Ingredient Glossary

It is our mission to operate our company with honesty, transparency and authenticity. HONESTY - It is essential to us that you know what you are putting on your skin; this is why every single ingredient that goes into our formulations is listed on our product labels. TRANSPARENCY - The term natural is used very loosely in the skincare industry and remains unregulated, so we feel it is important you understand what natural means to us (view here). AUTHENTICITY - We will be true to who we are, we will remain a company you can trust and we will continue to produce the fine quality, small-batch, skincare products you have come to know and love.

Welcome to our Ingredient Glossary 

achellia millefolium (yarrow) - a perennial herb used for centuries for its ability to soothe irritated or damaged skin and reduce inflammation / redness. It is one of the herbs infused into The Balm.

aloe barbadensis (aloe vera) leaf juice - is well respected for its application as a moisturizing agent and skin soother. It contains vitamin B complex, folic acid, vitamin C and carotene. It is a hero ingredient in many of our products such as mists, toners, lotions and cleansers.

althaea officials (marshmallow) root - the mucilage in the marshmallow plant contains antioxidants which research suggests forms a protective coating around mucous membranes to soothe redness, reduce inflammation and help retain moisture in skin. We infuse it into Baby Balm and The Balm.

aniba rosaedora (rose) petals and buds - aside from the lovely aroma of dried rose petals they contain vitamins and antioxidants. Find them in our Face Steams and Bath Teas to soothe and soften skin.

anthemis nobilis (chamomile) - you will find different forms of chamomile in many of our formulations: botanical extract, essential oil, flower water and dried flowers. Chamomile contains powerful antioxidants which help the skin to regenerate, tighten pores and reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.

aqua (water) - we use distilled water in our hydrous (containing water) products.

arctium lappa L. (burdock) root extract - this herb contains Vitamins B complex and E. In addition, it boasts trace minerals of potassium, phosphorous, chromium, cobalt, iron, magnesium, silicon, zinc and sodium. We add it to our French Pink Clay mask to deep clean the pores, and purify the surface of the skin.

argania spinosa (argan) cold pressed virgin oil - rich in vitamin E, carotenes, antioxidants and essential fatty acids,  it is a prized ingredient in formulas to reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkless, such as our Argan Rosehip Face Serum. 

avena sativa (oat) flour - also known as colloidal oatmeal, and found in our Bath Teas to moisturize and soothe dry and problem skin. This colloidal oatmeal is GMO-free and consists of key components such as beta glucan and avenanthramides, which act as a natural, deep penetrating moisturizer to reduce the itching caused by dry skin.

bakuchiol -  extracted from the seeds of the psoralea corylifolia plant, bakuchiol is a potent antioxidant and has clinically demonstrated the ability to reduce hyperpigmentation and wrinkles as efficiently as retinol. It has a pronounced soothing effect on skin and benefits all skin types.

beeswax - hydrates, conditions, soothes, and calms the skin. It exfoliates, repairs damage, promotes the skin’s regeneration, diminishes the appearance of the signs of aging, soothes itchiness and irritation, and creates a hydrating, long-lasting protective barrier against environmental pollutants.

benzyl alcohol - derived from natural sources, this non-drying alcohol serves as a preservative in cosmetics products, and is considered one of the least-sensitizing preservatives in use.

benzyl alcohol & salicylic acid & glycerin & sorbic acid - a preservative system with the Trade name Eco/ Geogard™ ECT, that meets Ecocert and COSMOS standards. This is a broad-spectrum preservative which contains four different components: benzyl alcohol, salicylic acid, glycerin and sorbic acid. These molecules are all found in nature in plants such as pine resin, rowan berries and willow bark. It is a non-paraben, non-formaldehyde, nonisothiazolone-based preservative system.

boswellia carterii (frankincense) oil - an essential oil that has a warm and spicy, smokey and woody aroma, calms and soothes the complexion and has the ability to strengthen skin and improve its tone and elasticity.  

