section six

six
Glossary
This glossary describes the majority of
ingredients used in the blending and
manufacture of MONU skincare products.
It may not contain ingredients used in new
products introduced since this glossary was
compiled.

This glossary is intended as a guide only and should not be used as a

definitive source of information. The information given is believed to be
correct and relevant to users of MONU Skincare products.
No responsibility is taken for errors or omissions.
A
Acetyl Tetrapeptide-15 (Comforting Peptide)
Peptides are chains or bonds of amino acids. Acetyl Tetrapeptide-15 or the “comforting” peptide is a cell
communicating ingredient. It acts to soothe and provide a “pain-killer” effect to subdue skin reactions and
reduce discomfort.
Acmella Oleracea Extract
This extract from the Acmella plant is an effective and safe alternative to botox treatments. Also known as the
“toothache” plant, it contains the compound called spilanthol which has a perceptible numbing sensation. It
works to temporarily numb the micro muscle contractions and can create and aggravate facial wrinkles.
Algae Extract
Part of the Chicory, Algae and Marine Magnesium complex. Consists of extracts from both red and brown
seaweed. These extracts incorporate vital skin elements such as; copper and zinc, vitamins A, C, E, B1, B2, B6
and B12 and amino acids. It also includes the essential fatty acid Omega-3, a form of polysaccharide and
anti-oxidants known as phlorotanins. These elements help to reinforce the action of the skin’s hydrolipidic film;
preventing dehydration. They are substantive to the skin as they form a protective and moisturising film.
Allantoin
This extract, from the root of the comfrey plant, has soothing and healing properties and is effective against
infection. It can also be used as an anti-wrinkle product. Well researched and proven.
Aloe Vera (Aloe Barbadensis)
A soothing, moisturising and healing extract taken from the succulent aloe plant. A natural sun filter.
Extensively researched with very positive results.
Alpha Hydroxy Acid (AHA)
A mixture of natural fruit extracts taken from bilberries, citrus fruits, sugar cane and grape juice. AHAs help the
biological exfoliation process by breaking up the outer layer of skin leading to a sloughing of dead skin cells.
Amino Acids
Basic building blocks of the body; essential to good health. Amino acids bond with nitrogen to form
thousands of different proteins.
Amino Acid Hydroxyproline
Amino Acids are the basic building blocks of the body helping to form thousands of different types of proteins.
Hydroxyproline is essential in collagen formation. This amino acid stimulates the contraction of collagen fibres
to help firm and plump up deeper lying wrinkles. It also protects the skin’s structure against degradation.
Ammonium Ferrous Sulphate (Ammonium Ferric Sulphate)
A metal salt used in galvanic products.
Anemarrhenae Asphodeloides (Root) Extract
This extract is from a member of the lily family used in traditional Chinese medicine. It is rich in a compound
called sarsasapogenin – a phytosterol. This compound helps to stimulate the adipocytes, encouraging
increased lipid storage and increasing the density of the skin.
Apricot Kernel Oil (Prunus Armeniaca)
A nourishing oil that is rich in carotene.
Arnica (Arnica Montana)
Taken from the alpine herb that helps stimulate the peripheral blood supply when applied externally. It is anti-
inflammatory and helps to heal broken skin.

NATURAL SCIENCE FOR YOUR SKIN

Ascorbic Acid
A preservative and anti-oxidant rich in vitamin C that is used to help prevent free radical damage in the skin.
Critical for good collagen production.
Attapulgite Clay see Kaolin.
Avocado
This rich and penetrating oil is rich in vitamins A, D and E, potassium and chlorine.
Azulene
This extract has a natural blue colour and is obtained from the flowers of the German chamomile. It is
soothing and anti-inflammatory.

