a | b | c | d | e | f | g | h | i | j | k | l | m | n | o | p | q | r | s | t | u | v | w | x | y | z |



jasmine oil: credited with moisturizing, soothiing and healing properties, excellent for dry and sensitive skins. Produces a feeling of optimism, confidence and euphoria.

jojoba oil: simondsia chinensis is a thick, waxy oil extracted from the large, vanilla-shaped beans of a bush that grows in the arid climates of Arizona, southern California, and New Mexico. Jojoba oil is strikingly similar to human sebum and is able to effectively penetrate the skin. It is a natural cellular renewal ingredient as well as an excellent moisturizer.

juglans nigra extract: see black walnut extract

juniper extract: credited with good penetration capabilities; a mild skin stimulant, helps to stimulate fibroblast growth, resulting in increased epidermal cell turnover.

kathon cg: an effective fungicide, useful against bacteria, yeasts and fungi.

kaolin: a white Chinese clay used to give color and "slip" to powders. It also helps to gently absorb oil in the surface of the skin, help clear breakouts.

keratin: a surface protective agent with film forming and moisturizing properties; helps protect skin and retain moisture.

klamath blue-green algae: a nutrient dense substance, containing glyco-proteins, vitamins, minerals simple carbohydrates, lipids and biologically active enzymes. Due to the algae's nutritious soft cell wall, these nutrients are readily available to the body.

kojic acid: a skin-lightening agent derived from aspergilus fungi; studies find it to be a tyrosinase inhibitor. Used to lighten brown patches associated with pregnancy or oral contraceptives.

kikiu nut oil: an intensely moisturizing oil high in vitamins that quickly absorbs; soothes and nourishes dry or damaged skin.

lactic acid: an alpha hydroxy acid derived from milk with a larger molecular sizes than glycolic acid. Increases skin's hydration, pilability and flexibility, excellent for more sensitive skin, ethnic skin, or hyperpigmented skin.

laminaria digitata extract: a red algae containing high concentrations of vitamins, mineral salts and proteins. Highly detoxifying, anti-inflammatory, nourshes and remineraized the skin. See algae extract.

laureth-23: an emulsifier and emulsion stabilizer used in oil-in-water adn water-in-oil emulsions.

lavandin: essential oil of a hybird related to lavender. Antiseptic, analgesic and soothing properties.

lavender oil: the most versatile of all essential oils. Lavender oil is excellent for promoting healing and for balancing the skin. It is an antiseptic, analgesic, antibiotic, antidepressant, bactericide, decongestant, and sedative. It helps to reduce scarring and also stimulates the growth of new cells.

lecithin: a natural emollient and anti-oxidant with excellent penetration; obtained from soybeans. A vital element of all living cells.

lemon oil: an essential oil that is pressed from the outer rind of lemons. It si a mild bleach, which enables it to brighten dull skin color and calm redness. It is also a natural astrigent, antiseptic, and bactericide with the ability to stimulate the white corpuscles that defend the body. The essential oil is used to regulate and control fluid accumulation and to bring balance to fluids in skin cells. Lemon also balances the pH of the skin by counteracting acidity on its surface. It has an uplifting and refreshing effect when inhaled.

lemongrass oil: an essential oil distilled from the grassy herb of the same name. It is purifying, refreshing, and hydrating.

licorice root extract: studies show that this extract boosts the capability of skins natural steroid hormones to combat irritation and inflammation. Has a depigmenting effect and is an effective tyrosinase inhibitor.

licorice root powder: see licorice extract.

linnden blossom: an extract with soothing, sedative, hydrating properties. used effectively in creams and emulsions for irritated skin.

linoleic acid: emulisifier that prevents dryness and roughness; also found to inhibit melanin production.

liquapar optima: a broad spectrum anti-microbial preservative, effective at low concentrations.