bursera graveolens (palo santo) wood oil - an essential oil with a fresh, intense woody aroma with a slight hint of citrus. This healing oil infuses your skin with potent levels of D-Limonene and Monoterpenes to provide deeply restorative and protective benefits at a cellular level to support a calm, balanced complexion.

butrospermum parkii (shea) butter - shea butter is fat extracted from the nuts of the shea tree.This skincare superhero contains fatty acids and vitamins A and E. It relieves dry skin, eases irritation, seals in moisture and combined with its easy-to-spread consistency, is a great product for smoothing, soothing, and conditioning your skin.

cacao powder - the raw version of cocoa and less processed. We use it in lip balm to provide colour and flavour. 

calendula officinalis (marigold) flower - another super hero ingredient. Properties which include anti-inflammatory, anti-bacterial, anti-fungal, antioxidant, anti-microbial and collagen repair make it an important ingredient in skincare and wound healing. Calendula flowers also demonstrate a strong bioadhesive or mucilaginous effect, which may not only help to decrease local inflammation by shielding tissues from irritants, but also facilitate tissue hydration. Check out our blog on calendula.

cananga odorata (ylang ylang) flower oil - an essential oil with a sweet, exotic, floral scent that is both purifying and balancing. Potent anti-bacterial properties make it a healing powerhouse, boosting the regenerative process of the epidermis. It also works wonders to help regulate your sebum production.

cannibis sativa (hemp) seed oil - unrefined hempseed oil, which has been left in its virgin state after pressing, and is completely natural. This oil is high in Omega fatty acids and proteins, and reduces visible signs of aging while replenishing and protecting the skin’s moisture barrier and improving the texture of skin.

capryl glucoside - a mild, solubilizing non-ionic surfactant that is obtained from renewable raw materials: fatty alcohols and glucose from vegetable origin. An ultra-gentle, natural, cleansing, solubilizing foaming agent containing 60% active matter that is ECOCERT Certified, preservative free and free of impurities.

caprylic/capric triglycerides (coconut oil) - this MCT 60/40 Fractionated Coconut Oil is produced 100% from coconuts. It penetrates the skin readily, contains healthy fatty acids, is naturally rich in antioxidants and antibacterial properties and provides lightweight moisture and conditioning to the skin.

cedrus atlantica (cedarwood) bark oil - an essential oil with a sweet woodsy scent, steam distilled from the bark of the Cedar tree. It helps regulate sebum production, soothe irritation, inflammation, redness, and itchiness, as well as dryness that leads to cracking, peeling, or blistering. 

cetearyl alcohol (and) sodium cetearyl sulfate - emulsifying wax N - makes an ionic self-emulsifying base specifically for oil and water cosmetic lotions and creams. It is PEG-free and gluten-free, and is approved by Ecocert for use as an ingredient in natural and organic cosmetics.

cinnamomum camphora (camphor) bark oil - an essential oil with an intense clean, bright and piercing scent. Used topically, the cooling effects of soothe inflammation, redness, insect bites, itching, irritation, rashes, acne, sprains, and muscular aches and pains.

cinnamomum camphora (howood) oil - a sweet woody slightly floral essential oil with a peaceful, calming aroma.

cinnamomun zeylanicum (cinnamon) bark oil - this essential oil has a warm spicy scent characteristic of cinnamon. Used in aromatherapy,  it helps to relax, manage stressful feelings and enhance mood. Benefits also include moisturizing and astringent properties to help cleanse and tone the skin and hair.

citric acid - used in small amounts to adjust the pH of products. Derived from citrus fruits, it keeps formulas from being too alkaline.

citrus aurantifolia (lime) peel oil - the scent of this essential oil gives a fresh, energizing feeling due to its sharp, sweet and fruity fragrance. Useful during the cold and flu seasons can uplift the mood, purify the air and comes with benefits for the skin and hair.

citrus aurantium amara (flower oil) - neroli essential oil is a hydration powerhouse, with an incredible ability to soften and replenish skin and lock in moisture. Safe for sensitive skin, and is known for it's beautiful heady scent.

citrus aurantium amara (bitter orange) leaf/twig oil - petitgrain essential oil has a bright refreshing energizing aroma and is balancing and toning to the skin. 

