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Ingredient name
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Ingredient source and information
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Acrylic Detergent Polymer:
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A dispersant. Removes soap scum, reduces dirt
redeposition. Keeps nozzles from clogging with hard water minerals.
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AHA:
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Alphahydroxy acids are derived from citrus fruits, apples,
sugar cane and sour milk. It is used by dermatologists to remove dead
skin cells and accelerate the development of new, younger skin. The
process works by dissolving the intercellular "glue" that
causes dead skin cells to stick together. Ancient Egyptians (notably
Cleopatra) used to bathe in milk and discovered it added to their
healthy skin! It was probably the AHA in the milk that was doing the
job!
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Alcohol:
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Alcohol, a colorless liquid created by the fermentation of
grains, breaks up grease and oil and combats the growth of germs.
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Alcohol Alkoxytate:
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This is a low foaming surfactant (wetting agent) which
reduces the surface tension of water, causing soap, grease and mineral
deposits to rinse off, and the water itself to drain away quickly
leaving no film or deposit on the cleaned surface. It has excellent
biodegradability.
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Allantoin:
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Extracted from plants such as comfrey, barberry and
rockberry, allantoin helps heal wounds and skin abrasions and
stimulates healthy tissue growth.
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Aloe Vera:
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The spiky leaves of this plant indigenous to southern
Africa produce a juice that soothes, nourishes, rejuvenates and heals.
Aloe also absorbs the sun's UV rays. Keep an aloe plant on your
kitchen windowsill to help ease minor burns and cuts.
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AMC BEC:
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From soybeans. This ingredient makes hair soft and shiny.
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Apple Extract:
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Aids in cleansing and imparts a wonderful, sweet
fragrance.
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Arnica (Wolf's Bane):
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Found in the Northern Hemisphere, the dried flowers of
this herb are used to treat skin disorders. It promotes circulation,
is an anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial agent.
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Ascorbic Acid (Vitamin C):
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Essential for healthy bodies, it also has the ability to
naturally preserve and prevent products from deteriorating. Found
abundantly in citrus fruits.
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Avocado Oil (Alligator Pear):
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This pulpy green fruit was once used as an aphrodisiac. It
is readily absorbed through the skin to moisturize.
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Balm Mint (Balm of Gilead):
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From Africa and Asia, this evergreen was used in ancient
Palestine for its soothing and healing properties.
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Banana Oil (Isoamyl Acetate):
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Dissolves non-water soluble oils such as grease and tar,
but is completely biodegradable.
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Beeswax:
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We use pure virgin beeswax to add fragrance and help seal
in moisture.
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Benzophone 3:
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A powerful sun block. Also known as Escalol 567.
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Biodegradable:
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Materials that disintegrate under environmental conditions
in a reasonable and demonstrable period of time, where the primary
mechanism is through the action of microorganisms such as bacteria,
yeast, fungi and algae.
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Bio-Sulfur:
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Formed by introducing sulfur a naturally found element,
with organic material. Bio-sulfur has long been known for its
wonderful healing properties.
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Biotin:
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Present in minute amounts in every living cell, found in
large quantities in ginseng and alfalfa, biotin is vital to growth and
essential for healthy circulation and red blood cells. It is also
known as the Vitamin H-Vitamin B Factor.
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Butylen glycol:
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(See glycol)
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Calendula:
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For centuries people gathered the dried heads of
marigolds, crushed them and made a rinse for their hair. It was used
to soothe inflammation of skin and mucous membranes. In early times it
was also used as a rain indicator. If the flowers close after 7 a.m.,
then it will rain the same day.
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Camomile (Chamomile):
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This white and yellow flower can bring out the highlights
in hair. In ancient times it was used as a tonic and pain reliever. In
cosmetics it soothes skin irritations. Camomile has outstanding
anti-inflammatory, soothing and antispasmodic properties. Herbalists
today use it extensively for its wide-ranging healing abilities
including nervous disorders and insomnia.
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Caprylic/Capric Triglycerides:
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Obtained from a wide variety of plants, it adds a natural
aroma.
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Carbomer 934 (Carbopol/carboxypolymethylene):
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Carboxylic acids are fatty acids naturally derived from
plants. They help emulsify fats.
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Castor Oil (Palma/Christi Oil):
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From the castor bean. Very soothing to the skin.
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Ceteareth 6,25:
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Some companies continue to use this ingredient from its
natural source - sperm whales. This is one area where CAERAN has opted
for a synthetic copy. Non-toxic moisturizer.
