The Healing Concentrate

Algae Extract combats against the signs of aging by optimising the activity of skin cells including the synthetis and replication of collagen, elastin and keratin. It promotes cellular renewal and maintains the integrity of skin tissue with age to enhance firmness and boost regeneration.

AHA's, or Alpha Hydroxy Acids, are water soluble acids renowned for their exfoliating abilities. Derived from natural sources (such as fruits and sugar cane), AHA's work by dissolving the bonds that glue dead skin cells together, improving desquamation to alleviate the look and feel of lackluster, dulling skin. This makes AHA's ideal for dry, sun damaged or ageing skin as they not only increase cellular turnover but also improve the moisture content of skin for a more radiant, hydrated complexion. AHA's have a smaller molecular structure compared to other acid groups, enhancing their ability to penetrate skin. As such, AHA's can be irritating to sensitive complexions.

There are 20 amino acids which are important for our health. These can be divided into two groups, the essential and non-essential. Essential amino acids are those which are not produced by the body itself and you can only obtain them through foods and supplements whilst the non-essential are produced by your body. Amino acids act as water binding agents and work with aquaporins in order to transport moisture through the skin, improving skin hydration and barrier function for an overall healthy appearance. Some amino acids work as antioxidants, protecting the skin from free radical damage and reducing the signs of ageing. Each amino acid has its own individual benefits but there are studies which state they work best when combined.

Apple pectins, rich in malic acid and water-binding substances, form a protective layer of moisture on the skin surface, reinforcing the natural moisturising factors and preventing against transepidermal water loss. This optimises hydration in the epidermis, leading to improved suppleness and firmness of the skin.

Apricot Kernel Oil, rich in Vitamin A and E, nourishes, hydrates and protects against environmental damage for a healthier skin barrier. Its emollient properties nourish skin by increasing moisture content and reducing transepidermal water loss for soothed and hydrated skin.

One of the key ingredients in the Blue Diamond Collection are arabinogalactans. Arabinogalactans are polysaccharides derived from the Nasturtium flower (watercress) and increase the oxygenation of skin, protecting against hypoxic stress (or oxygen deprivation). A constant supply of oxygen is vital for cells to produce the energy needed to maintain skin’s homeostasis and vitality, enabling cellular renewal, collagen and elastin production. However, ageing cells can often fail to receive enough oxygen, and as a result, cells lose integrity and their ability to heal and renew, leading to a loss of firmness. The arabinogalactans accelerate oxygenation through both protecting against hypoxic stress and stimulating cellular transport of oxygen by synthesis of cytoglobin (a protein which facilitates diffusion of oxygen through tissues). With increased oxygenation of the skin, arabinogalactans are essential in maintaining skin texture, firmness and promoting a healthy glow.

Extracted from the flowers of the Arnica montana plant, antioxidant-rich Arnica protects skin from damaging environmental aggressors. When used in eye products, it lightens dark circles by increasing microcirculation whilst its anti-inflammatory properties help reduce puffiness to combat signs of ageing. Arnica also helps to soothe and reduce irritation around the eye area to fight against redness which in turn leads to a healthier and more youthful complexion.

Ascorbyl tetraisopalmitate is an oil-soluble, stabilised derivative of Vitamin C. It is a precursor of the vitamin, meaning that it converts into vitamin C only when absorbed, and therefore does not oxidise on the skins surface, making it ideal for more sensitive skin as well as the fragile eye area. It effectively suppresses skin pigmentation, stimulates the production of collagen and elastin, and protects against environmental damage by its anti-oxidative activity. As it is not prone to oxidation in the same way that ascorbic acid (vitamin C in the pure form) is, it remains active for a longer duration within the skin, leading to an excellent brightening effect and long-term radiance.

