Spa Botanics Cosmetic Ingredient Dictionary
Our cosmetic ingredient dictionary lists all of Spa Botanics' natural skin care ingredients and their benefits for the skin.
Allantoin is a natural anti-irritant and skin soother which assists in the healing of wounds and sores while stimulating the growth of
healthy tissue. Allantoin also softens the skin and serves as an anti-inflammatory.
Almond Shell Powder is a popular natural exfoliant used for its superior skin-smoothing abilities. An added benefit of almond shell
powder as compared to sugar or salt exfoliants is that it will not dissolve in water, resulting in a longer exfoliation experience.
Aloe Butter is a very gentle, creamy butter that instantly melts on contact with the skin. Aloe butter moisturizes the skin, relieves
itching, sooths sun and wind burn, and promotes skin cell regeneration.
Aloe Vera is one of nature's most healing herbs, consisting of more than 75 substances including vitamins, minerals, enzymes,
proteins, and biological stimulators. Aloe Vera immediately penetrates the skin, leaves no greasy residue, and will not clog pores. Aloe
Vera promotes new skin growth and rejuvenation, relieves itching, and aids in the healing of sunburns and acne. Aloe also contains
natural antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, and moisturizing properties which leave the skin feeling soft and soothed.
Anise Extract possesses potent antioxidant, antibacterial, and deodorizing properties which help neutralize free radical damage,
bacteria, and bodily odors.
Apricot Kernel Oil is an emollient oil which possesses a 30% unsaturated essential fatty acid content. Very nourishing to the skin,
apricot kernel oil is similar in texture to the sebum produced by human skin and inhibits the formation of fine lines and wrinkles.
Avocado Butter is rich in proteins, amino acids, and a variety of skin-healing vitamins. Avocado butter is an extremely gentle exotic
butter which infuses the skin with vital nutrients while providing protection against the elements.
Avocado Oil is a highly nourishing oil rich in proteins, fatty acids, amino acids, and vitamins A, B, C, D, and E. Avocado oil is ideal for
dry or aging skin due to its ability to regenerate skin cells and increase skin's elasticity. Avocado oil possesses natural sunscreen
properties and is known to soften, condition, and penetrate the skin quickly without leaving an oily residue. Avocado oil is also effective
in treating sun damaged and under nourished skin.
Beeswax is used as a natural emulsifier, thickener, and emollient used in cosmetic formulations.
Bentonite Clay is a volcanic clay that acts as a skin clarifier and tonic. Bentonite clay absorbs toxins and excess oils to leave the skin
feeling cleansed and purified. Bentonite clay is rich in aluminum silicate, iron, and magnesium which possess skin-firming properties.
Bilberry Extract serves as a natural antioxidant which helps neutralize free radical damage and slow down the aging process.
Black Willowbark Extract possesses natural antiseptic, antioxidant, and anti-inflammatory properties. Black willowbark extract tones
and purifies the skin, stimulates micro-circulation, and serves as a potent anti-irritant to relieve inflammation which can lead to
subdermal collagen breakdown.
Blueberry Extract is naturally rich in antioxidants, vitamins, calcium, and antibacterial properties. Blueberry extract sooths the skin
and inhibits melanin production (a primary cause of age spots and hyperpigmentation).
Blue Green Algae Extract is rich in a variety of vitamins and minerals which instantly soften and firm the complexion.
Castor Seed Oil is a very emollient oil which forms a protective barrier on the skin while imparting shine to lips, nails, and hair. With
an 87% ricinoleic acid composition, castor seed oil is an extremely rich and nourishing plant oil.
Cetearyl Glucoside is a compound of natural ingredients (sugar and cetearyl alcohol) that helps hair and skin retain moisture while
imparting a velvety feel.
Chamomile Extract is well known for its anti-inflammatory and skin-soothing properties. Chamomile possesses natural antibacterial
properties which make it effective in relieving blemishes and acne. Chamomile helps relieve both topical and subdermal inflammation
and is a superior additive for soothing irritation and redness.
Cherry Extract possesses potent anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and skin-soothing properties.
Chickweed Extract helps relieve inflammation and sooth the skin.
Citric Acid is a natural alpha hydroxyl acid derived from citrus fruits used to adjust the Ph balance in cosmetic formulations.
Cocamidopropyl Betaine is a very gentle coconut-based cleanser that works by suspending oils and dirt apart from the skin, allowing
them to be carried away with water.