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Cetyl Alcohol:
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Found naturally in the sarsaparilla plant, cetyl alcohol
is used to emulsify and make a stable, harmonious solution. It is not
only highly safe for external use, but is also used for internal
preparations.
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Chalk:
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This is purified calcium carbonate and is a natural
element in the environment.
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Chestnut:
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Also known as Horse Chestnut from a tree native to Asia,
this is a natural tonic and astringent for the scalp. It stimulates
and promotes circulation.
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Chlorinated Granules:
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Chlorine is a naturally found element, such as in sodium
chloride (table salt). In its pure state it combines quickly with
other organic elements. It is our goal to use this element to the
minimum and use alternate ingredients when possible.
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Chlorophyll:
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The green coloring in all plants, which is essential for
photosynthesis. It is used for its deodorizing and fragrant qualities.
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Citric Acid:
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Derived from citrus and is used as a natural preservative.
It is also used as a refreshing drink with water and sugar.
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Citricidal:
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This is a Tradename for a professional strength grapefruit
seed extract. It is a powerful oral cleanser. Grapefruit seed extract
is used in strong concentrations in India to purify water.
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Citrus Oil (D-limonene):
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Extracted from citrus peels and readily biodegradable,
this is a powerful natural grease cutter.
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Cocamidopropyl Betaine:
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(See coconut oil)
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Cocoa Buffer (Theobroma Oil):
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Expressed from the roasted seeds of the cocoa plant, this
oil softens and lubricates skin.
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Coconut DEA:
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Acts as a foamer. As oil is freed and floats to the top,
it holds the soil and grease in suspension so that it will not be
redeposited on dishes. It also acts as an emollient to prevent dryness
of the skin. It is readily biodegradable and is derived from the
coconut palm.
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Coconut Oil:
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Nature's natural foamer. Excellent as a skin cleanser
because of its mildness and can be found in high quality shampoos,
creams and bubble baths. Coconut betaine is a component of coconut
oil. From the coconut palm.
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Collagen (Swiss):
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We use a vegetable derived collagen which gives a
beautifully soft feel to the texture of the skin. Collagen helps
nourish the inner cell, promoting healthy tissue growth and improving
elasticity. A component of all living cells.
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Color:
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The end result of a recipe may not be pleasing to the eye
nor invite you to try it. This is where colors come in. They are
probably the most studied and tested ingredients in all cosmetics and
food products. When we use colour, CAERAN chooses colours that are
safe and have been certified for use in food products. Each color is
created following a specific recipe using ingredients from various
organic sources.
Most of our products do not contain any added colour at all, and all
product catagories include colour-free options.
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Coltsfoot:
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This wild ginger was used historically to fight colds,
asthma and treat wounds.
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Comfrey:
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From the roots and rhizomes of Symphytum officinal, it has
been used for centuries by monks as a healer of bruises and other
injuries and continues to be used extensively today by herbalists and
naturopaths. (See allantoin).
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Cucumber Extract:
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A natural astringent with a pleasant aroma, cucumber
extract imparts a cool feeling to the skin and is excellent as a
moisturizing agent and moisture regulator.
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D-Iimonene:
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(See citrus oil).
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Deionized Water:
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Water that has had the hard minerals removed. It is
extremely soft and gentle water.
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Dimethicone:
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Derived from plants, it forms a silicone-like barrier on
the skin to help seal in sunscreen.
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Emulsify:
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Sometimes two or more desirable ingredients do not mix.
Something has to be added to bind them together to make a smooth
consistency. For example, eggs are used when making mayonnaise to bind
the oil and vinegar.
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Ethoxydiglycol:
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(See glycol)
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Ethyl Alcohol:
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An antibacterial ingredient made from starch, sugar and
other carbohydrates.
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Eucalyptus Oil (Dinkum Oil):
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From the eucalyptus tree, this liquid is nature's
deodorizer.
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Fatty Acids:
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Fatty acids are necessary for healthy skin and hair (i.e.
linoleic and stearic acid). They are found naturally in oils such as
coconut oil.
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Flax Seed Oil:
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Flax is a grain.
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Gentian:
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From southern or central Europe, this yellow root is used
for healing externally and for flavoring food.
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Germaben:
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FDA approved preservative composed of methyl paraben and
propyl paraben dissolved in propylene glycol.
