Glossary

Acid Pure Powder: A pure form of Vitamin C. It is a antioxidant and free radical scavenger. It is said to promote cellular and vascular health, and to maintain healthy platelet function. It supports the body defense system, enhances white blood cell function/activity, increases interferon levels and antibody responses. Acid pure powder has histamine lowering properties and increases lymphocyte formation. It formats and maintains inter-cellular substance and collagen. Vitamin C aids the absorption of iron, the formation of red blood cells and converts folic acid to its active forms.

Acrylate: A natural or synthetic binding agent. A substance that binds ingredients together. Click here for more info

Acrylates C10/30 Alkyl Acrylate Crosspolymer: A natural or synthetic binding agent used to hold ingredients together (Example: Oil and water).

Alcohol/Alcohol 40-B: Also called ethyl alcohol, grain alcohol, ethanol, fermentation alcohol. A colorless, limpid, volatile, flammable, water-miscible liquid produced by yeast fermentation of certain carbohydrates, as grains, molasses, starch, or sugar, or obtained synthetically by hydration of ethylene: used chiefly as a solvent in the extraction of specific substances, in beverages, medicines, organic synthesis, lotions, tonics, colognes, and/or rubbing compounds.

40-B Alcohol Denat: An alcohol which has been changed.(Example: drinkable alcohol to non drinkable alcohol). See Denaturation.

Alkali: A basic, ionic salt of an alkali metal or alkaline earth metal element. Alkalis are best known for being bases that dissolve in water. Bases are compounds with a pH greater than 7. The adjective alkaline is commonly used in English as a synonym for base, especially for soluble bases. Alkalis are all Arrhenius bases (a reaction that occurs between an acid and a base), which form hydroxide ions (OH-) when dissolved in water. Click here for more info

Allantoin: Allantoin is a healing, moisturizing, soothing, anti-irritating, non-toxic agent useful in dermatological, and cosmetic preparation. Allantoin is a valuable cell-proliferating healing agent which stimulates healthy tissue formation. It can be used in the treatment skin ulcers, wounds, scalds, burns and sunburns, carbuncles, acne and skin eruptions, fissures and abrasions, impetigo, eczema, psoriasis.

Aloe Barbadenis: Organic aloe vera taken from the leaf of the aloe plant. The clear like gel that oozes from cut leaves has been shown to help burns and wounds heal faster and to reduce the risk of infection. Aloe gel is a soothing and effective first aid remedy for minor burns and scrapes and for sunburn.

Aloe Barbedensis Leaf Juice: Juice from the Aloe Vera plant.

Aloe Vera: A succulent plant believed to have healing properties. It has a clear gel-like sap. This gel has been shown to help burns and wounds heal faster and to reduce the risk of infection. Aloe gel is a soothing and effective first aid remedy for minor burns and scrapes and for sunburn.

Aluminum Sesquichlorohydrate: A topical astringent used to control excessive sweating commonly used in deodorants and antiperspirants. It is not absorbed into the skin as readily as aluminum chloride. Also less likely to cause irritation. Click here for more info

Aluminum Zirconium Trichlorohydrex: An ingredient used in antiperspirants and deodorants to maintain dryness and control excessive sweating. It is not absorbed into the skin as readily as aluminum chloride and is also less likely to cause irritation

Aminomethyl Propanol: A mild ingredient in styling products which emulsifies (a colloidal suspension of a liquid in another liquid) provides pH balance, and neutralizes alkaline in acid-function hair fixatives.

Ammonium Myreth Sulfate: A surfactant a.k.a. a wetting agent that lowers the surface tension of a liquid, allowing for easier application. (Example: Shampoos, Conditioners).

Ammonium Stearate: A surfactant or material that spreads along a surface, changing the properties of the surface. For example, soap spreads over a water surface and lowers its surface tension.

Ammonium Borate: A topical antiseptic and disinfectant that is soluble in water.

AMP Isostearoyl Hydrolyzed Soy Protein: A hair strengthening ingredient made from soy plant proteins.

Anthemia Nobilis: Chamomile has been used for centuries as a medicinal plant, mostly for gastrointestinal ailments and skin injuries and problems. In Germany it has been effectively used in treating wounds. Aromatherapy chamomile essential oils have been found to be effective in healing episiotomy wounds. Anthemia Nobilis is a species of Roman or English Chamomile flower extract.

Aqua: Water.

Aqueous extract: An extract obtained from a vegetable substance by steeping it in water.

Arnica Montana: Arnica Montana is a medicinal plant. It does contain toxic Helenalin which can be poisonous in large amounts. The roots work as a fungicide/preservative and have anti-inflammatory properties. Used as a topical gel Arnica has been found to have the same effect as ibuprofen in treating symptoms of osteoarthritis. It is mostly used in liniments and ointments for strains, bruises, and sprains. It assists in the healing process by facilitating the transportation of fluid and blood accumulation through a dilating action of blood capillaries.

