Squalane: Squalene is a colorless poly-unsaturated hydrocarbon liquid that’s found naturally in many animals and plants, including human sebum. It makes up approximately 10-13% of our skin's oil (1). Essentially, it’s one of the many natural lipids your body produces to lubricate and protect your skin. Squalane is a derivative of squalene and is much lighter (and thus a better option for acne-prone skin). It also has a longer shelf life than squalene as it does not go through oxidation. Squalane contains potent antioxidants that work to soften and smooth the skin as well as reduce dark spots and uneven skin tone. It works to strengthen the skin's natural barrier and provide protection from damage. It is lightweight, breathable and non-comedogenic. The squalane I use is derived from sugarcane. Using squalane in skincare can reduce scars, reverse UV damage, lighten freckles and erase skin pigmentation, all while fighting free radicals.
Plantain Leaf: One of the most recognizable ''weeds'', plantain leaf is a valuable and important plant ally for irritated, itchy and inflamed skin. Also known as ribwort, plantain leaf is demulcent, slightly astringent, antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory. Externally, it is commonly used for insect and spider bites, wounds, splinters and for the healing of tissues. It is energetically cooling and very useful for hot conditions where there is redness, warmth and inflammation.
Rose Hip: The ''hip'' of the rose is the seed that develops where a rose bloom was. Rosehips are a good source of antioxidants helping protect against cell damage caused by free radicals. This makes them useful for improving skin elasticity and hydration. The anti-inflammatory actions of rose hips have been studied extensively for easing pain from rheumatoid and osteoarthritis as well as chronic musculoskeletal pain and sciatica (3). RosehipI oil is wonderful for reducing scars and nourishing dry skin. It is rich in Omegas 3, 6, 7 and 9 carotenoids that work to regenerate and rejuvenate the skin. It works to replace damaged cells with healthy new ones and helps to heal scar tissue.The anti-inflammatory fatty acids present in rose hips help to reduce sun damage and pigmentation. It creates a protective barrier helping to seal in moisture and protect the skin.
Calendula Flower: One of my favorite and most beloved plants, Calendula is a must have for skin health. It works to heal wounds and promotes cell repair and growth. It is notably antiseptic and anti-inflammatory. Calendula is one of my favorite botanicals for use on babies and it is effective against cradle cap, diaper rash and other skin irritations and issues (2).
Hemp Seed Oil: This oil is excellent for all skin types as it is gentle and non-comedogenic. It contains loads of fatty acids such as linoleic and linolenic acids and helps reduce inflammation and irritation. Hemp seed oil is rich in vitamin E which plays a vital role in neutralizing free radicals that can harm skin cells, causing premature aging.
Sunflower Seed Oil: We always used certified organic, non-gmo sunflower seed oil. This oil is rich in vitamins A, E, K and fatty acids as well as proteins and amino acids. Combined these give sunflower seed oil the ability to improve texture, stimulate production of new skin cells, reduce fine lines and the appearance of scars, protect against sun damage, reduce inflammation, promote elasticity, reduce stretch marks,
Olive Oil: This blend has only a touch of olive oil in it for extra moisture barrier, vitamin E and anti-inflammatory benefits. Olive oil is also excellent for hair and scalp health. It is said to speed up wound healing and also assist in the reduction of scarring its appearance. The similarity of olive oil's composition to sebum, given by its high content of squalene, β-sitosterol content, optimum fatty acids content (the presence of oleic acid, which acts as a skin softener), and wealth of antioxidant substances, makes it particularly able to directly protect the skin. When applied to the skin after sun exposure, olive oil has an inhibitory effect on sun-induced cancer (4).
Vitamin E Oil: You'll find tocopherols sourced from organic wheat germ in all of our products containing oils. Vitamin E works as a potent antioxidant that slows and reduces the oxidation and rancidity of oils over time. It is also incredible for growing, stretching or damaged skin.
References:
1. https://www.sciencedirect.com/.../pii/B9780124160033000147
2. Gladstar, Rosemary. Medicinal Herbs. 2012.
3. https://www.herbalgram.org/.../tab.../hg111-herbpro-rosehip/
4. https://www.sciencedirect.com/.../abs/pii/S0738081X08000096