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Glycerine:
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We use a vegetable derived glycerine. Large quantities are
found naturally in avocados. It is a warm, oily fluid obtained by
adding alkalies to fixed oils. It acts as a humectant, and emollient
and absorbs moisture from the air. Glycerine is a valuable
moisturizing ingredient.
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Glyceryl Stearte SE:
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(See glycerine and stearic acid)
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Glycol:
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An ingredient mixed with glycerine. It is used to make an
emulsion or smooth lotion and is obtained from such plants as
artichokes.
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Goat's Milk:
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A soothing, gentle skin cleanser, from the milk of goats.
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Grape Seed Oil:
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Expressed from grape seed, this oil is used in fine
hypoallergenic creams and lotions because it does not cause allergic
reactions.
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Hayflower:
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Hayflower is indigenous to the alpine regions of Europe -
it has soothing and relaxing properties, and adds shine and luster to
hair.
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Honey:
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Soothing, healing and imparts a wonderful aroma.
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Horsetail:
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This herb has a long history as an effective treatment for
damaged and tired skin. It also helps to improve the elasticity of
skin. Renowned herbalist Abbe Kneipp declares horsetail as
"uniquely irreplaceable and invaluable'.
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Hydroxyethyl Cellulose:
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From wood pulp or cotton, this ingredient is an
emulsifier. It is used because it is not susceptible to bacterial or
fungal decomposition and has natural preserving qualities. There is no
known toxicity.
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Hypericum (hypericin) (St. John's Wort):
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Early Christians believed the fragrant, red juice of the
flowers represented the blood and wounds of Jesus Christ. In fact, it
is a wonderful wound healer, soothing pain and acting as an
anti-inflammatory.
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Imidazolidinyl Urea:
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(See urea)
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Irgasan:
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A bacterial static ingredient which inhibits the growth of
bacteria. It is not the "sweat" that smells, but the
bacteria that grows in it.
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Isopropyl Alcohol (Isopropanol):
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Used for its antibacterial properties. Alcohol is
manufactured by the fermentation of such carbohydrates as starch with
sugar.
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Isopropyl Myristae:
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(See isopropyl alcohol and myristic acid)
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Isopropyl Palmitate:
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Obtained from oils, this is used to moisturize and add
thickness to lotions.
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Jojoba Oil:
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From the beanlike seed of the desert shrub Simondsia
chinenis, this liquid is a lubricant and has long been used by Mexican
Indians as a hair conditioner and skin moisturizer.
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Kaolin (China Clay):
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Kaolin absorbs oil secreted by the skin. It was originally
obtained from Kaoling Hill in Kiangsi Province in Southeast China.
Kaolin is from the silicate family and has also been used to treat
internal conditions.
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Lactic Acid:
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Produced by the metabolism of glucose and glycogen, it is
present in food products and is used as an astringent.
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Lanolin:
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An oil extracted from sheep's wool after it has been
sheared. Lanolin is extremely effective in preventing dry skin.
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Lauramide DEA:
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A mixture of ethanolamide oflauric acid the principal
fatty acid of coconut oil. Makes copious bubbles when in soap.
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Linear Alcohol Ethoxylate (L.A.E.):
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An emulsifier and surfactant (wetting agent). Decreases
the ingredients to penetrate and remove the dirt. L.A.E. is the most
readily biodegradable surfactant available and breaks down into
harmless carbon dioxide and water. It exceeds the OECD standards for
biodegradability. It is mild to the skin and rinses off easily leaving
no film. L.A.E. has no toxic effects on aquatic life from mosquito
larvae to guppies, snails, etc.
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Lauyl Dimethylamine Oxide:
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A biodegradable ingredient used in dishwashing liquids and
shampoos. It is mild to the skin and is used as an emollient and
lubricant.
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Linear Alcohol Ethoxysulfate:
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(See Linear Alcohol Ethosylate).
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Magnesium Aluminum Silicate (Veegum):
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This ingredient is found in a variety of items such as
table salt, vanilla powder and antacids. We use it for its cleansing
and astringent properties.
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Magnesium Laureth Sulfate:
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Widely used in shampoos as a surfactant because of its low
irritation level.
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Magnesium Sulfate:
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The salt of manganese, an ore found abundantly in the
earth. No known toxicity.
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Malteated Soybean Oil:
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From the soybean, this ingredient acts as a water barrier
and therefore added to our sunscreen to resist washing off.