Basil Essential Oil B

A refreshing and uplifting herbal essence recommended for soothing fraught nerves or for those who suffer
from insomnia. Basil has a warm and spicy aroma and is also used for relieving rheumatic pain, respiratory
problems and for treating insect bites.
Beeswax (Cera Alba)
A natural wax taken from the honeycomb which has a protective action.
Benzophenone-3
Also known as Oxybenzone, this is a very effective sunscreen that absorbs ultra violet light but especially UVA.
Benzyl Alcohol A solubiliser for essential oils.
Bergamot Essential Oil
Bergamot is an essence taken from the peel of a Mediterranean citrus fruit. Its delightful fresh fragrance has
an uplifting and calming effect.
Betaines
Betaines are cell communicating ingredients which are naturally derived from sugar beets.
They act as osmolytes to help maintain a healthy water balance in skin cells, stimulating the skin’s natural
hydration process.
BHA An antioxidant used to protect the formulation from oxidisation.
Bilberry Taken from the European bilberry, this extract improves circulation.
Birch Extract (Betula Alba)
Taken from the inner bark of the birch tree, this extract has healing properties.
Bisabolol (Alpha Bisabolol)
Taken from plants including chamomile, this extract is soothing, anti-inflammatory and antibacterial.
Blackcurrant Seed Oil
From the seed of the blackcurrant shrub. Blackcurrant Seed Oil is particularly high in gamma linolenic
essential fatty acid, particularly Omega 6 and Omega 3. Called “essential” because our body cannot
reproduce them, they form part of the lipid layer and are vital for healthy skin. They help prevent skin
dryness, restore optimal moisture balance and maintain the skin’s barrier function.

NATURAL SCIENCE FOR YOUR SKIN

B
Bois De Rose Oil
This oil is extracted from the rosewood tree and is used for many skin problems from irritation and dryness to
puffiness and congestion.
Borage This ingredient is high in GLA (Gamma Linolenic Acid) and combats free radicals.
Borax A softener/emulsifier that is used in peeling cream.
Burdock
Taken from the roots and leaves of the plant, this extract is beneficial for acne and problem skins. It is healing
and medicated.

C
Cabreuva Essential Oil
Extracted from the wood of the Myrocarpus tree, native to South America. The oil has a sweet, woody,
delicate and slightly floral odour. Primarily used in premium perfumery but has antiseptic, balsamic
properties.
Caffeine
Used in Body Therapy Gel to help break up fatty deposits.
Calendula
An extract taken from marigold flowers. It acts as a decongestant and has proven purifying, healing, soothing
and anti-inflammatory properties.
Camphor/Camphor Crystals
Taken from an oriental evergreen tree, this essence is medicated and particularly beneficial in caring for oily
skins. It also stimulates the circulation and will help ease congestion on the chest when used as an inhalant.
Capric/Caprylic Triglyceride/Coconut Oil
Nourishes and combats dehydration.
Carbomer
A gelling agent used to thicken products.
Cardomom (Eletarria Cardomomum)
A stimulating, warming oil.
Carrot
This extract contains vitamin A, carotene and is anti-inflammatory and healing.
Cassia Alata Leaf Extract
From a tropical habitat, this extract from the Cassia Alata plant has developed a powerful defence
mechanism. It is rich in flavonoids; particularly K30S Kaempferol. This compound helps to protect nuclear and
mitochondrial DNA from degradation. It supports the cell’s natural repair system by combating the harmful
effects of the sun.
Cedarwood Essential Oil
With its woody, long lasting scent, Cedarwood has soothing and harmonising properties.
Cellulose gum A cellulose based thickener.

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 C
Cetearyl Alcohol
An emulsifier to stabilise cream formation.
Ceteareth An emulsifier.
Cetyl Esters
An emulsifier to stabilise cream formation or modify viscosity.
Chamomile Essential Oil
A gentle, soothing oil with an aroma similar to that of apples. Chamomile is excellent for use in skincare as its
soothing properties are very beneficial for treating dry, mature skin.
Chicory Extract
Part of the Chicory, Algae and Marine Magnesium complex. This is a natural extract from the roots of the
chicory plant. A polysaccharide consisting mainly of glucose and fructose. Both these sugars have powerful
moisturising properties due to their high capacity for water retention. This part of the active complex works to
maintain skin cells in good condition, helping to keep cell membranes intact and preserving the skin’s smooth
and supple appearance.
Chromium Green Oxide
A natural green pigment used to colour products.
Citric Acid
A pH modifier and water softener.
Clary Sage Essential Oil
This essence is excellent for use as a general tonic as it will lift the spirits and promote a sense of well being.
This warm, nutty essence has an euphoric effect on the system.
Cobalt Chloride
A metal salt used in galvanic products.
Cocoa Butter (Theobroma Cacao)
Nourishes and combats dehydration.
Coco Glucoside/Coconut Alcohol
Very mild surfactants to provide cleansing properties.
Cocomidopropyl Betaine
A mild surfactant and conditioning agent.
Coconut Oil (Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride)
Nourishes and combats dehydration.
Collagen (Marine)
Collagen is the main protein of connective tissue in animals. It takes the form of long fibrous bundles called
collagen fibres. These fibres give structure and support to the tissues and cells. It is responsible for skin
strength and elasticity and its degradation leads to wrinkles. Our marine collagen is a by-product of the
fishing industry and not animal sourced. The large collagen molecules form a tightening film on the surface
of the skin to smooth fine lines, firm and tone the skin.

