Olive Oil (Olea Europaea)

What it is:
Extra virgin olive oil

Where it comes from:
Extra virgin olive oil is produced in many regions around the world, but this particular oil is sourced from Spain, known for its high-quality olive groves and traditional production methods.

How it's produced:
Extra virgin olive oil is produced by cold pressing, which means the olives are crushed and pressed without heat or chemicals. This process keeps the oil rich in vitamins, antioxidants, and healthy fats, making it ideal for skincare.

Sustainability:
Yes, olive oil production is highly sustainable. Olive trees are perennial, meaning they absorb carbon year-round and require less water due to their deep roots, which also help maintain soil health and reduce the need for fertilizers and pesticides. Unlike many other vegetable oils that are extracted using hexane (a fossil fuel), extra virgin olive oil is cold-pressed at low temperatures with no chemical involvement, making it a cleaner, eco-friendly option.

Cruelty-Free:
Yes, extra virgin olive oil is cruelty-free, as its production involves no animal testing, pesticides, or GMO ingredients.

Benefits for the skin:
Olive oil is highly beneficial for the skin, known for its ability to assist in treating conditions like eczema, psoriasis, and dermatitis due to its rich anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. It’s packed with vitamins A, D, E, and K, which help nourish and protect the skin, promoting hydration and overall skin health. Its antioxidants may also reduce premature aging and protect against UV damage, as shown in some studies where olive oil helped lower the risk of UV-induced tumor growth. Gentle and deeply moisturizing, olive oil is especially suitable for sensitive and dry skin types, offering natural relief for various skin conditions.

Historical use:
Olive oil has been used for millennia. From Roman baths as a cleanser and by Roman women for dry skin, to ancient Athenian bathing rituals involving scraping with a strigil, and even in ancient Egypt with Cleopatra herself.

Sources:
ScienceDirect | The foundation for the use of olive oil in skin care and botanical cosmeceuticals
ScienceDirect | Olive Oil in Botanical Cosmeceuticals

Used in:
Hand Cream
Nail Growth Scrub

Shea Butter (Butyrospermum Parkii)

What it is:
Shea butter is a thick, natural fat extracted from the nuts of a shea tree.

Where it comes from:
Shea trees are primarily grown in the Shea Belt, a region stretching across West Africa, including countries like Ghana, Nigeria, and Burkina Faso. The shea butter we use for our products comes specifically from Ghana.

How it's produced:
Shea butter is traditionally produced in a hands-on process by local communities. The nuts are boiled to soften the shells, which are then hand-extracted. The discarded shells are repurposed as cooking fuel, while the seeds are cracked and roasted. The roasted seeds are beaten with water to release their rich fats, which are boiled, skimmed, and cooled to create the shea butter we use today.

Sustainability:
Shea butter is a highly sustainable resource, often growing in the wild without the need for intensive farming. Its production is known as “women’s gold,” providing significant economic opportunities for women in West Africa, particularly in Ghana. These women hand-harvest and process the shea nuts, supporting local economies through small-scale businesses. Shea trees can live for up to 300 years, acting as effective carbon sinks and contributing to environmental sustainability.

Cruelty-Free:
Shea butter is cruelty-free, produced without animal testing or exploitation. It’s ethically harvested and processed by local communities using traditional, environmentally-friendly methods.

Benefits for the skin:
Shea butter is rich in essential fatty acids, like linoleic and oleic acids, which balance skin oils and prevent acne. Its anti-inflammatory properties help soothe psoriasis, eczema, and sunburn, while also relieving muscle soreness. Packed with vitamins A, E, and F, shea butter promotes collagen production for anti-aging and aids in skin regeneration. It also locks in moisture, strengthens the skin’s barrier, and provides mild sun protection (SPF 3-4) without feeling greasy.

Historical use:
Shea butter has been used for millennia, notably in ancient Egypt under Cleopatra, where it was prized for protecting skin and hair from the harsh sun. In traditional African medicine, it was also used to treat joint pain and arthritis, emphasizing its long-standing role in both beauty and healing practices.

Sources:
Beiersdorf | Shea Butter – Natural Care from West Africa
Healthline | What Is Shea Butter? 22 Reasons to Add It to Your Routine

Used in:
Hand Cream

Jojoba Oil (Simmondsia chinensis)

What it is:
Jojoba oil is a liquid wax extracted from the seeds of the Simmondsia chinensis plant.