citrus aurantium bergamia (bergamot) peel oil - an essential oil with a fruity and sweet citrus aroma, along with a warm spicy floral quality. It works to stimulate skin cell renewal and balance oils in skin for an even and toned complexion.

citrus limon (lemon) peel oil - is the fresh sweet citrus essence, with a strong bright lemony scent, obtained from lemon peels. It's benefits include cleansing and purifying properties as well as a brightening influence on skin and hair.

citrus paradisi (grapefruit) peel oil - has a fresh sweet citrus smell characteristic of the fruit. Popular for use in aromatherapy for it's uplifting scent and skincare products to help maintain smooth looking skin and balance oil production.

citrus sinensis (orange) peel oil - has a fresh fruity uplifting aroma and has been associated with mood-boosting, antibacterial, antifungal, decongestant, and immune system benefits.

coco betaine - coco betaine is made from fatty acids derived from coconut oil. It has no propyl group and is also missing the ‘amido’ functional group as compared to its closely related surfactant cocamidopropyl betaine. It is a very mild co-surfactant that also has good conditioning properties.

cocos nucifera fruit powder - is the powder obtained from the dried ground fruit of the coconut ( also known as coconut milk powder). It is a natural emollient, leaves skin soft, supple and hydrated, and provides nutrients to the skin as it is rich in vitamins, minerals, fiber and amino acids.

coffee grounds - we use ground coffee in our coffee scrub to gently exfoliate dead surface skin cells, stimulate circulation and leave skin feeling soft and smooth.

cucumis sativus (cucumber peel) botanical extract - makes a wonderful addition to skin-care products for its cooling and skin-tightening properties. It is rich in vitamins and a powerful antioxidant. It can revitalize and refresh tired stressed skin leaving it feeling and looking soft, smooth and radiant. 

cymbopogon flexuosus (lemongrass) herb oil - while studies support lemongrass oil as a bug repellent, it does require frequent reapplication. To repel mosquitoes most effectively, reapply lotions and sprays every 30–60 minutes. It is also known to be beneficial for creating a feeling of being refreshed and renewed, uplifting negative moods and relieving anxiety.

cymbopogon martini (palmarosa) oil - has a sweet, floral fragrance. It is said to stimulate the skin's natural secretion of sebum making it beneficial for dry skin.

cymbopogon nardus ( citronella) oil - has a well-rounded lemony scent, though it is much softer and has subtle wood tones. It can be used as a Mosquito Repellent, and to stimulate, refresh and deodorize sweaty and tired feet.

daucus carota sativa (carrot) seed oil - is extracted from the seeds of the wild carrot plant known as daucus carota. Cold-pressed from carrot seeds, it is used in skincare products for its ability to reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. Find it in our Revitalize Eye Serum to gently moisturize the delicate under eye area. 

decyl glucoside - is a mild, natural, vegan, plant-derived, biodegradable, non-toxic, and sustainable cleansing agent suitable for delicate skin. It belongs to the alkyl glucosides family of surfactants and is commonly used as a non-toxic and eco-friendly alternative to conventional sulfates (like sodium laurel sulfate and sodium laureth sulfate).

elettaria cardamomum (cardamom) seed oil - an essential oil with a strong, sweet, spicy and almost balsamic fragrance, with soothing and balancing benefits.

ethanol - a clear colourless alcohol that is an ingredient in our hand spray, used to sanitize by killing a range of bacteria and viruses.

eucalyptus globulus leaf oil - is soothing and highly therapeutic. The sharp, fresh and herbaceous aroma is commonly used for aromatherapy. It has wide-ranging health benefits including decongestant, anti-inflammatory, antispasmodic, antiseptic, antifungal, antimicrobial, antiviral, and antibacterial properties.

eugenia caryophyllus (clove) bud oil - this essential oil smells just like clove spice and has a warming sensation when applied topically on skin, and is helpful in aromatherapy blends intended to help relieve pain.

fuller’s earth clay (aka multanni mitti) - this clay cleanses and purifies skin by pulling out dirt, oil and impurities. Recommended for oily skin.

