A
Actinidia Chinensis (Kiwi) Seed Oil
EWG Rating: 1
Safety: Very good
Benefits: Hydration
Categories: Peptides
Why we use it
This oil is rich in linoleic acid and Omega-3 essential fatty acids. It is also high in Vitamin C and a form of Vitamin E Tocotrienol (both strong antioxidants) that research has shown to be beneficial for the skin in helping to protect against wrinkles and photoaging caused by UV light. Kiwi seed oil may have cell regenerating properties due to its carbohydrate and AHA (Alpha Hydroxy Acid) content which help the skin to absorb and store water.
Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Juice
EWG Rating: 1
Safety: Very good
Benefits: Hydration
Categories: Peptides
Why we use it
A clear gel like substance, it plays a role in binding moisture to skin. It also possesses soothing and healing properties.
Acetyl Octapeptide-3
EWG Rating: 1
Safety: Very good
Benefits: Hydration
Categories: Peptides
Why we use it
Also known as SNAP-8, this peptide potentially reduces wrinkles formed from repetitive facial expressions by influencing the process of muscle contraction, though there is currently no independent research supporting this claim. It can also help hydrate and smooth skin.
Arctostaphylos Uva Ursi (Bearberry) Leaf Extract
EWG Rating: 1
Safety: Very good
Benefits: Hydration
Categories: Peptides
Why we use it
A plant extract that functions as an antioxidant and antibacterial agent. Studies have also shown it to be effective at inhibiting melanin production resulting in skin lightening.
Artemisia Vulgaris (Mugwort) Extract
EWG Rating: 1
Safety: Very good
Benefits: Hydration
Categories: Peptides
Why we use it
Derived from the Mugwort Plant, this extract is rich in amino acids, proteins and cell membrane carbohydrates. A powerful anti-irritant and anti-inflammatory agent that reduces redness and irritation.
B
Bakuchiol (Psoralea Corylifolia)
EWG Rating: 1
Safety: Very good
Benefits: Hydration
Categories: Peptides
Why we use it
A natural antioxidant found in the seeds and leaves of the plant Psoralea Corylifolia (Babchi). Although chemically different to Retinol, Bakuchiol has been shown to regulate skin cell behaviour in a similar way, without many of the side effects typical of retinoids, including sun sensitivity and irritant dermatitis. It helps stimulate production of collagens types 1,3 and 4 while inhibiting pro-inflammatory enzymes and elastase. Studies show improvement in roughness and dryness, fine lines and wrinkles, skin tone, elasticity and firmness, radiance and brightening. It also "boosts" the effectiveness of a retinoid and helps stabilize it when the two are combined.
Benzyl Alcohol
EWG Rating: 4
Safety: Very good
Benefits: Hydration
Categories: Peptides
Why we use it
An organic alcohol that occurs naturally in some fruits, it is used as a low-irritant preservative in cosmetics.
Bisabolol
EWG Rating: 1
Safety: Very good
Benefits: Hydration
Categories: Peptides
Why we use it
An anti-irritant typically extracted from Chamomile, it reduces pro-inflammatory cytokine production and ameliorates skin inflammation.
Butylene Glycol
EWG Rating: 1
Safety: Very good
Benefits: Hydration
Categories: Peptides
Why we use it
A slip agent and skin penetration enhancer.
C
Camellia Sinensis (Green Tea) Leaf Extract
EWG Rating: 1
Safety: Very good
Benefits: Hydration
Categories: Peptides
Why we use it
A powerful antioxidant with anti-inflammatory properties when used topically. Current research also indicates that the active component, epigallocatechin-3-gallate (EGCG), can prevent collagen breakdown and reduce UV damage to skin.
Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride
EWG Rating: 1
Safety: Very good
Benefits: Hydration
Categories: Peptides
Why we use it
A mix of caprylic/capric acid esters derived from coconut or palm oil and glycerin. It is non-sensitizing and considered an excellent emollient that helps to increase moisture retention at the skin's surface.
Carrageenan
EWG Rating: 1
Safety: Very good
Benefits: Hydration
Categories: Peptides
Why we use it
This natural polysaccharide (sugar compounds responsible for the skin’s natural ability to hydrate and retain water – critical for skin repair and renewal) is derived from edible red seaweed. It is used for its gelling and thickening properties.