NATURAL SCIENCE FOR YOUR SKIN

C
Copper (Trace Element)
These elements are essential for the body; they are involved in many enzyme reactions in the skin. They are
found in the fibroblast and keratinocyte cells and are part of the natural moisturising factor. Copper
encourages the synthesis of ATP, keratin and collagen. Trace elements help promote cell energy, they
stimulate cell turnover, restoring skin vitality and freshness.
Cornflower
Taken from the flower, this extract has soothing properties and is often used in eye care. Anti-inflammatory.
Cotton Seed Extract
Cotton seeds are rich in fatty acids, proteins and trace elements. They are widely used in traditional medicine
for their soothing and conditioning properties.
Cucumber (Cucumis Sativus)
This extract has refreshing and moisturising properties and is useful to soothe inflamed skin.
Cupric Sulphate A metal salt used in galvanic products.
Cyclomethicone An emollient.

D
Decyl Glucoside A very mild surfactant to provide cleansing properties.
Denatured Alcohol An astringent and cooling agent.
Diatomaceous Earth
Composed of silica; the shells of single cell microscopic algae. This material consists of micro-fine particles
to eliminate dead skin cells and impurities. It provides a natural alternative to aluminium oxide crystals to
refine the surface texture of the skin.
Diazolidinyl Urea An anti-microbial agent.
Dicaprylyl Maleate An emollient.
Dichlorobenzyl Alcohol An anti-microbial agent.
Dihydroxyacetone
Obtained from glycerol, this ingredient reacts with amino acids in the skin to provide a natural looking sun
tanned appearance.
Dimethicone
An emollient.
Dimethicone/Vinyl Dimethicone Crosspolymer [and] Silica (Soft Focus Technology)
A modern silica coated powder which provides wrinkle smoothing and sebum absorbing properties with an
excellent silky, powder finish.
Disodium EDTA
A water softener and metal ion scavenger.
Distilled Witch Hazel (Hamamelis Virginiana)
Taken from the shrub, this extract contains tannin and is a good astringent and decongestant.

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 E-F
Elderflower (Sambuccus Nigra)
An extract taken from the flower, it is soothing and cooling.
Essential Fatty Acids
This ingredient is necessary for normal growth and healthy skin.
Essential Oils
See the separate list of Monu 100% pure essential oils.
Ethylhexyl Palmitate/Octyl Palmitate
Both ingredients are types of esters, very fine fractions of natural oils which provide the product with easy
spreading and moisturising properties.
Evening Primrose Oil (Oenothera Biennis)
Extracted from the seeds of the plant. Evening Primrose oil is rich in Gamma- Linolenic essential fatty acid,
particularly omega 6. Called “essential” because our body cannot reproduce them, they form part of the
lipid layer and are vital for healthy skin. They help prevent skin dryness, restore optimal moisture balance
and maintain the skin’s barrier function.
Frankincense Essential Oil
Used in biblical times, this essence has an exotic, warm fragrance. It has excellent vapourising qualities with
an antiseptic, soothing effect on the lungs. Frankincense is used in skincare for treating dry, mature skin. It also
has a soothing and balancing effect on the emotions.