Ascorbyl glucoside is a stable vitamin C derivative, which only converts into vitamin C when absorbed into the skin, protecting it against oxidation and helping to maintain its potency. As it is stabilised, it is less likely to cause irritation than pure vitamin C (ascorbic acid) whilst providing the same benefits; antioxidant protection, collagen synthesis and reducing hyperpigmentation for a brighter, smoother and firmer complexion. Ascorbyl glucoside is approved as a pigmentation-fading quasi-drug in Japan as it is an excellent ingredient to treat hyperpigmentation, uneven skin tone and age spots. It works by inhibiting melanin synthesis and reducing the production of the tyrosinase enzyme. Similar to other vitamin C derivatives, it works in synergy with vitamin E, regenerating each other after being oxidised by free radicals, improving their overall efficiency.

Bakuchiol, extracted from the bakuchi seed, is considered a natural and chemically stable alternative to retinol, providing the same efficacious benefits without the risk of skin sensitivity and irritation. Backuchiol, like retinol, encourages skin renewal through increasing cellular turnover, stimulating collagen production, and thus, diminishing signs of ageing. This in turn helps refine skin texture, reduce pigmentation and calms redness.

Barbary fig oil, also known as prickly pear oil, intensely nourishes and repairs skin. Rich in essential fatty acids and vitamin E, this precious oil boosts the skins lipid content and rebuilds skin integrity, as well as shielding from environmental aggressors. It is also a natural source of vitamin K, to help even tone and brighten the complexion.

Bifida ferment lysate stimulates skin renewal through encouraging DNA repair in cells and protecting against UV-induced ageing. Stimulation of skins self-renewal also ensures optimum hydration, a balanced microbiome and improved barrier function.

Beta Hydroxy Acid (or BHA's) exfoliate both on the surface and within skin, unclogging pores by dissolving and removing accumulated oil and bacteria. Cellular turnover is increased and dead skin cells are removed to avoid further clogging and future breakouts.

Borage seed oil has strong moisturising properties to prevent skin dehydration. It also helps to delay the skin ageing process to maintain elasticity and firmness.

A natural energiser, caffeine is a vasoconstrictor, meaning that it temporarily constricts blood vessels to reduce inflammation, puffiness and calm redness, promoting a revived and refreshed complexion. Caffeine also stimulates cell renewal, and is a powerful antioxidant, protecting cells from oxidative stress.

Calendula flower extract, rich in emollients, works to soothe, soften and moisturise the skin. The antiseptic properties help to heal the skin and improve appearance and skin texture.

Anti-inflammatory camphor soothes irritation, calms, and reduces redness. When applied, it provides an instant cooling sensation, which helps refresh and revitalise skin.

Cannabidiol, commonly known as CBD, belongs to the phytocannabinoid family of compounds which are produced in the flowers of the Cannabis plant. This active ingredient is free from Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) therefore it does not have any psychoactive properties. CBD offers a multitude of benefits to the skin including reducing excessive sebum production, providing anti-inflammatory effects and acting as an antioxidant to shield skin from environmental aggressors. It also improves the skin barrier function by restoring hydration, reducing transepidermal water loss and maintaining skin elasticity for more youthful-looking skin.

Caviar lime is a natural AHA sourced from the pulp of the Australian finger lime plant. Naturally rich in citric acid, it acts like other AHA’s to exfoliate skin, removing the build up of dead skin cells to brighten, refine, smooth and even the complexion. Through encouraging cellular turnover, caviar lime also helps stimulate new collagen and elastin to improve texture and tone. Additionally, AHA's such as caviar lime also help to improve the moisture content of the skin.

Celery seed extract, found in our Revitalising Scalp Mask, restores scalp comfort by controlling the scalp microflora and protecting scalp epidermal integrity. As a result, desquamation is regulated (thinning the strateum corneum) which helps to reduce dandruff. Scalp itching and irritation are reduced as the microflora and release of histamine, a compound involved in the inflammatory response produced by the immune system, are controlled.

Chicory root flucto-oligosaccharide, a natural anti-inflammatory prebiotic, is rich in antioxidants and is highly moisturising to calm, balance and soothe the skin.

