A-Z

Arbutin — used primarily for its anti-oxidant and bleaching properties. It acts as a tyrosinase inhibitor by converting to hydroquinone, and thus can prevent melanin formation.

Anti-oxidant —refers to the ability of an ingredient to slow down, prevent, or block oxidation caused by the damaging effects of free radical activity. Some of the most common anti-oxidants used in cosmetics are beta carotene, coenzyme Q10, glutathione, green tea, idebenone, superoxide dismutase, and vitamins C and E. It is well established that a mixture of anti-oxidants may enhance the photo-protective effects of a formulation. Antioxidants are key to age prevention and their daily use in cosmetic products helps reduce UV-induced skin damage. 

Amino Acids — Amino acids are naturally present in skin, as part of what’s called our natural moisturizing factors (NMFs). Within skin’s uppermost layers, amino acids work to move moisture throughout skin, allowing our skin to thrive and stay hydrated.  Because of this, the primary benefit is that the amino acids help maintain skin’s smoothness and hydration, something they also do when applied via skin care products.  There are at least 20 amino acids that are important to our health, 11 of which your body makes on its own (alanine, arginine, asparagine, aspartic acid, cysteine, glutamic acid, glutamine, glycine, proline,...

Alpha Hydroxy Acid (AHA) — the family name for a group of naturally occurring acids often referred to as “fruit acids.”  AHAs are used in cosmetics as moisturizers, emollients, and exfoliants. They are also employed to treat such conditions as photodamage, hyperpigmentation, eczema, and ichthyosis. Their activity and associated benefits are dependent on the type of AHA used, the concentration employed, and the pH of the formula. The benefits attributed to AHAs include a reduction of fine lines and superficial wrinkles, a lightening of surface pigmentation, and softer, suppler skin with improved hydration. These noted benefits are a result of...