Our Ingredients
This is an index of ingredients found in our essentials, the Daily Renewal Facial Oil (DRFO), the Fresh Faced Exfoliating Peel (FFEP), and the Weekly Reset Mask (WRM). Keep scrolling for a list of ingredients you will NEVER EVER find in our products.
Ingredient Index
Acacia Senegal Gum
*Found in the FFEP
A plant-based ingredient used as a thickening agent and emollient helping to lock moisture into skin. It also has soothing properties and has been studied for its role in decreasing wrinkle depth and appearance.
Aloe Vera Leaf Juice
*Found in the FFEP + WRM
Aloe has been used medicinally for thousands of years. It’s incredibly rich containing 20 minerals, 20 amino acids, 12 Vitamins, as well as active enzymes which all serve to rejuvenate skin. It is a soothing, healing, and anti-inflammatory agent that helps bind moisture to the skin, as well as block UV rays and protect the skin from sun damage. Scientists have found that Aloe stimulates proteolytic enzyme action in skin tissue, activating fibroblast cells that manufacture collagen. And hyaluronic acid production which help to smooth fine lines. Its’ enzymes also help break down dead skin cells making it ideal for cleansing and detoxifying without over-drying skin.
Argan Oil
*Found in the DRFO
Also known as “liquid gold” argan oil has been a skin care hero for over two thousand years. It is healing, nourishing, and a highly effective anti-aging agent due to its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. High in Vitamin E and essential fatty acids, namely oleic acid and linoleic acid, as well as omega fatty acids, argan is a powerful hydrator that strengthens tissue at the cellular level. It helps the skin retain moisture, smooths, softens, and heals problematic conditions like acne, atopic dermatitis, psoriasis and rosacea. Other benefits include regulating sebum production, as well as preventing and reducing hyperpigmentation.
Bakuchiol
*Found in the DRFO
A natural and safe alternative to retinol with all of the benefits and none of the problems. Most notably it can be used during the day with no risk of photosensitivity. It has three primary benefits: anti-aging, skin protection, and anti-acne. It protects and restores the extracellular matrix (ECM) and the dermal-epidermal junction (DEJ), and stimulates collagen production helping to minimize appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. It is a broad-spectrum antioxidant and has an excellent lipid peroxidation inhibitory activity, capable of stimulating the antioxidant defense system (ie. preventing selective alterations in cell signaling, protein and DNA damage, and cytotoxicity). The dual antioxidant pathways help maintain lipid homeostasis and protect skin from oxidative damage.
Bilberry Fruit Extract
*Found in the FFEP
Also known as the European Blueberry, this tiny berry is packed with antioxidants to strengthen the skin and protect against free radicals. It also has astringent properties that are cleansing, tightening, and nourishing. Bilberry is quite calming for the skin and will help to reduce redness making it an ideal ingredient in our Fresh Faced Exfoliating Peel.
Black Currant Oil
*Found in the DRFO
A powerful moisturizer that promotes skin elasticity, cellular regeneration, and relief for dry, itchy skin conditions like eczema and psoriasis. It’s an antioxidant rich and nourishing oil, the main compound being phenolics; flavonoids and anthocyanins. In addition to antioxidant protection flavonoids protect skin from UV radiation. Anthocyanins protect against UV skin damage by inactivating highly reactive molecules such as free radicals and reactive oxygen species (ROS), these are formed during sun exposure and start a chain reaction producing significant cell and tissue damage. Phenolic compounds are useful for reducing the causes and effects of skin aging and, in some cases, eliminating skin damages and diseases, including wounds and burns. On top of that black currant seed oil boasts a high content of Vitamin C, Gamma-Linolenic Acid, Omega 3, 6 and 9 Essential Fatty Acids.
Blackberry Seed Oil
*Found in the DRFO
A powerful healing oil used to improve skin elasticity, regenerate skin cells, heal dry, damaged, or irritated skin, reduce appearance of pores, combat acne, and even repair scar tissue. High in carotenoids, Vitamin C, tocopherols, locotriencols, and lutein, this oil helps to rebuild skin structure and renew skins’ ability to retain moisture, both aspects being integral to maintaining a youthful complexion.
Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride
*Found in the WRM
A specialized esterification of coconut oil using just the caprylic and capric fatty acids. This is very different from fractionated coconut oil which is the result of the standard distillation process that combines all of the fatty acids. It possesses antioxidant properties, helps smooth skin, and creates a barrier on the skin's surface which reduces dryness by limiting moisture loss. It can also be used as a natural preservative helping extend the life of actives in a formula.
Cetearyl Olivate
*Found in the WRM
An emulsifier composed of cetearyl alcohol and the fatty acids from olive oil that is gentle, hypoallergenic, and safe for sensitive skin. It helps with rapid absorption and has moisturizing and softening functions beneficial for all skin types.
Charcoal
*Found in the WRM
Our charcoal comes from bamboo powder and is an excellent ingredient for maintaining a clear and healthy complexion. It helps to remove dirt, excess oil, chemicals, pollutants, and micro particles by actively drawing them to the surface of skin. Used in mask form it’s great for gentle exfoliation, clearing clogged pores, reducing the appearance of pores, and providing an overall rejuvenated effect on the skin.
Citric Acid
*Found in the FFEP
A natural alpha hydroxy acid (AHA) used to promote skin peeling and re-growth by exfoliating the upper layer of dead skin cells. It helps to clean pores, even out skin tone, as well as soften and smooth the skin surface. In addition, regular use will promote thickening of the epidermis and increase hyaluronic acid content in the skin, which means it will attract and hold moisture more effectively. It can be found in anti-aging products because of its protective antioxidant properties and its ability to correct and reverse visible signs of photodamage.
Cucumber Seed Oil
*Found in the WRM
Rich in linoleic acid, Vitamin E, and a number of other nutrients, it’s an excellent anti-aging ingredient. It assists the skin's protective barrier and improves firmness and elasticity. Both antibacterial and anti-inflammatory, this versatile oil diminishes signs of aging while promoting cell regeneration. It also has an abundance of oleic acid, making it a powerful antioxidant that slows the aging process by preventing the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. Oleic acid also strengthens the integrity of the cells and helps to heal eczema, psoriasis, rosacea, and acne.
Cranberry Seed Oil
*Found in the DRFO
Is known as a great anti-aging moisturizer since it has a high essential fatty acid profile and is the only known fruit oil that is balanced in Omega 3, 6 and 9’s, helping it penetrate deep into skin tissue. Combine this with the rich content of Vitamin A, C, E and K, it can help to improve skin's elasticity, boost collagen production, and strengthen the overall skin barrier function. It is also very soothing and beneficial in treating inflammation, eczema and other skin conditions like rashes and irritations. Further it has potent antibacterial properties which can help prevent or clear breakouts caused by harmful microorganisms.
Geranium Oil
*Found in the WRM
A natural anti-oxidant and anti-inflammatory oil that actively boosts skin's health and natural glow. It’s an antibacterial, antimicrobial, and anti-aging agent that also helps soothe irritated or breakout prone skin.
Glacial Glacial Clay/Sea Silt
*Found in the WRM
Hand harvested Canadian Glacial Clay, which is more like a sea mud than traditional clay, is composed of super fine particles able to penetrate the skin's inner layers. By providing a unique profile of hundreds of natural minerals, earth elements, marine actives, micronutrients, and vitamins, this clay infuses skin with essential nourishment while gently drawing out impurities and toxins.
Gluconic Acid
*Found in the FFEP
Gluconic Acid is Polyhydroxy Acid (PHA), these acids have a larger molecular structure than AHA’s, meaning they won’t penetrate skin as deeply or cause irritation. PHA’s can be combined with other AHA’s and exfoliating agents to make formulas like our peel less sensitizing. Like AHA’s it will promote exfoliation, cell renewal, and helps modulate the keratinization process. It has the added bonus of being a humectant, meaning it attracts water molecules to hydrate, and it’s a potent antioxidant that neutralizes free radicals.
Glycerin
*Found in the FFEP
Though glycerin can be made from animal fat or petroleum sources ours is a plant-derived, safe, and non-comedogenic humectant that helps minimize water loss due to evaporation. By trapping moisture that it draws into the skin, it functions to maintain hydration in the stratum corneum which is the outer layer of the skin. This activity helps to improve the skin barrier function and protect against skin irritants.
