Our Dictionary of Skin Care Ingredients
A B C D E F G H I J K L M N O P Q R S T U V W X Y Z
This is a potentially pore clogging and irritating ingredient. Avoid skin care products with this ingredient if you have acne prone or sensitive skin.
Acetylated Lanolin Alcohol - A hypoallergenic lanolin derived emollient with a smooth, velvety feel. Acetylatedlanolin forms a protective coating on the skin's surface and prevents moisture loss.
Adenosine Triphosphate - A synthetic riboflavin. A component of Unipertan V -242 that functions as a catalyst in the tanning process.
Alfalfa - An extract of alfalfa, medicago sativa. A source of Vitamins C, D, E and K.
Allantoin - An essential extract of the comfrey plant. An unsurpassed natural healing agent for the skin. Has the ability to help heal minor wounds and skin ulcers, and to stimulate the growth of healthy skin cells.
Almond Oil - An oil extracted from the seeds of sweet almonds and used as an emollient.
Aloe Extract - An oil soluble extract of the aloe vera plant or any other member of the aloe family, known for the hydrating and soothing properties.
Aloe Juice - Any concentration or dilution of aloe vera gel.
Aloe Vera Gel - Extract of the aloe vera leaf. Excellent hydrating, softening and soothing properties. Believed to have healing properties, especially for sunburned skin, provided the extract has not been altered during processing. A source of allantoin. Awakening Woman Natural Progesterone Cream, Day Cream, Night Cream, Eye Cream and MaxiClear contain Aloe Vera Gel.
Aloe Vera Oil - The gel extracted from the leaves of the aloe vera plant, a member of the lily family.
Alpha Bisabolol - A myrrh type gum resin with anti-irritant properties.
Althea Extract - The extract of the althea plant.
Aluminum Chlorohydrate - Aluminum salt. Most commonly used material for anti-perspirant preparations. Least irritating of the aluminum salts.
Aminomethyl Propanedial - An alkalizer/neutralizer used to adjust pH in cosmetic preparations.
Ammonium Laureth Sulfate - Surfactant. Used as primary surfactant for many shampoos. Low irritation.
Annato Extract - A natural plant colorant derived from the flesh surrounding the seed of a shrub native to South America, bixa orellana, producing yellow 008080 tones.
Apricot Kernel Oil - Oil expressed from the seeds of apricots.
Arachidyl Propionate - A skin softener and humectant obtained from coal and limestone.
Arnica - An herb found in the northern hemisphere. The dried flower heads have long been used as an astringent and to treat skin disorders. It has been used externally to treat swelling and bruising, and helps with under eye circles. Anti -inflammatory and soothing. Arnica is found in Awakening Woman Eye Cream.
Ascorbic Acid and Ascorbyl Palmitate - Vitamin C. A preservative and anti-oxidant used to help prevent free radical damage in the skin. The white or pale yellow powder will darken slightly when exposed to air.
Awapuhi - Actiphyte of the Hawaiian white ginger root. A natural additive.
Banana Oil - The natural fragrance derived from bananas. Used as a solvent in some formulations.
Beeswax - Purified wax from the honey-comb of the bee. Used primarily as an emulsifier.
Bentonite Clay - A white clay found in North America. Oil absorbing and cleansing, it is used for its excellent refining action on enlarged pores and oily areas of the skin. Awakening Woman uses Bentonite Clay in its MaxiClear.
Benzophenone -3 - Oxybenzone. An organic benzophen derivative. A sun-screen active in both UV-B and UV-A spectrums. Used in conjunction with a second sunscreen to obtain higher protection values of SPF 8 and above.
Benzothonium Chloride - A salt derivative that serves as an antiseptic and germicide.
Benzoyl Peroxide - An oxygen releasing chemical which causes drying, peeling and antibacterial action on the skin. Used for acne lesions, benzoyl peroxide is the number one acne medication recommended by doctors. The release of oxygen is important to combat the anaerobic bacteria present in the acne affected follicles. The peeling and drying effects peel the acne pustules and open up the comedones. Found in Awakening Woman BenzoClear5 and BenzoClear10.
Benzoyl Alcohol - Solvent with a faint, sweet odor. Used in many perfumes.
Bioecolia - Natural sugar complex that inhibits the growth of unfavorable bacteria.
Biomin Aquacinque - An aqueous mixture of five skin care minerals - magnesium, iron, zinc, copper, and silicon (with yeast additive).
Biosaccharide Complex - Carbohydrate complex that inhibits the growth of bacteria on the skin that may cause the unpleasant after tan odor.
Bladder wrack - A source of iodine; reported to help remove toxins.
Borage - An herbaceous plant, borgo officinalis. Skin soother.
Bromelain - A proteolytic enzyme (digests proteins), obtained from the pineapple plant, a perennial herb with many varieties. The bromelain may be derived from either the stem or the fruit juices. Bromelain hydrolyzes proteins and digests dead cells on the surface of the skin.