G
Galactoarabinan/ Polysaccharides
These are molecules of neutrally charged sugars which are moisture binding and mimic the skin’s intercellular
cementing. They provide structural support for the connective tissues. They are able to form a veil on the
surface of the skin – smoothing fine lines with an immediate action.
Geranium Essential Oil
Geranium has a delicious, floral fragrance and is widely used in skincare for all skin types. It has a
balancing, refreshing effect on emotions and is also useful as an insect repellent.
Ginger Essential Oil
Ginger has a pungent, spicy aroma and is useful in a massage blend as a warming and refreshing tonic for
tired muscles
Gingko Biloba
From a Chinese tree, this ingredient is soothing. May also have a beneficial effect on the circulation.
Ginseng
Taken from the Chinese plant, it has a toning, purifying, revitalising and stimulating effect.
Glycerin(e)
A vegetable sourced humectant and emollient.
Glycerol See glycerine.
Glyceryl Hydrogenated Rosinate A leg wax resin.

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G
Glyceryl Monostearate
An emulsifier.
Glyceryl Polymethacrylate
A thickener.
Glyceryl Stearate
A type of emulsifier, it helps all the materials blend together.
Grape (Fruit) Extract
Grapes are rich in polyphenols which work synergistically with the skin providing powerful antioxidants.
Polyphenols also help protect collagen and elastin against degradation.
Grape Seed Oil (Vitis Vinifera)
This oil has a gentle moisturising effect without leaving the skin greasy. An excellent antioxidant. Rich in
beneficial linoleic acid.
Grapefruit Essential Oil
This oil extracted from grapefruit peel has a sweet, citrus aroma. Grapefruit has a highly revitalising and
elevating effect on the emotions. It will help to strengthen the immune system and ease headaches and
depression.
Green tea
Green Tea extract can play a vital role in protecting skin cells from free radical damage initiated by
environmental factors such as exposure to UV light.
Ground Ivy
This ingredient is diuretic and may help to break down fatty deposits and cellulite.
Guarana
Taken from the climbing evergreen liana, this extract can help to break up fatty deposits.

H
Hamamelis
See distilled witch hazel.
Hawthorn
The ancient Greeks are thought to be the first to use Hawthorn for its medicinal properties. The flowers and
berries also reportedly have good astringent and antioxidant properties due to their flavonoid content. This
hawthorn extract has anti-microbial properties which provide the skin with protection against harmful acne
bacteria; encouraging healthy skin.
Hazelnut Oil (Corylus Americana)
A light, easily absorbed oil which is well suited to combination and oily skin types. Emollient and nourishing.
Rich in essential fatty acids.
Hexapeptide-2
A unique peptide that works to suppress excess tyrosinase activity. It helps to improve skin tone and clarity so
skin appears more luminous.

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 H
Horse Chestnut
This extract is a vaso-constrictor that contains vitamin P, which strengthens capillary walls. Used in the
treatment of broken capillaries.
Horsetail
Taken from the plant, this extract works on elastin fibres. Has a firming and tightening effect. Assists in the
healing of broken skin.
Hyaluronic Acid
A superb humectant (moisturiser) taken from fermented soya proteins. The skin is able to retain optimum
moisture levels.
Hyaluronic Microspheres
These tiny spheres are micro-injected with pure hyaluronic acid. They re-hydrate on contact with the water in
the skin and swell up to 30 times in volume to plump out wrinkles from within. A non-surgical alternative to
hyaluronic dermal fillers.
Hydrogen Peroxide
An oxygen donor as used in galvanic oxycream.
Hydrogenated Castor Oil
An emollient/cleansing surfactant.
Hydrolised Wheat Protein
This extract improves firmness, elasticity and moisture retention.
Hydrogenated Castor Oil
An emollient/cleansing surfactant.
Hydroxyethylcellulose
A thickener.

Imidazolidinyl Urea
I-J
An anti-microbial agent.
Iron Oxide
A colourant used in tinted moisturisers. Provides brown, red and yellow tints.
Isopropyl Myristate An emollient.
Isopropyl Palmitate An emollient.
Jasmine Essential Oil
This popular essence has an exquisite floral scent, which is sensual and soothing. Jasmine can be used to
tone and maintain elasticity in dry, mature skin. It is relaxing, whilst uplifting.
Jojoba Oil
Produced from the seed of the Jojoba Simmondsia Chinesis shrub. A natural liquid emollient with properties
similar to the skin’s own sebum, helping to protect the skin and prevent water loss. A soothing, moisturising
and healing oil.

