Skincare Ingredient Glossary

Our A-Z of ingredients you can find in our skincare range, along with the benefits for your skin.

A

Acer Saccharum (Sugar Maple) Extract

An extract from the sugar maple tree - the same tree that gives us maple syrup. It helps to brighten the skin, improve exfoliation by removing dead skin cells and enhance cellular proliferation (ie. new cells to grow). (Exfoliating Tonic with AHA & PHA)

Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Juice Powder

A powder from the dried juice of the aloe vera plant. It is very well known as an emollient (traps moisture making it soothing and hydrating) and moisturiser and helps to rehydrate dry skin and is skin conditioning. (Reviving Cleansing Cream, Exfoliating Tonic with AHA & PHA, Radiance-Boosting Face Cream, Naturally Glowing Self-Tan Drops, Vitamin A Anti-Ageing Eye Serum, Face Serum with Vitamin C)

Ananas Sativus (Pineapple) Fruit Extract

Enzymes extracted from pineapples exfoliate the skin, helping to get rid of dead skin cells and unclogs pores from trapped sebum and dirt. It helps to minimize the appearance of fine lines and helps to brighten, leaving skin feeling soft a smooth. (Moringa & Pineapple Enzyme Face Mask)

Aqua

Another word for water. It is used as a solvent in many skincare products and it helps to dissolve and activate certain ingredients whilst also hydrating the skin. (Reviving Cleansing Cream, Exfoliating Tonic with AHA & PHA, Radiance-Boosting Face Cream, Naturally Glowing Self-Tan Drops, Naturally Glowing Self-Tan Mousse, SPF 30 Face Serum, Hydrating Foam Face Wash)

Arnica Montana (Arnica) Flower Extract

From the sunflower family. It has a variety of healing properties and anti-inflammatory properties so it can help with redness and some skin conditions. (Reviving Cleansing Cream, Radiance-Boosting Face Cream)

B 

Benzyl Alcohol

Benzyl alcohol is a natural preservative and not classed as alcohol, despite its name. It predominantly helps to prolong shelf life. (Reviving Cleansing Cream, Exfoliating Tonic with AHA & PHA, Radiance-Boosting Face Cream, Moringa & Pineapple Enzyme Face Mask, Hydrating Foam Face Wash, Face Serum with Vitamin C)

Betaine

Anti-ageing with hydrating properties to help even skin tone.

(Hydrating Foam Face Wash)

Bisabolol

Extracted from chamomile and helps with redness and irritated skin. It may also help with skin-brightening. It is protecting against environmental damage. (Reviving Cleansing Cream, Radiance-Boosting Face Cream, Brilliant Balm)

Broccoli Seed Oil

This is great to condition and soothe the skin, and is rich in oleic acid and vitamins to protect and repair skin. (Vitamin A Anti-Ageing Eye Serum)

Butyrospermum Parkii (Shea) Butter

Derived from the shea tree in Central Africa. It is well known as a superior moisturiser and protectant. (Radiance-Boosting Face Cream, Brilliant Balm, Natural Deodorant, Hydra-Bod Body Cream)

C

Candelilla Cera

A wax derived from the leaves of the small Candelilla shrub from Mexico. It is a good vegan alternative to beeswax. It functions as a thickening agent and a skin-protective barrier agent. (Radiance-Boosting Face Cream, Brilliant Balm)

Calendula Officinalis (Calendula) Flower Oil

A natural oil extracted from marigold flowers. It is known to be excellent for soothing and healing due to its anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties. (Radiance-Boosting Face Cream, Brilliant Balm, Moringa & Pineapple Enzyme Face Mask, Hydrating Foam Face Wash)

Carica Papaya (Papaya) Fruit Extract

A natural ingredient derived from the papaya fruit. Used for its rich content of vitamins, enzymes and antioxidants. High in vitamin C, it helps brighten the complexion and even skin tone. Contains water and natural sugars to help moisturise the skin. (Face Serum with Vitamin C)

