Research
Shea Butter
Shea is extracted from the nut of the African shea tree. It is solid at room temperature and melts at body temperature making it a perfect foundational ingredient in topical moisturizer. It has sun protective properties and also acts as an emollient to help smoothe skin. Topical use of Shea butter has also demonstrated anti-aging and anti-inflammatory properties.
Our organic shea butter is sourced from a Ghana based women's co-op in West Africa called Essential Depot.
Cocoa Butter
Cocoa butter is mostly made up of fatty acids and is extracted from the cocoa bean. In topical use it acts as an occlusive, helping to form a protective layer on the skin, preventing moisture from escaping, and therefore stopping the skin from drying.
Coconut Oil
Coconut oil contains anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that, when combined with its hydrating and emollient effects, have the potential to accelerate wound healing.
A 2017 study demonstrated the anti inflammatory activity of coconut oil by suppressing inflammatory markers and protecting the skin by enhancing skin barrier function.
Tea Tree Oil
Tea tree oil (TTO) exhibits strong antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties. It exerts antioxidant activity and has been reported to have broad-spectrum antimicrobial activity against bacterial, viral, fungal, and protozoal infections affecting skin and mucosa.
Several studies have suggested the uses of TTO for the treatment of acne vulgaris, seborrheic dermatitis, and chronic gingivitis. It also accelerates the wound healing process and exhibits anti-skin cancer activity.
Vitimin E Oil
As an antioxidant, vitamin E combats free-radical damage, but unlike most other antioxidants, vitamin E is also a very hydrating molecule since it works as a both a humectant (to absorb water into the skin) and an emollient (to trap water in the skin).
Vitamin E is an important fat-soluble antioxidant and has been in use for more than 50 years in dermatology. It is an important ingredient in many cosmetic products. It protects the skin from various deleterious effects due to solar radiation by acting as a free-radical scavenger. Experimental studies suggest that vitamin E has antitumorigenic and photoprotective properties.