Butylene Glycol - A petroleum derived mechanical ingredient.
Butylparaben - The ester of butyl alcohol and p-hydroxybenzou acid family. An oil soluble preservative of the paraben family.
C12 -C15 Alcohols Benzoate - The ester of benzolic acid and C - 12 -15 alcohols.
Cameilia Extract - Extract of a tropical ever 008080 shrub. Used to scent products.
Caramel - A natural colorant.
Carbopol (or Carbomer 940/941/934) - Thickening agents.
Carboxylate/Carboxaline - Magnesium aspirate.
Carnauba Wax - Extracted from the leaves of the Brazilian wax palm tree. Emollient and moisturizing and used for its skin protectant properties.
Carotene (Beta Carotene) - Found primarily in carrots. A pro-vitamin, converted by the body into vitamin A, carotene gives a yellow to 008080-red color to formulations.
Castor Oil - Emollient, natural oil. Used in hair dressings, lipsticks, and skin care lotions. Obtained from the castor bean.
Ceteareth -20 - Derived from cetearyl alcohol through ethoxylation. Used with the parent alcohol or with other fatty alcohols, it functions as a primary emulsifier and thickening agent.
Cetearyl Alcohol - A waxy, crystalline solid used as an emulsifier. Not to be confused with drying, ethyl alcohols.
Cetyl Alcohol - A secondary emulsifier that thickens or adds body to lotions. Not to be confused with drying, ethyl alcohols.
Chamomile Extract - Extract made from the flowers of anthemis nobilis. Used for its soothing properties.
Chlorophyll - The 008080 coloring matter in plants. Known for its natural cleansing and moisturizing properties.Cholesterol Escin Complex - Thought to aid in detoxification and shrinking of fat cells.
Citric Acid - An organic acid. Naturally occurring in citrus fruits and used to adjust the pH of products.
Clove Bud Oil - A natural essential oil steamed distilled from clove buds, syzygium atmaticum. Lends a sweet, spicy note to skin care formulations.
Cocamilopropyl Betaine - Surfactant derived from coconut oil. Used in low irritation, conditioning shampoos.
Cocoa Butter - Obtained from cocoa beans, used as an emollient. Used in suntan lotions as well as the manufacture of chocolate.
Collagen (Soluble) - A protein derived from the selected skins of young animals or from vegetable sources. The collagen molecule is too large to penetrate the unbroken skin. However, it forms a superior protective film to soothe and hydrate. Collagen is chemically bonded to water and so provides long -lasting moisturizing effects.
Comfrey - Plant which contains allantoin, which is thought to stimulate the growth of healthy tissue.
Comfrey Extract - An extract of the fruit of citrullus colocynthis. Skin soother and moisturizer.
Copper Peptides - Organic copper proteins help to accelerate the tanning process by boosting your melanocytes with organic copper, while the protein provides soothing and nourishing benefits to the skin.
Corn Cob Meal - A finely milled powder from corn cobs. The extremely fine milling of the meal ensures that no harsh abrasiveness is left in the action of this exfoliant. Gives complete cell debris removal without drying or scratching.
Corn Oil - Natural golden -colored oil expressed from corn kernels, zea mays. America's premier native emollient oil. Rich in linoleic acid, one of the three essential fatty acids.
Corn Starch - Obtained from corn and used as a drawing agent. Absorbs water and soothes the skin.
Cucumber Extract - From the same family as aloe; strong moisturizing capabilities.
Cyclomethicone - A volatile silicone compound used to reduce the greasy feel of tanning oils.
CuO2 Complex - - Exclusive intensifying complex for rich hydration.
Dandelion - A vegetable source of protein that is high in skin-friendly ingredients.
D&C Red #33 - Certified monoazo colorant permitted for use in drugs and cosmetics but not in food.
DEA (Diethanolamine) - A neutralizing agent that raises pH.
Decyl Oleate - The ester of decyl alcohol and oleic acid. An emollient that adds body to lotions.
Deionized/Demineralized Water - Water run through active resin beds to remove metallic ions and filtered through a submicron filter to remove suspended impurities.
DHA (DeHydroxyAcetone) - Derived from sugar cane, causes the surface layer of your skin to oxidize, creating a natural-looking tan.
Dicetyldimonium Chloride - A quaternary ammonium salt. Conditioner.
Dihydroxyacetone - The active ingredient of sunless tanning products. Dihydroxyacetone, or DHA, reacts with amino acids in the outer layers of the skin to produce a browning effect.
Dimethicone - Used as a skin protectant and moisturizer for its superior spreadability, excellent emolliency, and water repellency. Well tolerated by even the most sensitive skins, they have a filming action on the skin surface and smooth fine, dry lines.