Cetearyl Glucoside
EWG Rating: 2
Safety: Very good
Benefits: Hydration
Categories: Peptides
Why we use it
An emulsifier made from a blend of Cetearyl Alcohol and Glucose.
Copper Acetate Bis (tripeptide-1)
EWG Rating: 1
Safety: Very good
Benefits: Hydration
Categories: Peptides
Why we use it
A copper complex of a glycine, histadine and lysine tripeptide which occurs naturally in blood plasma. Copper is an essential component for living systems and the peptide delivers this around the body while also acting as a "signal" peptide with multiple biological actions including the stimulation of collagen, elastin, and glycosaminoglycan synthesis, cell protective and anti-inflammatory actions. Several controlled studies have confirmed the anti-aging, firming and anti-wrinkle activity of this complex.
Caprylyl Glycol
EWG Rating: 1
Safety: Very good
Benefits: Hydration
Categories: Peptides
Why we use it
Skin conditioning agent, humectant and emollient and preservative.
Cetyl Alcohol
EWG Rating: 1
Safety: Very good
Benefits: Hydration
Categories: Peptides
Why we use it
A fatty alcohol (non-drying) used as an emollient, emulsifier, thickener and carrying agent for other ingredients.
Cocos Nucifera (Coconut) Oil
EWG Rating: 1
Safety: Very good
Benefits: Hydration
Categories: Peptides
Why we use it
A plant kernel oil with high emollient properties and medium-chain fatty acids, it is a natural alternative to petroleum-based mineral oils. Studies have shown that it may also have anti-bacterial properties.
Crithmum Maritimum Callus (Sea Fennel) Culture Filtrate
EWG Rating: 1
Safety: Very good
Benefits: Hydration
Categories: Peptides
Why we use it
A marine derived plant stem cell that may have skin brightening and cell renewal properties.
D
Dehydroacetic Acid
EWG Rating: 1
Safety: Very good
Benefits: Hydration
Categories: Peptides
Why we use it
A synthetic fungicide and bactericide predominantly used as a preservative in cosmetics. Laboratory tests show no evidence of toxicity or irritation and it has a low environmental hazard concern. It is one of the only preservatives that meets our efficacy standards.
E
Ethylhexylglycerin
EWG Rating: 2
Safety: Very good
Benefits: Hydration
Categories: Peptides
Why we use it
A mild, natural preservative derived from glycerin.
F
Ferulic Acid
EWG Rating: 1
Safety: Very good
Benefits: Hydration
Categories: Peptides
Why we use it
An antioxidant found in the cell wall of many plants protecting it from microbial and sun damage. In the skin ferulic acid neutralises free radicals that can cause oxidative damage to the cell membranes and DNA, perceived as aging. It stabilizes a solution of Vitamins C and E and doubles its photoprotection of the skin.
G
Glycerin
EWG Rating: 1
Safety: Very good
Benefits: Hydration
Categories: Peptides
Why we use it
A humectant that works to moisturize the skin by drawing water from the air into the skin's outer layer. When combined with other occlusive agents it also forms a protective layer that helps prevent moisture loss thus reducing dryness and scaling.
Gardenia Jasminoides Meristem Cell Culture
EWG Rating: 1
Safety: Very good
Benefits: Hydration
Categories: Peptides
Why we use it
Rich in moisturising phytosterols and polysaccharides, along with antioxidants such as feruloyl-6-glucoside, Gardenia stem cells are said to boost collagen synthesis and reduce collagen degradation.
Glycine Soja (Soybean) Sterols
EWG Rating: 1
Safety: Very good
Benefits: Hydration
Categories: Peptides
Why we use it
A plant derived complex alcohol which is non-drying and non-irritating to the skin. It is used as an emollient to lubricate the skin.
H
Hydrolyzed Jojoba Esters
EWG Rating: 1
Safety: Very good
Benefits: Hydration
Categories: Peptides
Why we use it
Derived from Jojoba Oil, the hydrolysed esters have been shown in studies to increase skin hydration and improve the sensory feel of the skin.
Helianthus Annuus (Sunflower) Seed Wax
EWG Rating: 1
Safety: Very good
Benefits: Hydration
Categories: Peptides
Why we use it
An emollient and skin conditioner, it is known for its skin-smoothing qualities and is considered non-comedogenic (doesn’t clog pores).