Ascorbic Acid: Vitamin C is an essential nutrient for humans, as well as, a number of other plant and animal species. Ascorbic acid is internally manufactured by most living organisms with the exception of humans. It is a widely used as a food additive and/or as a food or cosmetic preservative. It works as an anti-oxidant protecting the body against oxidative stress and also contains several vita enzymatic reactions. It is often mistakenly referred to as absorbic acid.

Ascorbyl Palmitate: A form of vitamin C.

Astringent: An astringent is a substance which causes biological tissue to contract or draw together. There are a number of uses, for example, many cosmetic companies recommend using an astringent after cleansing to close pores.

Avena Sativa: Oats. Used to relieve itching and skin irritation. Also used as an exfoliant.

Balancing Agents: Something that has the quality of being alkaline or acidic.

Behenyl Alcohol: Also known as Docosanol. It is a saturated fatty alcohol used mainly as an anti-bacterial in cosmetics.

Bentonite Clay: An active mineral clay used for it's medicinal purposes.

Benzophenone: Prevents ultraviolet light from damaging fragrances and colors in products such as perfumes and soaps. It can also be added to the plastic packaging as a UV blocker. Its use allows manufacturers to package the product in clear glass or plastic. Without it, opaque or dark packaging would be required.

Benzyl Alcohol: A solution used in cosmetics to prevent bacterial growth.

Beta Carotene: One of a group of natural chemicals known as carotenes. Beta carotene is converted in the body to vitamin A. It is an antioxidant, like vitamins E and C. Beta-carotene includes dark green and orange-yellow vegetables, such as carrots, sweet potatoes, squash, spinach, broccoli, romaine lettuce, apricots, and green peppers. Though beta-carotenes are not an essential nutrient the vitamin A they are converted to is. Vitamin A is said to help prevent cancer, heart disease, slow cataracts, prevent macular degeneration, boost immunity, help asthma, psoriasis, and muscle impairment.

Binding Agent: A substance that makes a loose mixture stick together.

Biotin: Vitamin H or vitamin B7, strengthens hair and nails.

Bisabolol: Anti-irritant and anti-inflammatory solution used in cosmetics to prevent bacterial and fungus growth.

Botanicals: Part of a plant or an extract from a plant used in hair and skin products.

Butylene Glycol: An oil based substance that is used as an emollient or moisturizer in beauty products.

Butylparaben: An anti-fungal preservative used in cosmetics.

C12-15: An emollient (moisturizer) used in cosmetics.

Carbomer: A gelling agent used in beauty products. A thickener (Example: Toothpaste, Hair Gel).

Calendula: Marigold is a healing perrenial plant. Calendula extracts possess anti-viral, anti-genotoxic and, anti-inflammatory properties. Calendula can be used topically to treat acne. It is beneficial in controlling bleeding, it reduces inflammation, and soothes irritated tissue. There is also limited evidence that it controls radition dermatitis. It can be used for cramps and may have immunomodulatory properties.

Camelia Sinensis: Organic green tea leaf extract. The leaves and flowers of Camelia Sinensis have been used in herbal medicine to treat asthma, angina, peripheral vascular disease and coronary artery disease. The tea leaves have been known for their effective antibacterial properties, and in treatment of bacterial infections. Camelia Sinenis also has an ability to work as a natural food perservative. Some recent information shows it may offer possibilites ability to reverse methicillin resistance.

Canadian Balsam: Essential oil from the balsam fir tree.

Capric Caprylictrigylcerides: A cosmetic product which has the ability to hold water, often used as a moisturizer in beauty products.

Caprylic glycol: A humectant. A humectant is a substance that absorbs or helps another substance retain moisture, (a moisturizer).

Caprylic Triglyceride: A liquid made from coconut that acts as a preservative.

Carbomer: A natural or synthetic binding agent that holds ingredients together (Example: Water and Oil).

Carthamus Tintorius: Safflower Seed Oil. A plant widely cultivated for its edible oil which is extracted from the seeds. The combination triglycerides of the unsaturated linolenic acid along with a comparatively high content of vitamin E, is responsible for its good reputation amongst nutritionists.

Ceteth 20: A preservative and bacterial preventative.

Cetyl Alcohol: See Alchol.

Chamomilla Recutita Matricaria Fower Aqueous Extract: Matricaria Recutita is also known as German chamomile. Chamomile has been successfully used as a medicinal plant for gastrointestinal ailments, skin problems and other ailments. Aromatherapy chamomile essential oils have been found to be effective in healing episiotomy wounds.

Chelating agent: Chelation is a process where one substance grabs another -- the more technical term would be that some substance "binds" itself to another substance.

Chlorophenesin: An antibacterial/antifungal preservative.

Clopentasiloxane: A silicone fluid commonly used in cosmetics such as deodorants, sunblocks, hair sprays and skin care products. It is becoming more common in hair conditioners, as it makes the hair easier to brush without breakage. A moisturizer commonly found in beauty products.

CO2: Carbon dioxide.

Cocomide DEA: A foaming agent i.e. a surfactant. When present in small amounts, surfactants facilitate the formation of foam. Made from coconut.

Cocamide Mea: A foaming agent used in shampoo, bubble bath, etc. that is made from coconut.