Citric acid, a natural AHA derived from citrus fruits, exfoliates skin, removing the build up of dead skin cells to brighten, refine, smooth and even the complexion. Through encouraging cellular turnover, citric acid helps stimulate new collagen and elastin, to improve texture and tone. Citric acid esters create a thin layer on the skin to reduce transepidermal water loss and optimise skin hydration.

Colloidal gold is formed by suspending small gold particles in a liquid (a colloid). Colloidal gold is then fermented so the minerals become bio-available and can penetrate effectively into the skin. This precious ingredient is known for its potent anti-inflammatory and healing benefits, reducing micro-damage such as age spots and pigmentation, through stimulating blood circulation and increasing cell activity. Redness is reduced and skin is soothed and calmed. Antioxidant rich, colloidal gold also works to neutralise free radical damage, protecting from premature ageing and reducing fine lines and wrinkles.

Colloidal silver, an ingredient that has long been associated with skin health, has powerful antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties, making it a superb topical ingredient for blemishes and skin imperfections. It also helps regulate the skin´s microflora to protect the skin from external aggressors.

Copper gluconate detoxifies and purifies skin, drawing excess oils from pores to minimise breakouts and control natural sebum levels. It also has a natural astringent effect, tightening pores for a perfected, mattified appearance. In addition to this, copper is known to activate enzymes that are responsible for the production of collagen and elastin, helping to reduce signs of ageing and boosting firmness. Copper is also often combined with other vitamins and minerals to create rich copper compounds, further enhancing its transformative ability. For instance, the Blue Diamond Resurfacing Peel contains a unique combination of copper, essential amino acids and an anti-glycation phosphate which together help to promote the synthesis of collagen and elastin for a younger looking, fresh complexion.

Diamond peptides are created by diamond aggregates and sirtin-like peptides forming an electrostatic ionic bond. The diamond peptides have a similar structure to specific proteins in cells that protect against oxidative stress, inflammation and ageing and therefore, they possess powerful anti-ageing benefits. Importantly, they help inhibit the destruction of skin cell enzymes, protect cell DNA, and boost collagen production.

Dipalmitoyl hydroxyproline, a collagen specific amino acid, improves skins barrier function and helps tighten the lipid matrix. It works to stimulate the contraction of collagen fibres and protect against the degradation of elastin, as well as shielding cells from environmental damage due to its antioxidative activity. This in turn leads to a strengthened barrier for hydrated skin, and an improvement in skin firmness and tone.

Elderberry Flower Extract has potent antioxidant properties which protects the skin from environmental aggressors. Rich in bioflavonoids, this extract helps to prevent wrinkle formation around the eye area to keep it looking supple. Its mild astringent properties lead to a smoother and more refined complexion.

Exotic fruit extracts, naturally rich in AHA’s, mildly exfoliate to remove dead skin cells and stimulate the cellular turnover, for overall skin renewal. This exfoliating effect brightens the complexion, smoothes and evens tone, to revive dull, lacklustre complexions.

Edelweiss stem cells (leontopodic acid), provides excellent antioxidant protection to defend against premature ageing and repair damage from oxidative stress. By protecting cell integrity, collagen and elastin production is stimulated, and dermal thickness is boosted. By restoring cellular energy, this potent active recreates skin tension and firms.

Evening primrose oil benefits the skin in a variety of ways through its soothing and hydrating properties. It works to help maintain firmness and elasticity in the skin to give a plump and youthful appearance.

Fulvic Acid, found in Hungarian Moor Mud, is a powerful antioxidant which helps neutralise toxins and transport nutrients into skin cells. It improves cellular metabolism to reduce inflammation and the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.

Ginseng root helps increase blood circulation, enhancing the delivery of nutrients and oxygen to skin cells, to aid respiration and repair. By stimulating micro-cirulation, ginseng reduces puffiness and swelling through lymphatic drainage and facilitates the removal of toxins, as well as boosting hydration and improving texture.