Dimethicone Copolyol - A silicone derived emollient used in conditioner preparations for hair and skin.
DL -Alpha Tocopheryl Acetate - See vitamin E.
DMDM (Dimethylol Dimethyl) - Used with hydantoin to form a preservative. Slowly releases formaldehyde to give bactericidal properties to lotions.
Dimethyl Lauramine Oleate - Salt of dimethyl lauramine and oleic acid. Conditioning agent for hair.
Disodium OleamideMEA -Sulfosuccinate - A wax-like solid surfactant used as a solubilizer and wetting agent in bath preparations and lotions.
DL -Alpha Tocopheryl Acetate - Vitamin E acetate. See Vitamin E.
DNA Enzyme Complex - Bioengineered to supply the body with moisturization and reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.
EDTA (Ethylene Diamine Tetra Acetic Acid) - A synthetic compound used in lotions as a preservative.
Elastin - A protein, found in the layers of skin and artery walls, that keeps skin soft and supple. Used as a moisture binder.
Ergocalciferol - Known as Vitamin D when used in food products or skincare lotions.
Essential Oils - Naturally fragrant oils used in cosmetics, aromatherapy, medicine, perfumery, and flavoring.
Ethyl Alcohol - Acts as a fat solvent in oils and lotions.
Ethylparaben - A microbial preservative.
Eucalyptus Oil - A vegetable oil valued for its awakening, revitalizing fragrance.
Evening Primrose Oil - helps your body replenish moisture lost to tanning, minimizing flaking and peeling for the appearance of a longer -lasting tan.
FD&C Dyes - Dyes approved by FDA for food, drug, and cosmetic use.
Farnesol - Natural ingredient found throughout the plant world which regulates developmental processes and is a natural bioactivator in human skin.
Fir Needle Oil - A natural cleanser obtained from the needle of various cone -bearing ever 008080 trees.
Fragrance - An aromatic blend of essential oils of natural origin; or essential oils of natural origin and synthetic fragrance materials; or completely synthetic fragrance materials.
Free Radical Scavengers - Naturally derived anti-oxidants that counteract the free radicals that cause fine lines and wrinkles.
Gelatin - Obtained by hydrolysis of collagen -proteinaceous material. Used as thickener and bodying agent in shampoos and face masks.
Geranium Masculatum - Promotes shiny hair.
Ginseng - Extract of ginseng root. Demulcent, anti irritant, soothing.
Glucose Tyrosinate - A source of soluble tyrosine, this gives lotion a characteristic tan color.
Glycereth - Polyethylene glycol ester of glycerin. An emollient.
Glycereth 26 - The polyethylene glycol ether of glyerin with an average ethoxylation value of 26. An emollient.
Glycerin - A naturally derived skin friendly humectant prepared by the hydrolysis of fats and oils.
Glyceryl Monostearate - A waxlike solid used as an emulsifying and thickening agent.
Glyceryl Stearate - A monoester of glycerine and stearic acid. An emollient and emulsifier.
Glycol Stearate - The monoester of ethylene glycol and stearic acid. An emollient and an emulsifier used in lotions and shampoos to achieve a pearling effect.
HEDTA (Hydroxyethyl Ethylenediamine Triacetic Acid) - A bonding agent.
Heliotherapy Hydration Complex - Combination of advanced skin care extracts that help retain the moisture normally lost to the sun and the environment.
Honey - Used as a color, flavor, and emollient. Natural ingredient for cosmetic products.
Horsetail Extract - Obtained from the plant equisetum arvense, known for its soothing, regenerating properties as well as its toning and astringent qualities. Commonly believed to stop bleeding and heal wounds.
Horsetail gress - Equisetum arvense.
Hot Action Complex - exclusive combination of intensifying ingredients produces a warming and reddening effect as it works deep within the epidermis.
Hyaluronic Acid - A potent humectant that absorbs moisture from the air to help hydrate your skin. A viscous mucopolysaccharide used as a humectant. Holds up to 370% more moisture than even the Collagen protein molecule. Binds and retains essential moisture in the skin layers and reduces fine lines caused by dehydration.
Hydrogenated Soybean Oil - The end product of controlled hydrogenation of soybean oil, the oil obtained from soybeans by extraction or expression. It consists essentially of oleic, linolenic and saturated acids. Emollient.
Hydrogenated Vegetable Oil - Vegetable oil thickened through hydrogenation. Increases the stability of the oil while retaining the protective emolliency.
Hydrolyzed Animal Collagen - Derived from animal sources. Gives body to the hair and helps protect it from sun, wind and weather damage. Leaves a protective emollient film. See collagen.
Hydrolyzed Wheat Protein - Wheat oligosaccharides. Hydrolysate of wheat protein. Non-animal source of protein for shampoos and conditioners and other cosmetic preparations.