Where it comes from:
The shrub is native to the deserts of southern Arizona, southern California, and northwestern Mexico.

How it's produced:
Jojoba oil is produced by cold pressing the seeds of the jojoba plant, where intense pressure is applied to extract the oil without using heat. This method preserves the oil’s natural quality and integrity.

Sustainability:
Jojoba oil is a highly sustainable resource, as the plant is drought-resistant, requires minimal water, and thrives in desert conditions, making it ideal for marginal lands. Its deep roots act as carbon sinks, helping to reduce CO2 levels, while its non-toxic and versatile nature makes it environmentally friendly. Additionally, the cultivation of jojoba supports local communities by providing economic opportunities in areas where other crops may not thrive.

Cruelty-Free:
Jojoba oil is completely cruelty-free, as it is produced without any involvement in animal testing or exploitation.

Benefits for the skin:
Jojoba oil is packed with antioxidants, particularly vitamin E, which help protect the skin from oxidative stress and promote healing. Its unique ability to dissolve excess sebum makes it excellent for treating acne while also soothing conditions like psoriasis with its anti-inflammatory properties. As a natural emollient, it keeps the skin soft and enhances elasticity without leaving a greasy residue, making it ideal for reducing sunburn and flaking. Additionally, jojoba oil nourishes both skin and nails, promoting healthy nail growth and improving overall skin hydration.

Historical use:
Native Americans have traditionally used jojoba oil to heal wounds and nourish the skin, appreciating its natural moisturizing and protective benefits.

Sources:
National Library of Medicine | Jojoba Oil: An Updated Comprehensive Review on Chemistry, Pharmaceutical Uses, and Toxicity
In Fiore | Jojoba History

Used in:
Hand Cream
Nail Growth Scrub

Sweet Almond Oil (Prunus amygdalus dulcis)

What it is:
Sweet almond oil is a light, nourishing oil extracted from the seeds of the Prunus amygdalus dulcis tree.

Where it comes from:
Originating in Western and Central Asia and domesticated around 4000 BC, almonds are now grown worldwide, with the sweet almond oil we use coming from the Mediterranean.

How it's produced:
Sweet almond oil is cold pressed from ripe seed kernels of the almond tree.

Sustainability:
We source our sweet almond oil from the Mediterranean, where sustainable farming practices are prioritized, and the shorter transportation distances help minimize its environmental impact.

Cruelty-Free:
Sweet almond oil is completely cruelty-free, produced without any animal testing or exploitation during its cultivation or extraction.

Benefits for the skin:
Sweet almond oil is naturally rich in essential fatty acids and vitamins, particularly vitamin E and A, which provide powerful antioxidant and photoprotective benefits. Vitamin E acts as a natural shield, protecting skin from oxidative stress caused by free radicals, which can accelerate aging and contribute to wrinkles. The fatty acids in almond oil, primarily oleic acid, nourish and moisturize the skin, making it ideal for dry or dehydrated skin types by replenishing natural sebum levels. Additionally, vitamin A helps protect the skin from UV damage and promotes the production of melanin, which supports healthy skin tone and pigmentation.

Historical use:
Used in ancient Chinese, Ayurvedic, and Greco-Persian medicine to treat dry skin and improve complexion.

Sources:
ScienceDirect | The uses and properties of almond oil

Used in:
Hand Cream
Nail Growth Scrub

Black Seed Oil (Nigella Sativa)

What it is:
Oil from the seeds of the Nigella sativa plant, also called black cumin, and is valued for its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties.

Where it comes from:
Native to Eastern Europe and Western Asia, Nigella sativa is widely cultivated in regions such as South Europe, the Middle East, and India.

How it's produced:
Black seed oil is cold-pressed at low temperatures (below 25°C) to preserve its active ingredients. The seeds are cleaned, pressed, filtered for purity, and stored in airtight containers to maintain quality.

Sustainability:
Black seed plants are easy to grow, highly resilient, and thrive in a variety of locations, making them a sustainable crop option.

Cruelty-Free:
Black seed oil is cruelty-free, as its production involves no animal testing or animal-derived ingredients.

