Ingredients in healthy skin care products
Here is a summary of essential active raw materials and ingredients in skin care products.
Antioxidants

Asthaxantin
Astaxanthin is a natural antioxidant extracted from the microalgae Haematococcus pluvialis. Astaxanthin is one of the most effective and natural anti-aging agents, with the ability to penetrate cell membranes and have a profound impact on the skin. Astaxanthin stimulates collagen production, balances skin moisture levels, and protects the skin from central irritants.

Furcellaran
Furcellaran is a powerful antioxidant extracted from the red algae Furcellaria lumbricalis. Furcellaran helps maintain the skin’s moisture balance, strengthens the skin’s protective barrier, slows down the skin’s aging process, and reduces inflammation and dryness.
Se även C-vitamin (speciellt askorbylpalmitat) och E-vitamin (tokoferol) nedan som ofta används som antioxidanter.
Super Oils

Apricot Kernel Oil
Apricot kernel oil (from Prunus armeniaca) is full of vitamin A. It helps the cream to be absorbed into the deepest layers of the skin, moisturizing and nourishing the tissues from within. This helps make the skin healthier and smoother around the eyes, lips, cheeks, and neck, among other areas. Apricot kernel oil is often suitable for sensitive skin, protecting it against dryness, eczema, and irritation.

Argan Oil
Argan oil is extracted from the seeds of the argan tree (Argania spinosa). Argan oil is an antioxidant and protects, moisturizes, softens, and soothes the skin. It is a thin oil that easily penetrates the skin. Argan oil is rich in vitamin E and linoleic acid, helping to reduce the appearance of fine lines. The oil is also beneficial for hair and beard care, providing soft hair with a shine.

Avocado Oil
Avocado oil is made by separating the oil in avocados from the avocado pulp. This oil is full of essential fatty acids, bioactive vitamins, lecithin, and plant sterols. The oil protects the skin: reduces redness, dryness, and itching. Avocado oil prevents psoriasis and eczema. It keeps the skin moisturized, gives a healthy and vibrant complexion, and reduces wrinkles and other signs of aging.

Babassu Oil
Babassu oil is extracted from the fruits of the Babassu palm (Orbignya oleifera). Babassu oil protects the skin from external stress and helps relieve dry, flaky skin. It is skin-strengthening, protective, and moisturizing, and has anti-inflammatory properties. Babassu oil gives the skin a healthy and shiny appearance and is sometimes compared to coconut oil.

Cacay Oil
Cacay oil is extracted from the nuts of the Cacay tree (Caryodendron orinocense). This oil boasts powerful anti-aging and moisturizing properties, containing retinol (vitamin A) that maximizes collagen production and skin cell renewal, vitamin E that softens tissues and accelerates scar recovery, and vitamin F that helps keep the skin youthful and supports natural defense functions. Cacao oil also helps fight acne and prevent ingrown hairs.

Coconut Oil
Coconut oil (Cocos nucifera) is known for its moisturizing properties. It contains a high concentration of saturated fats that help reduce transepidermal water loss. A study has shown that coconut oil significantly improves skin hydration and barrier function. This makes the oil particularly beneficial for dry skin conditions, eczema, and psoriasis. Coconut oil also helps strengthen and improve the health of hair.

Cucui Nut Oil
Cucui nut oil is extracted from Aleurites moluccanus, candlenut. Kukui nut oil contains vitamins A, E and F that provide nourishment and vitality. The content of alpha-linolenic acid and linolenic acid moisturizes and rejuvenates the skin. Kukui nut oil is used to treat acne and scars, minor inflammations, psoriasis and eczema.

Grapeseed Oil
Grapeseed oil is extracted from the seeds of the Vitis vinifera grape. The oil moisturizes, softens, and tones the skin. Grapeseed oil is rich in polyunsaturated fats that can help fight inflammation and hydrate the skin. Grapeseed oil is also rich in antioxidants and phytochemicals such as proanthocyanidins, pycogenol, tocopherol (vitamin E), and linolenic acid.

Hemp seed oil
Hemp seed oil from Cannabis sativa is rich in omega-3, -6, and -9. The omega-6 fatty acid GLA, gamma-linolenic acid, has anti-inflammatory properties. Hemp seed oil soothes the skin and balances overactive sebaceous glands, with a particularly effective anti-inflammatory effect. The oil works well for those with sensitive or damaged skin.