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J-K
Juniper Extract
The Juniper belongs to the conifer family; its berries are used in the making of gin. Renowned in traditional
medicine for its stimulating and toning properties. This hydro-glycolic extract of juniper berries is rich in
phytosterols, polyphenols and flavonoids. When massaged into the skin the extract helps boost the
production of B-endorphins - pleasure molecules - to soothe and comfort the skin.
Kaolin A natural refined earth to purify and draw out impurities.
Kola Nut
Kola nut is a stimulating tonic and may help to counter fatigue.

L
Lactic Acid
The mildest and most effective AHA available. This natural AHA weakens the bonds that hold dead skin cells
together enabling them to be shed more easily from the skin.
Lavender Essential Oil
This versatile oil has a delightful fragrance and is widely used in skincare. It is excellent for dry, sensitive skin
as it helps to aid cellular renewal. Lavender is a natural antiseptic and has a calming effect on the system.
Lemongrass Essential Oil
Lemongrass has a stronger, sweeter aroma than lemon and is good for relaxing tired limbs. It will improve
energy and stimulate the system. Used in skincare for the treatment of oily skin conditions.
Linden Blossom
A powerful tonic, beneficial for stress related conditions. Good for treating dry or spot prone skin.
Linseed Extract
Linseed Extract is the richest source of Gamma-Linolenic essential fatty acid, particularly Omega 3. Called
“essential” because our body cannot reproduce them, they form part of the lipid layer and are vital for
healthy skin. They help prevent skin dryness, restore optimal moisture balance and maintain the skin’s barrier
function.
Liposomes
Minute spheres that encapsulate active ingredients such as vitamins. These are absorbed into the skin and
the active substances released.
Liquorice
This extract is anti-inflammatory and soothing. An anti-oxidant.
Locust Bean Gum (Cetatonia Siliqua)
A powerful humectant (see polysaccarides).

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 M
Magnesium (Trace Element)
These elements are essential for the body; they are involved in many enzyme reactions in the skin. They are
found in the fibroblast and keratinocyte cells and are part of the natural moisturising factor. Magnesium
encourages protein synthesis. Trace elements help promote cell energy, they stimulate cell turnover, restoring
skin vitality and freshness.
Mandarin Essential Oil
This calming oil has a gentle, sweet fruity aroma. Mandarin is useful in a massage blend to help treat fluid
retention.
Magnesium Sulfate (Thermally Active)
Magnesium is one of the most abundant elements in the human body and vital to good health and well
being. It is a major component of Epsom Salts. This ingredient is specially treated to produce a prolonged
exothermic reaction when it comes into contact with water. It is safe and produces a true heat without altering
blood flow.
Magnesium Sulphate A diuretic.
Mallow A soothing extract to relieve irritation.
Marine Magnesium
Part of the Chicory, Algae and Marine Magnesium complex. Magnesium works at the fine nerve endings. It
acts to inhibit calcium which “contracts” the facial muscles resulting in expression lines. Marine magnesium
helps to instantly relax expression lines.
Marine Peptide
From the seaweed Enteromorpha compressa. This material works with the skin’s neuromediators, helping to
block the message telling the skin cells to over-react to stress. It has a soothing action and improves the
comfort of thin, sensitive and dry skin. It helps to reduce skin tightening, stinging and reddening.
Menthol/Menthol PCA
An extract taken from the essence of peppermint, which leaves the skin feeling cool. It is medicated,
stimulating and vaso-constricting.
Methyl Hydrogenated Rosinate A resin used in legwax.
Methyldibromoglutaronitrile Phenoxyethanol
An anti-microbial agent.
Mica A natural mineral which provides a shimmer effect.
Multi Mineral Complex
Contains the minerals Magnesium, Copper and Zinc. These elements are essential for the body; they are
involved in many enzyme reactions in the skin. They are found in the fibroblast and keratinocyte cells and are
part of the natural moisturising factor. Magnesium encourages protein synthesis; Copper encourages the
synthesis of ATP, keratin and collagen. Zinc plays a part in the synthesis of DNA. This Multi Mineral Complex
supplies the elements necessary for cell energy. It stimulates cell turnover, restoring vitality, freshness and
tone to the skin.