Derived from natural sugars, glycolic acid belongs to a group of ingredients called Alpha Hydroxy Acids (AHA’s). AHA’s are water-soluble and work on the skins surface, compared to BHA’s which are oil soluble. AHA’s also have a smaller molecule size, meaning they can absorb more quickly and provide faster results, but are slightly more irritating by nature. Glycolic acid has the smallest molecular size and may not be suitable for those with sensitive skin. Through exfoliation, glycolic acid decongests the skin to encourage a brighter, clearer and more radiant complexion. The exfoliation will leave skin feeling noticeably smoother and help improve overall skin texture and tone. Through increasing cellular turnover, glycolic acid stimulates the production of collagen, reducing the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles and firming the complexion.

Hazelnut peptides contain amino acids present in the skins natural moisturising factors, which strengthens the skins natural defence system to promote smooth, healthy-looking skin. Hazelnut peptides contain non-essential amino acids such as arginine, aspartic acid and glutamic acid which visibly improves the appearance of skin by plumping and firming the skin to minimise the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.

Rich in silica, hectorite clay purifies the skin by drawing out impurities and absorbing excess sebum to clear pores and prevent breakouts. It lends a smooth and silky feel to the skin whilst matifying and balancing the complexion.

Hyaluronic acid is well known for its excellent restorative abilities, providing long-lasting hydration and smoothing of the skin. A highly hygroscopic ingredient, it works by boosting the skins moisture content by attacting water molecules from the environment and within the deeper layers of the skin whilst reducing transepidermal water loss. Skins natural barrier and surface are restored, protecting the skin from further environmental damage for a more radiant, firmer complexion. This ingredient also provides an instant plumping effect, reducing the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.

Humic acid, very similar to fulvic acid, is found in our Hungarian Moor Mud and is a potent antioxidant. It works at a cellular level to reduce inflammation.

The rich mineral content of Hungarian Moor Mud has been prized by European communities for its ability to regenerate skin damaged by free radicals and environmental stress. The health benefits of Moor Mud were first realised by the Romans when the wounds of their injured horses healed at a much faster rate when they journeyed through the mineral rich mud. Specifically, the combination of calcium and magnesium in Moor Mud is what enabled the wounds to heal faster and when delivered to skin, it is these nourishing minerals which help regenerate skin. Furthermore, the presence of both humic and fulvic acid in Moor Mud detoxify and purify the complexion, providing a deep cleanse that removes impurities within the skin. The skincare benefits of Moor Mud are numerous and when used regularly will purify and re-balance skin by stripping away impurities, balancing sebum production to reduce breakouts, helping to even tone and tackle early signs of ageing.

Kahai nut oil is a hydrating natural source of vitamin A, which helps activate the skins natural renewal process by encouraging cell regeneration. Collagen and elastin production is stimulated, helping to reduce fine lines and wrinkles for a younger and more radiant looking complexion.

Keratolytic enzymes provide a mild exfoliation without abrasion, for a smooth and bright complexion. This exfoliation helps regulates skin cell renewal, leading to an improvement of tone, texture and firmness. The exfoliation happens on an enzymatic level, meaning it is perfect for those with sensitive skin who cannot tolerate acidic or harsh physical exfoliators.

Kiwi Berry Extract, a superfood naturally rich in vitamin C and E, stimulates cells natural energy to prolong the healthy life of skin and protect cell DNA. Rich in antioxidants, it reduces and prevents against further oxidative damage, maintaining DNA integrity under UV stress.

Lactic acid, an AHA (Alpha Hydroxy Acid), is a natural exfoliant found in various foods and when applied topically, resurfaces skin for a brighter, smoother and more even-toned complexion. As it exfoliates, lactic acid helps prevent breakouts by dissolving the bond between dead skin cells, a build up of which not only blocks pores (causing breakouts) but also prevents products from effectively penetrating skin. Lactic acid encourages cellular turnover, helping to sweep away dull, damaged cells to reveal fresher, younger and smoother skin.

