A glossary of ingredients commonly used in skin care products

Glossary of Ingredients

Acetum Mali - Apple Cider Vinegar - Fermented apples - astringent, helps restore the natural acidity of the skin and hair. Removes dead skin cells.

Aesculus hippocastanum - Horse chestnut - astringent and toning action, prevents skin from drying.

Alcohol (Ethanol) - used as a highly effective preservative and solvent. Can cause dryness and irritation. Ethanol can increase the permeability of the skin and may enable unwanted impurities to be absorbed. NOT used in any Green People products.

Allantoin - Derived from Comfrey root - humectant, anti-irritating and soothing. Speeds up cell repair and wound healing.

Aloe barbadensis - Aloe Vera - anti-irritant, soothing and cooling. Has anti-microbial properties.

Ammonium Alum - Alunite - Naturally occurring non-toxic mineral crystals - one of the most effective natural deodorants. Cannot penetrate the skin due to its large molecular weight of 670 Da - the maximum molecular mass that can be absorbed through the skin is less than 500 Da.

Ammonium lauryl sulfate - one of the milder detergents used in shampoos as a foaming and cleaning agent.

Ananas sativus - Pineapple extract, mild fruit acids help exfoliate and cleanse the skin.

Apple Powder - is a great source of water soluble fibre to help maintain a healthy digestive system.

Aqua - Water - free from environmental pollutants, a solvent and dilutant for natural ingredients.

Artichoke juice - An excellent liver tonic. Ascophyllum nodosum - Wild Seaweed, rich source of over 15 vitamins and all known essential minerals. Excellent as a dietary supplement and as an ingredient in personal care formulations.

Ascorbic acid - Vitamin C - anti-oxidant, pH adjuster.

Barosma betulina - Buchu, a natural fruit aroma.

Benzyl alcohol An anti-microbial agent (preservative) safe for cosmetic use. Constituent of Jasmine, Hyacinth and other plants.

Borage - also known as Starflower - rich in essential fatty acids - mainly Omega-6. Excellent for a dry skin condition.

Bromelain - an extract from pineapple known to help eliminate excessive dead skin cells and help normalise the scalp.

Butyrospermum parkii - Shea butter - an emollient which spreads easily, has healing properties and can help protect skin from UV-radiation.

Buxus Chinesis - Jojoba Oil - almost identical to sebum, the skin's natural lubricant.

Caesalpinia spinosa - is a shrub known as the Tara Bush or Spiny Holdback Bush. The gum is obtained from the starchy part of the seeds, which is hydrolysed, i.e. treated with water to extract it.

Calcium carbonate - Naturally occurring chalk - gentle, mild abrasive agent, kind to teeth.

Calendula officinalis - Marigold - soothing. Excellent for irritated and delicate skin. Has antiseptic properties.

Cannabis sativa - Hemp seed oil, naturally rich in minerals and fatty acids which are beneficial for hair and skin.

Capsicum - Spanish pepper - a general tonic specific for the circulatory and digestive system.

Carrot Juice - Soothing properties, excellent for the digestive system, rich in vitamins and minerals.

Carthamus Tinctorius - Safflower Oil - Also known as Thistle Seed oil, very rich in omega-6 fatty acids.

Celery Juice - Stimulates kidneys and digestion.

Cera alba - Bees wax - has a protective action and is used to make products water-resistant.

Cetearyl alcohol - Fatty alcohols are components of all natural waxes - derived from plant oil and used as an emulsifier, emollient and thickener. Not to be confused with Ethyl alcohol - see Alcohol.

Cetearyl glucoside - Emulsifying wax extracted from Corn and Coconut - mild and non-irritant.

Cetyl alcohol - Used as a thickener and emulsifier - see Cetearyl alcohol.

Cetrimonium chloride - A surfactant used in conditioners and also as an antiseptic.

Chamomile juice - Calming properties.

Chamomilla recutita - Chamomile extract - has soothing properties.

Chenopodium Quinoa - oil from quinoa, a grain from South America. A rich source of essential fatty acids and vitamins.

Chlorophyll - Green nitrogenous colouring matter contained in the chloroplasts of plants.