Cocoa Butter is rich in fatty acids which provide excellent emollient properties that lock in moisture and protect the skin. An intense
moisturizer, cocoa butter softens and heals chapped skin, relieves irritation, and aids in preserving the skin against harmful
environmental elements.
Coconut Butter is a nonvolatile plant kernel oil that imparts emollient moisture to the skin without clogging pores. At room
temperature, coconut oil has a thick, buttery consistency that sooths dry, irritated skin.
Coffee Extract contains purine alkaloids and caffeine which stimulate the breakdown of cellulite. Caffeine also serves as a natural skin
tonic and SPF booster.
Silica is a natural mineral powder used as a thickener in cosmetic formulations.
Silk Amino Acids possess a low molecular weight which enables the proteins to easily penetrate the skin and hair shaft. Silk amino
acids impart a silky feel to skin and hair, enhance shine and manageability, and possess natural water-binding properties.
Soybean Oil is high in lecithin, fatty acids, and vitamin E which help hydrate dry, damaged, and mature skin. Due to its high content of
vitamin E, soybean oil helps protect the skin against harmful environmental factors and free radical damage.
Soy Protein infuses the skin with proteins and bio-enzymes necessary for a healthy complexion. Soy protein restores the lipid barrier
that diminishes with aging and increases the skin's natural moisture retention capacity. A potent antioxidant and anti-inflammatory, soy
protein stimulates collagen synthesis, decreases the appearance of pigmentation spots, and protects the skin against oxidative damage.
Soy Wax is a plant-derived emulsifier used in balms, salves, and ointments.
Spearmint Extract cools the skin, stimulates micro-circulation, relieves inflammation, and possesses natural antibacterial, antiseptic,
and antifungal properties. Spearmint extract revitalizes sluggish skin cells and serves as a natural skin tonic which neutralizes
overactive sebaceous glands in order to guard against blemish formations.
Stearalkonium Chloride is a naturally derived compound that imparts shine and manageability to damaged hair while strengthening
and protecting the hair shaft.
Sugar Maple Extract serves as a potent antioxidant, skin protector, and moisturizer.
Sugarcane Extract is an emollient extract with intense moisturizing capabilities. Sugarcane extract protects the skin against harmful
environmental agents, restores the lipid barrier that diminishes with aging, and possesses antioxidant properties.
Sweet Almond Oil is naturally rich in proteins, essential fatty acids, and vitamins A, B1, B2, B6, and E. Sweet almond oil conditions
the skin by relieving dryness, chapping, and inflammation and is great for those with dry skin due to its natural emollient properties.
Sweet Orange Extract stimulates tissue regeneration and micro-circulation, reduces puffiness and inflammation, and brightens dull,
sluggish complexions. Because it is a natural tonic, sweet orange extract restores skin balance, clears blemishes, and purifies the skin.
Tartaric Acid is a natural alpha hydroxyl acid derived from grapes which improves skin condition by exfoliating the outer layers of
damaged tissue.
Tea Tree Extract possesses natural anti-fungal, antiseptic, antibacterial, and deodorizing properties which help deep clean the skin
and stimulate sluggish complexions. Tea tree extract is effective in treating a variety of ailments including acne, nail fungus, and topical
infections.
Titanium Dioxide is a natural mineral pigment which provide UVA protection.
Turbinado Sugar is raw, unprocessed Hawaiian sugar which provides superior exfoliation in order to resurface fresh, radiant skin.
Turbinado sugar is also a rich source of natural enzymes and biological stimulators which help promote healthy skin.
Vegetable Glycerin, known for its skin soothing properties, serves as a natural humectant (moisture attractor) and emollient which
increases the skin's moisture retention capacity by drawing atmospheric moisture into the skin.
Vegetable Squalane, often referred to as nature's face-lift, is a concentrated oil derived from European olives. High in antioxidant
vitamins, squalane has been known to reduce the appearance of scars and age spots, minimize fine lines and wrinkles, and visibly firm
the skin.
Vitamin A (Retinol Palmitate) is a highly potent antioxidant that helps neutralize free radical damage. Vitamin A stimulates collagen
production, increases the skin's moisture retention capacity, minimizes fine lines and wrinkles, and helps repair skin damage caused by
aging and environmental factors.
Vitamin B5 improves the skin's natural moisture retention capacity, relieves inflammation and itching, stimulates tissue regeneration,
and improves the overall condition of skin and hair.
Vitamin C is considered one of the most potent antioxidant vitamins for the skin. When applied topically to the skin, vitamin C helps
guard against UV damage, reduces the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, neutralizes free radical particles, and accelerates the
removal of dead skin cells.