Jojoba Oil
Jojoba oil is extracted from the seeds of Simmondsia chinensis. Jojoba oil is antibacterial and rich in vitamins A, B, and E. It nourishes, moisturizes, and balances sebum production. The fatty acids in jojoba are deeply absorbed, giving the skin a signal that there is sufficient moisture and that additional sebum production is not necessary. Jojoba oil’s unique composition of fatty acids allows it to penetrate the skin, where it binds moisture quickly, strengthens the protective barrier, and leaves the skin velvety smooth.

Macadamia Nut Oil
Macadamia nut oil (derived from Macadamia integrifolia and other species) is excellent for dry skin and soothes sensitive skin due to its powerful anti-inflammatory properties. It helps improve the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. Plus, the fat in the oil is similar to your skin’s natural sebum, allowing it to be easily absorbed without clogging pores. This makes it ideal for acne-prone skin.

Milk Thistle Seed Oil
Milk thistle seed oil is produced by cold pressing the seeds of Silybum marianum to extract the beneficial antioxidants, fatty acids, vitamins, and sterols. Milk thistle seed oil has potent antioxidant and anti-aging properties. Milk thistle seed oil restores the skin.

Olive Oil
Olive oil (from Olea europaea) is widely used in various cultures and has been utilized as a skin care product for over 1,000 years due to its nourishing and moisturizing properties. Cold-pressed and extra-virgin olive oil is a common ingredient in many organic skin care products. Olive oil is rich in vitamin E and unsaturated fatty acids.

Rice Bran Oil
Rice bran oil, from Oryza sativa, contains high levels of vitamin E and omega fatty acids. The oil promotes hydration, reduces pigmentation, and evens out skin tone. Rice bran oil helps neutralize free radicals and helps lock in moisture in the skin. The oil helps treat hyperpigmentation from, among other things, UV rays.

Sesame Oil
Sesame oil is extracted from the seeds of the Sesamum indicum plant. Sesame seeds are packed with essential vitamins and minerals, antioxidants, and fatty acids. These nutrients work together to combat common skin issues, including inflammation, dullness, and premature aging. Sesame oil reduces inflammation, soothes and moisturizes the skin, and helps fight acne.

Sunflower Seed Oil
Sunflower seed oil (from Helianthus mollis) is rich in unsaturated fatty acids that maintain the skin’s hydration and nutrition. The oil is valuable for maintaining the skin’s natural barrier and reduces fine lines and wrinkles. Sunflower oil nourishes the skin, keeping it hydrated and supple.

Sweet Almond Oil
Sweet almond oil (from the sweet variety of almond, Prunus amygdalus) is often used in skin care products due to its moisturizing, anti-aging, and hair care properties. The oil is rich in vitamin E and monounsaturated fatty acids. Sweet almond oil does not clog pores, can soothe irritated skin, protect against damage from UV radiation, and restore the skin’s moisture barrier. Additionally, it enhances skin elasticity and supports collagen, resulting in firmer and more youthful-looking skin. Sweet almond oil also supports the absorption of active substances.
Other fats and butters

Cocoo Butter
Cocoa butter (Theobroma cacao) is a natural fat extracted from the cocoa bean. It is rich in fatty acids, antioxidants, and vitamins. Cocoa butter helps retain moisture in the skin and has a softening effect, making it particularly suitable for dry, thin, and sensitive skin. Cocoa butter improves the skin’s elasticity and forms a protective layer on the skin.

Glycerine
Glycerine, or glycerol, is found in your body and nature as part of fat molecules. Glycerin in skin care products consists of natural fatty acids extracted from vegetable oils (not palm oil). Glycerin is a moisturizing and hydrating agent, making it suitable for dry, sensitive, and easily irritated skin. Glycerin also enhances the absorption of skin cream, making it easier to apply to the skin. Glycerin is used more sparingly in skin care products these days.

Mango Kernel Butter
Mango kernel butter (Mangifera indica) is rich in essential fatty acids, antioxidants, and vitamins, which help to hydrate and soften the skin. Mango seed butter moisturizes and nourishes the skin, helping to restore its health. It forms a protective barrier on the skin’s surface, preventing moisture loss and promoting a smoother, more supple complexion.