Chondrus crispus - Seaweed with moisture binding properties. Excellent for dry, sensitive skin.

Cinnamomum zeylanicum - Cinnamon oil - anti-microbial, antiseptic.

Citric acid - From citrus fruits - pH modifier.

Citrus Aurantium - Neroli, orange blossom essential oil, has uplifting and antiseptic properties.

Citrus bergamia - Bergamot orange essential oil - uplifting and antiseptic properties.

Citrus grandis - Grapefruit seed extract - antiseptic properties.

Citrus limonum - Lemon essential oil - antiseptic, excellent for tired and ageing skin.

Citrus nobilis, Citrus aurantium bergamia, Citrus aurantium dulcis - A blend of citrus seed extract, from mandarin, bergamot and sweet orange which combine a strong antibacterial effect with anti-oxidant properties to support the skin's natural immune system and help protect against cell damage.

Citrus paradisi - Grapefruit essential oil - refreshing, astringent, cooling and detoxifying.

Citrus reticulata - Mandarin essential oil - sweet refreshing smell, pleasant and safe to use.

Citrus sinensis - Orange essential oil - sweet, refreshing oil with detoxifying properties.

Cocoamidopropyl betaine - Derived from coconut - mild cleansing and foaming agent.

Cocamidopropyl Betainamide MEA Chloride - Derived from coconut - a mild quarternised foaming sufactant. Has thickening properties, is anti-irritant and acts as an anti-microbial agent. Non toxic and non-sensitising. Unlike DEA and TEA, MEA is unlikely to form nitrosamines in cosmetic formulations.

Cocamoniumcarbamyolchloride - Derived from coconut - a mild quaternised foaming surfactant. Has thickening properties, is anti-irritant and acts as an anti-microbial agent. Non toxic and non sensitising.

Cocos nucifera - Coconut oil - an excellent emollient widely used in the manufacture of soap.

Commiphora myrrha - Resin from the Myrrh bush with antiseptic and anti-microbial properties.

Cupuacu butter - plant wax with a high water-absorption capacity and a pleasant skin feel.

Cupressus sempervirens - Cypress - astringent and toner. Both floral waters and essential oil are used in our products.

Cymbopogon Citratus - Lemongrass essential oil - Refreshing and stimulating with tonic properties.

Dandelion juice - Rich in minerals.

Daucus carota - Rich source of beta-carotene, the precursor to vitamin A. Can help protect the skin from free-radical damage and promotes production of new cells. Excellent for dry skin.

DEA - diethanolamine. used as solvent and detergent. Possible risk of formation of nitrosamines. Most nitrosamines are carcinogenic. NOT used in any Green People products.

Decyl glucoside - An extract from corn with exceptional foaming power. Non-toxic, non-irritating and will not block the pores.

Dehydroacetic Acid - A mild acid used as part of a preservative system. Non-irritating and hypoallergenic, has minimal impact on the environment.

Detergent (foaming agent) - These ingredients enable a product to cleanse grease and oil from the hair and body. There has been concern recently about some detergents commonly found in everyday products as they may affect the skin and the gums. Decyl glucoside is a safe alternative.

Echinacea angustifolia - Purple cone flower - powerful immune stimulant and has antioxidant properties.

Elaeis guineensis - Palm kernel oil - emollient, lubricant. All Palm Kernel Oil used by Green People is certified organic and comes from sustainably managed plantations.

Emollient - Substance which prevents water loss from the skin and keeps it soft.

Emulsifier - Agent used to mix oil and water together, so that they don't separate. Essential for the manufacture of creams and lotions.

Enteromorpha compressa - is an edible seaweed that grows on the coast of India. The extract contains many active ingredients including nutrients that nourish and feed skin cells

Equisetum Arvense - Horsetail herb - a rich source of mineral silica essential for healthy hair structure.

Essential Fatty Acids (EFA's) - about 20 specific fatty acids are used by the body to maintain normal function. All but 2 can be synthesized by our bodies. These 2 essential fatty acids belong to the Omega-3 and Omega-6 groups, and must be obtained in proper balance from foods or supplements. EFA's function is as building blocks in membranes of every cell in the body. They also produce 'prostaglandin families', hormone-like substances necessary for energy metabolism, cardiovascular and immune health.