Cocamidopropyl Betaine: A coconut based detergent that is non-irritating and, has antibiotic properties to fight bacteria.

Coconut Butter: A moisturizer made from dried meat of the coconut.

Coconut Oil: Also known as coco butter.

Coconut Wax: A wax made from coconut oil and used in hair and skin products.

Cocos Nucifer: Coconut Oil.

Colloidal: A colloidal is a chemical mixture where one substance is dispersed evenly throughout another.(Example bath gel, toothpaste).

Comfrey: An herb which contains allantoin, a healing botanical. Comfrey is a mild astringent and expectorant. Comfrey plant abounds in mucilage, it is frequently given whenever a mucilaginous medicine is required. It is good for intestinal troubles. It is very similar in its emollient action to Marshmallow but, in many cases, it is preferred to it. Comfrey is an ingredient in a large number of herbal preparations. It is a gentle remedy in cases of diarrhea and dysentery. It is purported to speed up the replacement of body cells.

Corn Starch: A starch made from corn.

Cyclodextrin: A starch formed from corn.

Cyclohexylamine: A colorless liquid, with an unpleasant odor, in a strong organic base used in the production of pharmaceuticals, anti- oxidants and some sweetners. Irritant for those with skin sensitivities. Click here for more info

Cycolopentasiloxane: Silicon fluid commonly used in cosmetics such as deodorants, sun blocks, hair spray, and skin care products.

Decyl Glucoside: Surface wetting agent that lowers the surface tension of a liquid thereby allowing the ease of spreading. Often used in shampoo's for people with sensitive skin (baby shampoo). Biodegradable. Made from the by products of corn and coconut.

Deionized Water: Water that has had it's mineral ions removed.

Denaturation: Denatured alcohol is ethanol which has been rendered toxic, undrinkable, and in some cases dyed. A colorless, limpid, volatile, flammable, water-miscible liquid produced by yeast fermentation of certain carbohydrates, as grains, molasses, starch, or sugar, or obtained synthetically by hydration of ethylene: used chiefly as a solvent in the extraction of specific substances, in beverages, medicines, organic synthesis, lotions, tonics, colognes, and/or rubbing compounds. A substance made from alcohol which is suitable for other uses but not for drinking.

Diazolidinyl Urea: An antibacterial preservative that inhibits bacterial grown in cosmetics, sometimes referred to as germaben.

Dimethicone: A silicon-based organic protein used to make hair slippery and shiny. A hair and skin conditioning element. (Example: Detangler/Hair Conditioner, body lotions).

Dimethyl Ether: Made from an organic compound it is an element used to move products from their container. (Example Shaving Cream, Hair Spray, Mousse).

Dipropylene Glycol: Commonly used as a carrier for fragrances, and as an ingredient in cosmetic formulations, including hair care and bath products, perfumes, facial makeup, deodorants, shaving and skin care preparation. It is a water-soluble and colorless liquid with low-odor and low volatility. Because of its characteristics, it is an excellent solvent for many organic materials. It is soluble in water, soap bases and oils and it mixes beautifully with all essential oils.

Disodium Cocoamphodipropionate: A naturally derived low foaming conditioning agent used in beauty products.

Elderflower: An herb (member of the honeysuckle family) known for it's ability to soothe, and protect. Can be used as ointment for dressing wounds, burns and scalds, also, as a basis for pomades and cosmetic ointments.

Emulsifier: An emulsifier prevents separation of ingredients and extends storage life.

Emulsify: To make two or more liquids compatible.

Essential Oil: Known as volatile or ethereal oils, or simply as the "oil of" the plant material from which they were extracted, such as oil of clove: An oil taken from plants and used in perfumes and aromatherapy.

Ester: A compound produced by the reaction between an acid and an alcohol with the elimination of a molecule of water, as ethyl acetate. Acids that are both inorganic and organic (Example: Amino acid).

Ethyl Hexyl Glycerin: A preservative made from from natural glycerin used as a deodorizer and skin conditioner.

Ethylene Brassylate: A tonic that masks fragrance. Can cause skin irritation in some people. Click here for more info

Ethylparaben: A synthetic preservative which also goes by the name of E214.

Exidronate: A binding agent in cosmetics (Example: water and oil).

Extract: A solid, viscid, or liquid substance extracted from a plants, containing the plants essence in concentrated form.

Fennel: An herb used for its anti-inflammatory and healing properties. It has been noted that after snakes shed their skins, they ate fennel to restore their sight. It has been used as a wash for eyestrain and irritations, as a snake bite remedy, a weak diuretic and mild stimulant. The oil, added to medication deters intestinal colic. Fennel may be used to stimulate lactation and delay hunger. It should not be used in high dosages as it causes muscular spasms. Fennel inhibits spasms in the intestinal tract, and may contribute to relieving gastrointestinal cramping. It is thought to increase urine production, bile production, reduce pain and fever. It has anti-microbial actions. Fennel seeds help disperse flatulence. Fennel seeds/roots aid in relieving obstructions of the liver, spleen & gall bladder, and ease painful swellings. In addition it helps jaundice, gout and cramps.