fusanus spicatus wood oil - Australian sandalwood oil has a soft, sweet, rich, woody aroma and helps to promote a healthy even skin tone.

gaultheria procumbens (wintergreen) leaf oil - a minty, sweet, woody scent that is uplifting and stimulating when used in aromatherapy.

glycerin (Ecocert) - is a humectant that attracts moisture in the air to the skin, and with emollient properties that soften and smooth skin. 

glyceryl caprylate - a 100% plant derived, natural (Ecocert approved) multi-functional ingredient that has emollient and moisturizing properties, and is a co-emulsifier that can be used to stabilize oil in water emulsions.

glycine soja (soybean) oil - is a very light carrier oil high in lecithin, sterolins and vitamin E. It is safe to use and can provide protection from mosquitoes when applied to the skin.

hamamelis virginiana (witch hazel) water - alcohol free witch hazel distillate that provides soothing, astringent properties when caring for the skin.

helianthus annus (sunflower) seed oil - a wonderful skin conditioning carrier oil high in vitamins A, B, D, E and minerals and containing beneficial amounts of lecithin and unsaturated fatty acids.

helichrysum italicum flower water - has a warm, herbaceous tea-like aroma, that helps stimulate collagen production and reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.

himalayan pink salt - also known as Himalayan Rock Salt, this salt is hand-mined and harvested from ancient salt beds, deep under the Himalayan Mountains. Known to be rich in over 80 minerals and trace elements, some of the most notable being calcium, magnesium, potassium, copper, and iron, this salt is considered to be the purest form of salt available. Use in your bath to promote relaxation and soothe irritated skin conditions.

hydrastis canadensis (goldenseal) root - is a natural anti-inflammatory, antiseptic and healing herb. Goldenseal’s skin healing properties are thanks to phytochemical alkaloids: berberine, canadine and hydrastine that produce a powerful ‘astringent effect’ on mucous membranes, which means it has a calming and healing effect on the skin. A rich source of Vitamin A, B, C and E, it also contains important minerals: iron, zinc, potassium, calcium, and manganese

Illite (french clay green) - absorbs and removes impurities from the skin, revealing the fresh surface to provide a healthy looking glow. Rich in magnesium, calcium, potassium, silicon, selenium, aluminum, titanium, cobalt, sodium, phosphorus, copper and zinc it acts as a magnet, drawing out impurities and leaving your skin clear, smooth and hydrated. Recommended for normal / combination skin.

Illite/kaolin (french clay pink) - gently exfoliates dead skin cells, clean pores, brightens your complexion, and helps increase cell turnover, leaving the skin smooth and radiant. Recommended for normal / mature / sensitive skin.

juniperus communis (juniper berry) fruit oil - has a medium aroma with a woody, mildly camphoraceous scent, with a calming and grounding effect.

kaolin clay - smooths, exfoliates and detoxifies skin, absorbs excess oils and fights acne; it can strengthen and improve skin health and brighten your complexion. Recommended for combination / oily skin.

lactobacillus ferment - a probiotic ingredient that is helpful in killing harmful bacteria and creating a healthy balanced microflora. It also can serve in a formula as part of a natural preservative system.

lactobacillus & cocos nucifera (coconut) fruit extract - a fermentation that offers probiotics, non-irritating moisturization, and a natural solution to synthetic preservatives.

lavandula angustifolium (lavender) buds - dried from lavender flowers, providing a sweet floral scent and promoting a calm relaxed mood. We use lavender buds in our facial steams and botanical bath teas. 

lavandula officinalis (lavender) flower oil / water - a rich, sweet and floral lavender aroma promotes feelings of relaxation and calm. Anti-inflammatory properties make it great for soothing and healing skin that's irritated or reddened from the sun, insect bites, or bacteria.

limmanthes alba (meadowfoam) seed oil - contains 98% fatty acids with wonderful moisturizing and rejuvenating properties. Absorbs easily into the skin leaving a silky smooth feel.

