Products in Cosmetic Ingredients: Moisturizers

Peppermint Gum, was initially found around the Blue Mountains and then west through the Great Dividing Range and south along the range into Victoria, as far as Ballarat. In its optimal situation this Eucalypt can reach up to 20 meters in height. The Peppermint Gum (Eucalyptus dives) tree has been harvested and distilled for over 100 years. Early settlers took advantage of the tree leaves for colds, coughs, flu. The oil was a significant source of menthol and thymol. The leaves and branchlets are harvested and steam distilled and the oil has a peppermint, spicy, fresh, invigorating Eucalyptus aroma. Find out more about our 8 other species of Eucalyptus in the video below and discover the different uses of their essential oils in our Essence of Eucalyptus blog post.

In ancient Indian culture, Sesame oil has been used to treat different health and skin conditions for thousands of years. The oil is pressed from the seeds of the sesame plant, an annual originally found in Africa and India, but now grown widely around the world. It was known to the ancient Egyptians, Chinese and the Romans. Sesame seed oil can be used as a general-purpose oil and it suits most cosmetic applications; Creams, lotions, body butter; sun care; massage products; soap; bath oils. Sesame oil is high in zinc which helps produce collagen in the skin. The oil contains an antioxidant called sesamol.

Novapreserve MP is a compound that possess antibacterial and antifungal properties. It is used extensively as a water-soluble preservative in many foods, beverages, pharmaceuticals, and personal care products. Although methylparaben is usually synthesized in a laboratory for this purpose, it is essentially identical in molecular structure to the same compound that occurs in nature.

Conventional or organic available With a strong, clean, purifying citrus scent, Lemon Oil is light and refreshing, with many uplifting benefits for the mind, body and soul. The word lemon is derived from the Arabic laymun and Persian limun (words, which were generic terms for all citrus fruit). The exact origin of the lemon has remained a mystery, though it is widely presumed that lemons first grew in India, northern Burma, and China. In South and South East Asia, it was known for its antiseptic properties and it was used as an antidote for various poisons. The Arab conquerors took the Lemon with them around the Mediterranean basin introducing it around AD 1000 and 1200 into Sicily, Spain and North Africa where it quickly adapted to the Mediterranean climate. The fruit was well known in Europe by the middle ages, and Greeks and Romans were advocates of its therapeutic properties. Lemon essential oil reached the height of its fame when the British began using the citrus fruit to counteract the effects of scurvy. It was introduced to Australia by the Early Settlers. It is extracted from the fresh fruit peel by cold expression. Lemon oil blends well with many other essential oils making it a popular oil for herbalists and those who practice the healing art of aromatherapy.

Conventional or organic available Patchouli Oil (Pogostemon cablin), sometimes called the scent of the sixties, has a musky, earthy, exotic aroma. Native to Indonesia, Malaysia and the Philippines, Patchouli is now cultivated in tropical and sub-tropical regions around the world. The oil is widely used as a fragrance in India and as an insect repellent. Patchouli is used in herbal medicine in Asia as an aphrodisiac, antidepressant and antiseptic. It is also used for headaches and fever. Its aphrodisiac effects come from it having a very similar molecular structure to human pheromones. Patchouli essential oil is often used in aromatherapy to treat skin complaints. It is thought to have a regenerative effect on skin tone and to help clear conditions such as eczema and acne. The oil may also be used for varicose veins, acne, cold sores, skin irritations, prophylactic, fungicidal and hemorrhoids. It is interesting to note that Patchouli improves with age and that the aged product is what is often preferred over the freshly harvested

This unique carrier oil has a light fruity aroma and is high in essential fatty acids and has an incredible antioxidant content. Red Raspberry Seed Oil is cold pressed from the seeds of the red raspberries, mainly cultivated in the temperate regions of Europe and North Asia. Being so high in Omega 3, and 6 make this an extremely rich and moisturizing oil. It is also high in phytoserols which make it a great addition to sun protection products. It is hydrating and soothing and its anti-inflammatory properties make it a valued ingredient in products for sensitive and inflamed skin, and conditions such as eczema and psoriasis. A versatile carrier oil, Red Raspberry Seed Oil with its subtle, fruity aroma is easily absorbed by the skin and a valued ingredient in a wide range of products including skin care, body care, hand and nail care, bath products and hair care.