Fragrance: A distinctive pleasant odor, a pleasingly sweet olfactory property that provides a scent of flowers, herbs, etc.

Fragrance Free: Without perfume or essential oils.

Germaben: Controls bacteria in body products.

Glycerin: A component of vegetable oil, hypoallergenic and naturally sweet.

Glycerol: Another name for glycerin.

Glyceryl Cocoate: A coconut derived cleansing agent. A skin conditioning agent. An emulsifier which prevents the separation of ingredients.

Gyceryl Laurate: Organic and inorganic acids formed from glycerin and lauric acid.

Glyceryl Stearate: An emulsifier that assists in forming neutral, stable emulsions. It is also a solvent, humectant, and consistency regulator in water-in-oil and oil-in-water formulations. Derived from palm kernel or soy oil for cosmetic use.

Glycine Soja: Soybean protein. It is an annual plant that has been used in China for 5,000 years as a food and a component of drugs. Soy contains significant amounts of all the essential amino acids for humans, and so is a good source of protein.

Glycol: A combination of carbon, hydrogen and oxygen. Used in the treatment of wrinkles.

Glycol Distearate: A thickening agent.

Glucose: A moisturizer.

Goldenseal: An herb with medicinal properties. Also known as Indian Paint and Wild Curcuma. Native to the U.S. And Canada. Goldenseal is a relative of the Buttercup family. Its roots are most beneficial for stomach ache and ulcers. It aids in digestion, and liver troubles. Goldenseal can be used as a remedy for sickness, vomiting and in the treatment of eye infections.

Grapefruit Seed Extract: Made from the seeds and pulp of white grapefruit.

Hamamelis Virginiana: Commonly known as Witch Hazel and used as an astringent. (An astringent substance is a chemical that tends to shrink or constrict body tissues). Example: After Shave Lotion.

Hexyl Laurate: A skin conditioning agent.

Horsetail: An herb which has deposits of silica deposited in the stems. Sometimes called Scouring Rush, and/or Shavegrass. Horsetail has been found beneficial in dropsy and kidney problems. The ashes of the plant are considered very valuable for treating acid reflux. Besides being useful in kidney and bladder trouble, it also acts as an astringent. It aids cystic ulcers and ulcers in the urinary passages. Applied externally horsetail will stop the bleeding of wounds and quickly heal them, and will also reduce the swelling of eyelids.

Hops: A perennial herb with healing and medicinal properties. Hops have been used for two thousand years as a treatment for insomnia . Hops constituents are polyphenols, tannins, flavonoids, phytoestrogens, amino acids, beta-carotene, calcium, chromium, magnesium, potassium, selenium, silicon, zinc, B-vitamins and vitamin C. Hops are used as an effective sedative. It is said to have a soothing effect on the nervous system that is helpful in treating restlessness, anxiety, stress, nervous diarrhea, and, of course, insomnia.

 

Humectant: A substance used primarily in cosmetic products to help retain moisture.

Hydroxymethylcellulose: A emulsifier which prevents separation of ingredients and extends storage life. (See emulsifier).

Hydroxypropyl: An anti-caking ingredient that allows easy application. (Example: Cover Up).

Hydroxypropyl Methlcellulose: Also known as Hypromellose. It is an emulsifier or substance which prevents separation of ingredients and extends storage life.

Hydrogenated Castor Oil: A vegetable oil taken from the castor seed. It is a member of the bean family.

Hydrogenated Wheat Protein: Hydrolyzed wheat protein is also known as phyto peptides. It is an effective substitute for hydrolyzed animal protein derived by acid, enzyme, or other method of hydrolysis. It offers conditioning, moisturizing and film forming properties and is widely used in skin care products to help skin retain its moisture and improve its overall appearance. Wheat protein penetrates the hair shaft and helps mend split ends.

Iodopropynyl Butylcarbamate: A preservative used in cosmetics. Click here for more info

Isobutane: Used to move ingredients out of container. (Example Hair Spray, Mousse).

Isopropyl Myristate: Used in cosmetic where good absorption into the skin is desired.

Kaolin Clay: A natural drying and disinfectant with healing properties.

Ladies Mantle: Lady's Mantle is also known as Lion's Foot, Bear's Foot, and Nine Hooks. It is usually harvested in early summer, when in flower. The root is best used fresh. Due to its tannins, it is often used as an astringent. Known mostly for its ability to heal wounds, of any extreme, whether inside or out. Some believe it to promote sleep.

Laureth 4: Clear colorless liquid that allows ingredients that are not cohesive to become cohesive. (Example: water and oil).

Lauric Acid: Saturated fat derived from coconut oil and palm kernel oil.

Lauryl Glucoside: A biodegradable thickener for hair products.

Lavandula angustifolia: Organic lavender flower water.

Lavender: An herb that appears to have many healing properties. It is known for its antiseptic, anti-bacterial, anti-fungal, anti-inflammatory, anti-convulsive, and its anti-depressant properties. It can be used for stress, anxiety, exhaustion, irritability, headaches, migraines, insomnia, depression, colds, digestion, flatulence, upset stomach, liver and gallbladder problems, nervousness, loss of appetite, and as a breath freshener and mouthwash. As a tonic it has been known to help heal cuts, scrapes, wounds, burns, insect stings, rashes, muscle aches, rheumatism, arthritis, cold sores, canker sores, blisters, bruises, athlete's foot, and as a remedy for headaches when rubbed directly into the temples. It also helps with dandruff, and induces sleep.

