Natural Body Care

Glossary of common cosmetic ingredients.  We've pulled together some common ingredients used in natural skin care, and conventional cosmetic products, and hope you find it helpful!  The list is certainly not exhaustive, so if you'd like a definition we don't have, let us know at customerservice@kushtush.com.

This glossary is for informational purposes only, and Kushtush Organics | Eco Sleep Shop does not imply endorsement or non-endorsement of any definitions or uses.  (Unless we find a compound particularly icky, in which case we' may include an editorial notation for your amusement.)

Aloe Vera	natural gel produced by the Aloe Vera plant.  Clinically tested to stimulate cell-growth in damaged skin, together with its aspirin-like effect in wounds and burnt tissues, aloe vera is a natural ingredient of choice in many formulas.
Alpha Hydroxy Acids (AHA)	Naturally occurring exfoliants derived from a group of weak acids in fruit, that encourages rapid cell renewal.
AmiGel	A polysaccharide (type of carbohydrate comprised of simple sugars) containing glucose as the sole monomer (a single molecule that can combine with others to form a polymer). Used as a gelling and thickening agent, and is completely bio-degradable.
Ascorbic Acid Polypeptides	Vitamin C (ascorbic acid) in nature is always joined with water-soluble protein (polypeptides). The formula incorporates a vitamin C complex similar to that in its natural form. Therefore, it's extremely stable and readily converts to vitamin C, when applied to the skin.
Ascorbyl Palmitate	An ester of ascorbic acid, an anti-oxidant, and preservative.  Ester is a compound produced by mixing certain acids and alcohol, that emits a flowery, or fruity flavor or scent.
Beta Glucan	Beta glucans are sugar molecules found in every living organism. Beta-1, 3-glucan, is derived from the cell wall of Baker's yeast, and is considered to be a potent stimulator of the body's immune system.
Benzethonium Chloride	A topical anti-infective, antiseptic and anti-acne agent.
Bladderwrack Extract	Extract of a seaweed that is considered to have moisturizing & soothing properties, used in the external treatment of cellulite, sprains & bruises.
Capryloyl Glycin	An amino acid with antiseptic, anti-microbial properties, as effective as benzoyl peroxide in combating bacteria found in acne.  Commonly used in acne medications, but does not dry or irritate as much as peroxide.
Castor Oil	Extract of the castor bean, an oil that is naturally soothing to the skin.
Centella Asiatica	Scientific name for "Gotu Kola", a natural herb found only in Madagascar, known to be beneficial in skin cleansing, reduction of visible wrinkles, dark under-eye circles, and cellulite.  Also said to help to firm and heal stretch marks.
Ceramide	A kind of fat found in the body.  Studies suggest it may cause certain other cells to die, and is being tested by cancer researchers.  (We will not offer skin care or soap products that contain this ingredient.  Yuck!)
Cetearyl Glucoside	A compound of glucose and cetearyl alcohol (emulsifying wax) that helps skin and hair retain natural moisture.  Glucose occurs naturally in sugars
Cetyl Alcohol	A compound derived either from natural coconut oil or can be synthetically produced.  Used as an emollient and emulsifier.  (Not actually an alcohol.)
Chamomile	A natural herb producing daisy-like white & yellow flowers, known to reduce inflammation, swelling, and soothe skin irritation.  Easily grown in the home herb garden.
Citric Acid	Natural vitamin C produced by citrus fruits.  Naturally adjusts pH levels.
Dimethicone	An oil derived from silicone, which is produced from rocks and sand, useful in smoothing skin.
Germaben	An all-in-one preservative that is artificially produced, typically used in creams and lotions.  Usually no more than 1% added to natural products.
Glycerin	Natural skin softening agent derived only from vegetable oil, used in natural products.
L-Ascorbic Acid	Natural Vitamin C
NMFs	"Natural Moisturizing Factors."  Describes natural compounds in the skin that retain moisture needed to keep skin soft and supple.  These NMFs deplete as we age, making the skin drier and less supple.
Orange Blossom	Natural fragrance steam extracted from orange flowers, that is anti-bacterial, anti-inflammatory, and anti-fungal.
Propylene Glycol	A product of vegetable oil and grain alcohol, if not artificially produced.  Most cosmetics use the artificial compound, and you should generally avoid products containing more than 4-5%.
Shea Butter	Natural butter from fruit nuts of the Shea tree, native to areas of Africa.  Shea nut butters have a naturally high fat content excellent for moisturizing skin, and also helps heal wounds and soothe irritations.
Soybean Oil	Natural oils extracted from soybeans.
Sucrose Cocoate	Natural ester made from the oil of coconuts.  Used for gently removing makeup and cleansing skin.
Tocopherols	Water soluble Vitamin E extracted from vegetable oils.  A powerful anti-oxidant that protect cell membranes against damaging effects of free radicals, and is used to reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.
Witch Hazel	A natural herbal extract from a plant of the same name.  Has a long history of use as topical astringent that soothes insect bites, wounds, burns, and infections.  Also shrinks pores when applied to the skin.

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