Glyceryl Caprate
*Found in the WRM
With excellent antimicrobial efficacy, anti-acne activity, skin conditioning and hydrating properties, we’ve used this ingredient to enhance the moisturizing effect and spreadability of our mask.
Grape Seed Oil
*Found in the DRFO
High in vitamin C, E and linoleic acid, a.k.a. omega 6 fatty acid, grape seed oil reduces moisture loss, slows signs of aging, and fortifies the skins’ barrier function. It also contains a powerful antioxidant ingredient proanthocyanidin which helps even out skin tone with consistent use. These antioxidants further help prevent and even reverse pollution and UV-induced free radical damage. As this oil is lightweight and non-comedogenic it’s excellent for treating oily or acne-prone skin.
Green Tea Seed Oil
*Found in the WRM
Camellia seed oil has a molecular makeup similar to sebum, the skin’s natural oil, ensuring good absorption into the deeper layers of the epidermis. A rich source of Palmitic and Omega-6 Linoleic fatty acids, plant collagen, squalene, numerous anti-aging polyphenol antioxidants, and an abundance of vitamins (A, B, C, D, and E), it’s an excellent hydrator that supports the skins’ protection system.
Hyaluronic Acid
*Found in the FFEP
Sodium Hyaluronate is the water-soluble salt form of hyaluronic acid that is the same as the natural substance found in the human body. It is also more stable and less prone to oxidization. It has a lower molecular weight than HA and hydrolyzed HA, meaning it is more easily absorbed into pores and will work deeper than just surface level. It is a moisture magnet with the ability to hold 1000 times its weight in water. Used primarily for its anti-aging and moisturizing capacity it will boost skin firmness, smooth fine lines, and provide deep hydration.
Lactic Acid
*Found in the FFEP
A mild but effective AHA (Alpha Hydroxy Acid) that can create visible change with regular use. It will help to minimize the appearance of pores and improve the overall tone and texture of skin. It has been used to treat hyperpigmentation, age spots, and other factors that contribute to a dull and uneven complexion. It stimulates collagen renewal, firms, brightens, and smooths skin while reducing the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. While all AHA’s exfoliate, lactic acid has the added benefit of improving the skin’s natural moisture factor.
Lavender Oil
*Found in the WRM
This oil is excellent at both preventing and healing acne breakouts by unclogging pores, reducing inflammation, and helping promote cell growth. Its main components are linalool, linalyl acetate, lavandulol, geraniol, and eucalyptol, which have antibacterial as well as anti-fungal properties. Packed with antioxidants it’s a great defender against free radicals, one of the main culprits behind fine lines and wrinkles, and has additional calming and soothing benefits as well.
Lemon Peel Oil
*Found in the FFEP
This oil works well as a skin tonic boasting astringent and antibacterial properties that will help clean pores and clarify skin. It is high in Vitamin C and gently exfoliating. It is used in our peel at a level that will not cause any of the irritations noted with higher lemon concentrations. Note, the Vitamin C in citrus is the star component critical for repairing and rejuvenating skin, improving elasticity, building connective tissues, preventing and reducing hyperpigmentation, encouraging cell turnover, as well as diminishing and preventing fine lines and wrinkles.
Licorice Extract
*Found in the FFEP
A soothing and healing extract used to treat sensitive, irritated or inflamed skin. It contains phytochemical liquiritin which is an active compound that disperses and removes existing melanin in the skin. It’s useful for fading existing spots while also preventing new ones from forming. Licorice also contains glycyrrhizin which has anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties, useful for treating skin conditions like eczema and acne. Impressively, there are nearly 300 compounds within Licorice which have antiviral and antibacterial properties.
Mafura Seed Oil
*Found in the WRM
Mafura Oil is extracted from the vivid red seeds of the trichilia emetica tree, an evergreen tree that is native to southern regions of Africa. This nutrient-rich oil has been produced and used for generations for a wide range of medicinal, skin, and hair care purposes. Rich in palmitic, stearic, oleic and linoleic fatty acids, it has antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory properties, and antioxidant properties. It is an effective emollient that nourishes, softens and protects the skin, making it ideal for parched, dry, itchy, mature, and problem skin types.