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Menthol:
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Menthol is naturally obtained from peppermint and is used
to impart a cool, refreshing feeling to the skin. It is a mild local
anesthetic and is good for hot, tired feet and as a back rub.
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Methyl Paraben (Methyl p-Hydroxybenzoate):
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Obtained from ylang ylang, a tree native to tropical Asia,
this is a highly safe, non-irritating, non-poisonous antimicrobial
preservative.
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Methyl Sulphate Quaternary:
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Derived from sunflower or olive oil this ingredient acts
as a surfactant (see Surfactant).
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Microcrystalline Wax:
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A superb water repellent wax derived from petroleum
products. No known toxicity.
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Mineral Oil (White Oil):
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Mineral Oil is a colorless and non-toxic mixture of
refined hydrocarbons from petroleum, and prevents skin dryness.
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Myristic Acid:
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Found naturally in such things as nutmeg, coconut, mace
and other vegetable fats, this oily substance is used in many creams.
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Natural Fragrance:
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Any combination of naturally derived fragrances used to
safely enhance the appeal of a product.
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Neem Tree:
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Called the miraculous healing herb, this native plant from
India is used on chronic skin conditions such as eczema, acne,
athlete's foot and psoriasis.
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Nettle:
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With a long history in folk medicine, nettle is rich in
minerals and plant hormones and has been used for centuries to
stimulate hair growth and leave hair shiny and soft. Maria Treben,
renowned herbalist, stated in her book "Health Through God's
Pharmacy" that nettle is one of our most valuable medicinal
herbs. Mankind does not realize how valuable it is or it would plant
Nettle only".
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Oat Flour/Meal:
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Used for centuries as a natural, effective facial
cleanser. It deep cleanses and soothes. It is the ground product of
the oat grain.
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Octyldodecanol (Stearyl Alcohol):
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Some companies continue to use this solid ingredient from
its natural source - sperm whales. This is one area where CAERAN has
opted for a synthetic copy. Excellent lubricant.
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Octyl Methoxy-cinnamanate:
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A UVB block (burning ultraviolet rays from the sun)
derived from cinnamon and coca leaves. (Escalol 557)
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Octyl Salicylate:
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A UVB block, Found naturally in wintergreen leaves, sweet
birch and other plants. It is also an antipyretic (anti-itch) and
antiseptic to promote soothing and healing. (Escalol 587)
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Olive Oil:
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Superior to mineral oil and more expensive, olive oil has
the ability to penetrate grime and dirt. The olive tree is an
evergreen grown in warm regions such as the Mediterranean.
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Organic (vegetable) Derived Protein:
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Proteins are essential constituents of every living cell.
They are built with amino acids of which 28 are known to exist. When
added to shampoos and conditioners, they will add gloss and luster. In
cosmetics, they help water penetrate the skin.
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Organic Preservatives:
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To ensure your health and safety it is necessary to use
preservatives.
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Organization for Economic Co-operation
and Development (OECD):
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This is an international scientific body of which Canada
is a member. It sets standards by which a product (or ingredient) is
recognized as biodegradable. The tests are respected throughout the
world.
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Panthenol (Vitamin B complex factor):
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Derived from a multitude of organic sources including
grains. Panthenol is necessary for healthy tissues.
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Parsol 1789®:
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Blocks UVA rays from the sun (those that cause skin
cancer). The Canadian Cancer Society promotes the use of this
ingredient because of its effectiveness in protecting and shielding
the skin. This is a very expensive, exclusively patented ingredient.
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Peppermint Oil:
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Adds fragrance and is a mild local analgesic from the
peppermint plant. (See menthol)
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Polysorbate 20:
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From vegetable fats, it is used for its cleansing ability
and helps emulsify fats with the other ingredients.
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Potassium Silicate:
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(see water glass)
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Propyl Paraben ( Propyl p-Hydroxybenzoate):
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Effective against bacteria and fungus, this ingredient
adds to product safety. It is organic and vegetable based, although
there are some people who have sensitivities to this preservative when
used in skin care products. CAERAN offers personal care products which
are preserved using a non-paraben preservative system.
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Propylene Glycol:
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(See glycol) An organic compound that, like glycerin,
attracts moisture from the air.
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PVM/MA copolymer:
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Derived from polyglycol alcohol, this ingredient is a
conditioning agent. Our sources are organically derived.
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Quaternary Dioleamid:
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A vegetable based surfactant derived from soybeans.
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