Lecithin: Natural substance occurring in plant tissue.

Lemon Grass: An herb with a many of uses. It has been shown to lower cholesterol levels. It can help relieve congestion, coughing, bladder disorders, headaches, fever, digestive problems, diarrhea, gas, bowel spasms, vomiting, flu symptoms, a great fungicide and mild sedative. It helps with athlete's foot, cuts, scrapes, lower back pain, sciatica, sprains, tendonitis, neuralgia, circulatory problems, and rheumatism.  It's been known to clear up acne and clean skin pores, and the leaves can be crushed and rubbed on the skin as an on-the-spot outdoor insect repellent.

Lemon Grass Oil: A natural essential oil used for odor control

Lime Extract: Juice extracted from limes and used in cosmetics.

Macadamia Ternifolia: An organic macadamia seed oil.

Magnesium Ascorbyl Phosphate: A water soluble solution made from Vitamin C.

Methly Gluceth-20: A moisturizing additive that makes skin feel smooth.

Methylparaben: A preservative. Click here for more info

Methylchoroisothiazolinone: A hair cleanser made up of a mixture of conditioners, cooling agents, emulsifiers (see emulsify), humectants (see humectants), pH balancing agents, preservatives , thickeners, and vitamins.

Methylisothiazoline: A preservative.

Mineral Oil: A lightweight, odorless, tasteless oil used in cosmetics. Sometimes referred to as paraffin oil.

M&P Paraben: A preservative. Click here for more info

Natural: Not made from artificial substances.

2 Octanediol: A preservative that protects products from bacteria and fungus.

Oat Amino Acid: An amino acid derived from oats.

Olea Europaea: Olive oil.

Olive Oil: A moisturizer taken from the olive fruit.

Olive Oil Carboxylate: A solution which adds foaming and cleansing properties that is made from olive oil.

Organic: Taken from a living plant produced without formulated fertilizers, growth stimulants, antibiotics, or artificial stimulants.

Organic Aloe Barbadensis: Organic aloe vera extract.

Organic Catamas Tinctorious Seed Oil: An oil made from the sunflower.

Organic Grape Seed Extract: A tincture made from grapes which has multiple healing properties.

Organic Gratissima Oil: Avocado Oil.

Organic Hydrolyzed Wheat Protein: A natural mosturizing protein derived from wheat.

Orange Blossom: A flower which comes from the orange tree. Promotes skin softening, aids sleep.

Palm oil: An oil made from the fruit of the palm.

Palmitic Acid: Fatty acid taken from palm kernel oil.

Panthenol: Provitamin of vitamin B5.

Paraffin: A colorless white, translucent wax used in cosmetics and in extracting scent from flowers. It is often used as a base in medical creams and ointments. Parrafins purpose in skin care products is to provide a protective layer on the skin. They are most often used in creams and lotion to provide moisturizing, in waterproof mascara to repel water, in eyeliner to help with formation, in pressed powder to add softness, and in facial masks to provide hydration.

PEG & Clyceryl Cocoate: A solution made from coconut used to stabilize ingredients and moisturize skin.

PEG 7 Glyceryl Cocoate: A moisturizer made from coconut oil.

PEG-12: A binding agent used in cosmetics to hold ingredients together. (Example: Face powder).

PEG 18/18: A product used in cosmetics that allows unblendable ingredients to be combined. (Example: water and oil).

PPG-14: An ingredient which provides both smooth application and moisturizing in beauty products. Click here for more info

PEG/PPG 19/19: An additive that allows unblendable ingredients in beauty products to blend together.(Example: oil and water).

PEG 150: A thickener. (See definition under thickner).

Pentadecalactone: A binding agent used in cosmetics to hold ingredients together. (Example: eye shadow).

Peppermint: An herb popular for flavoring gum, toothpaste, etc. It is also used to soothe an upset stomach and to aid digestion. Peppermint has both a calming and numbing effect. It can be used to treat headaches, skin irritations, anxiety, diarrhea, flatulence, menstrual cramps, nausea and common cold symptoms. Peppermint kills some types of bacteria and viruses, which suggests that it has both antibacterial and antiviral properties.

Perfume: A heavy smelling fluid made from natural or synthetic ingredients.

Petroleum: A distilled and filtered petroleum made up of hydrocarbons. These products are used in cosmetics, healing ointments and other beauty products such as lip balms. Perfumes and products containing fragrances are made up of aromatic hydrocarbons. A significant number of these aromas are derived from petroleum. Many household items are also products of petroleum.

Phenoxetol: A colorless liquid or partial solid preservative with a faint odor used in a variety of beauty products.

2-Phenoxyethanol: A preservative effective against a broad spectrum of microorganisms.

Phenyl trimethicone: A fluid used in some hair care formulas which adds hold and sheen.