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N-O
Neroli Essential Oil
Neroli has a beautifully floral aroma and is derived from orange blossom. It has a calming effect on redness
or broken capillaries. Can be used in the treatment of dry skin.
Nettle (Urtica Dioica)
This extract has been taken from the leaves of the plant and contains chlorophyll and tannin, which have a
purifying, toning and astringent action.
Oat Extract
Oats are an excellent source of vitamins and minerals. They are renowned for their skin soothing, calming
and anti-inflammatory properties. Oat extract nourishes and smoothes the skin.
Octyl Methoxycinnamate A UVA/UVB filter.
Oligopeptides/Palmitoyl Pentapeptide-3
Containing a nature-identical pro-collagen fragment. The fragments are cell “mediators” and are
immediately recognised by the fibroblast cells. They encourage the skin to increase its own collagen
production. An alternative to invasive collagen injections.
Oligosaccharide Complex
This naturally derived sugar complex works with a prebiotic action. It is gentle and skin compatible. It
stimulates the skin’s protective microflora – reinforcing the immune system. It helps to maintain the skin’s
barrier function and promotes the healthy appearance of the skin.
Olive Oil
A cultivated and responsibly harvested oil from Granada, Southern Spain. It is rich in oleic, palmitic fatty
acids and squalene and an excellent moisturiser.
Orange Essential Oil
With a delicious, tangy fragrance, orange is an uplifting, refreshing oil which has a mildly relaxing effect on
the system. Softens thick, fissured skin.
Orris Essential Oil
Orris oil has a soft woody floral scent, it comes from the iris family, decorative plants with highly scented, pale
blue flowers.
Oxybenzone See Benzophenone-3

P
Panthenol
A humectant that helps to replenish loss of moisture as well as control the viscosity of the product. This will
prevent ball-up or rolling of creams. Anti-inflammatory and linked with the formation of vitamin B5.
Papaya Enzymes
These papaya fruit enzymes gently digest the dead skin cells. The extract is contained in glycospheres which
have an affinity to the skin, therefore aiding penetration.
Parabens
Used as non-toxic preservatives in the cosmetic and food industry and will combat the development of
bacteria and fungus.

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 P
Paraffin Wax
A thickener used widely in skincare and colour cosmetics. Also used sometimes as part of a hand treatment
and/or manicure.
Patchouli Essential Oil
An exotic and stimulating oil from India with a woody, sensuous aroma. Patchouli is used in skincare for mature
skin and has a relaxing effect on the system.
Peach Kernel Oil (Prunus Persia)
A rich and nourishing carrier oil that benefits all skin types.
PEG-40 Hydrogenated Caster Oil/Trideceth
This ingredient solubilises essential oils into water based products.
Peptide (Acetyl Tetrapeptide-15)
Peptides are chains or bonds of amino acids. Acetyl Tetrapeptide-15 or the “comforting” peptide is a cell
communicating ingredient. It acts to soothe and provide a “pain-killer” effect to subdue skin reactions and
reduce discomfort.
Peru Balsam Extract
Peruvian balsam is a large tropical tree found in Central America. The oil has an anti-inflammatory action.
It has a warm, rich “vanilla-like” scent and it used in premium perfumery.
Petitgrain Essential Oil
Petitgrain has a light woody aroma and is widely used in skincare for its astringent, refreshing properties.
An excellent conditioner of dry skin.
Petroleum Jelly (Petrolatum) A waterproofing base and humectant.
Phyto Squalane
Derived from pure olive oil, this molecule has a natural affinity with the skin, being one of the main components
of sebum and hydrolipic film. Restores skin suppleness and helps to prevent trans-epidermal water loss.
Polishing Grains
Exfoliating polishing granules made from polythene.
Polyacrylamide/C13-14 isoparaffin/Laureth-7 This ingredient helps to thicken emulsions.
Polyquaternium 4
A long-lasting skin conditioning agent.
Polysaccharides
These are molecules of neutrally charged sugars which are moisture binding and mimic the skin’s intercellular
cementing. They provide structural support for the connective tissues.
Polysaccharides
These are molecules of neutrally charged sugars which are moisture binding and mimic the skin’s intercellular
cementing. They provide structural support for the connective tissues.
Polysorbate A solubiser for essential oils.
Pongamia Extract
Originates from the Karanja Tree; an Indian plant used in Ayurvedic medicine. It contains a compound which
works to help protect the skin from UV rays – particularly UVA. It is also an effective antioxidant.