Shea Butter
Shea butter has been used in Africa for thousands of years. It is said that both Cleopatra and the Egyptian queen Nefertiti used shea butter as a beauty product. Shea butter is pressed from shea nuts, that is, the seeds of the shea nut tree (Vitellaria paradoxa). The butter consists mainly of oleic, stearic, and linoleic acids and contains several vitamins and antioxidants, including vitamins A and E, as well as flavonoids and phenols. Antioxidants protect the skin against free radicals. Shea butter nourishes and renews the skin.
Acids
Alpha Hydroxy Acid, AHA
Alpha Hydroxy Acid is a collective name for various types of water-soluble acids that are extracted from the sugar of various fruits and plants. They are also known as fruit acids and have been used in skin care for thousands of years. The acids can have different special properties, but are often used in exfoliating, scrubbing, and peeling products.
Five common AHA acids:
- Glycolic acid (from sugar cane) breaks down and releases dead skin cells and brightens the skin.
- Lactic acid is a milk-based fatty acid that is beneficial for the skin, including its ability to brighten the complexion.
- Malic acid can be used to brighten the skin and treat acne.
- Tartaric acid (from grapes, also called tartaric acid) is beneficial in treating acne and skin discoloration.
- Citric acid can be used to brighten the skin and treat acne.
Hyaluronic Acid and Sodium Hyaluronate
Hyaluronic acid deeply moisturizes the skin, restores its elasticity and protects it from drying out and wrinkles. Sodium hyaluronate is a form of hyaluronic acid that provides intensive hydration, resulting in softer skin with a healthy glow.
Kojic Acid
Kojic acid is extracted from mushrooms and formed during the brewing of sake from fermented rice. Kojic acid prevents melanin production and pigmentation. It brightens the skin, making it radiant and shiny.
Lactic Acid
Lactic acid restores the skin’s natural pH balance.
Salicylic Acid
Salicylic acid (in low concentration) reduces and prevents acne, reduces redness, and cleanses clogged pores.
Plants, algae, and lichens
Aloe
Aloe (Aloe vera) is a natural healer for the skin and acts as a natural antiseptic. It has a calming effect, stimulates collagen production, and prevents the formation of wrinkles and signs of aging. Aloe protects and moisturizes the deepest layers of the skin. It regulates the skin’s moisture levels, soothes the skin, and protects against bacteria.
Birch
Birch leaves and their extracts cleanse and regulate the activity of the sebaceous glands, regenerate and revitalize the skin, and soothe it. By applying birch leaves (from Betula pendula and others) to the skin, you stimulate the production of fibroblasts. Fibroblasts are cells that produce connective tissue and build the collagen matrix that supports your skin and keeps it flexible.
Chamomile
Chamomile (Matricaria chamomilla), especially in extracted form, has antibacterial properties. The herb is popular in skin care products due to its soothing properties. Chamomile is rich in phenolic compounds, which, among other things, act as antioxidants.
Cranberry
Cranberry (Vaccinium oxycoccos) and cranberry extract reduce wrinkles and dark circles under the eyes. They also eliminate signs of fatigue. Cranberry is an antioxidant that reduces the harmful effects of UV radiation (especially in combination with sea buckthorn) in skin care.
Finger lime
Finger lime extract, also known as citrus caviar, is derived from Citrus australasica and contains natural alpha-hydroxy acids (AHA). One benefit of finger lime extract and AHA is that they gently exfoliate dead skin cells, improving skin texture and leaving the skin soft and radiant.
Ginger
Ginger, Zingiber officinale, is an antioxidant that reduces inflammation, improves microcirculation in the skin, and helps prevent cellulite. It revitalizes the skin, fights acne, and promotes a healthy scalp.
Ginkgo Leaves
The leaves of the ginkgo tree (Ginkgo biloba), especially in extract form, can intensively cleanse the hair and scalp and support hair growth. Ginkgo extract supplies essential nutrients to the hair follicles, strengthens the hair strands, and helps prevent them from breaking.
Grapefruit Peel Oil
Grapefruit peel oil is extracted by pressing fresh peels from Citrus × paradisi. The oil protects the skin and supports the natural improvement of skin elasticity.
Lady’s Mantle
The leaves of the Lady’s mantle, Alchemilla vulgaris, are rich in antioxidants. Common lady’s mantle soothes and heals the skin, reduces inflammation, protects against free radical damage, and tightens the skin’s pores. In Asian medicine and modern cosmetology, Alchemilla is used to treat a range of skin conditions, including acne, psoriasis, atopic dermatitis, wounds, wrinkles, and hyperpigmentation.
Marigold
Marigold, Calendula officinalis, degreases the skin and has an anti-inflammatory effect. It is also bactericidal, cleansing, mildly astringent, nourishing, and soothing. Marigold can be particularly beneficial for eczema, itching, difficult-to-heal wounds, and self-inflicted cuts and cracks.