Derived from plant extracts, lactobionic acid, a polyhydroxy acid (PHA), is a mild exfoliant that smoothes and resurfaces without causing irritation or redness, making it suitable for all skin types, even for those with sensitive skin. This is because PHA acids have a larger molecular size, meaning they exfoliate much more gently than AHA’s, as well as not increasing the skins sensitivity to sun. Through exfoliation, cellular turnover is increased for a fresher, more even toned complexion. Lactobionic acid is also a strong humectant, as it has the ability to attract and retain moisture within the skin. This ensures that the skin stays hydrated and skin cells are plumped which firms the skin whilst reducing the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.

Luffa particles are a natural exfoliant derived from fruit. They provide a mild, physical exfoliation, removing impurities and dead skin cells from the surface, to reveal a smoother, refined complexion. Through exfoliation, skin oxygenation and cellular renewal is encouraged.

Magnesium salts stimulate cell metabolism to fight cell fatigue and boost recovery, encouraging repair and protecting against the first signs of ageing. It also inhibits histamine release, a neurotransmitter involved in the inflammatory response, to reduce discomfort and calm the skin.

Mastic, extracted from the rare lentisk tree, has been recognised since the 1st Century for its superior skincare properties. In particular, its anti-bacterial and astringent properties help minimise the appearance of pores, fight shine and naturally mattify the complexion. The antimicrobial effect also helps reduce breakouts and skin imperfections.

Marine exopolysaccharides, used in the Ultramoor Mud Mask are derived from plankton and are known for their anti-ageing qualities. In particular, this variation of polysaccharide is used to plump and firm the skin, targeting fines lines whilst also tightening the collagen matrix. This provides an immediate tensing, firming and lifting effect, instantly making the complexion appear smoother, plumper and more youthful.

We use a different form of marine exopolysaccharides in the Elemental Emulsion. These polysaccharides help to mattify the complexion, reducing overall shine by absorbing and trapping excess sebum. Whilst our skin needs sebum to nourish and condition itself, excess sebum can block pores and cause frequent breakouts, these polysaccharides help to balance the skin for a clearer, shine-free complexion.

Magnolia bark extract has been used for thousands of years for its powerful anti-inflammatory effect. It contains two components which work synergistically to inhibit the activation of the enzyme responsible for inflammation, leading to a reduction in facial redness and improving skin tone. It boosts hydration and promotes a youthful appearance by increasing firmness around the face and eye contour.

Melatonin, a naturally-occurring neurotransmitter, plays an important role in regulating skin function and structure. Its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant activity reinforces the skin’s capacity for repair, renewal and revitalisation.

Mint leaf and lemon peel essential oils stimulate blood circulation to the scalp to promote hair follicle growth. It also refreshes and soothes the scalp for instant comfort.

Bio-active microalgae shield skin from the damaging effects that the chronic stress hormone, cortisol, has on skin. The cortisol hormone is a response to inner stress and a key contributor to premature ageing through its ability to damage the integrity and structure of skin cells. In turn, this leads to barrier depletion, dryness, redness, visible signs of fatigue, dullness, loss of firmness and lines and wrinkles. Excess cortisol can compromise skin’s ability to repair at night, and therefore by shielding cells from inner stress signals, microalgae restores the circadian rhythm.. Skin repair is optimised and balance is restored, increasing skin hydration and reducing signs of fatigue and stress for an energised, well-rested and refreshed appearance.

Moringa seed peptides, rich in antioxidants, protect the skin from indoor and outdoor pollution, as well as dissolving micro-particles from environmental aggressors that bond to skin cells for a thoroughly cleansed complexion.

Narcissus stem cells target hyperpigmentation and help reverse sun damage. The plant works by reducing the synthesis of tyrosine and tyrosinase activity, protecting against the production and build up of melanin in melanosomes to control pigmentation and reduce the appearance of dark spots.

Niacinamide (Vitamin B3), known for its skin brightening properties, reveals a more even and refined skin tone, by inhibiting melanosome transfer and controlling sebum production. Niacinamide also promotes a youthful appearance by stimulating collagen production and improving skin elasticity, reducing the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.