I
Isostearic Acid
EWG Rating: 1
Safety: Very good
Benefits: Hydration
Categories: Peptides
Why we use it
A fatty acid used as a binding agent and thickener. Fatty acids are natural components of skin and are components of a complex mixture that makes up the outermost layer that protects the body against oxidative damage.
L
Laminaria Digitata (Algae) Extract
EWG Rating: 1
Safety: Very good
Benefits: Hydration
Categories: Peptides
Why we use it
Algae are very simple, chlorophyll-containing organisms in a family that includes more than 20,000 different known species. In cosmetics, algae act as thickening agents, water-binding agents, and antioxidants.
Linoleic Acid
EWG Rating: 1
Safety: Very good
Benefits: Hydration
Categories: Peptides
Why we use it
An Omega-6 fatty acid found in corn, safflower, and sunflower oils and used as an emollient and thickening agent. There is some research showing it to be effective in cell regulation and skin-barrier repair, and an anti-inflammatory agent.
Lactic Acid
EWG Rating: 1
Safety: Very good
Benefits: Hydration
Categories: Peptides
Why we use it
An alpha-hydroxy acid (AHA) that exfoliates cells on the surface of the skin by breaking down the material that holds skin cells together. It also has water-binding properties. [Less than 0.05%]
Lilium Candidum (Madonna Lily) Leaf Cell Extract
EWG Rating: 1
Safety: Very good
Benefits: Hydration
Categories: Peptides
Why we use it
The active plant stem cells have been shown to interrupt the buildup of melanin in the skin helping to prevent dark spots from forming and to aid in skin cell renewal.
Lecithin
EWG Rating: 1
Safety: Very good
Benefits: Hydration
Categories: Peptides
Why we use it
A naturally occurring plant-based lipid that works as a skin conditioning agent and water-binding agent.
M
MAnuka Honey
EWG Rating: 1
Safety: Very good
Benefits: Hydration
Categories: Peptides
Why we use it
Medical-grade Mānuka honey is a naturally bioactive ingredient made from the flowers of the New Zealand native Mānuka plant (Leptospermum scoparium). Used since ancient Egyptian times for its antibiotic and cosmetic qualities, Mānuka honey is internationally recognized as an antimicrobial compound that nourishes and draws precious moisture deep into the skin and encourages rapid tissue repair.
N
Narcissus Tazetta Bulb Extract
EWG Rating: 1
Safety: Very good
Benefits: Hydration
Categories: Peptides
Why we use it
This plant extract is one of a family of molecules called dormins. These extracts have been shown to slow the proliferation of sebocytes, the cells that produce sebum, and may assist in reducing skin oiliness, shine while improving overall appearance.
Niacinamide (Vitamin B3)
EWG Rating: 1
Safety: Very good
Benefits: Hydration
Categories: Peptides
Why we use it
A form of Vitamin B3, multiple clinical studies show its use reduces fine lines and wrinkles, hyperpigmented spots, red blotchiness (rosacea), skin sallowness (yellowing) and improves elasticity. One study showed niacinamide to increase the skin's production of ceramides, which are natural emollients and skin protectants, therefore improving skin hydration. It has a clear role in the management of acne, by reducing sebum production. Most importantly, Niacinamide has been shown to reduce the risk of skin cancer by enhancing the repair of UV damaged DNA and reducing UV-induced immune suppression.
O
Olea Europaea (Olive) Leaf Extract
EWG Rating: 1
Safety: Very good
Benefits: Hydration
Categories: Peptides
Why we use it
An extract that is rich with polyphenolic compounds, which exhibit antimicrobial and antioxidant benefits.
P
Punica Granatum (Pomegranate) Extract
EWG Rating: 1
Safety: Very good
Benefits: Hydration
Categories: Peptides
Why we use it
An extract with antioxidant and anti-skin cancer properties that shows promise within in vitro studies. Topical application may improve the appearance of wrinkled skin by reducing inflammation and preventing further damage.
Palmitoyl Tripeptide-37
EWG Rating: 1
Safety: Very good
Benefits: Hydration
Categories: Peptides
Why we use it
A peptide with numerous benefits including anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects, stem cell generation and wound healing properties. Research also suggests that it may fight skin aging by boosting collagen and elastin production.
