Stemology Skin Care Ingredient Glossary

(2s)-2-Amino-5-guanidinopentanoic Acid – Another name for L Arginine, a very important amino acid, a building block for every important tissue in the body.
Acacia Senegal Gum – A natural botanical face smoothing agent that reduces wrinkle appearance.
Acer Saccharum (Sugar Maple) Extract – A natural exfoliant from botanical sources.
Algae Extract – A natural moisturizing and tightening agent derived from sea algae.
Aloe Barbadensis (Organic Aloe Vera) Juice – A natural skin soothing and softening agent derived from the Aloe Vera plant.
Alpha Lipoic Acid – A well-known natural substance found in certain foods such as spinach, broccoli, yams, carrots, and beets, alpha lipoic acid is also produced in the human body. One of the best antioxidants for our skin cell protection.
Amino Acids, Silk – A blend of amino acids derived from silk that contribute to skin moisturizing.
Ananas Sativus (Pineapple) Fruit Extract – A natural enzyme exfoliator derived from pineapple.
Anthemis Nobilis (Organic Chamomile) Extract – A natural extract derived from Roman Chamomile flowers. Has excellent soothing anti-inflammatory properties.
Argania Spinosa (Organic Argan) Oil – A rare oil extracted from the nut of the argan tree, a natural emollient. Sometimes referred to as Morrocan oil.
Arnica Montana Extract – A natural botanical anti-irritant. Helps to soothe and calm troubled skin.
Artemisia Abrotanum Extract – A natural botanical smoothing agent that aids in wrinkle reduction.
Ascorbic Acid (Vitamin C) – An important vitamin for the skin that is necessary for collagen production, aids in evening skin tone, and is a valuable antioxidant.
Ascorbyl Palmitate – An oil soluble form of ascorbic acid.
Astaxanthin – A natural carotenoid that is a potent antioxidant that reduces the acute inflammatory reaction of the skin after excessive exposure to UV radiation.
Aveena Sativa (Oat) Kernel Powder – A natural anti-irritant and anti-inflammatory powder derived from oats that is also an excellent humectant.
Bellis Perennis (Daisy) Flower Extract – A natural extract derived from the Daisy flower that inhibits melanin production and lightens skin.
Benzyl Alcohol – An organic alcohol found in many fruits and trees that acts as a preservative.
Boerhavia Diffusa Root Extract – A natural, lightening active ingredient that decreases skin tone evenly and uniformly, thus reducing the number of different types of hyperpigmentation spots. Clinical studies have shown a significant reduction of brown spots and an overall reduction in skin coloration.
Borago Officinalis (Borage) Seed Oil – A natural emollient pressed from the seeds of the Star Flower herb which offers regenerative, and firming, properties helping to restore hydration and elasticity.
Boswellia Serrata Gum Extract – A natural extract from the Boswellia Serrata tree (Indian Frankincense that reduces premature aging and wrinkling.
Boswellia Serrata (Frankincense) Essential Oil – Since ancient times a known heaing oil. It is considered the most valued oil for skincare products. This oil retains the sweet, warm and woody notes of the resin from which it is extracted.
Butyrospermum Parkii (Shea) Butter – A natural emollient extracted from the nuts of the Karite tree in Africa that delivers many skin benefits such as soothing, softening and moisturizing.
C13-15 Alkane – A new, innovative, light, natural emollient derived from plant sugars which is the next generation squalane. NPA and Ecocert approved.
Caesalpinia Spinosa Gum – An innovative natural moisturizer which captures and retains water and assimilates it into the skin. Harvested from the seed endosperm of the Tara tree.
Caffeine Ferment Lysate Filtrate – A form of caffeine that is useful in eye care applications. Caffeine’s vasoconstrictive properties help reduce puffiness due to the ability to make blood vessels smaller. Additionally, its diuretic properties help deflate puffiness, increase circulation and minimize dark circles that form under the eyes.
Camellia Oleifera Seed Oil – A light, easily absorbed oil from Camellia seeds that protects from free radical damage and leaves skin smooth.
Camelia Sinensis (Green Tea) Leaf Extract – A botanical extract from green tea leaves that is a natural anti-oxidant, and skin tightener/refiner.