Hydroxyethyl Cellulose - A naturally derived polymer which helps modify viscosity and form gels with water -soluble ingredients. Helps protect the skin and impact a certain feel.
Inaidazolidinyl Urea - A by-product of human metabolism used as an anti microbial agent.
Inositol - Vitamin B; an emollient.
Isopropyl Myristate - The ester of isopropyl alcohol and myristic acid. It spreads very easily and promotes a dry feeling.
Isopropyl Palmitate - The ester of isopropyl alcohol and palmitic acid. Spreads more readily than isopropyl myristate.
Ivy - A mild irritant botanical believed to stimulate blood circulation to the areas on which it is applied and known for its toning and tightening properties.
Jojoba Oil - Extracted from the seeds of the desert shrub simondsia chinesis this oil is actually an emollient ester with excellent spreading, lubricating and penetrating properties. Excellent for hair and scalp conditioning and said to be useful in oily skin preparations.This ingredient is found in Alternative Medicine's Night Cream.
Jasmine Oil - A warming and smoothing oil, used to revitalize and stimulate the skin.
Kaolin Clay - A white powder clay, obtained from kaolin in southeast China. Used for its oil absorbing properties, kaolin clay refines the skin and helps clear breakouts.
Kelp Extract - Extracted from a north American species of brown seaweed, Macrocystis pyriferae. High in silicon, which is believed to keep the skin from wrinkling and sagging, kelp is considered an important nutrient source for cells. It has been used to treat anemia and in cases of obesity because of its high iodine content, which has a normalizing effect on the thyroid. Iodine is known to be Pore Clogging . Avoid any kelp extract if you are acne prone or have sensitive skin.
Kiwi Extract - Extract of the tropical kiwi fruit. Natural additive.
Lactic Acid - Obtained from molasses through an exclusive anaerobic bio -fermentation process. This process yields a high purity lactic acid, which is of great value in retexturizing the skin surface and stimulating cell renewal. Lactic acid, being an alpha hydroxy acid diminishes the cohesion of surface skin cells and subsequently, prevents the thickening of the stratum corneum. Lactic Acid is absorbed across the stratum corneum so the lower layers of this section of the epidermis, and assists in cell detachment from that level. The resulting smoothness and flexibility of the skin's surface is evident soon after application. It has a larger molecular size than glycolic acid and is absorbed more gradually across the epidermis with less irritation.
Laneth -10 Acetate - The polyethylene glycol ether of lanolin alcohol with an average ethoxylation value of 10. Lanolin derived emulsifier.
Lanolin - A refined derivative of the unctuous fat -like sebaceous secretion of sheep. It consists of a highly complex mixture of esters of high molecular weight aliphatic, steroid or triterpenoid alcohols and fatty acids. Obtained from the wax found on sheep's wool; refined and purified to cosmetic specifications. Excellent emollient, skin lubricant and protectant, capable of absorbing water in an amount equal to 50% of its weight. Rich in cholesterol and other skin - friendly steroids.
Lanolin Alcohols - Distilled and deodorized solid with excellent emolliency to skin and hair. Contains up to 30% cholesterol and related sterols.
Lauramide DEA - A mixture of ethanolamides of lauric acid. A high foaming surfactant for shampoos, bubblebaths, etc.
Laureth -23 - An emulsifier. The polyethylene glycol ether of lauryl alcohol.
Lauroamphocarboxyglycinate - Mild, foaming surfactant for shampoos and facial cleansers. An amphoteric organic compound.
Lavender Oil - Effective in treating acne, dermatitis and oily skin problems. Antiseptic and anti-inflammatory. Awakening Woman Kool Blue Moisture Gel contains this ingredient.
Lecithin - Naturally occuring phospholipid derived from soybeans. Both water and oil loving, lecithin helps protect the skin and replenish the acid mantle as well as improve the skin's feel after application.
Macademia Nut Oil - Extract of macadamia nut. Natural additive.
Magnesium Citrate - Magnesium salt of citric acid. Used in hair sets or bodying agents.
Mallow Extract - From the herb family. A mucilaglnous gel which is soothing, softening and pain easing to the skin. Excellent in reducing inflammation and softening the skin.
Menthol - A crystalline alcohol that occurs especially in mint oils. Has the sharp fragrance and cooling properties of peppermint.
Methyl Gluceth - A humectant valuable in eliminating dry skin; less tacky than other humectants.
Methylchloroisothiazolinone - Preservative. Used only in rinse-off products.
Methylisothiazolinone - Preservative. Used only in rinse -off products.
Methylparaben/Propylparaben - Food grade preservatives developed in Europe and used to ensure shelf life, hygienic stability of products. One of the most commonly used preservative in cosmetics today and is non -irritating, non -sensitizing and non -toxic.
Methylsuifonylmethane (MSM) - A patented substance found in, for example, cow's milk and human urine that is said to enhance moisture retention of the skin, relieve discomfort from skin irritation, soften, smooth and lubricate the skin, and strengthen nails.