Vitamin E is a natural antioxidant which stimulates tissue regeneration, improves skin texture, and penetrates deep beneath the skin’s
surface to neutralize free radicals. Spa Botanics uses only natural, concentrated vitamin E- not the artificially synthesized chemical
found in many products.
Walnut Shell Powder is a popular natural exfoliant used for its superior skin-smoothing abilities. An added benefit of walnut shell
powder as compared to sugar or salt exfoliants is that it will not dissolve in water, resulting in a longer exfoliation experience.
Wheat Germ Oil is an extremely gentle emollient oil rich in proteins, lecithin, fatty acids, and vitamins A, B, D, and E. Wheat germ oil
softens skin's texture while guarding against dryness, chapping, and inflammation.
Wheat Protein infuses the skin with essential amino acids needed to maintain healthy skin cells. Wheat protein deeply hydrates and
conditions dry skin, restores elasticity and tone, and protects the skin against harmful environmental agents.
White Kaolin Clay is a very gentle, nourishing, and fine textured clay with excellent absorbent and moisturizing properties. Kaolin clay
is rich in aluminum silicate which helps firm the complexion and prevent sagging.
Witch Hazel Extract is a potent anti-irritant and antioxidant that helps reduce inflammation and redness. Spa Botanics uses 100%
organic and alcohol-free witch hazel in our products as a gentle alternative to harsh solvents and skin-stripping alcohols.
Xanthan Gum is a natural plant-derived emulsifying and thickening agent.
Zinc Oxide is a natural mineral pigment which offers broad spectrum sun protection against UVA and UVB radiation. Zinc oxide is the
single most effective sunscreen ingredient and is non-irritating to the skin. When combined, zinc oxide and titanium dioxide provide
optimal sun protection for surface and subsurface skin cells.
Cocopolyglucoside Citrate, an extremely gentle cleansing and foaming agent, is a compound of coconut oil, sugar, and multi fruit
acids.
Cocopolyglucoside Tartrate, an extremely gentle cleansing and foaming agent, is a compound of coconut oil, sugar, and grape
acids.
Cranberry Extract is a natural antioxidant and anti-inflammatory which helps relieve irritation and swelling. High in vitamin C,
cranberry extract helps slow down the aging process by neutralizing harmful free radical particles responsible for many types of skin
damage.
Cranberry Seed Oil is the only oil with a one-to-one ratio of Omega 6 (linoleic) and Omega 3 (alpha-linolenic) fatty acids. Cranberry
seed oil possesses oxidative stability and contains 70% essential fatty acids, making it a superior emollient, lubricant, and
skin-conditioner. Cranberry seed oil imparts lipid barrier protection, increases the skin's moisture retention capacity, and contains high
concentrations of vitamins A and E in order to provide superior antioxidant protection.
Cucumber Extract is a soothing, cooling additive which possesses natural anti-inflammatory properties. Cucumber is rich in amino
acids and minerals which help sooth and soften irritated skin.
Dead Sea Salts, obtained from the Dead Sea in Israel, are famous for their many healing properties and high mineral content. Dead
Sea salts possess a highly porous structure which helps absorb toxins and impurities from the skin. Dead Sea salts also serve as
natural detoxifying cleansers which leave the skin feeling revived, toned, and soft.
Dendritic Salts are highly porous mineral-rich salt crystals which posses a very large surface area in order to help absorb toxins,
odors, and excess oils from the skin.
DMAE (Dimethylaminoethanol) stimulates acetylcholine release which triggers a response in the facial muscles, resulting in a firmer
complexion. DMAE, when used topically, has been proven to reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles within 20 minutes of
application.
Emulsifying Wax is a natural emulsifying agent derived from plant oils which helps bind together oil and water based ingredients.
Epsom Salts relieve minor aches and pains and are known to relax the muscles when applied directly to the skin or placed in bath
water. Epsom salt soaks and scrubs are an excellent way to ease muscle pain and tension after a physically active day at work, the
gym, or around the house.
Evening Primrose Extract is an anti-inflammatory agent which helps sooth and moisturize tired, aging skin. Rich in vitamins,
minerals, and gamma-linolenic acid (GLA), evening primrose extract promotes skin elasticity and restores the lipid barrier that
diminishes with aging.