Maracuja Oil (Passion Fruit Oil)
*Found in the DRFO
Rich in vitamins, bio-flavanoids, and essential fatty acids, this oil a balancing and soothing hydrator that helps cells combat oxidative stress. This oil boasts a high quantity of protective antioxidants like lycopene, great for combating the effects of sun damage, pollution and environmental stressors. It also has a high concentration of linoleic and oleic acids which keep skin hydrated and looking plump, Vitamin A in the form of carotenoids, which help reduce appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, and Vitamin K which works to reduce rosacea and redness.
Marjoram Oil
*Found in the WRM
This oil has a profound ability to restore hormonal balance and helps regulate the production of sebum, making it a great assistant in controlling acne and hormone-related breakouts.
Niacinamide
*Found in the WRM
Vitamin B is a powerhouse from building keratin to keep skin firm, protecting the lipid barrier to keep skin hydrated, reducing redness and inflammation from eczema and acne, to reducing pore size and regulating sebum protection, this is an essential for healthy skin. It has also been shown to protect skin from pollution, toxins, sun damage and oxidative stress by rebuilding healthy cells. If you need to treat acne, hyperpigmentation, resurface skin texture, or are looking for potent anti-aging ingredients, this Vitamin is key.
Neroli Oil
*Found in the FFEP
Derived from the blossoms of the bitter orange tree this oil not only smells divine but has regenerative, antiseptic, antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, and even pain-relieving properties. It is beneficial for treating acne and the redness that often accompanies breakouts. In terms of anti-aging, it is useful in promoting skin elasticity, generating new cell growth, and locking in moisture.
Orange Fruit Extract
*Found in the FFEP
A beneficial ingredient in skincare providing a significant amount of vitamin C, a potent antioxidant that can protect the skin from free radical damage, repair and rejuvenate skin, improve elasticity, build connective tissues, prevent and reduce hyperpigmentation, encourage cell turnover, stimulate collagen production, as well as diminish and prevent fine lines and wrinkles. It also has gentle astringent properties that help to tone and correct the balance of oils, making it useful for acne prone skin.
Papaya Fruit Extract
*Found in the FFEP
Noted for its softening, moisturizing and exfoliating properties which effectively boost skin cell renewal and rejuvenate dry and aging skin. The enzyme papain is a highly effective and nonabrasive exfoliant which helps to remove impurities and slough off dead skin cells. Rich in antioxidants, Vitamins A & C, lycopene, and beta-carotene, papaya extract assists in creating a glowing radiant complexion.
Pomegranate Seed Oil
*Found in the DRFO
Works wonders in repairing dry, damaged, acne prone, and aging skin. It is highly nourishing and protective with conjugated fatty acids boasting anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. Most notably it contains Omega 5, or punicic acid, one of the most rare and potent antioxidants known to modern science. Its’ conjugated molecular structure makes it readily absorbed by skin, serving as a nutrient delivery system to the cell. Omega 5 supports resilience against inflammation, environmental toxins, and stress, helping to restore and maintain the skin barrier overall. This system aids oleic acid (omega-9) and linoleic acid (omega-6) in stimulating the skins self-repair mechanism and accelerating cellular regeneration.
Prickly Pear Oil
*Found in the DRFO
Prickly Pear oil is uniquely rich and potent. Known as an elixer of youth due to its impressive concentration of sterols, tocopherols, and tocotrienols, as well as Vitamin E and K, Omega 6 and 9, amino, linoleic and oleic acids. This oil boosts the skin barrier function, protects against free radicals, improves microcirculation, replenishes lost lipids to help moisturize and restore skin’s elasticity, stimulates collagen production, prevents premature wrinkle formation, minimizes the appearance of existing fine lines, as well as brightens and evens out the complexion. It’s an ideal oil for those who experience breakouts as it helps prevent sebum from hardening which often encourages acne to develop.
Propanediol
*Found in the FFEP
Derived from corn it is a natural and safe alternative to propylene glycol which is a known skin irritant derived from petrochemicals. It is used as a humectant drawing moisture into the skin and preventing water loss, and also has emollient properties which help to soften and smooth skin. As is the case with our exfoliating peel, propanediol may function in a formula as a solvent for difficult to dissolve ingredients, allowing them to be more effectively applied.