Mineral Oil - A liquid blend of hydrocarbons obtained from petroleum. An effective solvent for removing oil, grease and makeup from the skin. An excellent amplifier or intensifier allowing the skin to absorb ultraviolet rays more effectively. Most companies no longer use mineral oil in products; vegetable oils have been found to be as effective and more skin friendly.
Mink Oil - An oil similar to human sebum; this oil is obtained from the subdermal fatty tissue of minks. It has soothing, amplifying, conditioning, and protective properties, making it an important component of dry skin products. High in unsaturated triglycerides, mink oil has tremendous spreading capabilities.
Modified Sea Salts - Sea salts obtained by evaporation of sea salts.
Montinorilionite - A mineral that has a drawing effect while absorbing greases and dirt.
Mucopolysacchaildes - Highly effective humectants with claims of adding up to 33 percent more moisture in the skin.
Myristyl Myristate - Ester of myristyl alcohol and myristic acid. Esters are light oils used as cosmetic emollients.
N -Acetyl -LTyrosine - A source of soluble tyrosine.
NaPCA (Sodium PCA) - The sodium salt of 2 -Pyrrolidone -5 -Carboxylic Acid, NaPCA is one of the best moisture binders available, as well as a humectant and an emollient. The following Awakening Woman Skincare products contain this ingredient - Night Cream, Day Cream 25, Reveal 10, and Eye Cream.
Nanospheres - a unique delivery system that encapsulates moisturizing agents to help promote a spectacular looking tan.
Nettles - Coarse herbs known for their tonic, astringent and revitalizing properties.
Nettle Extract (White) - Obtained from the flowers of lamium album and containing tannins, amino acids and flavonoids. Known for its tonic, astringent and revitalizing properties. Used both in skin care and hair care preparations.
Nylon -12 - Microscopic spheroids that have tremendous absorbant powers. Nylon - 12 remains on the skin's surface to absorb skin oil as it's secreted, making the skin's surface imperfections (including wrinkles) less apparent.
Octocrylene - A substituted acrylic.
Octyl Methoxycinnamate - The ester of 2 -ethylehexyl alcohol and methoxycinnamic acid. A non-PABA sunscreen agent manufactured in Switzerland.
Octyl Palmitate - An emollient amplifying ester commonly used as a mineral oil replacement.
Octyl Salicylate - Ester of 2 -ethylhexel alcohol and salicylic acid used as an antiseptic and sunburn preventative.
Octyl Stearate - Derived from cascarilla bark and other natural items; provides a barrier between skin and the elements; softens and smooths the skin.
Oleyl Betaine - A zwitterion (inner salt).
Olive Oil - Extract of olive. Emollient. Superior penetrating ability. Used in lipsticks, hairdressings, shampoos, soaps and conditioners.
008080 Oil - Extracted from the plant Citrus aurantium. Soothing, hydrating, calming oil that reduces irritation. Used in essential oils blends. Awakening Woman Day Cream 25 contains 008080 Oil.
PABA (Para Amino Benzoic Acid) - A vitamin B complex acid used as a building block in sunscreens. Tremendous UVB absorption qualities.
Padimate O (Octyl Dimethyl PABA or 2 -Ethyihexyl PABA) - The ester of 2 -ethyihexyl alcohol and dimethyl paminobenzoic acid. A PABA~free sunscreen, Padimate O is a derivative of PABA, but is no longer PABA.
Panthenol - A biologically active substance that metabolizes to vitamin B5 in the skin. Known for its revitalizing and conditioning effects in the hair and skin. It has humectant -like properties that promote moisture absorption.
Papain - A digestive enzyme, collected from papaya fruit. Papain hydrolyzes proteins and has a proteolytic capacity (digests proteins). Papain has the ability to digest dead tissue without affecting the surrounding live tissue, and has gained itself the reputation as a biological scalpel. It is used in digestive aids and as the active ingredient in enzyme cleaners for soft contact lenses. Papain contains 212 amino acids and is also rich in malic acid, an alpha hydroxy acid.
Parsley - Petroselinum sativum. Soothes skin.
PEG (Polyethylene Glycol or Polyoxyethylene Glycol) - Polymeric forms of ethylene oxide. An organic configuration that is reacted with various other molecules to produce a wide range of cosmetic materials. Higher numbers mean higher ethoxilation, which usually means higher solubility in water. (PEG -75 Lanolin has protective and emollient properties, while PEG-20 Stearate is an emulsifier.)
PEG-80 Sorbitan Laurate - An ethoxylated sorbitol monoester of lauric acid with an average of 80 moles of ethylene oxide. A mild surfactant.
PEG-100 Stearate - Derived from stearic aid. Emulsifier for creams and lotions.
PEG-20 Stearate - A water soluble emulsifier for triglycerides, waxes, and mineral oils.
