Cocamide/cocoamide
Derived from coconut, an excellent but mild skin cleanser.
Coenzyme Q10 (Ubiquinone)
Coenzymes are a vitamin-like substance present in every cell of the body.They repair and regenerate skin cells, energising and oxygenating to expel toxins.Levels start to decline around the age of 30 and continue to decrease with advancing years.Coenzyme Q10 protects against fine lines and wrinkles by preventing damage to the production of collagen and elastin.
Collagen (Marine)
Collagen is a protein found in connective tissue. It is a key element of the skin’s support system and is used for its ability to hydrate and hold moisture on the skin. We use marine collagen, containing betaglucan and Vitamin B5.
Colloidal minerals
The energising minerals – magnesium, zinc, copper – which stimulate collagen production, together with 16 other ‘essential’ minerals for good health.
Colloidal sulphur
Derived from natural sulphur, this is a mild, soothing antiseptic.
Coltsfoot
A soothing, healing, conditioning herb, containing important amino acids to promote healthy skin and hair.
Copper peptide
Copper is a trace element found in every cell of the body. When combined with small protein fragments known as peptides it stimulates the production of collagen, improving the skin’s elasticity and hydration and thus reducing the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. We use such active cooper in our products.
Cornflower extract
From the flower Bachelors Button (Centaurea cyanus) it contains allantoin, potassium, calcium and vitamins C and K.
Cucumber extract
A natural anti-inflammatory, cooling and refreshing for stressed, tired skin.
Cyanocobalamin (Vitamin B12)
See vitamin B12.
Cyclomethicone
A herbal extract used as a conditioning agent and emollient, it helps give a soft, silky feel to the skin, and also leaves a barrier on the skin to prevent moisture loss.
Deionised water
Water in its purest form. All components that could interfere with the product’s stability and performance are removed. Water itself is an excellent skin conditioning agent, but it has to be provided in such a way that the skin retains it.
DMAE (DiMethylAminoEthanol)
A naturally occurring nutrient, used to tighten the skin and prevent and reverse sagging. Continued use gives a cumulative effect. It also acts as an antioxidant by stabilizing cell membranes, protecting them from free radical damage. Additionally, DMAE acts as a natural delivery system, combining with other ingredients to bring them into the inner skin, ensuring maximum
effectiveness.
Dermis
The dermis is below the epidermis, which is the skins outer layer.
The dermis supports the epidermis, providing the skin’s structure, and contains tissue fibres, collagen and elastin. It also contains blood vessels, delivering oxygen and other nutrients.
Elastin (Marine)
Together with collagen fibrils, elastins are the protein fibres that give the skin elasticity.Ours is sourced from sea kelp and algae.
Emollient
A substance that prevents water loss and has a softening and soothing effect on the skin.
Emulsifier
A substance that allows a fine dispersion of minute droplets of one liquid in another.
Epidermis
The outer layer of the skin, which interacts directly with the environment. It protects by providing a barrier (see hyaluronic acid), by filtering sunlight, and by reducing dehydration. See also Dermis.
Erocalciferol
A form of vitamin D, sourced from vegetables.
Essential oils
Oil obtained from plants by pressing or distillation, usually retaining the taste and smell of the original. They are called essential as they were thought to be essential to life and were the essence of the plant. We use organically derived cold processed essential oils whenever possible.
From the fermentation of five forms of algae-created lactic acid, then further blended with marine algae as a buffer to soothe the skin. Used in One Step as an exfoliant and a moisturizer. Sea algae are also used as moisturisers, with an antibacterial effect, and contains up to 120 amino acids critical to the good health of the skin.
Lavandula angustifolia (Lavender)
Lavender oil is antiseptic, moisturizing antibacterial, anti-toxic, anti-inflammatory, antiviral and much more besides. It is excellent in promoting healing and for toning and balancing the skin. It helps reduce scarring, stimulates the growth of new skin cells and is ideal for use on all skin types but particularly for problem skin with blackheads, pimples and acne. Works as a natural preservative.
Lecithin
A natural antioxidant and emollient, also a natural emulsifier, obtained principally from soy beans. It has a very similar chemistry to that of the skin and is used in the making of liposomes (see liposomes below) to deliver nutrients into the inner skin.
Linoleic acid (Vitamin F)
See vitamin F.
Liposomes
Naturally sourced, liposomes are microscopic sacs, or spheres, up to 300 times smaller than skin cells. They are used as a delivery system to carry active ingredients deeper into the skin than they would otherwise be able to go, and gradually release them over time.
Magnesium ascorbyl phosphate (Vitamin C)
A highly effective water soluble derivative of vitamin C, non-irritating and stable, it has firming, brightening and antioxidant qualities and helps stimulate collagen production. In our product it is wrapped with an exclusive form of liposome containing natural vitamin E.
Marigold
Used to heal wounds and bruises.