Phormium Tenax (Harakeke) Seed Oil
EWG Rating: 1
Safety: Very good
Benefits: Hydration
Categories: Peptides
Why we use it
An oil containing high concentrations of oleic, palmitic, linoleic and stearic acid, which are attributed with repairing, moisturizing and soothing damaged skin. Harakeke Seed Oil also contains triacylglycerol’s, phytosterols and antioxidants. Phytosterols are known for their anti-irritation and anti-inflammatory properties.
Polyhydroxystearic Acid
EWG Rating: 1
Safety: Very good
Benefits: Hydration
Categories: Peptides
Why we use it
A suspending agent related to Stearic Acid.
Phenyl t-Butylnitrone
EWG Rating: 1
Safety: Very good
Benefits: Hydration
Categories: Peptides
Why we use it
Known as a 'spin trap' this ingredient reacts with and stabilises free radicals before they do any damage. This is different to antioxidants that react with the free radicals and convert them into water after they have begun the damage.
Polyglyceryl-3 Polyricinoleate
EWG Rating: 1
Safety: Very good
Benefits: Hydration
Categories: Peptides
Why we use it
An emulsifier used to thicken and stabilize cosmetics formulations.
Prunus Amygdalus Dulcis (Sweet Almond) Oil
EWG Rating: 1
Safety: Very good
Benefits: Hydration
Categories: Peptides
Why we use it
A non-fragrant oil from pressed almonds that functions as an emollient.
Pure New Zealand Artesian Water
EWG Rating: 1
Safety: Very good
Benefits: Hydration
Categories: Peptides
Why we use it
Sourced from New Zealand, this pure mineralized artesian water contains silica, calcium, magnesium, potassium and other trace elements.
Panthenol (pro-Vitamin B5)
EWG Rating: 1
Safety: Very good
Benefits: Hydration
Categories: Peptides
Why we use it
Used for its skin moisturizing and hydrating properties it can help make dry skin softer and more elastic. It also has anti-inflammatory effects and soothes irritated skin and has been shown to enhance skin barrier repair.
Phospholipids
EWG Rating: 1
Safety: Very good
Benefits: Hydration
Categories: Peptides
Why we use it
A type of lipid (fat) found in human cell membranes composed of glycerol, fatty acids and phosphate. Known for its emulsifying abilities and water-holding capacity. They are essential to normal healthy cell function.
Polysorbate 60 (Tween 60-LQ-(AP))
EWG Rating: 1
Safety: Very good
Benefits: Hydration
Categories: Peptides
Why we use it
Used to produce stable emulsions when combined with fatty alcohols like Cetyl and Steryl Alcohols. We use Tween 60-LQ-(AP), which has been through a vacuum stripping process to ensure that the residual Ethylene Oxide and 1,4-Dioxane has been removed - considered safe when used in the concentrations found in cosmetics.
R
Red Algae (cultivated Astaxanthin)
EWG Rating: 1
Safety: Very good
Benefits: Hydration
Categories: Peptides
Why we use it
A carotenoid (carotene pigment) found in algae that functions as the strongest natural antioxidant known. Research suggests that Astaxanthin may be able to prevent the oxidative damage to skin after exposure to UVA radiation.
Retinal
EWG Rating: 1
Safety: Very good
Benefits: Hydration
Categories: Peptides
Why we use it
The precursor of retinoid acid, it has notable anti-aging effects and can also induce a statistically significant increase in skin elasticity.
S
Stearic Acid
EWG Rating: 1
Safety: Very good
Benefits: Hydration
Categories: Peptides
Why we use it
A fatty acid used as an emollient and emulsifier. Fatty acids are natural components of the skin and are components of a complex mixture that makes up the outermost layer that protects the body against oxidative damage.
Simmondsia Chinensis (Jojoba) Seed Oil
EWG Rating: 1
Safety: Very good
Benefits: Hydration
Categories: Peptides
Why we use it
A non-fragrant plant wax ester with a rich source of fatty acids very similar to human sebum, it assists in stimulating collagen production and defending the skin against UV light damage. It also has topical anti-inflammatory benefits and helps to enhance the skin’s barrier repair properties.
Sodium Polyacrylate
EWG Rating: 1
Safety: Very good
Benefits: Hydration
Categories: Peptides
Why we use it
An emulsion stabilizer and emollient in cold processing formulations. It achieves light texture and good spreadability.
