Essential Oils:
- Frankincense EO: Anti-inflammatory, reduces stress and anxiety, improves skin tone, relieves pain.
- Helichrysum EO: Anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, antifungal, promotes wound healing, reduces scars.
- Peppermint EO: Digestive aid, relieves headaches and nausea, refreshing and invigorating.
- Lavender EO: Promotes relaxation, improves sleep, calms anxiety, soothes skin irritations.
- Lemon EO: Aids digestion, boosts immune system, natural disinfectant, uplifts mood.
- Orange EO: Antidepressant, antiseptic, improves circulation, promotes detoxification.
- Eucalyptus EO: Decongestant, relieves respiratory issues, anti-inflammatory, insect repellent.
- Tea Tree EO: Antimicrobial, antifungal, treats acne, soothes skin irritations.
- Vanilla EO: Calms anxiety, promotes relaxation, improves mood, natural aphrodisiac.
- Lemongrass EO: Anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, insect repellent, reduces stress.
- Clove Bud EO: Antimicrobial, antifungal, pain reliever, digestive aid.
- Cinnamon EO: Lowers blood sugar, improves circulation, antibacterial, anti-inflammatory.
- Rosemary EO: Improves memory, boosts immune system, antioxidant, digestive aid.
Note: Always dilute essential oils with carrier oils and perform patch tests before using new ingredients, especially on sensitive skin. Consult with a healthcare professional or certified aromatherapist if needed.
Carrier Oils:
- Vitamin E Oil: Antioxidant, promotes skin health, protects from sun damage.
- Hemp Seed Oil: Moisturizes skin, reduces inflammation, improves heart health.
- Coconut Oil: Hydrates skin, promotes weight loss, supports immune system.
- Olive Oil: Rich in antioxidants, improves heart health, moisturizes skin.
- Castor Oil: Relieves constipation, reduces inflammation, promotes skin health.
- Shea Butter: Moisturizes skin, reduces inflammation, protects from sun damage.
- Cocoa Butter: Hydrates skin, improves skin elasticity, antioxidant properties.
Herbs and Botanicals:
- Black Elderberry: Boosts immune system, antioxidant, reduces inflammation.
- Plantain Leaves: Soothes skin irritations, reduces inflammation, antimicrobial.
- Dandelion Flowers: Supports liver health, reduces inflammation, antioxidant.
- Comfrey Leaves: Promotes wound healing, reduces inflammation, soothes skin.
- Calendula Flowers: Soothes skin irritations, promotes wound healing, anti-inflammatory.
- Green Tea Leaves: Antioxidant, reduces inflammation, boosts immune system.
Natural Ingredients:
- Cocoa Powder: Rich in antioxidants, improves heart health, reduces inflammation.
- Bentonite Clay: Detoxifies skin, reduces inflammation, improves digestion.
- Colloidal Oats: Soothes skin irritations, reduces inflammation, moisturizes.
- Honey: Natural antibacterial, soothes skin irritations, promotes wound healing.
- Activated Charcoal: Detoxifies skin, reduces inflammation, improves digestion.
- Beeswax: Moisturizes skin, protects from environmental stressors, natural emollient.
- Turmeric Powder: Anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, improves cognitive function.
- Butterfly Pea Flower (Clitoria ternatea): Antioxidant-rich, Adaptogenic: May help reduce stress and anxiety, Anti-inflammatory, Natural colorant
- Beetroot Benefits: Antioxidant-rich, Natural colorant, Blood pressure regulation, Detoxification, Anti-inflammatory, Rich in vitamins and minerals
- Spirulina Benefits: Rich in protein, Antioxidant-rich, Anti-inflammatory, Immune system support, Natural energy
- Rhubarb Root Powder: Anti-inflammatory, Antibacterial, Natural astringent: Balances skin pH and reduces pores, Rich in vitamins and minerals
Benefits of Essential Oils (EO):
- Penetration: Essential oils can penetrate the skin, potentially providing therapeutic benefits.
- Antimicrobial properties: Many essential oils have antimicrobial properties, which can help prevent infection and promote wound healing.
- Anti-inflammatory effects: Some essential oils can reduce inflammation and soothe skin irritations.
- Antioxidant activity: Essential oils rich in antioxidants can protect the skin from damage caused by free radicals.
Potential Risks:
- Skin irritation: Essential oils can cause skin irritation, especially if used undiluted or in high concentrations.
- Allergic reactions: Some individuals may be allergic to specific essential oils, leading to allergic contact dermatitis.
- Photosensitivity: Certain essential oils (e.g., bergamot, lemon) can increase skin sensitivity to sunlight, potentially leading to phototoxicity.
- Systemic absorption: Essential oils can be absorbed into the bloodstream through the skin, potentially interacting with medications or exacerbating health conditions.
Factors Influencing Essential Oil Absorption:
- Concentration: Higher concentrations increase the risk of skin irritation and systemic absorption.
- Skin type: Sensitive skin is more prone to irritation, while thicker skin may reduce absorption.
- Carrier oils: Diluting essential oils with carrier oils can reduce skin irritation and improve absorption.
- Application method: Topical application, massage, and bathing can affect essential oil absorption.
Micas:
Micas are a group of naturally occurring minerals known for their shimmering, iridescent appearance. In the context of cosmetics and skincare, micas are commonly used as colorants and texture additives.
Types of Micas:
- Natural Micas: Derived from mineral sources, including:
- Muscovite (white, silver)
- Phlogopite (gold, bronze)
- Biotite (brown, copper)
Benefits in Cosmetics:
- Pigmentation: Micas provide shimmering, metallic colors.
- Texture: Adds depth and visual interest to products.
- Light Scattering: Creates a sense of glow and radiance.
Alternatives:
- Natural Colorants: Plant-based alternatives like beetroot, turmeric, and spirulina.
- Synthetic Colorants: Man-made alternatives, often more light-stable and consistent.
- Biodegradable Glitters: Plant-based, compostable glitters.
Micas can add unique visual effects to cosmetics, but it's crucial to consider potential risks and choose responsible sources.