PEG -150 Distearate - Form stabilizer; hair and skin conditioner.
Peppermint Oil - Obtained from peppermint leaves. Mild anesthetic, or flavoring material.
Petrolatum - Petroleum derived, inexpensive substance used to prevent moisture loss. Tends to feel tacky.
Phospholipids - Complex fatty materials found in all living cells. Emollient, antioxidant, natural emulsifiers, spreading agents.
Phosphoric Acid - An inorganic acid; a pH adjuster.
Pineapple Extract - Contains the protein digesting and blood clotting enzyme bromelin, anti-inflammatory.
Placental Extract - Aqueous extract of bovine or human placentas after birthing,and from plant sources also. A naturally rich source of skin nutrients, amino acids, and proteins that has a revitalizing effect on skin.
Planell Oil - Emollient. Mixture of naturally derived phytosterols and glycolipids.
Poloxamer 407 - Non-ionic polymer surfactant.
Polyquaternium 7 - Conditioner used in both rinse-off and leave-in conditioner preparations.
Polysorbate 20 - A mixture of laurate esters of sorbitol and sorbitol anhydrides, consisting of monoester, condensed with approximately 20 moles of ethylene oxide. Versatile oil-in-water emulsifier, very water-soluble solubilizer for essential oils, fragrances and vegetable oils in aqueous solutions. Viscosity modifier in shampoos, liquid soaps and conditioners.
Propylene/Butylene Glycol - Clear, colorless liquids which are among the most common moisuture -carrying vehicles in skin care. Superb permeation through the skin and excellent humectant properties. Softens and moisturizes the skin.
Propylene Glycol - An aliphatic alcohol serving as an humectant in skin products and a solvent for preservatives, essential oils, flavors and fragrances. Also used in preparation of herbal extracts.
Propylene Glycol Stearate - As ester of propylene glycol and stearic acid. Used in creams, lotions, hair care products and makeups as co-emulsifier to produce a pearly opaque effect.
Propylparaben - Common cosmetic preservative that is anti -fungal and anti -microbial. Less water soluble than methylparaben.
Protovanol - A concentrated form of vanilla used as a natural tanning accelerator. Requires heat and light to drive it.
Purified Water - See deionized water.
Qnaternium -15 & 19 - A preservative active against a wide spectrum of microbial organisms. A quaternary ammonium salt.
Quaternary Ammonium Salts (QUATS) - Various derivatives in this group are used in waterproof sunscreens because they impart cationic properties to compounds. QUATS chemically react with the skin, making lotions they are in more water resistant.
Red Clover Flowers - A skin soothing ingredient.
Red Raspberry Extract - A soothing and non-stimulating extract. Noted to be a natural antibiotic. Red raspberry extract is also very soothing and relaxing to an inflamed skin. Excellent for a sensitive skin and any irritation from acne, shaving or windburn.
Red Raspberry Leaves - Leaves of the red raspberry, rubus idaeus. Astringent.
Retinyl Paimitate - Vitamin A. Useful in cosmetics as a skin normalizer. Works to moisturize dry skin and reduce excess oil.
Riboflavin - Vitamin B2 - Works with soluble tyrosine in suntan -enhancing products. Believed to accelerate tyrosine in tanning products. Produces a characteristic yellow color in lotions.
Robane - Obtained from shark oil. Helps skin absorb oxygen and acts to fight bacteria.
Rose Hip Extract - Very rich in natural Vitamin C. Mositurizing and hydrating to the skin. Helps protect the skin from capillary damage and firms and tones the tissues. Helps mositure bind in the connective tissue proteins of the skin. Found in Awakening Woman Eye Cream.
Rosemary Extract - Valued for its reviving, blood vessel-widening, and invigorating properties.
Safflower Oil - One of the most useful oils in cosmetics. The flowers are used in decoctions for skin eruptions, acne and skin blemishes. Awakening Woman Night Cream contains Safflower Oil.
Sage Extract - Oil of the herbal plant salvia officinalis -. Smells like camphor. Astringent. Supposedly has healing powers. Used by some to prevent drying.
Salicylic Acid - Occurs naturally in winter008080, sweet birch and other plants. This Beta Hydroxy Acid improves the appearance and condition of the skin. Its micro-exfoliating action causes a slow movement of the superficial cells that are already old, forcing the deep layers to replace them with younger cells. In addition to its exfoliating action, salicyulic acid is also used as an anti-microbial in medicine. This ingredient is found in Awakening Woman MaxiClear.
Sea Kelp - Ahnfeltia extract. The calcined ashes of seaweeds, from which iodine is obtained; a large, coarse seaweed or wrack. Skin soother.
Sea Wrack - Seaweed cast ashore.
Selenium Protein Complex (Biomin S -P -C) - Neutralizes free radicals on the skin, which is thought to minimize the aging effects of the sun. Also serves as a counter irritant.