Carrot Oil

This conditions and soothes the skin, and is rich in oleic acid and vitamins to protect and repair skin. (Vitamin A Anti-Ageing Eye Serum)

Chondrus Crispus Powder

Also known as Irish moss - a species of red algae. It is commonly used as a thickener and stabiliser as it helps to control viscosity (the thickness of the product). It's packed full of vitamins and minerals which are vital to the maintenance of healthy skin. (Reviving Cleansing Cream, Radiance-Boosting Face Cream)

Citric Acid

Extracted from citrus fruits such as orange, lemon, lime and grapefruit. It is mainly used to alter the pH of a product and helps to exfoliate skin and remove dead cells on the skin's surface. (Reviving Cleansing Cream, Radiance-Boosting Face Cream, Naturally Glowing Self-Tan Drops, Naturally Glowing Self-Tan Mousse, Hydra-Bod Body Cream, Moringa & Pineapple Enzyme Face Mask, Hydrating Foam Face Wash, Face Serum with Vitamin C)

Citrus Aurantium Dulcis (Orange) Fruit Extract

Extracted from oranges. It has antibacterial and toning properties which helps to brighten the skin, improve exfoliation and enhance cellular proliferation (cells to grow). (Exfoliating Tonic with AHA & PHA)

Citrus Aurantium Amara (Bitter Orange) Flower Water

Extracted from oranges. Has skin toning properties to help brighten, improve exfoliation and enhance cell proliferation. (Face Serum with Vitamin C, Moringa & Pineapple Enzyme Face Mask)

Citrus Limon (Lemon) Fruit Extract

Brightens the skin, improves exfoliation and enhances cellular proliferation (new cells to grow). (Exfoliating Tonic with AHA & PHA)

Cloudberry Seed Oil (Rubus Chamaemorus Seed Oil)

An oil to condition skin and help with dry, damaged skin. (Face Serum with Vitamin C))

Cocamidopropyl Betaine

Cleansing for skin to help remove dirt and grime

(Hydrating Foam Face Wash)

Coconut Acid

A mixture of fatty acids derived from coconut oil, coconut acid is cleansing for skin

(Hydrating Foam Face Wash)

Coconut Alkanes

A natural product obtained from a mixture of fatty acids derived from coconut oil. It functions as an emollient in skincare products. (an emollient traps moisture, making it soothing and hydrating). (Reviving Cleansing Cream, Radiance-Boosting Face Cream, Natural Deodorant, Moringa & Pineapple Enzyme Face Mask, Face Serum with Vitamin C))

Coco Caprylate/Caprate

A vegetable ingredient derived from coconut. It is used predominantly as a natural emulsifier (stops separation of ingredients) in skincare products and helps to improve the application of products to the skin. (Reviving Cleansing Cream, Radiance-Boosting Face Cream, Natural Deodorant, Moringa & Pineapple Enzyme Face Mask, Face Serum with Vitamin C)

Coconut Water

Hydrating and nourishing properties. Rich in amino acids, vitamins and minerals. (Naturally Glowing Self-Tan Mousse, Naturally Glowing Self-Tan Drops, Vitamin A Anti-Ageing Eye Serum, Face Serum with Vitamin C), Moringa & Pineapple Enzyme Face Mask) 

Cocos Nucifera (Coconut) Oil

In other words 'coconut oil', it is extracted from the meat of the coconut. It acts as an effective moisturiser for all skin types and is a good base for creams. (Reviving Cleansing Cream, Radiance-Boosting Face Cream, Brilliant Balm, Natural Deodorant, Hydra-Bod Body Cream, SPF 30 Face Serum) 

 

Cucumis Sativus (Cucumber) Fruit Extract

Cooling for skin while also locking in moisture and conditioning the skin. (Vitamin A Anti-Ageing Eye Serum, Moringa & Pineapple Enzyme Face Mask)