linum usitatissium (flax) seed oil - an emollient, high in essential fatty acids, vitamin E , vitamin B and minerals. It contains the alpha-linoleic acids (ALAs) which may contribute to younger looking skin. Flax Seed Oil is reputed to be  excellent oil to use on sensitive skin as it is very soothing and reputed reduce the appearance of cellulite and to improve elasticity in skin. 

maris sal (dead sea) salt - is the most saline body of water in the world with far greater concentrations of minerals than any ocean (a concentration of 32% minerals compared to other seas). Bromides and Iodine are known to be present, along with other minerals in a dried form, such as Magnesium, Sodium, Calcium and Potassium. All these minerals are believed to work together to assist in relaxing and soothing the body to provide a sense of well being.

matricaria recutita (chamomile) botanical extract - is a fine powder that is brownish yellow in colour and is extracted using water. It is commonly known for its its soothing properties and is used in topical applications.

melaleuca alternifolia (tea tree) leaf oil - has a fresh, slightly medicinal scent with characteristic woody, camphoraceous notes. It has been used for decades, and medical studies have documented its advantages as a beneficial aid in eliminating bacteria, viruses, and fungi. 

melaleuca leucadendron (cajeput) leaf oil - has a fresh, camphorous aroma with a slight fruity note; has antimicrobial properties and is an active agent that fights against and prevents infections, bacteria, and viruses while regenerating damaged skin

mentha piperita (peppermint) oil - has a sharp, penetrating scent based on its high menthol content. The minty sweetness of the vapour makes it a popular essential oil. When applied topically it helps relieve headaches, muscle aches, joint pain, and itching.

mentha spicata (spearmint) herb oil - is a top note with a medium aroma and has a characteristic scent that is sweeter than the minty aroma of peppermint. It is multi-purpose and provides soothing properties when applied topically to skin.

menthol - these colorless, transparent crystals, made by crystallizing peppermint oil, exude a sharp, minty scent, which has a cooling effect that makes them ideal for addressing aches, pain, cramps, sprains, and irritation. 

moroccan lava clay - rhassoul - sourced from the fertile Atlas Mountains of Morocco, it is rich in silica, potassium, magnesium and calcium, giving it  impressive properties that benefit the skin in its capacity to absorb. 

myroxylon pereirae (balsam peru) oil - has a mild but deep, rich aroma that is woody yet sweet with a vanilla and benzoin quality, and has been used over the years to help remedy a number of skin issues including dry skin, and minor cuts and wounds.

natural butterscotch flavour oil - is made from all natural flavour constituents and has a rich, buttery scent.

natural cherry flavour oil - is made from all natural flavour constituents and has a ripe, juicy and succulent scent.

natural chocolate flavour oil - is made from all natural flavour constituents and has a sweet yummy chocolate scent.

natural coconut flavour oil - is made from all natural flavour constituents and has a tropical rich and creamy coconut scent.

natural french vanilla flavour oil - is made from all natural flavour constituents and has a delicious sweet and creamy vanilla scent.

natural raspberry flavour oil - is made from all natural flavour constituents and has a hearty fresh scent of ripe raspberry.

natural strawberry flavour oil - is made from all natural flavour constituents and has a sweet and succulent fresh strawberry scent.

nepeta cataria (catnip) oil - the aroma is basically green and herbaceous with sweet floral hints and can be used to deter mosquitos, flies, fleas and ticks.

non nano zinc oxide - is a white, powdery mineral with a sun protection benefits. It’s one of the main active ingredients found in mineral sunscreen. Rather than soaking into the skin, zinc actually sits on top of your skin and protects by scattering and reflecting the sun’s rays.

oenothera biennis (evening primrose) oil - is a rich source of gamma linoleic acid, omega 3 and omega 6 fatty acids which provide a nourishment to the skin and is reputed to soothe and relieve the skin while reducing the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.

origanum majorana (marjoram) flower oil - has a woody and spicy aroma that has a warming calming effect. 

oryza sativa (rice) bran oil - is extracted from the bran or outer coat of the brown rice grain removed during the milling process. It is rich in vitamins, minerals, proteins and essential oils.