Oat
Oats, Avena sativa, contain B vitamins and silicon, which are essential for hair health. Among other things, it moisturizes the scalp, prevents scalp irritation, reduces the risk of itching, and strengthens the hair. Oat extract softens the hair and reduces the risk of split ends. Oats are perfect for dry and brittle hair.
Oak Bark
The bark of oak (Quercus robur), is, among other things, astringent, antipruritic, soothing, bactericidal and anti-inflammatory. It is also an antioxidant, reduces sweating, strengthens blood vessels, and supports an anti-inflammatory effect. Oak bark is used, among other things, to treat wounds and infections. Oak bark is often good for sensitive skin.
Peppermint
Peppermint, Mentha × piperita, cools, relaxes, and soothes the skin. The herb’s leaves prevent inflammation, regulate excess sebum, and reduce irritation.
Rose Water
Rose water, especially Damask rose water (Rosa × damascena), soothes the skin, reduces pore size, and helps minimize wrinkles. It is ideal for sensitive and dry skin, offering a refreshing effect that can be used daily.
Sage
Sage, Salvia officinalis, purifies the skin, regulates the activity of the skin’s sebaceous glands, and revitalizes the skin. Sage has many valuable properties, including antimicrobial, antioxidant, astringent, and purifying.
Saw Palmetto Berries
Saw palmetto berries, Serenoa serrulata, prevent inflammation, are an antioxidant, regulate excess sebum production, and soothe and reduce irritation. This berry extract is often used to address redness and sensitive skin.
Sea Buckthorn
Sea buckthorn, Hippophae rhamnoides, is rich in omega-7 and antioxidants, including carotenoids. Sea buckthorn oil is highly nourishing for the skin and is beneficial for various skin conditions, including dry and brittle skin. Sea buckthorn (especially in combination with cranberries) is an antioxidant and protects the skin against harmful UV radiation. Sea buckthorn also stimulates hair growth: sea buckthorn oil is suitable for all hair types and gives strength and shine to the hair shaft, and restores elasticity.
Silk Tree Bark
Silk tree bark, from Albizia julibrissin, reduces wrinkles, bags, and dark circles under the eyes. It eliminates signs of fatigue. Additionally, the bark strengthens the microvascular network and stimulates the skin, thereby providing anti-aging properties.
Spirulina and blue-green algae
Spirulina platensis (Arthrospira platensis), along with several blue-green algae, reduces skin inflammation, improves skin tone, and supports healthy skin cell growth. These nutrient-rich algae, containing vitamins B12 and A, carotene, phosphorus, and iron, also improve hair growth, cleanse the scalp, provide nourishment, and improve hair shine and elasticity.
Yarrow
Yarrow, Achillea millefolium, soothes the skin and reduces redness and irritation. Yarrow contains antioxidant flavonoids, phenols, and various fatty acids, which contribute to healthier skin.
Tea Leaves
Extracts from the leaves of the tea bush, Camellia sinensis (green tea), are used, among other things, to soften hair and support hair regeneration. A 2019 study revealed the clear properties of C. sinensis, including antioxidant, anti-hyaluronidase, anti-inflammatory, slimming, hair-strengthening, photoprotective, and blood vessel-sealing effects.
Unsea barbata lichen
Usnea barbata has traditionally been used in folk medicine for its antimicrobial properties. Its lichen extract is known for its skin-soothing, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant properties. Usnea barbata extract is commonly used in products designed to control body odor and for other applications.
Witch Hazel
Witch hazel, Hamamelis virginiana, and others help reduce irritation, support the repair of damaged skin, and form a protective sheath with astringent, soothing, and antibacterial properties.
Vitamins
Niacinamide, vitamin B3amin
Niacinamide is an anti-inflammatory form of vitamin B3 that is also effective against acne.
Panthenol
Panthenol, also called pantothenol, is a precursor to pantothenic acid (vitamin B5): when panthenol enters the body, it is quickly converted into pantothenic acid. Panthenol strengthens the skin’s protective functions and promotes cell renewal, moisturizes the skin, and improves its elasticity. Panthenol is known to soothe, moisturize, and repair the skin.
Retinol
Retinol is a potent, fat-soluble vitamin that accelerates skin renewal by stimulating microcirculation and the formation of new cells. Retinol also reduces signs of aging and the formation of wrinkles and damage caused by acne and scars.
Vitamin C and E
Vitamin C and E (ascorbyl palmitate and tocopherol) are antioxidants that support the formation of collagen and help fight early signs of skin aging.
Special ingredients
Betaine