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P-R
Propylene Glycol
A clear liquid used very widely in skincare. It is a very good moisturiser and skin softener.
PVP Hexadecene Copolymer
A waterproofing agent for sun blocks.
Retinol
A vitamin A derivative used to effectively stimulate cellular renewal and help the skin to keep healthy and
supple. It will encourage skin elasticity.
Rhubarb
Rich in mineral salts, this extract is moisturising and protecting.
Rose Essential Oil
This special oil has a gentle, floral aroma that is extremely mood enhancing. It is used in skincare when treating
sensitive skin and can also lift the spirits. Only a little of this essence is required, as its perfume is intense.
Rosehip Seed Oil
From the seed of the wild rose bush. Rosehip Seed Oil is high in Oleic, Linoleic and Linolenic essential fatty
acids. Called “essential” because our body cannot reproduce them, they form part of the lipid layer and are
vital for healthy skin. They help prevent skin dryness, restore optimal moisture balance and maintain the skin’s
barrier function.
Rosewood Essential Oil
This is a relaxing, balancing oil with a subtle woody aroma. Perfect for calming the emotions. Rosewood also
has a toning and softening effect on the skin. Good for dry, sensitive skin.
Royal Jelly
Rich in vitamins, minerals, enzymes and proteins, this ingredient is used to nourish dry, mature skin and
encourage cellular renewal.
Rutin
An extract taken from the Japonica plant which helps to heal capillary bleeding.

S
Salicylic Acid
Occurs naturally in wintergreen leaves, sweet birch and selected plants. This beta hydroxy acid improves the
appearance and condition of the skin.
Sambucus See elderflower.
Sandalwood Essential Oil
With a sweet, woody scent this oil will have a relaxing effect whilst promoting physical and mental well being.
Sandalwood is excellent in the treatment of stress and insomnia. Good for dry, chapped or cracked skin.
Seaweed Rich in minerals and trace elements to help revitalise, hydrate and firm the skin.
Sesame Oil An oil from the seeds of an East Indian herb used as a skin softener.
Shea Butter (Butyrospermum Parkii)
This is fat extracted from the kernels of the African tree. Aids absorption of active ingredients and leaves a
protective film on the skin.

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 S
Siberian Ginseng Extract
Used in Chinese medicine, this extract is rich in both polysaccharides and glycoproteins. It forms a fine,
tightening film on the surface of the skin – smoothing fine lines with an immediate action.
Soapwort
An extract from a perennial herb which can be used as a gentle wash for sensitive skin.
Sodium Carboxymethyl Cellulose A cellulose based thickener.
Sodium Chloride An electrolyte as used in galvanic products.
Sodium Dioctyl Sulfosuccinate A very mild cleansing surfactant.
Sodium Hyaluronate/Hyaluronic Acid
A superb moisturiser taken from fermented soya proteins. A moisture binding ingredient which helps the skin
to capture and hold onto water molecules.
Sodium Hydroxide A pH modifier.
Sodium Magnesium Silicate An emulsifier.
Sodium PCA A humectant.
Soft Focus Technology (Dimethicone/Vinyl Dimethicone Crosspolymer [and] Silica)
A modern silica coated powder which provides wrinkle smoothing and sebum absorbing properties with an
excellent silky, powder finish.
Sorbitol
Found in ripe berries, seaweed and algae. A humectant that gives a velvety feel to the skin. Attracts water to
itself and helps bind moisture to the skins surface.
St John’s Wort
This ingredient will improve the circulation and help break down fatty deposits. Well researched and
documented.
Stearic Acid An emulsifier/stabiliser.
Sunflower Oil (Helianthus Annus) A 100% cold pressed oil.
Sucrose A sugar extracted from various plants. Used as a base for hair removal.
Sucrose Laurate
100% natural, preservative free, vegetable origin sugar ester used to form gels and lotions.
Sweet Almond Oil (Prunus Amygdalus Dulcis)
This oil contains vitamins A, B1, B2, B6 and a small amount of vitamin E. It is very good for the treatment of the skin
as it nourishes and protects and has an emollient effect. It is a good moisturising oil for dry and sensitive skin.

T
Tangerine Essential Oil
This fragrant, citrus oil has an uplifting effect on the system.
Titanium Dioxide (CI 77891)/Mica/Silica
A light textured chalky pigment treated to provide light reflecting properties to instantly brighten the skin.