Sodium Hyaluronate
EWG Rating: 1
Safety: Very good
Benefits: Hydration
Categories: Peptides
Why we use it
This sodium salt of Hyaluronic Acid is found naturally in the fluid that bathes human joints. It is abundant in the dermis of young skin, but levels decline with age making the skin look older. It attracts and holds on to water, making it the ultimate skin moisturizer, helping to hydrate skin and keep it moist and supple. It is non-irritating to skin and is usually well tolerated for those with sensitive skin.
Sodium Phytate
EWG Rating: 1
Safety: Very good
Benefits: Hydration
Categories: Peptides
Why we use it
The salt form of the corn-derived plant component phytic acid, it is used as a chelating agent.
Sucrose Laurate
EWG Rating: 1
Safety: Very good
Benefits: Hydration
Categories: Peptides
Why we use it
A useful ingredient as it causes little or no irritation. It has excellent surfactant (degreaser), emollient and emulsifying properties.
Stearyl Alcohol
EWG Rating: 1
Safety: Very good
Benefits: Hydration
Categories: Peptides
Why we use it
A fatty alcohol used as an emollient and stabiliser. The long carbon chain of fatty alcohols means they are non-irritating and non-drying with lubricating, hydrating and film-forming properties to lock in moisture.
Sodium Ascorbyl Phosphate (Vitamin C)
EWG Rating: 1
Safety: Very good
Benefits: Hydration
Categories: Peptides
Why we use it
A stable water-soluble form of Vitamin C. In different concentrations, it may also act as an anti-inflammatory, anti-bacterial agent. It has also been suggested that this form of Vitamin C may help with skin lightening and brightening.
Sorbitan Stearate
EWG Rating: 1
Safety: Very good
Benefits: Hydration
Categories: Peptides
Why we use it
An emulsifier made from Sorbitol (a type of sugar) and Stearic Acid (a naturally occuring fatty acid), it is used to thicken and stabilize cosmetics formulations.
T
Tetrahexyldecyl Ascorbate (Vitamin C)
EWG Rating: 1
Safety: Very good
Benefits: Hydration
Categories: Peptides
Why we use it
Proven to be effective in protecting against photoaging of the skin, this stable oil-soluble form of Vitamin C can penetrate the skin more effectively. It helps reduce melatonin production(skin-lightening effect), and helps repair the effects of sun exposure and environmental harm. Exposure to UV light decreases the naturally occurring Vitamin C levels in the skin, so topical application of Vitamin C restores these photoprotectant levels.
Totarol (Podocarpus Totara)
EWG Rating: 1
Safety: Very good
Benefits: Hydration
Categories: Peptides
Why we use it
An extract from the New Zealand Totara tree (no trees are harmed), this powerful nature-sourced antioxidant that helps fight oxidative stress and free-radical damage to the skin. It also has natural antibacterial preservative qualities and is helpful in the treatment of acne.
Tocopherol (Vitamin E)
EWG Rating: 1
Safety: Very good
Benefits: Hydration
Categories: Peptides
Why we use it
One of the most well-known and researched antioxidants, it has skin healing properties, is fat-soluble and available in various forms with the most biologically active form being alpha-tocopherol.
V
Vitis Vinifera (Grape) Seed Extract
EWG Rating: 1
Safety: Very good
Benefits: Hydration
Categories: Peptides
Why we use it
Traditionally used for its wound healing and anti-inflammatory properties by European folk healers, it has numerous properties that are thought to be beneficial, including being anti-fungal, anti-microbial and an antioxidant. It is also considered a UV absorber.
X
Xanthan Gum
EWG Rating: 1
Safety: Very good
Benefits: Hydration
Categories: Peptides
Why we use it
A type of carbohydrate polysaccharide, which is often made by a fermentation process. It is used as a natural thickener, stabilizer, and emulsifier and is 100% vegan.
Z
Zinc Oxide
EWG Rating: 2
Safety: Very good
Benefits: Hydration
Categories: Peptides
Why we use it
Considered one of the best UV protectants, it is chemically inert, safe, and protects against the full UV spectrum. It is also non-irritating and has skin protskin-protectantectant benefits. The zinc oxide we use is micronized (not nanonized) so that it does not leave a white residue on the skin.