Betaine is a natural humectant from sugar beets. Betaine also possesses anti-aging properties, soothes the skin, exhibits anti-inflammatory effects, and helps reduce the appearance of lines and wrinkles.
Alpha-arbutin
Alpha-arbutin is an extract from blackberries and mulberries that has the same effect as kojic acid: alpha-arbutin prevents melanin production and pigmentation, and increases the skin’s radiance and makes it shinier.
Amber
Amber is petrified resin from the conifer Pinus succinifera, a species of pine. Amber warms the skin, opens pores, and cleanses the skin. It is rich in terpenes, which help to regenerate the skin faster and improve oxygen levels in the cells. Amber extract in dissolved form supports tissue renewal and improves skin elasticity. Slows down the aging process and prevents signs of fatigue.
Fructose, Fruit sugar
Fructose (not to be confused with glucose) contains fruit acids and attracts and absorbs moisture into the skin. When the skin is hydrated, all signs of fine lines, flaky patches, and dullness are reduced, giving you a plump, healthy complexion. Fructose can also help increase collagen production, thereby restoring skin elasticity and softness. Fructose should not be overused.
Glycine
Glycine is an amino acid that increases collagen production and supports skin regeneration. It supports skin elasticity, reduces fine lines, improves hydration, and soothes and protects the skin due to its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.
Olivem 1000
Olivem 1000 (cetearyl olivate, sorbitan olivate) is extracted from olive oil. The ingredient helps maintain a necessary pH value in certain products and also provides deep moisturization to the skin. Olivem 1000 is a natural emulsifier and thickener that binds ingredients in products together, thereby enhancing their stability and consistency.
Pentavitin
Pentavitin is a skin-identical carbohydrate complex. It is a unique saccharide isomer formed from D-glucose in corn sugar, found in the plant kingdom, and is similar to the carbohydrate complex found in the skin (stratum corneum) of humans. Pentavitin deeply moisturizes the skin, restores its elasticity, and protects against dryness and wrinkles.
Peptides
Peptides in skin care products are short chains of amino acids that form specific proteins that the skin and hair need, like collagen, which is formed from three polypeptide chains. Peptides are used in skin care products to slow down the aging process, reduce wrinkles, and restore the skin’s natural collagen production. Peptides are also building blocks for elastin and keratin, which play a crucial role in maintaining the health and softness of skin and hair.
Squalene and squalane
Squalene is extracted from a fat that is naturally produced in our skin. Squalene is a saturated oil used for its moisturizing properties. It is also anti-inflammatory, counteracts redness and irritation, and can help alleviate symptoms of eczema and acne. Squalene helps restore the skin’s moisture balance and strengthens its protective barrier. Squalene from plants and animals can be unstable in skin care products. To prevent the ingredient from spoiling or going rancid, it is converted into squalane, creating a stable form suitable for skin care purposes.
Preservatives
Sharomix 705
Sharomix 705 is an effective and complex broad-spectrum preservative that can be added to natural and environmentally friendly cosmetics in small concentrations (approximately 1%). The agent is based on organic acids dissolved in benzyl alcohol (benzyl alcohol (E1519) is produced synthetically but also occurs naturally in several different fruits and teas). ECOCERT approves Sharomix 705.
Vitamin C and E
Vitamin C and E function as nutrients, antioxidants, and preservatives.
Other
Apricot Kernels, Coffee Beans, Kiwi Seeds, and Pumice Stone
- Apricot kernels and coffee beans contain naturally rough and abrasive particles that gently cleanse the skin, support skin cell renewal, and enhance the skin’s appearance.
- Kiwi seeds act as a natural and effective scrub.
- Pumice stone adds a natural exfoliating property that cleanses pores and restores skin vitality.
Essential Oils
- Tea tree, lavender, and bergamot: antibacterial effects.
- Tea tree, lavender, peppermint, and bergamot: these essential oils help reduce inflammation and relax the skin.
- Lemongrass revitalises, refreshes, tones, has antibacterial properties, and helps lift the skin.
- Orange: refreshes, antibacterial, and improves blood circulation and skin tone.
Water
Water is one of the most essential elements in the human body: it helps the skin maintain its elasticity, radiance, youth, and overall health. In skin creams, it binds the ingredients together and helps them be absorbed. Seawater helps reduce bacteria on the skin, minimizes pores, and helps restore dull skin.
White and Pink Clay, Charcoal
- White and pink clay nourishes the hair with all the necessary microelements and revitalizes it.
- Charcoal powder: gives the hair shine and allows it to breathe.
Plant-based stabilizers
and other excipients.