Rose Geranium Essential Oil
*Found in the DRFO
Not to be confused with rose, rose geranium is a type of geranium plant with leaves that smell strongly like roses. It contains antioxidant and healing properties which bolster the skins’ ability to heal itself from environmental toxins and stressors. With antimicrobial, antifungal, and antiviral properties it works to extend the life of natural oils while offering a clean, light, and naturally beautiful scent.
Rosemary (CO2 extracted)
*Found in the DRFO
Beneficial in relieving skin inflammation and soothing acne, eczema, and psoriasis. Its’ antioxidants protect cells from oxidation, inflammation, pathogens, and free radical damage. Two integral components rosmarinic acid and carnosic acid, extend the life of natural oils by inhibiting the free-radical chain reaction that leads to oxidation. It can be used as a natural preservative.
Safflower Oleosomes
*Found in the WRM
Oleosomes are micron-sized spheres of emollient plant oils and vitamin E, surrounded by a phospholipid membrane and protein coat. Found naturally in all oil-bearing plant seeds, oleosomes serve as the natural storehouse of energy used by the seed during germination. Through delayed release of emollient oil and vitamins, these oleosomes slowly release, delivering the stored plant oil and vitamin E over an extended period.
Sea Buckthorn Fruit Oil (Virgin)
*Found in the DRFO
This oil boasts an impressive vitamin content with high levels of C, A, E, and B, as well as flavonoids and a range of organic acids like folic, maleic, oxalic, malic, tartaric, phenolic, and ferulic acids. Highly restorative and protective, this oil shields the skin’s surface from UV rays, helps prevent wrinkles from forming, improves skin elasticity, and aids in quickening cellular regeneration. Due to its rich composition, it is useful for softening and smoothing all skin types, while soothing problematic skin conditions like eczema, psoriasis and rosacea.
Sodium Anisate
*Found in the WRM
The sodium salt of p-anisic acid is a natural preservative obtained from anise and fennel. It is gentle and acts as an anti-fungal agent. When paired with sodium levulinate, as we’ve used it in our mask, they create a comprehensive preservative system.
Sodium Levulinate
*Found in the WRM
A natural and very gentle preservative obtained from starch and vegetal inulin. It has antimicrobial properties that act without affecting the integrity or pH of a formula.
Sodium Salicylate
*Found in the WRM
Obtained from willow bark, this is a salt of salicylic acid that acts as a preservative. It can extend the half-life of a product while preventing the growth of pathogenic bacteria and fungi.
Sorbitan Olivate
*Found in the WRM
The sorbitan olivate we use is plant-derived and is a mixture of the fatty acids from olive oil plus a dehydrated sugar known as sorbitol. It serves to reduce hydration loss and is used in our mask as a hypoallergenic and biocompatible emulsifier.
Strawberry Seed Oil
*Found in the DRFO
This oil is incredibly healing and restorative being rich in Vitamin E, Omega 6, 9, and ellagic acid. It helps to repair the skins' mantle, preserve collagen, and brighten dull skin. By increasing the skins’ moisture content and elasticity it helps to reduce wrinkles and fine lines. It is also useful in treating damage to skin from sunburns, scarring, etc., and problematic skin conditions like acne. Effective for all skin types, including sensitive and oily.
Sugarcane Extract
*Found in the FFEP
An AHA (Alpha-Hydroxy Acid) containing both lactic and glycolic acids that is often used in conjunction with other fruit acids. It’s rich in antioxidants and flavonoids which naturally combat UV rays and work to prevent and reverse damage from free radicals. Sugarcane also has antiseptic properties and may work as a natural exfoliant to refine and brighten the skin.
Sugar Maple Extract
*Found in the FFEP
Obtained from the bark and sap of the sugar maple it contains malic and tartaric acids, natural AHA’s which are great for conditioning and refining skin surface. With regular use overall skin appearance will be improved by preventing new blemishes and wrinkles from forming and leaving a smoother more radiant complexion. As an exfoliant it will eliminate bacteria and dead skin cell buildup while also working to repair free radical damage.
Tartaric Acid
*Found in the FFEP
A natural Alpha Hydroxy Acid (AHA) found in grapes and bananas that promotes skin healing and enhances the skin’s natural glow. It has a smoothing effect due to its keratolytic properties which cause the outer layer of the skin to loosen and shed which, in turn, improve the skin’s moisture binding capacity. It also acts as a potent antioxidant by helping to release desmosomes which are specialized adhesive protein complexes responsible for maintaining the tissue function.