panthenol pelargonium roseum (rose geranium) leaf oil - the scent is typical of geranium but with a rosy note. It benefits skin by tightening, brightening, balancing and promotes healthly cell renewal, reducing the appearance of dull skin.

piper nigrum (black pepper) fruit oil - has a sharp, spicy scent with warming properties that can help relieve pain from tired or injured muscles.

plantago major (plantain) - a herb renowned for its wound healing properties, containing allantoin - a skin soothing agent that promotes cell growth, which also has great drawing ability and can be used in the treatment of insect bites and stings. 

pogostemon cablin (patchouli dark) leaf oil - has an enticing earthy aroma and boasts calming and grounding properties often used to improve mood.

potassium citrate - is a salt form of citric acid and can be used as a chelating agent (binds with metal ions increasing the stability and efficacy of products) or to adjust the ph of a finished product.

potassium cocoate (coconut oil) - is a potassium salt of fatty acids derived from the saponification of coconut oil during the soap making process.

potassium oleate (sunflower oil) - is a potassium salt of oleic acid and is a fatty acid used as an emulsifying agent and cleansing agent.

prunus armeniaca (apricot) ground shells - ground from the seeds of apricots, this all natural exfoliant is perfect for deep-cleaning, renewing and detoxifying all skin types.

prunus dulcis (sweet almond) oil - is an excellent emollient and is known for its ability to soften and condition the skin. Extracted by cold-pressing the roasted seed kernels of the Almond tree, this oil consists of mostly oleic and linoleic triglycerides and imparts beneficial properties when used in cosmetic applications.

pumice powder super fine - light grey porous volcanic floating rocks, ground into a fine powder, and is an excellent exfoliant for use in creams, lotions and scrubs.

rosa canine (rosehip) extra virgin oil - This oil is of the highest quality, and Extra Virgin means that it was produced from the first pressing of the seeds. It has a high content of Vitamin E and essential fatty acids, containing 77% linoleic acid (Omega 6) and a-linolenic acid (Omega 3). High in antioxidants, it helps reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, improves pigmentation and moisturizes skin.

rosewood (natural blend) essential oil - natural blends are oils obtained by blending natural isolates from various essential oils to achieve an economical product that resembles the fragrance of the pure essential oil. Natural Blends are all natural, and do not contain any synthetic ingredients or aromatic compounds, nor do they contain artificial flavours or colorants. Rosewood is now an endangered species, so this is a substitute blend made up of purely natural constituents to smell as much like the real Rosewood as possible.

rosmarinus officinalis (rosemary) leaf oil - has a fresh, strong, woody and herbal scent. It can be used to soothe sore muscles, improve skin tone and texture, and reduce acne and other skin irritations.

salix alba L (white willow bark) botanical extract - the use of Willow dates back 6000 years. Ancient civilizations used White Willow Bark Extract for conditions associated with pain and inflammation. It is a popular ingredient in skin care formulations where it is used to assist in managing the oiliness of the skin. It can be used as an exfoliant and as an astringent. White Willow Bark Extract is also believed to be an effective purifying agent and is used in preparations for tinctures, balms, soap, facial cleansers, creams, and lotions. 

salvia officinalis (sage) oil - has a herbaceous scent with strong musty notes and has been reputed to support, balance, comfort and soothe the body, mind and spirit.

salvia sclaria (clary sage) oil - has a herbaceous with a sweet, floral aroma and when applied topically, calms and soothes the skin.

simmondsia chinensis (jojoba) oil - (pronounced ho-ho-ba) it is rich in Vitamin E, Vitamin B Complex, and a broad spectrum of fatty acids. Although it is considered an oil, Jojoba oil’s texture is more like that of liquid wax. It closely resembles the sebum of the skin, which promotes a glowing complexion when applied topically.

sodium anisate - is a 100% natural preservative obtained from anise and fennel. It’s an antimicrobial agent, one that helps to preserve products and prevents germs and bacteria from building up.

sodium bicarbonate - (aka baking soda) is used in cosmetics for its abrasive properties and anti-bacterial properties.