Glycolic Acid, derived from sugar canes, is one of the most researched, effective, and skin-friendly alpha hydroxyl acids. Alpha
hydroxyl acids assist skin condition by accelerating the removal of dead skin cells in order to resurface fresh, healthy skin. Alpha
hydroxyl acids also stimulate collagen synthesis, increase skin elasticity, and accelerate tissue regeneration. Glycolic acid is one of the
few cosmetic ingredients scientifically proven to reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, hyperpigmentation, and UV-induced
photo-damage.
Grapeseed Oil is a hypo-allergenic, light-weight moisturizer which possesses skin-regenerative properties. Grapeseed oil is rich in
linoleic acid, an essential fatty acid, which makes it a superior moisturizer.
Green Clay serves as a natural skin tonic which draws out excess oils and toxins to leave the skin feeling soft and supple.
Green Clay Extract is rich in calcium, magnesium, potassium, sodium, and natural antiseptic properties. Green clay extract stimulates
lymphatic circulation which accelerates the elimination of wastes.
Green Papaya Extract is a rich source of papain which helps exfoliate dead skin cells by breaking down the cellular bond of damaged
tissue in order to resurface healthy skin cells.
Green Tea Extract is rich in potent antioxidants which help slow down the aging process by neutralizing free radical particles. Green
tea extract also helps remove impurities and excess oils from the skin, serves as a natural skin tonic, and guards against blemish
formations.
Helichrysum Extract is a natural plant extract which possesses extremely potent antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties to help
neutralize free radical damage and relieve skin irritation.
Hemp Seed Oil is one of the richest sources of polyunsaturated fats and contains more naturally occurring essential fatty acids than
any other plant-derived oil. Hemp seed oil is high in Omega 3 and Omega 6 fatty acids as well as gamma linolenic acid which makes it
a superior emollient.
Jojoba Beads are spherical wax pellets derived from the jojoba plant which assist in the removal of dead skin cells. Spa Botanics uses
jojoba beads in our facial scrubs as a gentle alternative to aluminum oxide crystals (used in microdermabrasion scrubs) which have
been known to inflame and tear delicate facial tissue.
Jojoba Oil is a natural antioxidant plant oil rich in myristic acid which helps sooth inflammation. Jojoba oil contains natural humectant
properties and is considered one of the most effective natural moisturizers. Jojoba helps balance, repair, and lubricate mature and
aging skin.
Kokum Seed Butter has an enormously high composition of vitamins and minerals which help regenerate damaged tissue and
increase skin's elasticity.
Kukui Nut Oil is a nonvolatile Hawaiian plant oil with natural emollient properties. Kukui oil is a rich source of both linoleic and linolenic
acids which are vital for the metabolism of healthy skin.
Lavender Extract stimulates circulation, relieves inflammation, and possesses natural antibacterial and antiseptic properties.
Lecithin is a natural liquid derived from soybeans that is used to increase the thickness (viscosity) of cosmetic solutions.
Lemon Extract possesses natural antiseptic properties which neutralize toxins and oils in order to clear the skin of acne and other
blemishes. When applied to the finger and toe nails, lemon imparts shine and treats brittleness.
Macadamia Nut Butter serves as a natural emollient and antioxidant, protects cell membranes from deterioration, and repairs dry,
aging skin. Its high palmitoleic acid content protects the skin from environmental damage while stimulating skin cell regeneration.
Malic Acid is a natural alpha hydroxyl acid derived from apples which helps minimize signs of aging by exfoliating the outer layers of
damaged skin and resurfacing healthy tissue.
Mango Butter is a very gentle exotic butter that restores skin tone and elasticity, regenerates skin cells, and softens, sooths, and
renews the skin. Mango butter absorbs readily into the skin without clogging pores, protects the skin against harmful environmental
factors, and guards against dryness which can lead to wrinkle formation.
Mannan is a potent antioxidant which neutralizes free radical damage, slows down the skin's aging process, and increases the skin's
moisture retention capacity by drawing moisture from the atmosphere into the skin.
Marine Collagen is a concentrated blend of proteins and collagen derived from seaweed and algae which visibly firm the skin and
reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.
Marshmallow Extract is a natural emollient which possesses softening, soothing, and anti-inflammatory properties.
Meadowfoam Oil is an odorless triglyceride composed of fatty acids with a remarkably high level of oxidative stability. Meadowfoam is
a very light oil that immediately penetrates the skin to relieve dryness and inflammation.
Milk Thistle Extract helps relieve subdermal inflammation which can lead to collagen breakdown.