Conventional or certified organic available Native to the Amazon Rainforest, Acai Oil is enormously rich in anti-oxidants and provides countless benefits for maintaining skin balance. It is mainly composed of Anthocyanins, Phytosterols and Essential Fatty Acids (EFAs), and contains Linoleic acid (Omega 6) and Oleic acid (Omega 9). Rich in Vitamins B, C and E, it also contains a high percentage of monounsaturated fatty acids and polyunsaturated fatty acids. The Acai Palm, also known as the Assai Palm, is a species of palm trees native to Brazil and other regions of South and Central America. The Acai Palm bears small, dark purple berries that each contain one large seed. The small berries have been prized for generations by the regions tribes for the healing and energizing sustenance that they provide both as an edible fruit and nutritive oil.

Rosehip CO2-TO Extract (organic) is a clear to light turbid, dark red oil, stabilized with FLAVEX Rosemary Antioxidant. This product is produced by supercritical fluid extraction with natural carbon dioxide, no solvent residues, no inorganic salts, no heavy metals and no reproducible microorganisms. Ideal for application in the cosmetic industry in moisturizing creams against dry skin, antiwrinkle. Is recommendable in case of impure skin, acne, neurodermitis, scaly and chapped skin. Also may be used as a food supplement.

Conventional or organic available A thick carrier oil, rich in Vitamin E and fatty acids, Castor Oil is cold pressed from the bean/seeds from the castor plant naturally found in Africa, India and South America. This soothing, versatile, multi-purpose vegetable oil is pale yellow in color with a mild odor. A gentle oil, it has valuable moisturizing properties and is useful in skin care and hair care products.

Conventional or organic available A very popular and enriching, deeply moisturizing, versatile carrier oil – Evening Primrose oil is cold pressed from the seeds of the Oenothera biennis plant. This plant is native to North and South America and has beautiful yellow flowers. Evening Primrose is also known as the Night Willow Herb, as its flowers open in the early evening. For centuries, this oil has been used by the Chinese and Native American cultures and in Ayurvedic medicine. Evening Primrose contains beneficial ingredients such as, Gamma-Linolenic Acid (GLA), Linoleic Acid (LA), both part of the Omega-6 polyunsaturated fatty acids that are very moisturizing and extremely beneficial for the skin. It has anti-inflammatory properties and is soothing for problem and inflamed skin. Evening Primrose is a favorite in skin care products.

Soy Germ CO2-TO Extract (organic) is an orange-yellow oil with some precipitation depending on temperature, stabilized with FLAVEX Rosemary Antioxidant (organic). This product is produced by supercritical fluid extraction with natural carbon dioxide no solvent residues, no inorganic salts, no heavy metals and no reproducible microorganisms. Ideal for application in cosmetics and dietary supplements.

Conventional or certified organic available Black Seed Oil (Nigella sativa) is also known as Black Cumin, Kalonji, Nigella, Black Coriander, Onion Seed and Roman Coriander. Nigella sativa is a small flowering shrub with purple or white-tinged flowers that grows in Eastern Europe, the Middle East, and western Asia. While it may look unsuspecting, the shrub produces fruits that have tiny black seeds. These black seeds have been used in remedies for thousands of years. Archeologists even found black seeds in King Tut’s tomb, emphasizing their importance in history for healing and protection. Black Seeds are also used in cooking to add flavor to breads, curries, and pickles. When eaten, the seeds have a bitter flavor that’s often compared to cumin or oregano. Black seed oil has been shown to have antioxidant properties that can help relieve inflammation inside the body and on the skin.