Oat lipid, rich in vitamin E, ceramides and phospholipids, acts as a humectant and occlusive emollient, forming a protective layer that plumps skin and reduces transepidermal water loss, maintaining moisture levels. Barrier function is improved and natural skin lipids are replenished, maintaining skin health and improving texture and tone. An excellent antioxidant, it also protects against free radical damage and protects cell integrity.

Omega 6 ceramides, rich in linoleic acids, rebuild and reconstitute the lipid matrix for increased firmness and elasticity. Ceramides are lipids that are found naturally in the uppermost layer of skin and comprise of over 50% of our skins composition. They are considered the mortar between the bricks (skin cells), helping hold skin cells together as well as boosting the barrier to protect against transepidermal water loss. The effectiveness of our skins natural ceramides is reduced with age and UV-induced damage, and can eventually be depleted. This results in a weakening of the skin barrier, causing dehydration, a rough, uneven texture and loss of firmness. Ceramide-rich products are used to restore and replenish the ceramide levels in the skin to strengthen the barrier, increasing moisture and hydration levels for a healthier, plumper and smoother appearance.

Oxygen carrier delivers oxygen into the skin to encourage cell respiration and repair, as well as encouraging hyaluronic acid synthesis. It increases epidermal volume to provide an instant plumping and firming effect, relaxing facial muscles and restoring a youthful radiance.

Palmitoyl oligopeptide, found in our Perfecting Lip Balm, improves the overall appearance of the lips. Hyaluronic acid synthesis is optimised, improving moisture levels and stimulating collagen synthesis to help improve density, for soft, smooth and fuller lips.

Pea and chia seed extract combine to protect against free radical damage, shielding the scalp from urban stress. By protecting from air pollutants, known to cause scalp sensitivity and hair damage, the scalps barrier is reinforced, reducing irritation and dryness for a healthier, comforted scalp.

Polyglucuronic acid is an oligosaccharide that stimulates the skins natural production of hyaluronic acid. Like collagen, the amount of naturally occurring hyaluronic acid within the skin degrades with age, resulting in dehydrated and less-elastic complexions. When applied topically, hyaluronic acid can struggle to effectively penetrate the deeper layers of the dermis, if it has a large molecule size. Through optimising the skins natural production, polyglucuronic acid benefits the skin by improving and retaining cell moisture content for a hydrated and supple complexion. It also repairs the skin barrier to prevent against transepidermal water loss whilst reducing fine lines and wrinkles through promoting water retention within cells.

Polyglutamic acid, known to hold up to 10 times more water than hyaluronic acid, increases the natural moisturising factors on the top layers of the epidermis, forming a protective film to prevent dehydration and water loss. By focusing on hydrating the top layers of skin, polyglutamic acid plumps and smooths, helping to diminish the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. This compares to hyaluronic acid, a naturally smaller molecule that penetrates the deeper layers of the epidermis. Using a combination of both acids promotes skin hydration and plumpness. Polyglutamic acid is known to inhibit the activity of hyaluronidase (an enzyme that degrades hyaluronic acid), which in turn improves skin tone, texture and reduces the signs of ageing.

Polypeptides maintain the structure of the dermo-epidermal junction, the area of tissue that joins the epidermis with dermal layers of skin, needed for skin cohesion and providing essential nutrients to the epidermis. By stimulating the synthesis of major essential proteins and collagen in the dermo-epidermal junction (DEJ), skin integrity is maintained, and cells can repair effectively. Skin appears firmer, suppler and more youthful.

Pullalan, a natural polysaccharide produced by fermentation, creates a thin film on the skin that acts as a physical tensor for an immediate lifting and firming effect.

Pumice, a fine powder from lava stones formed from the magma of Strombolian volcanoes, provides a gentle yet physical exfoliation, removing dead skin cells, daily grime and dirt from skin. Micro-circulation is encouraged, improving oxygenation and cell renewal. Skin tone appears brighter, and the complexion is left feeling invigorated with a refreshed glow.