MSM (Methylsulfonylmethane) is a naturally occurring nutrient found in plants which supplies sulfur to the body in order to
accelerate the skin's healing process. MSM is an effective agent in repairing scar tissue, eliminating brown spots caused by sun
exposure and aging, and reducing the appearance of wrinkles and spider veins. MSM is a natural anti-inflammatory which feeds the
formation of collagen and elastin while preventing and reducing the cross-linking between cells (a primary cause of wrinkle formation
and scar tissue).
Neem Oil is an excellent moisturizing oil with potent antiseptic and antibacterial properties. Neem oil rejuvenates and sooths the skin
by relieving inflammation and irritation.
Nettle Leaf Extract improves circulation, stimulates hair growth, and deeply conditions the scalp.
Norwegian Kelp Extract infuses the skin with essential vitamins and minerals, revitalizes sluggish skin cells, and visibly firms the skin.
Oat Amino Acids are a rich source of vitamins and minerals, help sooth the skin, relieve itching, and deeply moisturize and condition
undernourished skin and hair.
Oat Extract serves as a natural anti-inflammatory and anti-irritant.
Orange Fruit Extract serves as a potent antioxidant, humectant (moisture attractor), and skin tonic.
Palm Butter is a gentle, nourishing, and creamy oil rich in antioxidants and emollient properties. It imparts luxurious shine to hair,
lips, and fingernails while restoring moisture to dry skin.
Palm Oil is rich in vitamin A and possesses potent antioxidant and emollient properties.
Papaya Extract is a rich source of papain which helps exfoliate dead skin cells by breaking down the cellular bond of damaged tissue
in order to resurface healthy skin cells.
Peppermint Extract has a cooling effect on the skin, increases circulation, stimulates nerve endings, relaxes sore muscles, and
relieves pain and inflammation. Peppermint extract also possesses natural antiseptic and antibacterial properties which tone the skin
and revitalize dull complexions.
Phenoxyethanol is an organic compound and extremely mild cosmetic-grade preservative that does not release formaldehyde or
contain parabens.
Pineapple Extract is a rich source of bromelain, an enzyme used to break down the cellular bond of damaged tissue in order to
exfoliate dead skin cells and resurface healthy tissue.
Polysorbate is a plant lipid and fatty acid which helps bind together oil and water based ingredients in cosmetic formulations.
Pumice is a lightweight porous rock of volcanic origin used for its exceptional exfoliation properties.
Rooibos Tea Extract is a natural anti-oxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antimicrobial. Rich in bioflavonoids, Rooibos tea extract inhibits
signs of aging by protecting the skin against oxidative and free radical damage.
Rosehip Extract possesses a variety of skin regenerating properties. Rosehip extract reduces signs of premature aging, decreases
the appearance of hyperpigmentation (freckles, age-spots, etc.), and helps heal scars left behind by acne. Due to its high concentration
of vitamin C, rosehip extract contains superior antioxidant properties, is a rich source of bioflavonoids, and increases the skin's
moisture retention capacity.
Rosehip Seed Oil regenerates the skin and helps counter the effects of aging. Rich in Omega 3 fatty acids, Omega 6 fatty acids,
gamma linoleic acid, and vitamin c, rosehip seed oil diminishes the appearance of stretch marks, scar tissue, and burns. It helps
strengthen the hair shaft, impart shine, and inhibit the formation of wrinkles.
Rosemary Extract is a natural skin tonic and antioxidant used to normalize overactive sebaceous glands in order to heal and prevent
blemish formations. Rosemary extract stimulates micro-circulation of the skin, diminishes the appearance of varicose veins and broken
capillaries, relieves muscle tension and soreness, and stimulates tissue regeneration.
Seaweed Extract serves as a natural emollient and anti-inflammatory which revitalizes sluggish skin cells and restores the lipid
barrier that diminishes with aging. Seaweed extract is a rich source of vitamins, minerals, biological stimulators, protein amino acids,
and bio-enzymes which help prevent sagging while renewing the complexion.
Shea Butter is naturally rich in vitamins A and E, making it ideal for dry or aging skin. Shea butter serves as a deep-penetrating
conditioner and anti-inflammatory which restores skin's youthful elasticity and suppleness.
Slippery Elm Extract serves as a natural anti-inflammatory and anti-irritant.
Sodium Laureth Sulfate is a gentle coconut-based cleanser used in products known for their mildness such as baby washes and
shampoos. Sodium laureth sulfate works by suspending oils and dirt apart from the skin, allowing them to be carried away with water.