Camellia Sinensis (White Tea) Extract – Like green tea, white tea is nurturing, an astringent, an anti-oxidant and refining.
Camiellia Sinensis Leaf Ferment Filtrate – A biofermented form of Green tea leaf extract with the same benefits as Green Tea leaf extract.
Cannabis Sativa (Hemp) oil – A light non-greasy oil form the hemp plant that is rich in EFA content - Oleic Acid (Omega 9) 10.71%, Linoleic Acid Omega 6) - 56.48%, Linolenic Acid (Omega 3) - 17.47%. Very nourishing for skin.
Caprylic/ Capric Triglycerides – A natural ester made from coconut oil with excellent carrier and emollient properties. Has a dry, silky feel that equals silicones in topical experience.
Carica Papaya (Papaya) Extract – A natural, gentle exfoliator that uses the enzymes extracted from papaya fruit.
Centella Asiatica (Gotu Kola) Leaf Extract - A powerful rejuvenating herb for skin. Gotu Kola in clinical reports document strong wound healing and collagen stimulating properties, as well as scar tissue reduction, anti-inflammatory actions and an ability to increase the level of antioxidants in newly formed tissue.
Cetearyl Alcohol – A naturally derived emulsifier from a combination of coconut and palm oils. Enhances viscosity and acts also as a carrier.
Cetearyl Olivate – A naturally derived emulsifier from olive oil that is also a good emollient.
Cetyl Alcohol – An emollient and emulsifier aid that is naturally derived from coconut oil. Not a drying alcohol, rather a fatty alcohol that moisturizes.
Cetyl Esters Wax NF – A natural wax derived from coconut that provides thickness to creams and improved topical feel.
Cinnamomum Cassia (Cinnamon) Bark – A natural powder used for fragrance and increased circulation in the skin.
Citrus Aurantium Dulcis (Orange) Flower Extract – A natural extract that provides peptides from orange blossoms for enhanced collagen production.
Citrus Aurantium Dulcis (Orange) Fruit Extract – A natural exfoliater derived from orange fruit extract.
Citrus Limon (Lemon) Fruit Extract – A natural exfoliator using the citric acid derived from lemon fruit.
Coco Caprylate – An emollient derived from coconut oil that provides an excellent moisturizing function without oils.
Cocos Nucifera (Coconut) Water – Used in the tropics for centuries as a natural health and beauty aid. Hydrates, tones, cleanses and reduces problem skin issues.
Coffea Arabica Extract – A natural extract from the flesh of coffee beans harvested in Kona, Hawaii. Powerful anti-oxidant, rich in polyphenolic acids, and excellent skin softener.
Copper Lysinate/Prolinate – A form of natural copper which is used to reactivate Lysyl oxydase, the enzyme which enables reticulation and maturation of collagen and elastin. Assists with improving collagen and elastin and reducing appearance of wrinkles.
Corylus Avellana (Hazel) Nut Oil – A natural carrier oil cold pressed from hazel nuts. Fast penetrating, non-greasy, excellent carrier oil for active ingredients. Contains vitamins A, B, and very hi E. Softens and soothes sensitive skin.
Crocus Chrysanthus Bulb Extract – A natural extract harvested from the Crocus plant bulb that has been clinically shown to reverse the aging process by improving cell to cell communication.
Cucumis Sativa (Cucumber) Peel Extract – A botanical extract from cucumber, a plant well known for its skin soothing and softening ability.
Cucurbita Pepo (Pumpkin) Fruit – Enzyme rich pumpkin fruit that gently exfoliates, while delivering phyto-nutrients to the skin.
Cucurbita Pepo (Pumpkin) Seed Oil – A botanical oil rich in Vitamins A, B, D & E, minerals, and proteins. It has over 60% of unsaturated fatty acids and is rich in omega 3 and omega 6 fatty acids
Cyperus Esculentus Tuber Extract – A natural botanical extract that has been clinically shown to reduce the appearance of skin wrinkles.
Daucus Carota (Carrot) Seed Oil – A natural oil from Carrot seed, one of the highest, natural, sources of Beta Carotene (pre-cursor to Vitamin A), giving it very effective anti-oxidant activity. Well known for its ability to rejuvenate an aging complexion.