Ethyl Alchohol/Ethanol - used as a highly effective preservative and solvent. Can cause dryness and irritation. Ethanol can increase the permeability of the skin and may enable unwanted impurities to be absorbed. Tiny amounts used in Firming Facial Gel and Hawthorn & Artichoke Formula, but not in any other Green People products.

Eucalyptus globulus - a warming, antiseptic oil.

Eugenia caryophyllus - Clove essential oil - strong antiseptic, antibiotic, antiviral. Useful for relieving pain caused by toothache.

E-vitamin - d-alpha-tocopherol - naturally sourced vitamin E. Used as an antioxidant to protect oils from becoming rancid.

Faex - Brewers Yeast Extract - rich in B-vitamins - can penetrate through the hair-follicles.

Flax - Golden Flax or Linseed - Cold-pressed oil or cold-milled seeds used. One of nature's richest sources of Omega-3 essential fatty acids - essential for maintaining good health. Necessary for cell to cell biochemical functions, such as energy metabolism, cardiovascular and immune system health. Cold-milled Flax is rich in dietary fibre.

Foeniculum vulgare - Fennel oil - antiseptic, anti-microbial. Freshens breath.

Fragaria vesca - Wild Strawberry, natural fruit aroma.

Fragrance - One of the leading causes of allergy and irritation in cosmetics. Symptoms can be watery eyes, reddened skin, irritation or allergic reaction. 95% of the mix in most fragrances are made from synthetic chemicals. You are less likely to suffer a reaction when using one essential oil or a blend of just a few. NOT used in any Green People products.

Garlic juice - Beneficial for heart and circulation. Stimulates digestion. Has anti-microbial and anti-fungal properties.

Gentian - Good for liver and digestion - one of the classic 'bitter' herbs.

Glycerin - Derived from plant material - humectant, emollient, emulsifier, solvent.

Glyceryl polyacrylate - An ultra-mild gel based on plant glycerin, kind to the skin and the environment.

Glyceryl stearate - Derived from plant material - emulsifier and moisturiser.

GMO's - genetically modified organisms. Green People avoid the use of all GMO's in our products.

Gnaphalium leontopodium - Edelweiss extract - has great anti-oxidant properties, helps protect against UV-radiation.

Green tea - Known to be a remarkable antioxidant due to its high level of polyphenols.

Guarana - A natural stimulant - provides energy.

Hamamelis virginiana - Witch Hazel extract - astringent and cooling. Good for itchy skin.

Hawthorn juice - gives strong support to the heart and circulatory system.

Hedychium coronarium - Hawaiian White Ginger. Stimulates blood circulation.

Helianthus annuus - Sunflower oil - emollient and lubricant.

Hemp seed oil - naturally rich in minerals and essential fatty acids essential for skin health.

Humectant - A substance used to retain moisture on the skin and prevent the product from drying out.

Humulus lupulus - Hops, gentle skin toner.

Hydrogenated vegetable oil - An oil that has hydrogen added to solidify it.

Hydrolised Wheat Protein - A rich source of amino acids that strengthen and condition hair shafts.

Isoamyl p-Methoxycinnamate - A UV-filter derived from cinnamic acid esters.

Jasmine Officinalis - Jasmine Absolute oil - very sensual and exotic scent, ideal for mature and sensitive skin.

Jojoba oil - almost identical to sebum, the skin's natural lubricant.

Kaolin - China Clay non-toxic earth mineral. Used in some colour cosmetics to give a lighter shades.

Lapacho - Inner bark from a tree in Brazil.

Lavandula hybrida super - Lavandin essential oil - Antiseptic and soothing. Excellent for delicate skin. Slightly less-camphorous than Lavender oil.

Lavandula angustifolia - Lavender essential oil - Antiseptic and soothing. Excellent for delicate skin.

Lemongrass essential oil - Refreshing and stimulating with tonic properties.