Benefits for the skin:
Black seed oil contains thymoquinone, an antioxidant that neutralizes free radicals and protects the skin from oxidative stress. Its anti-inflammatory effects, through inhibition of COX and cytokines like IL-1β, reduce skin inflammation in conditions like acne and eczema. The oil's high linoleic acid content strengthens the skin barrier, reducing moisture loss and improving hydration. It also promotes wound healing, aiding in scar reduction. Additionally, black seed oil helps maintain skin elasticity, preventing fine lines and wrinkles.

Historical use:
Nigella Sativa has been used medicinally since ancient Egypt, praised for its healing properties and even found in King Tutankhamen's tomb. Revered by the Greeks, Persians, and mentioned in religious texts, black seed was commonly used to treat digestive issues, inflammatory skin conditions, and insect bites, with Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) famously stating, "The black seed can heal every disease, except death."

Sources:
International Journal of Research and Review | Nigella sativa (Kalonji): A Black Seed of Miracle

Used in:
Hand Cream

Leucidal Liquid (Radish Root Ferment Filtrate)

What it is:
Leucidal Liquid is a natural preservative derived from fermented radishes (using Leuconostoc kimchii, a type of bacteria).

Where it comes from:
Leucidal liquid is derived from radishes and fermented with Leuconostoc bacteria (derived from kimchi/fermented cabbage), both of which are grown worldwide.

How it's produced:
Leucidal Liquid is produced by fermenting Leuconostoc kimchii bacteria in a nutrient-rich medium, where the bacteria generate antimicrobial peptides during fermentation, which are then isolated and purified to create a natural preservative.

Sustainability:
Leucidal Liquid is a sustainable preservative, as its production relies on renewable, plant-based sources like cabbage and radish roots, while the fermentation process is energy-efficient, eco-friendly, and results in a biodegradable, non-toxic product that minimizes environmental impact throughout its lifecycle.

Cruelty-Free:
Leucidal Liquid is cruelty-free, as it is produced without any animal testing, aligning with ethical standards for skincare formulations that prioritize humane and responsible practices.

Benefits for the skin:
Leucidal Liquid provides significant benefits in skincare formulations, leveraging its antimicrobial peptides to effectively inhibit the growth of harmful bacteria and fungi. This natural preservative ensures product stability while also enhancing skin moisturization, as studies have shown a 10% increase in hydration when incorporated at just 1% concentration. Its biocompatibility with the skin, combined with antimicrobial action, makes it particularly beneficial for formulations targeting skin and scalp conditions. Additionally, Leucidal Liquid’s efficacy across a broad pH range and its stability at temperatures up to 70°C make it versatile for various cosmetic applications.

Historical use:
Invented 2009

Sources:
Active Micro Technologies | Leucidal® Liquid

Used in:
Hand Cream

Hydrolyzed Collagen

What it is:
Collagen is a structural protein found in the skin, bones, tendons, and other connective tissues, providing strength, elasticity, and support throughout the body.

Where it comes from:
We selected bovine collagen for its remarkable similarity to human collagen, allowing for optimal skin benefits. It is sourced from animal byproducts (in the UK) like hides and bones that would otherwise be discarded, this makes use of materials that contribute to a more sustainable and eco-friendly approach.

How it's produced:
Extraction is carried out through enzymatic processes to isolate the protein. The collagen is then hydrolyzed into smaller peptides for enhanced absorption and bioavailability. Finally, it is filtered, dried, and processed into a powder form, ready for use in skincare and health formulations.

Sustainability:
Collagen production promotes sustainability by converting animal byproducts into valuable resources, thereby minimizing waste and supporting eco-friendly practices.

Cruelty-Free:
The collagen is sourced from local, free-range animals in the UK, raised to the highest welfare standards, certified by Red Tractor, and regularly monitored and audited for continuous improvement, ensuring a cruelty-free production process.

Benefits for the skin:
Hydrolyzed collagen provides numerous skin benefits, functioning as a natural antioxidant that combats oxidative stress and mitigates the effects of aging, such as dryness, laxity, and wrinkles. Its low molecular weight peptides enhance skin moisture by penetrating the stratum corneum, the uppermost layer of the epidermis (the superficial layer of the skin), leading to improved hydration levels and increased skin surface lipids. Studies have demonstrated significant enhancements in hydration, smoothness, luminosity, and microtexture within four weeks of use while also reducing transepidermal water loss. Composed primarily of amino acids like glycine, proline, and hydroxyproline, hydrolyzed collagen supports skin structure and promotes overall skin health and vitality.

