly and absorb water, helping shine control on the skin. Their positive electric charge also encourages pigments to remain uniformly dispersed – essential for a beautiful payoff in application.

The botanical extract of Camellia sinensis is rich in polyphenols and offers antioxidant and anti-inflammatory benefits. It protects the skin from UV damage, minimizes signs of ageing like hyperpigmentation and fine lines, reduces sebum production, and soothes conditions like eczema and psoriasis. It also contains caffeine and tannins, which help to reduce puffiness.

A shrub native to China, also known as "honey tree" or "tree of a thousand flowers” Evodia Rutaecarpa is used in traditional Chinese medicine for arthritis and headaches. The fruit extract we use contains alkaloids which soothe redness and inflammation, reduce itching, and work to lighten hyperpigmentation by inhibiting the activity of tyrosinase that produces melanin.

This glycoprotein exopolymer made from the fermentation of Antarctic bacteria strain Pseudoalteromonas Antarctica NF3 is selected for its cryoprotective properties. It protects against dryness and redness, promotes skin regeneration by stimulating protein synthesis in the skin, and reduces the depth of wrinkles. It also regulates oily skin by reducing sebum production, shininess, and pore size.

Geranylgeranone (GGA) (see Teprenone on INCI list) is a terpenoid found in plants and essential oils like rose, and lemongrass. It has antimicrobial, antioxidant, and anti-inflammatory properties, and reduces markers of cellular senescence by stabilizing the telomeres and maintaining DNA integrity. It improves tissue quality, cell communication and metabolism, slowing all signs of ageing and enhancing skin health and appearance.

Niacinamide, or Vitamin B3, improves the skin’s barrier, reducing environmental damage and retaining moisture. It promotes softer, smoother skin, reduces dryness and fine lines, and gives a healthy glow. Niacinamide is also an effective skin-lightening agent, decreasing hyperpigmentation and increasing skin brightness.

Zinc Oxide promotes wound healing and tissue regeneration by encouraging epithelial growth, boosting collagen and protein synthesis, and increasing growth factor expression. Plus, ithas a UV-protective effect and inhibits bacterial growth. Used topically on the skin, it soothes inflammation, redness, and irritation, and helps improve skin elasticity and suppleness. Additionally, it regulates oil production, reducing shine on oily skin.