Phospahtides: The major components that make up cell membranes.

Phospholipids: A variety of phosphorus-containing lipids, such as lecithin, that are made up mainly of fatty acids, a phosphate group, and a simple organic molecule. Phospholipids are sometimes referred to as phosphatides.

Pine tar: A solution of pine wood used in the treatment of skin disorders.

Polyethylene: Prevents the absorption of water used frequently in hair products. (Example: hair spray).

Polyglycerol 4 Isostearate: A natural plant based emulsifier that manufactures stability of non-combining elements in lotions and other beauty products. (Example: oil and water).

Polymer: A binding agent or substance that makes a loose ingredients stick together or any substance that holds ingredients together.

Polysorbate: An emulsifier that makes two or more liquids compatible (Example Oil and Water).

Potassium: An ionic salt found in sea water. Necessary for the function of living cells.

Potassium Hydroxide: A bleach used in the manufacturing of soaps. Also known as caustic potash or lye.

Potassium Myristate: A salt of myristic acids. Myristic acids are found in nutmeg, palm oil and coconut oil.

Potassium Phytate: A sodium salt. A preservative.

Potassium Sorbate: The potassium salt of sorbic acid. A preservative.

Potassium Stearate: An emulsifier or a product that makes it possible to combine two or more liquids to allow compatibility.

Preservative: A natural or synthetic ingredient added to products such as foods, and beauty products to prevent bacterial growth.

Propylene glycol: A colorless, clear, odorless organic liquid used as a moisterizer.

Propylparaben: A natural substance found in plants used as a preservative.

PVM/MA Copolymer: A binding agent that holds ingredients together. Polymers help hair hold its style by inhibiting moisture.

Red Clover: A perennial herb used to stimulate the immune system. Red clover may be used to treat the respiratory system congestion because of its antimicrobial action. Since Red Clover is a blood thinner it should not be used by people on blood thinning medication.

Retinyl Palmitate: Vitamin A.

Ricinus Communis: Castor Seed Oil. Traditional Ayurvedic medicine considers castor oil the king of medicinals for curing arthritic diseases. Castor Oil also works as a fungicide.

Rosemary extract: An astringent. Rosemary oil, applied externally, may be used for headache. It is often used in hair lotions to stimulate hair growth. Also used as a preservative.

Rosmarinus officinalis: Organic rosemary leaf water.

Saccharomyces Ferment: A type of fermentation A natural yeast often referred to brewers yeast.

Sage: Small evergreen herb, sage is known for it's ability to relieve tension headaches, soothe stomach cramps, flatulence, and other digestive and/or intestinal problems. Sage increases the flow of body fluids. Warm sage tea works as and expectorant and toxin eliminator. Cold sage tea stops diarrhea. Sage also helps in the healing of tongue or mouth ulcers, reduces dandruff and can be used for odor control.

Salvia Officinalis: Organic Salvia (sage) leaf water.

Scent: A characteristic of a particular agreeable odor.

SD Alcohol: Alcohol derived from grain and used to liquefy ingredients.

Shea Butter: A natural butter made from the fruit of the shea tree. A natural moisturizer.

Silica: A product made from quartz used as a filler in cosmetics.

Sorbic Acid: A naturally organic compound used as a preservative. An antimicrobial agent used to prevent bacterial growth. A fungicide.

Soap of Coconut Oil: Coconut oil and soda ash.

Soap of Palm Oil: Palm or palm kernel oil mix with soda ash.

Soapwort: Soapwort is perennial low growing shrub whose roots can be used for making soap. Used in the hands of a naturopathy it can be used to aid in the healing of upper respiratory infections. Soapwort contains natural cleaning abilities. It makes a natural, green, and clean soap for washing expensive fabrics. Great for vintage or antique clothing.

Sodium Carbomer: A thickening agent which increases stability and improves the suspension of ingredients in products such as shampoo.

Sodium Benzoate: The sodium a salt of benzoic acid. It is used preservative, fungicide, and antibacterial in many products.

Sodium Bicarbonate: Sodium Bicarbonate: A crystalline power with a alkaline taste similar to that of washing soda (sodium carbonate). It is one of the components of a mineral known as natron. It is often found in mineral springs or hot springs. In its natural form it is called nahcolite. It is widely known as baking soda, bicarbonate of soda, bread soda and/or cooking soda. (Example: Arm and Hammer).

Sodium Cocamidopropyl: A surfactant or wetting agent capable of reducing the surface tension of a liquid in which it is dissolved. Effective in foaming cleansers, shampoos and body washes where high, creamy foam is desired. Derived from coconut oil.

Sodium Cocoate: A combination of sodium hydroxide and the fatty acids salts derived from coconut.

Sodium Cocoyl Isethionate: An ingredient derived from coconut oil that is used in cosmetics and personal care products. It is primarily used in the preparation of soaps, cleansing products, shampoo formulations, tonics, dressings, other hair grooming aids and skin cleansing preparations. It also cleans the skin and hair by helping water to mix with oil and dirt so that they can be rinsed away. It can be prepared from the fatty acid mixture of coconut oil.

