This plant grown commercially in southern US and New Mexico was historically used for the treatment of minor burns and skin irritations. As part of the formula’s base, it provides wonderful moisturization and a refreshing feel to the skin. Aloe also helps in the absorption of other key ingredients, while providing its own benefits. As a natural extract, Aloe contains:* Vitamins A, C, and E - all known for their antioxidant properties
*Enzymes (biochemical catalysts) - such as Bradykinase - which has been shown to help reduce inflammation when applied topically
*Minerals (Calcium,Sodium, Potassium, Manganese, Copper, Zinc, Chromium and Selenium)
*Lignin - an inert substance - but when part of topical products, it helps other ingredients in the formula to be absorbed more efficiently into the skin.

Is derived from the shrub also known as the Spotted Alder. Most commonly found in Easter US and Canada. Historically has been used topically for the treatment of burns, bruises and scalds in general to reduce inflammation and has soothing properties on the skin.

Is an oil extracted from pressing the seeds of various varieties of grapes, an abundant product of wine making. The location of the best grape seed oils then by no surprise are found in Italy, France, Spain and also Switzerland. My personal preference due to the consistent high yield and quality is that found in the Tuscany region in Italy. I also like drinking the wine. It’s all in the name of research. Grape seed oil contains very potent anti-oxidants which are helpful for diminishing the sun’s damaging effects and lessening free-radical damage – diminishing the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. As an ingredient for this type of product, it is also lightweight and does not give an oily feel to the skin.

Is an ingredient that helps to balance or maintain moisture levels. It is commonly derived from oils or created as a by-product of soap production. The glycerine used in this product is vegetable based, that is derived from palm oils. Glycerin is actually part of the skin’s own natural lipid structure. As a moisturizing ingredient, it helps the skin to attract and retain its own natural moisture while leaving it feeling soft. This ingredient has a great capacity to attract moisture from the air therefore, rather than sitting on top of the skin, glycerine is absorbed readily thereby softening the skin while not leaving it feeling greasy.

With proven antioxidant benefits, Vitamin E helps in the reduction of fine lines and wrinkles on a small scale, to stretch marks on a larger scale

Algae is a sea weed found in many parts of the world – there are thousands of different species. Bladderwrack is a seaweed that is found off the northern coast of Brittany(a unique ecosystem as it is where the Atlantic and Pacific oceans meet), and is an effective antioxidant and has water binding properties for the skin. This naturally occurring renewable raw material has been used for centuries in European spas (as wraps, masks) to improve the texture and appearance of the skin. I just wish it had a more appealing name.

White tea is the minimally processed buds and leaves of green tea – and has therefore a higher and more potent percentage of antioxidants. This extract also contains caffeine, which is known to be soothing to the skin and helps minimize the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. White tea is native to mainland South and Southeast Asia, but is today cultivated across the world in tropical and subtropical regions.

Is an amino acid derived from certain fruits and nuts and that has great antioxidant properties. Amino acids are the building blocks to proteins, and protein is the building block to all living cells. It also helps with improving circulation, and subsequently cell renewal, and this in turn, helps to improve the appearance of the skin in general since the rate of cell renewal decreases as we age.

Is a nut/seed native to North Coast of Africa. A cousin to the coffee bean, this nut contains a much higher amount of natural Caffeine. Contrary to when you ingest caffeine when drinking coffee, caffeine in skin preparations actually soothes the skin and helps to minimize the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles with out the bothersome aspect of keeping you up at night.

This flower is indigenous to the mountainous regions of Central Europe. This ingredient has long been used in Europe for the treatment of skin abrasions. One of Arnic’s primary components: Helenalin – also has a strong anti-edemic (anti-swelling) effect, which is why it has been used historically to help reduce bruising and swelling. In this formula, it helps with the tone and elasticity of the skin.

Is the provitamin of B5. It is an emollient viscous liquid that is a humectant (has water binding capabilities for the skin) and helps with water retention which in turn helps the skin to attract and retain its own natural moisture.

Magnesium, Zinc and Manganese salts are minerals that individually have great skin benefits, but in combination with sodium play a major role in boosting enzyme reactions essential in cell renewal to reduce redness and improve the tone and texture of skin. This is the type of thinking behind using of the ‘dead sea’ salts in some formulations.