NATURAL SCIENCE FOR YOUR SKIN

T-U
Tocopherol An antioxidant, see vitamin E.
Tocopheryl Acetate An antioxidant, see vitamin E.
Triethanolamine A pH modifier.
Triisodecyl Trimellitate A speciality liquid ester providing a soft velvety feel.
Trioctyl Citrate An emulsifer.
Tyrosine
An enzyme and amino acid which accelerates the production of melanin. Widely used in self/fake tanning products.
Urea A humectant found in the epidermis which keep moisture levels active.

V
Veegum (Magnesium Aluminium Silicate) A rheology modifier.
Vetiver Essential Oil
Known as the Oil of Tranquillity in India and Sri Lanka, it has a deep, smoky, earthy-woody odour with a sweet
undertone. A deeply relaxing oil also useful for treating oily skin.
Violet Essential Oil
Violet leaf absolute has a green, leafy odour with a delicate floral undertone. The oil has anti-inflammatory
properties but today is mainly used in premium perfumery.
Vitamin A/Retinyl Palmitate
Improves skin elasticity and moisture content while reducing the signs of sun-induced ageing.
Vitamin B Anti-inflammatory and vital for good skin condition.
Vitamin C/Sodium Ascorbyl Phosphate
An ascorbic acid and polypeptide complex. Plays an important role in metabolic processes. Acts as an antioxidant;
capturing or neutralising free radicals formed upon exposure to UV light rays. Reputed to help even skin tone.
Vitamin E/Tocopherol
Has an antioxidant action. Believed to improve the use of oxygen in the tissues and increase the capillary
circulation. Calms inflammation.
Vitamin F
Essential fatty acids, necessary for good skin condition. Vital to assist dry, flaky skin.

W
Watercress Contains iron, iodine and vitamin C, this extract is very purifying.
Wheatgerm Extract (Triticum Vulgare)
Rich in vitamin E, this oil will help to nourish dry skin. Good for treating wrinkles and may help to avoid stretch marks.
Wheat Germ Oil
Wheat Germ Oil is rich in Vitamin E a powerful antioxidant. This oil will help to nourish dry skin, excellent for treating
wrinkles and stretch marks.
Wild Yam and Soya Extract

NATURAL SCIENCE FOR YOUR SKIN

 W-X
Both plants have long been used in a nutritional context for soothing the hormonal fluctuations that mature
women experience. They are both natural phytosterols. Soya helps to increase the lipid content of the skin.
Wild Yam stimulates collagen and elastin production
Willowbark
Willow Bark Extract is a natural source of salicylic acid, able to provide the benefits of the synthetic acid but
without any irritation. Salicylic acid is known for its antimicrobial capabilities. This extract has activity against
Staphylococcus aureus and Propionibacterium acnes, two of the skin flora implicated in the formation of acne.
This extract prevents congestion by encouraging cell turnover, helping to refine the surface texture of the skin.
Xantham This ingredient is used as a thickener, a stabiliser and an emulsifier.

Yarrow (Achillea Millefolium) Y-Z

An extract taken from the perennial herb which has anti-inflammatory actions and is good for the circulation.
Ylang Ylang Essential Oil
This exotic, floral essence has a calming effect on the emotions. Ylang Ylang is excellent for treating both oily
and dry skin.
Yogurt Extract
Historically yoghurt is renowned as a superior nutritional source and has been used for its soothing and
calming properties. This extract is rich is vitamins A, B1, B2, B5 and B6, minerals, proteins and lactose all
beneficial for healthy skin. Lactose helps to increase the water content whilst plumping and smoothing fine
surface wrinkles.
Zinc (Trace element)
These elements are essential for the body; they are involved in many enzyme reactions in the skin. They are
found in the fibroblast and keratinocyte cells and are part of the natural moisturising factor. Zinc plays a part
in the synthesis of DNA. Trace elements help promote cell energy, they stimulate cell turnover, restoring skin
vitality and freshness.
Zinc Iodide
A metal salt used in galvanic products.
Zinc Oxide
A natural sunscreen in the form of a micro-fine dispersion,which does not leave a white residue on the skin. It
is the broadest spectrum UVA and UVB absorber that is approved for use as a sunscreen and is completely
photostable.

NATURAL SCIENCE FOR YOUR SKIN