Sodium Cocoyl Methyl Isethionate: Is a surfactant or a material that spreads along a surface, changing the properties of the surface. For example, soap spreads over a water surface and lowers its surface tension. Surfactants provide foaming, cleansing and skin softening.

Sodium Chloride: Salt. It is produced by the evaporation of sea water from sources such as salt lakes, seas, oceans and brine wells.

Sodium Etidronate: An antibacterial and antifungal preservative used in beauty products.

Sodium Hydroxide: Known as lye. It is commonly used in the production of soap making.

Sodium Hydroxymethylglycinate: A plant based preservative with a structure base on the amino acid, glycine. Has antimicrobial and anti-fungal properties to protect product integrity over time. A preservative made from amino acids.

Sodium Lauryl Sulfate: A surfactant or material that spreads along a surface changing the properties of that surface. For example, soap spreads over a water surface and lowers its surface tension. Surfactants provide foaming, cleansing and skin softening. It is also found in bubble bath for it's ability to create bubbles.

Sodium Palmate: A combination of palm oil and lye used in soap making.

Sodium Methyl Cocyl Taurate: A surfactant or material that spreads along a surface changing the properties of that surface. It offers wetting and detergency and foaming over a wide pH range. Uses include mouth rinse, toothpaste, and body washes. Lathering is similar to a fatty acid soap.

Sodium Myreth Sulfate: A surfactant found in beauty products. Surfactants provide foaming, cleansing and soften skin.

Sodium Myristate: A fatty acid which occurs in most animal and vegetable fats, particularly butterfat and coconut, palm, and nutmeg oils.

Sodium PCA: A humectant or substance used primarily in cosmetic products to help retain moisture that is made from plants, fruits, and vegetables.

Sodium sarcosinate: A foaming and cleansing agent used in shampoos and shaving foams.

Sodium Stearate: A sodium salt derived from stearic acid. It is one of the main compounds in soap making. The sodium end of the compound attracts water. It is biodegradable.

Sorbitol: A humectant used in cosmetic products to help retain moisture. It is normally made from plants, fruits and/or vegetables.

Sorbitan Oleate: An emulsifier or emulsion mixture of two or more immiscible liquids. The reason for combining liquids it allows the dispersal of one into the other. For example, oil and water. Emulsifiers allow ingredients to blend together. Used in making soaps with vegetable oils.

Source: Where something originates from. Where something, such as an ingredient, begins from.

Soy Extract: An extract taken from the soy seen. An antioxidant and immune-boosters that may prevent cancer and help with menopause.

Soy Lecithin: A surfactant made from soy that spreads along a surface, changing the properties of the surface.

Soy Tocopherols: A vitamin derived from soy. Tocopherols along with tocotrienols make up the family of Vitamin E. Tocopherold antioxidants have been shown to be useful in the treatments of cancer, cholesterol control, and is said to add protection to cell membranes.

Squalene: Squaline is a natural organic compound found in fish, olives, rice bran and wheat gream. Squaline is said to have beneficial effects on skin and on the healing process.

Spring Water: Spring water is a water which contains minerals or other dissolved substances that give that water a therapeutic value. Spring water can be prepared, occur naturally, and can also be effervescent.

Stearic Acid: An acid derived from vegetable and animal fats and oils. It is a waxy solid. Often used in making soaps, and cosmetics.

Stearyl Alcohol: Stearyl alcohol is a component of stearic acid which is derived from vegetable fatty acids (coconut, sugar beets). It is used in cosmetics to soothe skin and can also be used as an exfoliant and/or an antioxidant depending on it's source. Stearyl alcohol is an ingredient often used in shampoos and conditioners to give hair a smooth appearance.

Sunflower Seed Oil Glyceride: An oil taken from Helianthus Annuus or the Sunflower. It is a natural organic oil that is commonly used in cosmetics and personal care products including, shampoo, conditioner, bath producs, makeup, and suntan products.

Sucrose cocoate: Sucrose cocoate is a natural soap made from coconut oil and sugar beets. It is used as a cleansing agent and a moisturizer. It is mild and non-drying and popular in many beauty products for it's gentleness and moisturizing qualities.

Surfactant: A material that spreads along a surface, changing the properties of the surface. For example, soap spreads over a water surface and lowers its surface tension.

Talc: Talc is a mineral composed of hydrated magnesium silicate. In loose form it is the widely known as talcum powder. In solid form it is commonly called soapstone. It is commonly used as a filler in cosmetic products.

TEA: Also known as Triethanolamine. It is an organic chemical compound and tri-alcohol. It is used as a pH balancer in cosmetic preparations in a variety of different products - ranging from skin lotion, eye gels, moisturizers, shampoos, and shaving foams.

TEA-Stearate: Is a surfactant. A surfactant cleans skin and hair by helping water to mix with oil and dirt so that they can be rinsed away. Surfactant ingredients aid substances that normally do not mix to become dissolved or dispersed into one another. Click here for more info

Tetrasodium EDTA: An antibacterial and fungicide used in cosmetics.