Conventional or organic available Red Thyme traditionally grows in the southern most regions of Spain. It’s a small aromatic herb from the mint family mostly used for culinary purposes. Harvesting takes place during the summer months, between late June and August. Thyme Red Thymus vulgaris has been cultivated by humans as long as records have been kept. The history of Thyme dates back to Ancient Egyptian times where it was used for embalming practices. Greeks and Romans also valued Thyme as a herb for flavoring food, as incense, for cleansing rooms and considered the dry herbs to be a source of courage. Thyme has been embraced for its culinary uses in modern history and a staple in most herb gardens and kitchens around the world.

Conventional or organic available The Almond tree (Prunus dulcis) is a member of the Rosaceae (rose) family, along with many other tree fruits such as peaches, apples, pears, plums, cherries, and apricots. The almond is a small bushy deciduous tree with beautiful pink blossoms and highly prized edible nuts enclosed in a hard green hull. It’s a small to medium sized tree with a spreading, open canopy, usually 10-15 feet in commercial orchards. It is an excellent, self-pollinating almond that bears heavy crops of soft-shelled almonds with a good, sweet flavor. The kernels are broad, full and oval in shape. The tree has an upright form that is a self-pollinating papershell. Almonds require a climate with dry summer/autumns and cool winters. Almond and related species are native to the Mediterranean climate region of the Middle East. The original plantings and beginning of the almond industry in Australia occurred in the Adelaide Hills of South Australia. The industry expanded into the South Australian Riverland in the 1960s and then along the Murray River in the 1970s. The Australian almond industry is concentrated in NSW, SA and Victoria with almost 29,000 ha of cultivated almond trees.

Conventional or organic available Hazelnut oil comes from the nuts of the Hazel tree, the botanical name of which is Corylus americana. Originally native to Europe, it is now grown extensively across the world including America. The nut is a delicacy that is often used in cooking, combined with chocolate. Hazelnut Oil has many benefits as it is considered valuable for facial and body massages. It has a high content of essential fatty acids like linoleic acid. Hazelnut is high in Vitamin E and also contains decent amounts of vitamin B6, folate, phosphorus, potassium and zinc. Hazelnut oil has a very light, pleasing sweet aroma, which is also somewhat nutty. It is slightly heavier than other carrier oils, and is highly moisturizing

Conventional or certified organic available Kukui Nut Oil also known as Candlenut Tree Oil or Kekuna Tree Oil has traditionally been used as a natural moisturizer for centuries in Hawaii. It is cold pressed from the large nuts of the Kukui Nut Tree scientifically called Aleurites moluccanus. Most commonly used as a massage oil it is best used in anti-aging products for it natural antioxidants and minerals For thousands of years, the indigenous people of Hawaii have used this oil in religious ceremonies, paints, varnishes and even candle-making. However, it has become known to the wider world because of its impressive topical benefits to the skin and hair, as well as the immune system and muscles.

Novapreserve PP is the propyl ester of p-hydroxybenzoic acid. This is naturally derived from plants, as well as a few different types of insects; it is also manutactured synthetically for many industries such as the person- al skin care and cosmetic industries. Propyl Paraben is a preservative and a food additive. Propyl Paraben is considered an indispensable ingredient in many personal care products because of its ability to improve the shelf life and the quality of skin care and hair care products.

Conventional or certified organic available Shea oil is a pure lightweight oil extracted from the nut of the shea tree (Karite tree) It is naturally high in fatty acids making it an ideal cosmetic ingredient for softening dry hair and as an all-over moisturizer for the skin. Shea oil is a lighter alternative to Shea butter. The process of making Shea Nut Oil is similar to the production process of other fractionated carrier oils. The raw Shea Butter pressed from the Shea nut undergoes a process known as fractionation, which allows its liquid oil (olein) to separate from the heavier components (stearin). The resulting Shea fraction contains higher proportions of the liquid Oleic Acid and lower proportions of solid Stearic Acid, may be liquid or semi-liquid at room temperature, and is considerably less waxy in its consistency. The product may undergo refining, deodorization, and filtering to further improve its sensory profile.