sodium castorate (castor) oilis a Sodium salt of the fatty acids derived from the saponification of castor oil and is used in soap making.

sodium cocoate (coconut) oil - is the sodium salt of the fatty acids of coconut oil. It is derived from the saponification of coconut oil and is used in soap making.

sodium cocoyl glutamate - is a mild vegetable-based surfactant (foaming ingredient) derived from coconut or palm kernel oil and glucose from corn.

sodium benzoate (and) potassium sorbate - a liquid cosmetic preservative, which can be used in leave-on as well as in rinse-off products. Used at low levels, the combination of these ingredients provide the full spectrum protection needed to ensure a product does not become contaminated.

sodium hyaluronate - an all-natural water-soluble form of Hyaluronic Acid. Hyaluronic Acid is a polysaccharide that occurs naturally in the human body and works to support the body’s collagen production and to help maintain elasticity. The added gain when using Sodium Hyaluronate is that it penetrates the skin more easily than Hyaluronic Acid. In the skin, it works to occupy the areas between collagen and elastin and renew and enhance the skin’s natural suppleness for a healthy appearance and texture.

sodium lactateis the natural sodium salt of lactic acid derived from the fermentation of sugar. In skin care, this ingredient is used primarily as a hydrating and buffering agent (to adjust a product’s pH value).

sodium levulinateis the sodium salt of levulinic acid, and is used as a preservative and skin conditioning agent in cosmetics and personal care products. It is gentle and proven to be able to control microorganism colonies without altering the integrity, colour or pH of other ingredients included in the final product.

sodium palmate (palm) oilis the sodium salt of the fatty acids of palm oil. It is derived from the saponification of coconut oil and is used in soap making.

sodium phytate - is the sodium salt of phytic acid. It is generally used to help stabalize products but has secondary benefits as well; it can moisturize, improve skin elasticity, and balance oily skin. It is an all-natural chelating agent that can be used as a replacement for disodium and tetrasodium EDTA in cosmetic products.

stelloria media (chickweed) herb -  is an astringent herb that has soothing, cooling, hydrating and healing properties when applied to sensitive or dry skin.

styrax benzoin resin oil - has a sweet, warm and vanilla-like aroma and contains a range of chemical compounds that contributes to the oil's scent and healing properties.

sucrose (sugar)is the generic name for sweet-tasting, soluble carbohydrates. We use brown sugar in our body scrubs.

theobroma cacao (cocoa) seed butter - is a natural, cream colored vegetable fat extracted from cocoa beans during the process of separating the powder and liquor from the bean. Cocoa Butter generally has a soft, sweet cocoa aroma and it is one of the most stable fats known. It is excellent to moisturize skin and keep it soft smooth and supple.

tocopherol (vitamin e) - is a golden yellow to reddish, viscous oil having a slight characteristic vegetable oil aroma. Studies have shown that Vitamin E plays a crucial role in protecting the skin from environmental factors. The d-alpha-tocopherol in Vitamin E is also known to helps reduce the appearance of fine lines. It is a natural antioxidant with a full spectrum of tocopherols, which will extend the shelf-life of other oils and anhydrous (without water) products.

vetiveria zizanoides (vetiver) root oil - has a strong, earthy, woody scent characteristic of oils derived from roots. Used in aromatherapy applications, Vetiver Essential Oil is beneficial for soothing anxiety, insomnia, fatigue, depression, and inability to concentrate or remember. Used cosmetically or topically in general, Vetiver Essential Oil is known to firm, tighten, and protect skin against the harsh effects of environmental stressors,

vitis vinifera (grape) seed oil - this oil is obtained from the seeds of grapes cultivated in South Africa. The oil is obtained by cold pressing the seeds. Grapeseed oil is an important source of antioxidants and nutrients and it helps to protect the skin against the abuse of environmental elements. The high contents of omega 6 fatty acids are known to nourish and improve the texture of skin. It is light and dry and absorbs easily, with properties that help protect the skin's moisture barrier and relieve itching due to dry skin. With a high content of linoleic acid the oil provides moisturizing benefits and prevents water loss.