Curcuma Longa (Turmeric) Root Extract

Derived from the turmeric root. It is anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial and helps to improve skin radiance and evenness of skin tone. (Reviving Cleansing Cream, Radiance-Boosting Face Cream)

 

D

Dehydroacetic Acid

An odourless, white powder used to kill microorganisms and prevent their growth and reproduction. (Reviving Cleansing Cream, Exfoliating Tonic with AHA & PHA, Radiance-Boosting Face Cream, Hydra-Bod Body Cream, Moringa & Pineapple Enzyme Face Mask, Hydrating Foam Face Wash, Face Serum with Vitamin C))

Dermachlorella (extracted Chlorella Vulgaris)

Restores skin firmness and tonicity. (Vitamin A Anti-Ageing Eye Serum)

Dihydroxyacetone

Self-tanning agent. (Naturally Glowing Self-Tan Mousse, Naturally Glowing Self-Tan Drops)

 

E

Erythrulose

Self-tanning agent. (Naturally Glowing Self-Tan Mousse, Naturally Glowing Self-Tan Drops)

 F

Ficus Carica (Fig) Fruit Extract

A natural ingredient derived from the fig fruit. Used for its hydrating, antioxidant, and skin-soothing properties. (Face Serum with Vitamin C)

G

Gluconolactone

A gentle, water-soluble polyhydroxy acid (PHA) used for its hydrating, exfoliating, and antioxidant properties. (Exfoliating Tonic with AHA & PHA), Face Serum with Vitamin C

Glycerin

Acts as a humectant to help increase skin hydration and relieve dryness. It is skin conditioning and skin protecting.

(Hydrating Foam Face Wash)

Glyceryl Stearate Citrate

Glycerin reacted with a vegetable fatty acid. It is used as an emulsifier (which stops separation of ingredients) and stabilising ingredient. It mainly helps skin to retain moisture. (Reviving Cleansing Cream, Radiance-Boosting Face Cream)

Glyceryl Stearate

A fatty acid derived from vegetable oils which acts as an emulsifier (stops separation of ingredients) and emollient (traps moisture making ir soothing and hydrating). Great for sensitive skin. (Reviving Cleansing Cream, Radiance-Boosting Face Cream)

Glyceryl Stearate SE

An emulsifier from vegetable origin. Acts as a stabiliser and thickener in a formulation. (Reviving Cleansing Cream, Radiance-Boosting Face Cream, Hydra-Bod Body Cream, Face Serum with Vitamin C)

H

Helianthus Annuus (Sunflower) Seed Oil

Derived from the seeds of the sunflower. It has a naturally calming effect and helps to replenish the skin's barrier. (Radiance-Boosting Face Cream, Brilliant Balm, Natural Deodorant, Hydra-Bod Body Cream, Moringa & Pineapple Enzyme Face Mask)

Heptyl Glucoside

Improves solubility of other ingredients and enhances skin permeability (ie allowing products to be absorbed better). (Naturally Glowing Self-Tan Mousse)

Jojoba Oil

This oil is from the seed of the jojoba plant.

It is intensely nourishing and soothing. (Brilliant Balm)

 

K

Kaolin

A type of clay which absorbs excess sebum and helps prevent pores clogging and is gentle on sensitive skin. (Moringa & Pineapple Enzyme Face Mask)

L

Lactic Acid

A naturally occurring AHA produced by the fermentation of sugars. It is ideal for rejuvenating the skin by helping to shed dead skin cells. Can reduce the appearance of fine lines, pigmentation, age spots and enlarged pores. (Exfoliating Tonic with AHA & PHA , Moringa & Pineapple Enzyme Face Mask)

 

M

Mangifera Indica (Mango) Fruit Extract

A natural ingredient derived from the mango fruit. Used for its hydrating, nourishing, and antioxidant-rich properties. (Face Serum with Vitamin C)