Conventional or organic available Hydrosol is the aromatic water that is produced during the distilling process. It has similar therapeutic properties to the essential oils, but is far less concentrated. These aromatic products possess a similar scent to their oil counterpart and the plant matter used in the distillation process imparts the hydrosol with the water-soluble aromatic and therapeutic properties of the plant. With a strong floral and sweet fragrance, rose is a favorite in the fragrance industry and favored in skin care with its soothing and hydrating properties. The high cost of Rose Otto Oil makes Rose Otto Hydrosol a viable alternative. Rose Otto Oil is extracted via gentle steam distialltion, with this prized Hydrosol being a product of this process.

Palmarosa is a tall, herbaceous grass with long stems, aromatic leaves and flowering tops. It is native to Pakistan and India but is also cultivated in Indonesia, Brazil, the Comoro Islands, Africa and Madagascar. Palmarosa essential oil is steam-distilled from the fresh or dried grass which is harvested before the plant flowers. Palmarosa essential oil is also sometimes called Turkish Geranium, East Indian Geranium or Rose Geranium. Because of its rose-like aroma, Palmarosa essential oil has historically been used to adulterate Rose oil. It has also been used in traditional Indian medicine to treat fevers, infectious diseases, rheumatism and nerve pain. Palmarosa was also used to make incense blends in India, and was traded through the trading routes of India and Persia where it migrated for use in the West. Palmarosa essential oil is widely used for moisturizing skin. It effectively treats skin problems such as psoriasis, boils, eczema, acne and other similar problems. This oil is widely known for its therapeutic benefits and is widely appreciated among people for its effective properties. This oil is usefulness in cosmetic and pharmaceutical industries. Aromatically, Palmarosa Essential Oil has a slight similarity to Geranium Essential Oil and can sometimes be used as an aromatic substitute.

The soybean (Glycine max) is a species of legume native to East Asia, widely grown for its edible bean which has numerous uses. The plant is classed as an oilseed. Soybean meal is a significant and cheap source of protein for animal feeds and many packaged meals soy vegetable oil is another product of processing the soybean crop. Soybeans produce significantly more protein per acre than most other uses of land. The oil is used in many industrial applications. Soy varies in growth and habit. The height of the plant varies from less than 0.2 to 2.0 m. The pods, stems, and leaves are covered with fine brown or gray hairs. The leaves are trifoliate, having three to four leaflets per leaf, and the leaflets are 6–15 cm long and 2–7 cm broad. The leaves fall before the seeds are mature. The inconspicuous, self-fertile flowers are borne in the axil of the leaf and are white, pink or purple. The fruit is a hairy pod that grows in clusters of three to five each pod is 3–8 cm long and usually contains two to four (rarely more) seeds 5–11 mm in diameter. Soybeans have been adapted across a wide area of Australia from the northern Queensland to the Darling Downs and inland river valleys south to the NSW coastal hinterland and coastal sugar belt to the inland cropping regions of southern NSW and Victoria. They are also grown in the northern irrigation areas of Western Australia.

Conventional or certified organic available Rice Bran Oil is obtained from rice bran which is the outer coat of brown rice. This coat is removed during a milling process and it is rich in vitamin, minerals, proteins, and essential oils. Rice Bran Oil also has components that are believed to hinder UV rays as they meet the skin's surface. Rice Bran Oil has been used for more than 2000 years throughout Asia. Today, it continues to be used for soap and skin cream manufacturing, especially in Japan, where the women who use it are known as Rice Bran Beauties, one of the highest compliments they can receive. Historically, Japanese Geishas would add the water that remained after washing rice to their baths after discovering its ability to cleanse, soften, moisturize, soothe, nourish, and smooth the skin, which slowed the look of aging and brightened the complexion. Aside from being used in their baths and to gently clean their natural wood floors, Rice Bran Oil was used to wash their faces and their hair, to name only two of countless other applications for this beneficial oil.