Raspberry seed oil, rich in vitamin E, provides the skin with excellent protection against oxidative stress, as well as stimulating collagen and elastin production. Rich in omega 3 and 6 essential fatty acids, raspberry seed oil nourishes and restores skin suppleness.

Converting into retinoic acid (the form of vitamin A that skin can process) in just one step, retinal, also known as retinaldehyde, is effective at a much lower concentration than retinol, which needs to undergo two conversion steps to become retinoic acid. As a result, retinal has been shown to work up to 11 times faster than retinol. Retinal in its pure form is known to be highly unstable. Midnight Renewal and Illumineye C includes a patented, innovative form of retinal protected within a cyclodextrin delivery system which ensures stability and optimal delivery into skin without irritation. Once converted, retinoic acid facilitates the communication between cells, encouraging ageing cells to continue their renewal process and regenerate collagen and elastin. Key benefits include a reduction in fine lines and wrinkles, increased collagen production and a smoother and more even complexion.

Retinol, the most common derivative of vitamin A, works to improve the appearance of skin for a smoother, plumped and more youthful complexion. Its main benefits include promoting collagen and elastin production to reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. It also speeds up cellular turnover for a smoother and resurfaced complexion.

Rhamnose polysaccharides are derived from a naturally occurring sugar and provide a thin, protective veil on the upper layer of skin, preventing the adhesion of bacteria on the skin’s surface. Additionally, this form of polysaccharide is known to reduce inflammation and protect against environmental aggressors. These attributes can prevent the build-up of pollutants and bacteria on skin.

A natural astringent, rose water helps maintain the skins pH balance and controls excess oil. The flower also has anti-inflammatory properties that can help to reduce redness, improving the appearance of the complexion.

Ruby crystals improve the appearance of skin by providing an instant soft focus effect, diffusing light to give the appearance of a brighter and more even-toned complexion. Imperfections appear blurred and fine lines and wrinkles appear minimised. Ruby crystals are also known to hydrate and plump the skin.

Salicylic acid, a beta hydroxy acid, tackles skin imperfections at the source. As a BHA, salicylic acid is a sister to well-known AHA's but with a structural difference. Whereas AHA's, such as glycolic or lactic acid, are water-soluble and most effective at exfoliating the surface of the skin, BHA’s are oil-soluble meaning they can penetrate oil-clogged pores, making them effective exfoliators both on and within the skin. This effective exfoliating action improves cellular turnover, shedding the dead skin cells from the surface of the skin, decreasing the chance of the appearance of new blemishes as pores are kept clear.

Pigmentation is a result of cellular stress from overexposure to UV rays or inner stress. Sand lily targets pigmentation by inhibiting the overproduction of melanin through reducing cellular stress, which in turn leads to a reduction of dark spots and pigmentation.

Sea buckthorn berry oil, rich in vitamins A, C, E and omega 7 palmitoleic acid, boosts the skins antioxidant defence, protecting against premature UV-induced ageing. It is also an excellent hydrator and strengthens the skins natural moisture barrier. The fatty acids within sea buckthorn berry oil also nourish skin and help repair and regenerate skin cells.

Mineral-rich sea mayweed is known for its anti-inflammatory properties, soothing skin prone to sensitivity, redness and irritations. It also helps regulate micro-circulation for an overall healthier complexion. Skin appears calmed and comforted, with redness reduced.

Shea butter, extracted from the shea tree, provides excellent nourishing and moisturising benefits. Rich in antioxidants and replenishing fatty acids, it improves the skins barrier and provides anti-inflammatory benefits, boosting lipid content and calming the skin. It is also considered an occlusive emollient, creating a thin layer on the skin surface to protect against transepidermal water loss and balance moisture content of cells.

Silicium, a compound of silicon and brown algae, targets skin rejuvenation by stimulating collagen and elastin production. Antioxidant benefits protects skin from environmental aggressors as well as reinforcing the skin barrier to protect from future damage and maintaining hydration.

