Vitamin A (Retinol): Helps skin cells create better, healthier skin cells while increasing the amount of skin-support substances and has been shown to increase the skin's collagen production and glycosaminoglycans content, resulting in firmer skin with an improved texture and enhanced barrier function. (Our Vitamin A Serum contains plant based retinol for less irritation.)
Antioxidants - Vitamin C, Pomegranate, Green Tea
Vitamin C has been shown to increase collagen production (including dermal collagen, which is significant for wrinkle reduction), reduce the appearance of skin discolorations, strengthen skin's barrier response, enhance skin repair process, reduce inflammation and help skin better withstand exposure to sunlight, whether protected by sunscreen or not.
Research has shown a direct link between low intakes of vitamin C and prevalence of a wrinkled appearance and dry skin.
Alpha Hydroxy Acids: AHAs are best for normal-to-dry or sun-damaged skin because they help bind moisture and improve healthy collagen production and smooth an uneven skin texture. BHA is best for normal-to-oily or breakout-prone skin while also being excellent for reducing redness from rosacea. (Glycagel 15% is a mild exfoliant suitable for most skin types.)
Vitamin E: works in several different ways including helping to protect cell membranes from oxidative damage and preventing collagen from being destroyed. It also works in powerful synergy with vitamin C. Vitamin E on an ingredient label may be listed as tocopheryl acetate, tocopheryl linoleate, tocotrienols, alpha tocopherol and tocopheryl succinate. We use Vitamin E as a natural preservative in many of our products.
Niacinamide: A component of vitamin B3 has been shown to increase ceramide and free fatty acid levels in skin, prevent skin from losing water content and stimulate microcirculation in the dermis. It also has a growing reputation for being able to lighten skin discolorations and reduce acne.
Green Tea Extract: The antioxidant components "work to reduce inflammation, build collagen and reduce cell damage by impeding the harmful effects of sun exposure. EGCG, when found in cosmetics, is a more potent, stable way to get the antioxidant benefit on skin. Multi Fruit Hydration Gel contains green tea extract along with many other nourishing and cell regenerating ingredients.
Grapeseed Oil or extract: This antioxidant "significantly reduces free-radical damage [and] combining it with other antioxidants greatly enhances its efficacy. It also has wound-healing properties. For fighting wrinkles, it is one of the top superstars. Super Emollient Creme contains grapeseed oil.
Resveratrol: A potent antioxidant that's found in red grapes, red wine, nuts, and fruits such as blueberries and cranberries. Resveratrol has incredible protective benefits for the skin. When applied topically, it protects against sun damage, improves collagen production, and reduces cell damage. It is a stable, potent antioxidant worth seeking out in a skin-care product. It also has significant anti-inflammatory properties—and inflammation is a major behind-the-scenes culprit of multiple skin issues, from acne to rosacea to eczema.
Ceramides: They make up about 20 percent of the skin's intercellular matrix, the 'glue' that holds skin cells together - while helping skin maintain its appearance while protecting it. When your skin suffers from sun damage, a dry environment or irritating skin care products, ceramides decrease, leaving the skin vulnerable. Replenishing the skin's ceramide content is a powerful way to protect skin, helping it act and look younger.
Linoleic Acid/Phospholipids (found in our Evening Primrose Oil):
These fatty acids replenish the skin's intercellular matrix, preserving its appearance. In addition all of them function as cell-communicating ingredients, working to 'tell' the appropriate skin cells how to function in a healthier manner. They also help reduce inflammation, believed to be a key factor in how the skin ages.