Decyl Glucoside (Ecocert) – A natural surfactant for foaming and cleansing products made from coconut oil and corn starch. Has proven mildness and does not dry out skin.
Diatomaceous Earth – Natural diatoms of silica, an abundant mineral, often used for gentle scrubs and cleansers.
Dimethylethanolamine (DMAE) – A compound derived from plant sources that improves the appearance of skin wrinkles and fine lines.
Dimethylsulfone (MSM) – A pure organic sulfur, found in all plants and animal tissues, A necessary element to build both collagen and keratin, which are necessary for skin rejuvenation. Enhances the absorption of other skin care actives.
Epigallocatechin Gallate (EGCG) – A compound derived from green tea that has powerful antioxidant effects.
Ethyl Hexyl Glycerin – A compound derived from grains or plants that functions as a preservative in cosmetics.
Ferula Fetida Root Extract – A natural herbal extract that has been clinically shown to lighten skin and even skin tone.
Fucoxanthin - A carotenoid from marine algae that is a powerful antioxidant.
Garcinia Indica (Kokum) Butter - A natural butter well known for its emollient, and regenerative properties, One of the most useful butters for inflamed skin preparation and enhanced barrier formation
Ginkgo Biloba Extract – A natural herbal extract that enhances circulation in the skin and assists in cell production.
Gluconolactone – A natural cosmetic preservative derived from corn that also has moisturizing benefits.
Glycerin – See #83
Glycerin (Vegetable) – A natural humectant that is plant derived (not petro derived) and binds moisture to the skin.
Glyceryl Linoleate - Derived from Glycerin and Linoleic Acid … fats extracted from vegetable oils … it serves as a nourishing emulsifier.
Glyceryl Oleate – A natural product derived from Glycerin and Oleic Acid (fats extracted from vegetable oils)it is used as an emulsifier for creams.
Glyceryl Stearate - A naturally derived fatty acid from palm oil, most often used as an emulsifier.
Glycine – An important amino acid and a key building block of collagen.
Glycine Betaine (Beet) Sugar Extract – Use #90
Glycine Betaine (Beta Vulgaris (Beet)) Sugar Extract – use #90
Glycine Betaine (Beta Vulgaris (Beet)) Sugar Extract (EcoCert) - A food grade moisturizer and anti-irritant that is naturally derived from a renewable source of Beet Sugar. An excellent humectant that adds hydration directly to skin cells due to its abundant source of saccharides.
Glycine Soja Protein – Natural amino acids derived from protein of the soy bean. Provides moisture to the skin as well as antioxidants and vitamins.
Glycolic Acid – An alpha hydroxyl acid derived from from natural sources, such as sugarcane, sugar beets, pineapple, cantaloupe, and unripe grapes. Used in skin care it acts as an exfoliant. Can be harsh in high concentrations and many have skin too sensitive to use it.
Glycyrrhiza Glabra (Licorice) Leaf Extract – A natural extract derived from licorice. It helps fade sun damage and hyper-pigmentation safely for all skin tones, while blocking melanin production to prevent more from forming.
Griffonia Simplicifolia Seed Extract – An extract from the seeds of an African shrub that has been clinically shown to immediately tighten and lift for younger and firmer looking skin, plus provide a protective film from environmental stresses.
Hamamelis Virginiana (Witch Hazel) – A natural distillate of Witch Hazel plant that is a soothing astringent for toners and cleansers.
Hippophae Rhamnoides (Seabuckthorn) Pulp Oil – A natural oil cold pressed from the Seabuckthorn plant that is soothing and anti-inflammatory.
Human Stem Cell Derived Conditioned Media – Natural protein peptides, which are cytokines, growth factors and “helper” proteins, harvested from Adult Human stem cell colonies grown in FDA certified laboratories.
Hyaluronic Acid – A natural glycosaminoglycan found in the human body that provides a structural cushion for the joints and the extra-cellular matrix of the skin. The world’s best humectant holding 1000 times its weight in water. Very important hydrator for skin care products. Made by a natural yeast fermentation process.