Sesame Oil - A light, emollient oil obtained from sesame seeds.
Shea Butter - A natural lipid obtained from the fruit of the karite tree, butyrosperum parkii. The slightly 008080ish butter with soothing protecting qualities is said to have some sunscreening ability.
Silk Amino Acids - The mixture of amino acids resulting from the complete hydrolysis of silk. The principal amino acids contained within are glycine, alanine, and serine. Their low molecular weight indicates that the molecules can penetrate the cuticle in undamaged hair as well as the surface layer of the epidermis. Silk amino acids improve skin and hair with regard to feel and gloss, and have a moisturizing effect due to their water-binding properties.
Slippery Elm Bark - The dried inner bark of ulmus fulva. Used for its soothing and softening properties. A product of the North American elm tree.
Soap Bark - A perennial herb native to Europe and parts of Asia. A natural cleanser.
Sodium C14 -16 Olefin Suffonate - Surfactant derived from coconut oil. Used in soapless shampoos. Mixture of long chain of surfactant salts.
Sodium Chloride - A purified salt used for its natural cleansing, toning, refreshening, and astringent properties.
Sodium Lauryl/Laureth Suffate - The sodium salt of sulfated ethoxylated lauryl alcohol. A high foaming, viscous surfactant. Cleansing agent for shampoos.
Sodium PCA - Occurs naturally in human skin and is reponsible for binding mositure to the cells. Highly water -absorbing and used as an excellent humectant. A component of the NMF (natural moisturizing factor). Found in the following Awakening Woman Skin Care products: Reveal 10, Day Cream 25, Night Cream, Eye Cream and 'Kool' Blue Moisture Gel.
Sodium laureth -13 Carboxylate - An anionic surfactant increasing the cleansing power of some shampoos.
Sodium Saccharin - Artificial flavoring, sweetner. Non -caloric. Pound for pound, 300 times sweeter than sugar. Used in mouthwash, denitrifies, lipsticks.
Sodium Trideceth Sulfate - A sodium salt of sulfated ethoxylated tridecyl alcohol. An excellent wetting agent for shampoo preparations, as well as baby shampoos.
Sorbitan Stearate - Used as an emulsifier of essential oils in lotion products. Thickens and stabilizes emulsions.
Sorbitol - A humectant that leaves skin with a velvety feeling. Derived from fruits, seaweed, and algae. Similar to naturally occurring glycerin.
Squalane - A saturated branched chain of hydrocarbon obtained from hydrogenating shark liver oil. It is found in small quantities in human sebum. A natural emollient; very spreadable and soothing to the skin.
Stearalkonium Chloride - Quaternary ammonium compound. Used in hair conditioners. Conditioner.
Stearamidopropyl Dimethylamine - An amidoamine. Conditioner.
Stearic acid - A common, naturally occurring fatty acid widely used as an inexpensive primary emulsifying agent. When neutralized with triethanolamine, it functions as a tremendous thickening agent. Its soap -like character enables it to penetrate the skin and to have emollient, skin -softening properties.
Stearyl Alcohol - An emulsion stabilizer; also adds body to a lotion.
Sulfur - A pharmaceutical grade sulfur of a 99.5% purity. Sulfur accelerates peeling of the skin and has a topically antiseptic action on the skin surface. Traditionally used for problem skins, sulfur works synergistically with other micro -exfoliant ingredients and is particularly suitable for skins prone to breakout and congestion. Found in Awakening Woman MaxiClear.
Sunflower Oil - Obtained from sunflower seeds. Bland, pale yellow oil that contains large amounts of Vitamin E. Natural oil.
Sweet Almond Oil - The fixed oil obtained from the ripe seed kernel of prunus persica dulsis. Emollient.
TEA (Triethanolamine) - Produced by ammonolysis of ethylene oxide. Neutralizes carbomer solutions to form gels. Neutralizes stearic acid to form anionic emulsions and acts as an alkalizing agent to control pH.
Tea Tree Oil - Extracted from the plant, Melaleuca alternifolia. Used for its antisep6tic, analgesic and anti -bacterial properties; also aids in healing and soothing skin. Awakening Woman Maxi Clear contains Tea Tree Oil.
Tetrasodium EDTA - Water softner. A bonding agent that links with minerals to prevent them from causing microbial growth.
Titanium Dioxide (Microcrystalline) - Up until now, only sunscreens based on organic ultra -violet light absorbers were available. Although effective, these chemical compounds are unsuitable for around the eye area, due to their irritant -potential. Microcrystalline Titanium Dioxide is a new inorganic natural material, which functions as a sunblock to both UVA and UVB rays. Awakening Woman Day Cream 25 contains this ingredient.
Tocopherol Acetate - The ester of tocopherol and acetic acid. See Vitamin E.