Sodium ascorbyl phosphate is a highly stable form of vitamin C that has been chemically stabilised with salt. This stabilisation enables for easy penetration into the skins lipid barrier, where, once absorbed, it quickly converts into ascorbic acid, the pure form of vitamin C. This quick absorption means sodium ascorbyl phosphate is less irritating than other forms of vitamin C and is suitable for those with sensitive skin. This stabilisation also means that the benefits of the vitamin C remain potent and effective throughout the use of the product. This is a key advantage over pure vitamin C, which is known to quickly oxidise and degrade upon external exposure. Sodium ascorbyl phosphate has powerful antioxidant benefits that fight signs of ageing, preventing the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles by stimulating the production of collagen and protecting against environmental aggressors. It also helps diminish discolouration and age spots by inhibiting the production of melanin, resulting in an even, brighter complexion. A unique benefit of sodium ascorbyl phosphate compared to alternative forms of vitamin C is that it can be used as an effective acne treatment. As well as having antimicrobial properties, it reduces sebum oxidation (the process whereby oil on the surface of the skin reacts with oxygen) which results in clogged pores and encourages the formation of blackheads. By inhibiting this process, skin imperfections are reduced.

Squalane is an occlusive emollient, providing moisturisation and preventing transepidermal water loss, restoring and protecting the lipid barrier for smooth, supple skin. Although it forms a thin layer on the skin, it is non-comedogenic meaning it does not clog pores, making it suitable for all skin types.

Sweet almond oil, rich in vitamin E, hydrates and nourishes skin.

Sweet chirata, or Indian Gentian, is a flower native to the high altitudes of the Himalayas, traditionally used for many therapeutic properties, including wound healing. It works to stimulate self-regeneration of the epidermis, by increasing the production of keratinocyte growth factors, which leads to denser, thicker and plumper skin.

Titanium dioxide provides a soft focus finish whilst acting as a physical UV filter to protect against both UVA and UVB rays.

Tocopherol, an active form of vitamin E promotes cellular restoration through its antioxidant activity. It prevents oxidative damage to cells by scavenging free radicals which can lead to premature ageing. It also provides anti-inflammatory benefits to restore and strengthen the skin barrier.

Antioxidant-rich tomato stem cells protect the skin from daily environmental aggressors, such as pollution. They also shielding the skin from heavy metals such as lead, nickel and cadmium to combat against premature ageing.

Urea is found naturally in the top layer of the skin and acts as a humectant to draw in moisture and restore hydration. It also acts as an emollient to soften and smooth the skin.

This plant-derived collagen creates an invisible shield on the skin, enhancing moisturisation to leave the skin soft to the touch. This ingredient can be found in Phase 1 of The Cure to help promote the absorption of acids whilst protecting and preparing the skin for Phase 2.

Watercress extract inhibits tyrosinase, the key enzyme for melanin synthesis. Inhibiting melanin production leads to a brighter and more even-toned complexion.

White lupin extract promotes the production of cell adhesion proteins, improving cellular cohesion and skin integrity, reducing wrinkle formation for younger and healthier looking skin. It also promotes the production of extracellular matrix components in the dermis, improving skin firmness and elasticity, reducing fine lines and wrinkles for smoother and firmer skin.

White truffle enzymes provide great anti-ageing benefits through gene expression modulation, improving skin elasticity and moisturisation for smooth and supple skin.They also increase collagen synthesis and the enzymes responsible for the production of ceramide and hyaluronic acid, increasing hydration and reducing the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.

Winged kelp extract, derived from marine brown algae, protects the skin from damaging free radicals due to its powerful antioxidant effect. It boosts collagen production and improves skin moisture to plump the skin and hydrate skin.

Xylitol works as a humectant by creating a natural barrier on the skin to retain moisture and lock in hydration.

Zinc acts as an antioxidant to protect the skin from environmental aggressors for a smoother and more even skin tone. It prevents collagen deterioration and minimises the appearance of dark spots by suppressing the activity of the enzymes which break down the skin matrix.