Tocopherol
*Found in the WRM
Vitamin E is especially beneficial in skin care as it protects against free radical damage from UV exposure and helps strengthen the skin barrier. It's a powerful antioxidant, used widely to reduce the visibility of fine lines and wrinkles, has potent anti-inflammatory, skin softening, and moisture boosting benefits as well.
Vitamin C/ L-Ascorbic Acid
*Found in the WRM
Our source is found naturally in fruit and is revered for its powerful antioxidant benefits, helping neutralize free radicals to protect against oxidative stress and UV damage. It also has visible anti-aging benefits because it penetrates the skin tissue and actively stimulates collagen production (more than other forms of the vitamin), which in turn helps reduce fine lines, thicken the dermis, and increase overall skin firmness.
Vitamin C/ Magnesium Ascorbyl Palmitate
*Found in the FFEP
MAP is a water soluble, more stable, and less irritating form of Vitamin C. On top of the well-known benefits of pure Vitamin C (free radical scavenging, melanin production inhibition, hyperpigmentation reduction, stimulation of collagen and elastin production, etc.) MAP has been shown to have more specific and enhanced skin brightening benefits.
Xanthan Gum
*Found in the WRM
Derived from sugar and produced by bacterial fermentation, it is one of the only naturally-derived thickening agents. It also enhances texture and stabilizes emulsions, meaning mixtures of unlike substances such as oil and water.
The NEVER EVER List
We’ve put together a list of ingredients that you will never find in an Essentialist product. Though there are thousands of chemicals we will simply never use, this list encompasses the most common dirty culprits found in skincare and cosmetic formulations.
NO ALCOHOL DENAT (DENATURED)
NO ALUMINUM SALTS (BENZOPHENONE, HOMOSALATE, OCTINOXATE, OCTYL- METHOXYCINNAMATE, OXYBENZONE PADIMATE-O, PABA,)
NO BENZALKONIUM CHLORIDE
NO BUTYLATED HYDROXYANISOLE AND BUTYLATED HYDROXYTOLUENE
NO COAL TAR INGREDIENTS (DIETHANOLAMINNE (DEA), TRIETHANOLAMINE (TEA), MONOETHANOLAMINE (MEA)/ETHANOLAMINE (ETA))
NO ENDOCRINE DISRUPTORS
NO ETHANOL
NO ETHANOLAMINES
NO ETHYLENEDIAMINETETRAACETIC ACID (EDTA)
NO FORMALDEHYDE
NO FRAGRANCE
NO GLYCOLS
NO GMO’S
NO HYDROQUINONE
NO ISOPROPYL ALCOHOL
NO M- OR O-PHENYLENEDIAMINE
NO MERCURY
NO METHANOL
NO METHYLCHLOROISOTHIAZOLINONE
NO METHYLISOTHIAZOLINONE
NO NANOPARTICLES
NO PARABENS
NO PEG COMPOUNDS (POLYETHYLENE, POLYETHYLENE GLYCOL, POLYOXYETHYLENE)
NO PETROCHEMICALS
NO PETROLEUM DISTILLATES
NO PFAS
NO PHENOXYETHANOL
NO PHTHALATES (DBP, DEHP, DEP, ETC.)
NO RETINYL PALMITATE
NO SILICONE
NO SODIUM LAURYL SUPLPHATE OR SODIUM LAURETH SULFATE
NO SULFATES
NO SYNTHETIC DYES
NO SYNTHETIC FRAGRANCES
NO TALC
NO TOLUENE
NO TRICLOSAN AND TRICLOCARBAN
Skin Safe Alcohols
Derived from natural ingredients, fatty alcohols like cetyl alcohol (from coconut oil) and stearyl alcohol (from coconut or vegetable oils) are safe for your skin, and have a positive role to play in skincare formulations. Their emollient properties help to bolster the skin’s defensive barrier, protecting the skin from damage and boosting moisture retention. Unsafe alcohols on our NEVER EVER list are made from petroleum products and are known to cause dryness, irritation, and breakouts.