CARRIER OILS:
Pomegranate Seed Oil – This luxurious and bioactive oil, derived from the seeds of pomegranates (aka, the fruit of paradise), is pale yellow to golden yellow in color. Organic unrefined pomegranate seed oil is a highly sought-out oil for inclusion in skin and hair care products because of its high concentration of antioxidants (including Vitamin C, ellagic acid, and bioflavonoids), polyunsaturated fatty acids (primarily, conjugated punicic acid), and anti-fungal properties. The vitamin C in pomegranate seed oil works to gently slough away dead skin cells (promoting a brighter, clearer complexion) and facilitate collagen production (which helps to achieve a tighter, more supple, and youthful-looking skin). The ellagic acid component of pomegranate seed oil has been shown in studies to prevent the breakdown of collagen and attenuate UV-B induced toxicity in human skin cells. This protective effect of ellagic acid against UV rays and free radicals, which is also a benefit provided by the bioflavonoids present in pomegranate seed oil, makes this bioactive oil incredibly effective at reducing oxidative stress in skin, delaying visible signs of aging (including UV-B induced skin wrinkle formation), and improving the health and appearance of hair. The omega 5 or punicic acid in pomegranate seed oil provides a myriad of benefits such as hydrating and improving elasticity of skin and hair, protecting the skin’s collagen fibers, and calming skin and scalp ailments (such as acne, eczema, and psoriasis) because of its anti-inflammatory property.
Chia Seed Oil – Organic unrefined chia seed oil is cold pressed from the globally renown superfood, chia seeds. It is a bright golden yellow in color and very unique in its chemical composition. Not only is chia seed oil very rich in polyunsaturated fatty acids (omega-3 and 6), but it has the perfect ratio of Omega 3 to Omega 6 fatty acids (3:1) among plant oils. It also has a high concentration of tocopherols (Vitamin E) and polyphenols. Chia seed oil’s most notable effects are in improving hydration and moisture retention, alleviating skin and scalp disorders, decreasing excessive melanin production, and protecting skin and hair against free radicals. Studies report that the topical application of pure chia seed oil over a period of 8 weeks significantly improved skin hydration and strengthened the skin’s moisture barrier which helps to prevent water loss and the penetration of harmful toxins from the environment. This same topical use of chia seed oil was also found to alleviate atopic dermatitis, contact dermatitis, chronic eczema, psoriasis, and xerosis, and the itching that often accompanies these skin ailments. Chia seed oil has also been found to be significantly effective at inhibiting melanin production in skin cells which is very useful for fading dark scars and marks and improving the evenness of skin tone. Additionally, the strong presence of phenols in chia seed oil also makes it very effective at protecting the skin and hair against free radical damage and oxidative stress and thus delaying signs of aging such as wrinkles and fine lines and the breakdown of keratin and other proteins in hair.
ESSENTIAL OILS:
Blue Tansy Essential Oil – Blue tansy essential oil is antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antifungal. Importantly, it is well known for its anti-aging effects and ability to alleviate dryness, inflammation, redness, and acne.
Ylang Ylang Essential Oil – Ylang ylang essential oil is anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial and very effective at maintaining the health of pores (through cleansing, reducing their appearance, and balancing oil production). It also minimizes fine lines and wrinkles.
BOTANICALS:
Cornflowers are rich in polyphenol antioxidants that provide anti-aging effects similar to vitamin A and are powerful at reducing eye puffiness and the appearance of pores.