Tocopheryl Linoleate - A substance that helps prevent stiffening of the stratum corneum as a result of UV exposure. Provides the skin with linoleic acid, one of the major essential fatty acids.
Tocopheryl Nicotinnate - Increases blood supply at the skin's surface without irritation.
TRF (Tissue Respiratory Factor) - Skin care complex. Composed of amino acids, mono - and disaccharides, vitamins, phosphorus - containing compounds, nucleosides and nucleotides, TRF substances are produced by living cells (like yeast) upon injury. They may serve as healing agents, stimulate collagen and elastin production, and regenerate cells on the lower levels of the skin.
Tyrosine - The amino acid from proteins that is converted through several metabolic steps to melanin. It is added to tanning accelerator products to supplement the body's normal level of tyrosine at the skin's pigment cell level thereby speeding the tanning process. May be used in its natural form or in a modified, more water solubler form as acetyl tyrosine.
Unipertan - The original tan accelerating ingredient composed of tyrosine, riboflavin, and collagen (hydrolyzed animal protein or protein hydrosolate). The original form of unipertan employs animal by -products.
Unipertan V -242 - A totally vegetable form of unipertan, providing tyrosine (an amino acid essential to the tanning process) and adenosine triphosphate (a vegetable catalyst to the tanning process), in a vegetable collagen base.
Unitrienol T27 - A patented blend of fernesyl acetate, fernesol, and panthenyl triacetate which helps in the regulation of moisture and oil levels in the skin while promoting elasticity. Studies show that unitrienol reduces the appearance of wrinkle depth.
Vanillin - A natural tanning accelerator that reacts with skin proteins under the influence of heat and light to produce a tan.
Vegetable Oil (Hydrogenated) - Obtained from soybean and cotton. Edible, natural moisture binders.
Vitamin A - An ingredient used for its regenerating properties. Improves elasticity, moisture content and suppleness while reversing the signs of photo - aging. Skin deficient in this nutrient appears rough, unevenly-thickened and dry. This ingredient is found in Awakening Woman Night Cream, Kool Blue Moisture Gel, and Day Cream 25.
Vitamin A Palmitate - Known as retinyl palmitate, reduces skin dryness and flaking, and aids healthy cell reproduction. Applied topically, it activates the epidermis and helps the skin cells of the stratum corneum bind together.
Vitamin C - The most popular antioxidant, Vitamin C is a required component in the production of collagen, the tissue responsible for skin suppleness. Moreover, Vitamin C has been shown to help slow the production of hyperpigmentation (age spots) while providing some UV protection. This ingredient is found in Awakening Woman Vitamin C Ester Cream, Day Cream 25 and Night Cream.
Vitamin D - Soothes skin; has corrective qualities; an excellent skin nutrient.
Vitamin E - Vitamin E plays a crucial role in protecting skin cells and membranes from environmental damage. It also provides deep moisturization and calms inflammation. This ingredient is found in Awakening Woman Restore Balance Natural Progesterone Cream, Day Cream 25 and Night Cream.
Vitamin E (in its synthetic form, Tocopherol Acetate) - A natural moisture binder that allows the skin to breathe and function naturally. Believed to have natural healing qualities.
Vitamin E Linoleate - A deep moisturizing vitamin derivative that plumps underlying skin cells and helps reduce the appearance of wrinkles.
Vitatan Complex - exclusive tanning technology supplies the skin with moisturizing nutrients to help build a spectacular, golden brown tan.
Walnut Extract - A bronzing agent that creates a natural-looking tan color.
Walnut Leaf Extract - Obtained from the leaves of juglans spp. and used for its astringent and conditioning properties.
Walnut Oil - A medium - light oil that leaves a luxurious, silky feel on the skin.
Watercress Extract - Extract from nasturtium officinalis. Natural additive.
Wheat Germ Oil - A rich source of vitamin E that smooths the skin and serves as an anti-oxydant.
Wheat Oligosaccharides - Polysaccharide, derivative of wheat. Conditioner for hair and skin. A moisturizer.
Witch Hazel - Obtained from twigs of hamamelis virginiana. Has a natural alcohol content of 70% and is astringent, cooling and antiseptic.
Yeast Extract - Obtained from yeast (Saccharomyces cerevisiae), this extract comprised of a complex mixture of proteins, sugars and amino acids acts as an excellent humectant and may be instrumental in enhancing the rate of cell turnover in this skin. Because its properties are analogous to soluble collagen, it is often referred to as pseudocollagen. recent studies indicate that extracts of yeast also aid in reducing hyperpigmentation by blocking melanin biosynthesis.
Zinc Oxide - A compound of zinc and oxygen, zinc oxide is a mild antiseptic agent. When added to sunscreens, it physically prevents UV light from reaching the skin. Awakening Woman Day Cream 25 and MaxiClear contain Zinc Oxide.
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