Conventional or organic available The Apricot tree (Prunus armeniaca) is the most commonly cultivated apricot species. It is a small tree that grows up to 12 meters tall with a dense, spreading canopy. The fruits, which ripen to orange or yellowish orange, sometimes tinged with red, have soft flesh surrounding a hard, flattened stone, containing a kernel within. Apricot oil is pressed from the seed of the fruit. It has a clear light texture and is easily absorbed by the skin and full of nutrients and rich in essential fatty acids and is an excellent moisturizer.

This Refined Rosehip oil has a light yellow color and is very lightly scented, almost odorless. Refined oils have been filtered to remove color and odor and are often referred to as Cosmetic grade as they are favored in the making of cosmetic products as the color and smell of Virgin oils can interfere with other ingredients. Some say refined oils have impurities removed, this is true in a sense as they typically have longer shelf life than Virgin oils. Rosehip oil has been cold-pressed from the crushed fruit and seeds of a certain variety of wild rose plant, specifically rosa canina, endemic to Chile. After the rose petals have dropped the distinctive red fruit is harvested. The fruit is also called the hip, hence the name Rosehip. Rosehip oil is high in vitamins such as vitamin C and A, a rich source of antioxidants and essential fatty acids. These vitamins can help reduce signs of skin aging and may help prevent fine lines. This oil also contains antioxidants like tocopherol and carotenoids that have been known to protect the skin and is also rich in anti-inflammatory acids that may help soothe redness and irritation.

BioCell Collagen® CG is a cosmetic-grade, hydrolyzed chicken sternal cartilage extract. It is composed of a complex matrix of primarily collagen type II peptides, chondroitin sulfate (CS) and hyaluronic acid (HA). Collagen, CS, and HA are essential structural components in the skin dermis and are responsible for the skin's moisture, suppleness, elasticity, and beauty. Collagen may slow the degradation of these molecules as we age. It can slow the disarray or collapse of the dermal matrix structure, reducing dermal dehydration and aging skin appearances such as fine lines, wrinkles, and superficial sagging.

Australia has around six species of sandalwood, however only Santalum lanceolatum (also called Northern Sandalwood is widespread in Western Australia’s Kimberley region and the Pilbara region through most of the Northern Territory, through to the west and north of Queensland, western New South Wales, there are also occurrences of the tree in northern South Australia and north west Victoria.) and Santalum spicatum are sold commercially. The Northern Sandalwood shrub is found mainly on sandy soils or sandplains and grows up to 7m tall. It produces a small, edible fruit that is purplish black in color. Sandalwood trees are a partially parasitic species in the same family as mistletoe. Considered more ecologically responsible than traditional Indian Sandalwood, Sandalwood Santalum lanceolatum is quickly becoming a popular choice among aromatherapists and perfumers alike. There is documented evidence of traditional use of Northern Sandalwood in Australia, the fruit was eaten by indigenous people, the leaves were placed on a bed to assist in rheumatic conditions, the timber may have also been use by new mothers who would crouch over the aromatic smoke of Sandalwood leaves and wood chips for a period of time. Leaves and twigs were burnt to repel insects. Northern Sandalwood plays a different role to traditional sandalwood oils due to its unique floral aromas. When applied directly to the skin as a perfume, it offers several different floral layers, exhibiting potential in skincare formulations and for calming notes in aromatherapy.