Hydrogenated Olea Europaea (Olive Oil) – A derivative of olive oil that is used as a natural emulsifier in skin and hair care.
Hydrolyzed Candida Saitoana Extract – A fermented yeast extract that has been clinically shown to detoxify the skin cells of prematurely aged skin.
Hydrolyzed Pumpkin Seedcake – Found to be a stimulator of collagen production and an inhibitor of collagen destruction, this extract is a protein derived from the seed cake itself. According to research, regular use will smooth the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, as well as improve tone and texture of skin.
Hydrolyzed Rice Bran Protein – Peptides harvested from rice bran which aid in reducing eye puffiness and dark circles around the eyes.
Hydroxyapatite – A natural mineral substance that diffuses light on the skin and aids in protection from sun exposure.
Hydroxystearic/Linolenic/Oleic Polyglycerides – A Patented, 100% natural polymer derived from sunflower oil, with immediate wrinkle reduction properties.
Inulin – An oligosaccharide derived from Chicory Root that aids in skin hydration and provides reduction of wrinkle appearance.
Irish Moss (Carageenan) Chondrus Crispus – A polysaccharide extracted from sea algae that aids in skin hydration, and also helps to increase viscosity in serums, lotions, and cleansers.
Iron Oxides – Natural mineral colorants.
Isomalt – A food grade derivative from malt that serves as a thickener in skin care products.
L- Arginine - a very important amino acid, a building block for every important tissue in the body. A natural skin moisturizer.
L-Aspartic Acid – An amino acid that is used in the biosynthesis of proteins.
L-Histidine - An amino acid that is used in the biosynthesis of proteins.
L-Phenylalanine - An amino acid that serves as a building block for the various proteins in the body.
L-Pyrrolidonecarboxylic Acid - Pyrrolidone carboxylic acid (PCA) is a naturally occurring component of human skin and a plays an important role in maintaining the skin's moisture level.
L-Serine – An amino acid used in the body for the biosynthesis of proteins. A natural skin moisturizer.
L-Valine – A branched chain amino acid that is one of the essential amino acids for humans.
Lactobacillus Ferment Lysate – A probiotic for the skin derived from yogurt culture which aids in enhancing cellular renewal and collagen production.
Lactobacillus Ferment Lysate Filtrate – A natural skin lightener derived from common lactobacillus cultures.
Lactobacillus/ Arundinaria Gigantea (Bamboo) Ferment Filtrate – An extract made from the Bamboo plant that contributes silica and isoflavones to the skin.
Lactobacillus/ Eriodictyon Californicum Ferment Extract – A natural fermented extract from Yerba Santa, a desert plant, that is rich in mucopolysaccharides and glycoproteins. Provides unique hydration and moisture for the skin.
Lactobacillus/ Papaya Fruit Ferment Extract – Natural enzymes derived from Papaya that provide gentle, effective exfoliation of the skin.
Lactobacillus/ Punica Granatum (Pomegranate) Fruit Ferment Extract – Natural enzymes from pomegranate fruit that provide antioxidants to the skin and gently exfoliate for brighter, fresher skin.
Lactobacillus/Lemon Peel Ferment Extract – A natural extract from lemon peel which is an effective, natural alternative to hydroquinone for balancing skin tone and skin lightening.
Lactobacillus/Pumpkin Fruit Ferment Filtrate – Natural enzymes harvested from pumpkin fruit that provide gentle exfoliation and renewed cellular turnover.
Lavandula Officinalis (Lavender) Essential Oil – A natural essential oil used both for fragrance and as an anti-bacterial.
Lecithin – Acts as an emulsifier but also helps to hydrate, replenish and repair the skin due to its EFA content. Usually derived from Sunflower oil.
Leontopodium Alpinum Extract – A natural botanical extract from Alpine Edelweiss. Provides both skin repair and protection benefits from environmental exposure.
Limnanthes Alba (Meadowfoam) Seed Oil – A natural botanical oil cold pressed from Meadowfoam seeds. Has very high antioxidant properties and is a very effective skin softener.
Linum Alpinum Extract – A botanical extract from the Alpine Linum flower that reduces skin inflammation and aids irritated skin.