Thickener: A substance or agent which increases the density of a fluid without substantially change its characteristics. Thickerners increase stability, improve suspension and provided all ingredients to become cohesive with each other.

Tinogard: Is a registered trademark and an antioxidant with UV properties that prevents discoloration in beauty products.

Titanium Dioxide: In skin care and cosmetic products, titanium dioxide is used as a thickener and a pigment. It is one of the oldest substance on earth. It is white, opaque and a naturally occurring mineral. It is considered to be both rutile (an ore) and an anatase (a mineral crystal). Titanium dioxide is processed to remove impurities leaving it's white pigment available for use in products ranging from food to cosmetics. In cosmetics in is used for pigment, and sunscreen. It is what imparts the milky white appearance we find in beauty products like, conditioners, bath gels, shampoos, and liquid hand soap.

Tocopheryl Acetate: Tocopheryl acetate is commonly known as Vitamin E. It is often used as vitamin supplement because of its molecular structure; ester of acetic acid and tocopherol. It is frequently used in beauty products such as skin creams and lotion. The belief is that the acetate becomes hydrolyzed and is absorbed into the skin thereby regenerating Vitamin E and providing protection against the sun's UV rays.

Triethanolamine: Also known as TEA. It is an organic chemical compound and tri-alcohol. It is used as a pH balancer in cosmetic preparations in a variety of different products - ranging from skin lotion, eye gels, moisturizers, shampoos, to shaving foams. An organic solution used in the process of making beauty products.

Triethyl Citrate: An ester (esters consist of a inorganic and organic acid) of Citric Acid. It protects solutions from bright light and measures absorbances. The citrate ion is widely distributed in plant and animal tissues and is a naturally occurring component of man's diet. Triethyl citrate is an odorless, nearly colorless, oily liquid.

Triglyceride PEG 7: A coconut derived cleansing agent. A skin conditioning agent. An emulsifier which prevents the separation of ingredients.

Unscented: No perfumes or essential oils added.

VA/Crotonates Copolymer: A copolymer which dries to form a thin coating on the skin, hair, or nails. It helps hair hold its shape by inhibiting the hair’s ability to absorb moisture. Click here for more info

Vegetable Glycerin: Is a 99% pure glycerin made from palm and coconut oil. Helps to extract botanicals properties from plants without the use of alcohol.

Vitamin A: A molecule formed with two polar bonds between carbon and hydrogen. These bonds link to a group of molecules, which are similar in shape, that are called retinoids. Together they make the complete vitamin sequence known as Vitamin A. Vitamin A is essential for good vision, antioxidant activity in the body, immune function, embryo development, bone function, skin health, and the reduction of heart disease risk.

Vinyl Neodecanoate: A liquid, colorless ingredient used as a strengthener and binder in beauty products.

VP/VA Copolymer: A polymer provides hold, humidity resistance, and provides shine in hair products. It is used in styling gels, pump sprays, curling solutions, cremes, cream gels, and mousse.

Watercress: A perennial found near springs or running water. A creeping plant with dark green heart shaped leaflets and is related to the nasturtium family. It's juice makes a great toner for the skin. It can be used in the treatment of tuberculosis. It has been suggested, that eating watercress daily, can reduce DNA damage to blood cells. Damage blood cells trigger the development of cancer.

White Tea: White tea, like other teas, comes from Camellia sinensis. The difference is that the leaves are harvested as buds, before they are fully opened. These buds are covered with a fine white hair, thus the name “White Tea”. This tea is uncommon and traditionally more expensive. It has a light sweet taste and does not go through any fermentation process. White tea is said to protect against cancer, heart disease, and stroke. It has also been purported that it strengthens circulation and the immune system. Some have concluded that white tea also has beneficial effects for sufferers of arthritis and osteoporosis.

Witch Hazel: Witch Hazel is a deciduous shrub whose leaves and bark have astringent qualities. Witch Hazel is said to work as both a tonic and a sedative. It has been suggested that Witch Hazel may also be used in the treatment of piles and as a pain killer. Some believe Witch hazel to be helpful for bruises, inflammatory swellings, and the treatment of insect bites.

Xanthen Gum: A substance or agent which increases the density of a fluid without substantially change its characteristics. Thickerners increase stability, improve suspension and provided all ingredients to become cohesive with each other. A thickener agent used in place of gluten for those prone to allergies.

Yarrow: Yarrow is known by a variety of names including: Bloodwort and Old Man's Pepper. It is wild by nature and can be grown just about anywhere. This perennial, flowers June to September and has flowers in an array of colors. It has been used by highlanders for years as a application to heal wounds and for the treatment of depression. Some believe yarrow to be a remedy for severe colds, fevers, and measles. It has also been said that it can be used in the treatments of kidney disorders and also as baldness preventative.

Water: Water is a chemical substance that is necessary for survival. At room temperature it is colorless tasteless and odorless liquid. In its solid state it is called ice. Water is the only substance found in the three most common states of matter. It is considered a solvent because of the many substances that can dissolve in water. Seventy percent of all freshwater is consumed by agriculture. Water in nature is rarely pure. Water is both hydrogen and oxygen.