Matrixyl 3000
This is a combination of five amino acids peptides linked together which works by stimulating the matrix layers of the skin. When stimulated the skin produces more collagen, and loss of collagen is what leads to thinning skin and wrinkles. This ingredient helps counteract this part of the aging process. As effective against wrinkles as retinol but does not cause irritation, a common side-effect of retinoids. This is the most effective, clinically proven peptide ingredient used in skin care worldwide. Mint/Orange extract
The mint is used to tone and tighten and help reduce inflammation. The orange is extracted from the rind, which is high in bioflavoids (a type of antioxidant) and also antiseptic.
MSM (MethylSulphonylMethane)
Also known as organic sulphur. Sulphur is required for the proper synthesis and maintenance of connective tissues such as skin. MSM is derived from lignin, the natural material that bonds together the cells of trees.
Neem oil
From the Indian plant known there as the village pharmacy, neem oil is antibacterial and helps the skin retain moisture.
Niacinamide (Vitamin B3)
One of the water soluble B complex vitamins, also known as vitamin B3. An antioxidant and anti-inflammatory, it is also affective as a skin lightening agent. Derived from rice bran.
Nikkomullese,(Behenyl sodium stearoyl lactylate) Behenyl alcohol is 100% derived from rapeseed oil and works as an excellent moisturizer and emollient. Sodium stearoyl lactylate is also 100% vegetable derived and is recognised as one of the most skin friendly emulsifiers known. The combination of the two ensures rapid absorption without irritation (most emulsifiers disturb the skin's natural protective function).
Oat amino acids (Oat betaglucan)
Derived from oats, used as an anti-irritant and calming agent. Also soothing for red, dry or mature skin. Amino acids form the basic constituents of proteins and our ingredient provides up to 120 of them to help rebuild the skin.
Olive leaf
A superb anti-inflammatory, with antimicrobial properties. Great anti-oxidant and replenishes the skin.
Organic Royal Jelly
Produced by nurse bees as a food for the young, it is the only food ingested by the queen bee for the her whole life, which can be 50 times longer than that of the worker bee. It is rich in protein, vitamins B1, B2, B6, C and E, niacin, pantothenic acid, biotin, inositol and folic acid.
Origanum vulgare
The herb oregano, also known as wild marjoram. The leaf is traditionally used as a treatment for itching skin.
Oxybenzone (Benzophenone-3)
A UVA absorbing sunscreen ingredient, derived from isopropanol. This is the only ingredient in One Step which is not natural or naturally derived. It is used for its effectiveness in providing sun protection.
Palmitoyl oligopeptide
A naturally derived plant ingredient, this peptide helps to protect the skins collagen from the effects of UVA and contributes to thickening of the epidermis by promoting collagen renewal.
Palmitoyl pentapeptide 7
Also known under the brand name Matrixyl. This is a combination of five amino acids peptides linked together which works by stimulating the matrix layers of the skin. When stimulated the skin produces more collagen, and loss of collagen is what leads to thinning skin and wrinkles. This ingredient helps counteract this part of the aging process. As effective against wrinkles as retinol but does not cause irritation, a common side-effect of retinoids.
Pantothenic acid (Vitamin B5)
See vitamin B5.
Parsol MCX (Octyl methoxycinnamate)
Derived from methanol (otherwise known as wood alcohol, obtained by the distillation of wood), cinnamic acid (from cinnamon leaves and coca leaves) and sulphuric acid (derived from sulphur, which occurs in volcanic and sedimentary deposits).
Used to help provide protection from UVB rays.
Peppermint
Effective in the treatment of skin irritations.
pH
The measure used for the acidity or alkalinity of a substance, graded using a scale of 1 to 14. A pH of 7 is neutral, below is acidic, above is alkaline. The skins surface is naturally slightly acidic at around 4.5 and needs to remain so for health and protection.
Phyonadione (Vitamin K)
See vitamin K.
Polyglyceryl-10 pentastearate
Derived from stearic acid (a natural fatty acid occurring in butter acids and cascarilla bark) and glycerine. Used as a humectant (to maintain moisture) and as an emulsifier
Polyphenols
Very powerful antioxidant compounds, found in certain botanicals e.g. grape seed, bilberry, cocoa.
Polysorbate-20
Derived from lauric acid (a constituent of coconut oil and laurel oil), used as an emulsifier, a stabiliser and as a non-ionic surfactant (a wetting agent which lowers water’s surface tension, permitting it to spread out and penetrate more easily).
Potassium cetyl phosphate
A mixture of esters of phosphoric acid (an antioxidant made from phosphate rock) and cetyl alcohol, an emollient and stabiliser.
Potassium cocoate
The potassium salt of coconut acid, used as an emulsifier.
PPG-12/SMDI Copolymer
An emulsifier and advanced delivery system created from plant derived polymers.It is used to create a ‘reservoir’ of active ingredients which are then time-released into the skin.
Pyridoxine (Vitamin B6)
See vitamin B6
Red clover
Used in the treatment of eczema and psoriasis.
Retinyl palmitate (Vitamin A)
A form of Vitamin A that combines retinol with palmitic acid.
It acts as a skin normaliser, reducing excess oil in oily skin and moisturising dry skin.