Neem Carrier Oil is one of the most popular choices for use in the manufacturing of soaps, cosmetics, and massage oils. It is pressed from the tree's seed kernels and is prized for its antiviral, anti-microbial, anti-fungal, anti-bacterial, analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties. The Azadirachta indica botanical, better known as the Neem Tree, is believed to have originated in either India or Burma. When it was discovered that the tree can thrive in any warm, dry regions, migrating Indians introduced it to other lands including Africa, Fiji, Mauritius, Malaysia, Indonesia, Thailand, and Cambodia. Its resistance to droughts and its tolerance to heat are factors that contribute to its long lifespan of up to 200 years. Neem is well known for its beneficial effects on the skin and in scalp disorders. Its antibacterial, anti-viral, anti-inflammatory and fungicide properties, make it perfect for itchy, dry hair and scalp conditions. It helps restore body and shine to dry, damaged and delicate hair and helps mend the appearance of split ends. Considered by the people of India to be sacred, the Neem tree has come to symbolize good health and protection. Traditionally Neem oil was used topically to address such ailments as fevers, respiratory issues, tetanus infections, rheumatism, arthritis, jaundice, malaria, ringworm, lice, fungal and bacterial infections of the skin, scabies, hives, eczema, psoriasis, and gastrointestinal diseases. Historically, Neem Oil was even used as a topical contraceptive.

RHEOSOL PQ22 is an ingredient developed by Rheolab Inc. For cosmetic and personal care compositions. Rheosol PQ22 is an amphoteric copolymer in liquid form. RHEOSOL PQ22 contains 0.5% of sodium benzoate as preservative.

Aloe Vera Spray-Dried Powder, 200:1- Organic is rich in aloe vera polysaccharides and other natural components of the aloe vera gel. Aloe vera gel has been widely used in food, beverage, pharmaceutical and cosmetics applications and is classified as a GRAS ingredient in the CFR Title 21.

Aloe Vera Spray-Dried Powder, 200:1 is rich in aloe vera polysaccharides and other natural components of the aloe vera gel. Aloe vera gel has been widely used in food, beverage, pharmaceutical and cosmetics applications and is classified as a GRAS ingredient in the CFR Title 21.

Aloe vera gel filets are removed from fresh Aloe barbadensis Miller leaves. The gel is sterilized, filtered and freeze-dried. Aloe Vera Freeze-Dried Powder, 200:1 is rich in aloe vera polysaccharides and other natural components of the aloe vera gel. Aloe vera gel has been widely used in food, beverage, pharmaceutical and cosmetics applications and is classified as a GRAS ingredient in the CFR Title 21.

Aloe vera gel filets are removed from fresh Aloe barbadensis Miller leaves. The gel is sterilized, filtered and freeze-dried. Aloe Vera Freeze-Dried Powder, 200:1- Organic is rich in aloe vera polysaccharides and other natural components of the aloe vera gel. Aloe vera gel has been widely used in food, beverage, pharmaceutical and cosmetics applications and is classified as a GRAS ingredient in the CFR Title 21.

Permethyl® HPIB-6 is a highly branched saturated aliphatic hydrocarbon emollient which gives a rich feel. It can be blended with other emollients to “dialin” texture.

SiClone® SR-5, a D-5 replacement, has good volatility, slip, cushion, and overall esthetics. It is a volatile silicone replacement comprised of a blend of hydrocarbons.

Permethyl® 101A is highly emollient, easy-spreading, and moisturizing. It imparts a non-drying feeling on the skin and has a light, smooth feel with excellent cleansing properties. The Permethyl® line is a series of unique, highly branched aliphatic hydrocarbons ranging from highly volatile, low viscosity liquids to non-volatile viscous materials. The low viscosity grades have excellent makeup removal properties and are differentiated by skin feel, spreadability and volatility. The high viscosity grades give high gloss and film forming properties, and are differentiated by product viscosity.

Permethyl® 102A is a suitable replacement in “oil-free” products. It provides a satiny feel and produces high sheen. The Permethyl® line is a series of unique, highly branched aliphatic hydrocarbons ranging from highly volatile, low viscosity liquids to non-volatile viscous materials. The low viscosity grades have excellent makeup removal properties and are differentiated by skin feel, spreadability and volatility. The high viscosity grades give high gloss and film forming properties, and are differentiated by product viscosity.