Historical use:
Products containing collagen were used in medicine and beauty treatments in ancient Egypt and China, but it wasn't officially isolated and utilized until the 20th century.

Sources:
National Library of Medicine | Collagen Hydrolysates for Skin Protection: Oral Administration and Topical Formulation

Used in:
Hand Cream

Olive Derived Wax (Cetearyl Olivate)

What it is:
This emulsifier, derived from olive oil, is a plant-based emulsifier and moisturizing agent that effectively unites oil and water, making it perfect for use in lotions, creams, and body butters while being free of PEGs.

Where it comes from:
Derived from naturally sourced olive oil.

How it's produced:
The emulsifier is produced using a cold process, which involves combining olive oil with natural fatty acids to create a stable, non-ionic emulsifier.

Sustainability:
Olive-derived emulsifiers promote sustainability by utilizing renewable resources from olive oil, which has a low environmental impact and supports sustainable agricultural practices. It is also readily biodegradable so will not leave any toxic or harmful after-products.

Cruelty-Free:
This emulsifier is cruelty-free as it is derived from plant sources without any animal testing or harm.

Benefits for the skin:
This emulsifier effectively blends oil and water, creating stable formulations while enhancing skin texture. It forms a protective barrier that helps prevent water loss. It also mimics the skin's natural lipids, promoting overall skin health.

Historical use:
It has no historical data because it was specifically formulated in recent decades to meet modern cosmetic trends and the increasing demand for natural and sustainable ingredients.

Sources:
Hallstar | Olivem 1000
Learn Canyon | Olivem 1000: A Natural Emulsifier

Used in:
Hand Cream

Water (Aqua)

What it is:
In the skin, water serves as a vital component that maintains hydration, supports elasticity, and helps regulate temperature. It is primarily found in the epidermis, where it contributes to the skin's barrier function and overall appearance, playing a crucial role in preventing dryness and maintaining a healthy complexion.

Where it comes from:
We use water sourced from pristine mountain springs to ensure purity and quality in our formulations.

How it's produced:
It is produced naturally by Mother Nature through the hydrological cycle, or if you go in deeper, by one oxygen and two hydrogen atoms joined by covalent bonds and the molecules are held together by hydrogen bonding.

Sustainability:
Water is so abundant on Earth so very sustainable.

Cruelty-Free:
Water is cruelty-free, as it doesn’t require animal testing and is a natural resource essential for all living beings.

Benefits for the skin:
Water is essential to the skin because most cells are made up of about 70% water, which is crucial for maintaining cellular function and integrity. In hand creams, water acts as a solvent that evenly distributes active ingredients, boosting their effectiveness. Furthermore, it helps create a moisturizing layer that reduces transepidermal water loss, keeping the skin hydrated and healthy.

Historical use:
Water is a vital source of life for all creatures, serving as the foundation for survival and growth throughout the history of the Earth.

Used in:
Hand Cream

Sea Salt

What it is:
Sea salt is a natural mineral obtained by evaporating seawater.

Where it comes from:
Sea salt is harvested from ocean water, sourced from the surrounding seas and produced by a local UK company, capturing the essence of the British coastline.

How it's produced:
Sea salt is produced by evaporating seawater through natural processes like solar evaporation or boiling, allowing the salt to crystallize and be harvested.

Sustainability:
Sea salt production is sustainable as it relies on a renewable resource—seawater—and often utilizes eco-friendly methods that minimize environmental impact.

Cruelty-Free:
Sea salt is cruelty-free, as its production involves no harm to animals and is derived entirely from natural marine sources.

Benefits for the skin:
Salt is naturally coarse, making it an effective exfoliant that removes dead skin cells and boosts blood flow, promoting healthy skin growth. This benefit extends to nails as well, providing a smooth surface for nail polish without the need for harsh filing, which can lead to breaks over time. By applying some pressure during exfoliation, salt stimulates stronger nail growth to counteract the applied force, encouraging resilience and durability.

Historical use:
Historically, salt has been utilized in skincare for its exfoliating properties, as well as its ability to cleanse and purify the skin, making it a popular ingredient in ancient beauty rituals.

Used in:
Nail Growth Scrub