Rosemary extract
An essential oil which is antibacterial, antifungal, moisturising, softening, cleansing and rejuvenating.
Sage
A natural anti-oxidant which refreshes, balances and tones. Effective but mild, ideal for sensitive skin.
Salicylic acid
Mainly derived from wintergreen and sweet birch, used as a sunscreen and a preservative. Also used as an FDA approved Acne treatment.
Sea algae/sea kelp/seaweed
Seaweed and sea kelp (also known as bladderwrack) contain nutrients, trace elements and amino acids. They can penetrate the skin more readily than many other ingredients. We source ours from Hawaii, considered to be the most powerful.
Sesame oil
One of the very best natural conditioners for the skin, its molecules are readily and quickly absorbed. Makes a great moisturizer. Also a natural delivery system, when it bonds with other key ingredients
Sodium cocosulphate
Derived from pure coconut oil, used as a surfactant. Used in shampoos and cleansers.
Sodium PCA
A naturally occurring component of human skin which is partly responsible for its moisture binding capability. It is highly water absorbing and builds moisture in the skin without adding oil.It softens, hydrates and reduces the scaling and flaking common in dehydrated, oily complexions. Our ingredient is derived from vegetables and sugar cane.
Sorbic acid
Made from the berries of the mountain ash tree, used as a natural preservative and a humectant.
Squalane
An oil derived from olives, rich in nutrients. Great moisturizing properties
Steareth-20
Derived from natural oils and fats, this is a simple and effective emulsifier.
Stearic acid
One of the most common natural fatty acids, occurring in vegetable fats, this is used both as an emulsifier and an emollient.
Surfactant
An abbreviation for surface active agent. Surfactants are wetting ingredients which lower water’s surface tension, permitting it to spread out and penetrate more easily.
Tetrahexydecyl ascorbate (Vitamin C)
The most effective form of vitamin C ester, combined with Ascorbyl glucosamine to provide a highly stable delivery system. See vitamin C complex.
Thiamine HCI, Thiamine Nitrate (Vitamin B1)
See vitamin B1.
Thymus vulgaris (thyme)
A member of the mint family, with anti-microbial and astringent properties that help firm collagen.
Titanium dioxide
A non toxic crystal mineral, used as Class One, full-spectrum sunscreen. It protects from both UVA and UVB radiation, with no risk of skin irritation. Makes a SPF product photo stable so that protection last much longer than synthetic SPF ingredients. It is also a healing agent and is used in products for those with sensitive skin and for conditions such as acne.
Tocopherol (Vitamin E)
See vitamin E.
Trisodium EDTA (Food grade)
Powdered sodium salt, used as a preservative.
Vitamin A (Retinyl palmitate)
A more stable and less irritating alternative to retinol or retin-a for normalising the skin’s texture and smoothing fine lines.
Vitamin A works on both the skin’s surface and the dermis below.
Vitamins B1 (Thiamine), B5 (Pantothenic acid), B6 (Pyridoxine),B12 (Cyanocobalamin).
The B vitamins energise the skin and make it more responsive to cellular renewal.
Vitamin C complex (Tetrahexydecyl ascorbate, Ascorbyl glucosamine)
The lipid (insoluble in water but soluble in organic solvents) form of Vitamin C combined with a highly stable delivery system.
Vitamin C is found particularly in citrus fruits and green vegetables. It is essential in maintaining healthy connective tissue, helping to maintain elasticity, and is a powerful antioxidant, protecting skin cells from the free-radical damage that causes aging. Used also as an exfoliant, Vitamin C in this form has a skin lightening effect.
Vitamin D (Cholecalciferol)
Necessary for the reproduction of new skin cells.
Vitamin E (Natural mixed tocopherols & tocotreniols)
An antioxidant and emollient, obtained by the distillation of edible vegetable oils and rice. Helps form muscle and other tissues, and helps slow the breakdown of collagen and elastin. Also know to regenerate elastin production. Tocopherol is the scientific name for Vitamin E. Also works as a natural preservative.
Vitamin F (Linoleic acid)
Essential to the maintenance of normal cell wall permeability and contributes to a bright, fresh complexion. Our ingredient is from organic flax seed.
Vitamin K (Phyonadione)
Helps fade and clear bruises and calm red, irritated areas.
Also helps improve the appearance of broken capillaries and rosacea and reduces the appearance of dark circles under the eyes. Our ingredient is sourced from vegetables.
Wheat Germ extract
Nourishes the skin and acts as a natural preservative, thanks to its high vitamin E content. It also contains vitamins A and D and squalane and is particularly effective in treating dry, ageing skin.
Xanthan Gum
Also known as plant gum, used as an emulsifier and a stabilizer.
Yarrow (Achillea millefolium)
A mild but effective astringent, with antibiotic and antiseptic properties.
Zinc oxide
A natural, mineral derived sunscreen providing broad-spectrum protection against both UVA and UVB rays. Creates photo stable SPF products which makes the SPF product more effective for a much longer period of time than synthetic SPF ingredients.