Litsea Cubeba - May Chang essential oil.

Melaleuca alternifolia - Tea Tree essential oil - Antiseptic, antifungal, antiviral.

Mentha arvensis - Corn mint - cooling and soothing - used in our After Sun formulation.

Mentha piperita - Peppermint oil - Anti-microbial - good for bad breath.

Mentha spicata - Spearmint oil - Anti-microbial - good for bad breath.

Montmorillonite - Pink clay - Absorbing and cleansing - can help draw out impurities.

Nettle juice - Blood purifier.

Nymphaea alba - Water Lily extract - excellent for soothing and calming sensitive skin.

Oat juice - Restorative for nervous exhaustion, derived from the fresh green plant.

Oenothera biennis - Evening primrose oil, a rich source of Omega-3 and Omega-6 fatty acids. Excellent for dry skin.

Olea europaea - Olive oil - emollient and lubricant. Strengthens hair shafts, promotes body and shine.

Olive leaf - is a natural anti-microbial derived from leaves of the olive tree. It is a source of almost 100 phytochemicals and essential nutrients for all anti-aging programmes and is good for the immune system.

Omega-3 - alpha-linolenic acid and Omega-6 - linolenic acid, are both essential fatty acids (EFA's) and two vital nutrients. Among other functions, they are required for cell membrane formation and function, normal brain development during infancy, prostaglandin production and energy production on a cellular level. An Omega-3 deficiency is associated with dry skin. The richest sources of Omega-3 are oily, cold water fish and Flax seed oil (suitable for vegans).

PABA - A water-soluble acid (para-aminobenzoic acid) used as a sunscreen agent. Natural PABA is a sentisiser. NOT used in any Green People products.

Panthenol - A form of vitamin B5, panthenol strengthens and conditions hair shafts.

Passiflora incarnata - Passion flower extract with mild fruit acids.

Paullinia cupana - (see Guarana).

Pelargonium graveolens - Geranium essential oil, with a nice scent of rose. Balances the production of sebum - good for both dry skin or congested, oily skin. A valuable oil for toning the skin.

Persea gratissima - Avocado oil - Emollient, hydrating, nourishing and moisturising. Rich in beta-carotene and vitamins D and E. Excellent for dry, mature skin.

Petroselinum Crispum - Parsley - rich in chlorophyll, used as a natural colourant.

Phenoxyethanol - An anti-microbial agent (preservative) safe for cosmetic use.

Potassium sorbate - Used as a mould and yeast inhibitor. Safe for cosmetic use.

Preservative system - Preservatives are added to cosmetics to keep a product fresh and free from bacterial or fungal contamination. Essential to prevent product deterioration and to protect the consumer. Some preservatives may be allergenic, irritating and can even release small amounts of formaldehyde, which is an irritant as well as a carcinogen. Alcohol can replace preservatives (see Alcohol). More gentle preservative systems are available. Effective preservation can be achieved by using a blend of citrus seed extracts (antibacterial effect) in combination with a minimal amount of a food grade preservative.

Propolis cera - From bee hives - anti-microbial.

Prunus armeniaca - Ground Apricot kernels used as a gentle exfoliant.

Prunus dulcis - Sweet Almond oil. Light oil with soothing, nourishing and skin-conditioning properties.

Pumpkin - Cold-pressed Pumpkin seed oil rich in Omega-6 essential fatty acids.

Quinoa Oil - from a South American grain. A rich source of essential fatty acids and vitamins.

Ramson juice - Wild Garlic - Beneficial for heart and circulation. Stimulates digestion.

Riboflavin - Vitamin B2 - essential nutrient needed for skin health and melanin production by the body.

Ribwort juice - Maintains healthy mucous membranes.

Ricinus communis - Castor oil extract, derived from the seed of the Castor Oil plant.

Rosa Moschata - Rosehip Oil - Rich in essential fatty acids, helps reduce fine wrinkles and is reported to repair sun-damaged skin.

Rose spp. - Extracts of Rosa damascena, centifolia & gallica - helps to maintain natural moisture balance. Suitable for any skin type, useful for dry, itchy or mature skin.