Mica

A naturally occurring mineral, ground to a fine powder. Used to reflect light and provide a subtle glow. (Face Serum with Vitamin C)

Micro Silver

A form of pure silver. A long-term antibacterial and antimicrobial agent. (Deodorant)

Moringa Oleifera Seed Extract

Nourishing for skin. (Moringa & Pineapple Enzyme Face Mask)

O

Orange Flower Hydrolat

Soothing and calming properties. (Naturally Glowing Self-Tan Drops, Face Serum with Vitamin C)

 

P

Panax Ginseng Root Extract

May help skin hydration and the appearance of wrinkles.

(Hydrating Foam Face Wash)

Passiflora Incarnata (Passion Flower) Seed Oil

A plant oil that improves the look and feel of dry skin. It also has skin-soothing properties. It is full of nutrients that are good for the skin including vitamin A and C. It is known for protecting the skin against environmental stressors. (Reviving Cleansing Cream)

Polyglyceryl-4 Caprate

An emulsifier, surfactant and skin-conditioning agent, derived from natural sources. Provides moisturising and softening effects. (Exfoliating Tonic with AHA & PHA)

Polyglyceryl-6 Caprylate

A multifunctional, plant-based ingredient. It is an emulsifier, surfactant, and skin-conditioning agent. Used to help break down and remove makeup and impurities while maintaining moisture. (Exfoliating Tonic with AHA & PHA)

Potassium Sorbate

A natural fatty acid which is used as a preservative and helps to extend the shelf life of products. (Reviving Cleansing Cream, Radiance-Boosting Face Cream, Naturally Glowing Self-Tan Drops, Naturally Glowing Self-Tan Mousse, Hydra-Bod Body Cream, Moringa & Pineapple Enzyme Face Mask, Hydrating Foam Face Wash, Face Serum with Vitamin C)

Prunus Amygdalus Dulcis (Sweet Almond) Oil

A pale oil which is derived from almonds. It acts as an emollient (traps moisture making it soothing and hydrating) on the skin's surface, which softens and soothes the skin. (Reviving Cleansing Cream, Radiance-Boosting Face Cream, Brilliant Balm, Vitamin A Anti-Ageing Eye Serum, Moringa & Pineapple Enzyme Face Mask)

Prunus Armeniaca (Apricot) Kernel Oil

The oil extracted from the kernels of apricots. It is rich in essential fatty acids and vitamins and acts as a skin-conditioning agent. (Radiance-Boosting Face Cream, Brilliant Balm, Moringa & Pineapple Enzyme Face Mask) 

Pumpkin Seed Oil

Conditioning and soothing for skin. Rich in oleic acid and vitamins to protect and repair skin. (Vitamin A Anti-Ageing Eye Serum)

Q

Quillaja Saponaria Wood Extract

Skin conditioning (Moringa & Pineapple Enzyme Face Mask)

R

Rosehip Oil

This is a pressed seed oil from the seeds of the wild rose bush.

An effective emollient (softens and soothes skin). (Brilliant Balm, Face Serum with Vitamin C)

Rosa Damascena (Rose) Flower Water,

A well-known for its antimicrobial properties. (Naturally Glowing Self-Tan Drops, Hydrating Foam Face Wash)

 

S

Sodium Bicarbonate

A deodorant and skin-protecting. (Natural Deodorant)

Sodium Hyaluronate

Support of epidermal hydration. Reduces oiliness. (Reviving Cleansing Cream, Exfoliating Tonic with AHA & PHA, Radiance-Boosting Face Cream, SPF 30 Face Serum)

Sodium Hydroxide

The sodium salt of hyaluronic acid. It is a powerful humectant (reduces the loss of moisture) that can attract and hold on to water which makes it a great moisturiser. (Exfoliating Tonic with AHA & PHA, Hydra-Bod Body Cream, Hydrating Foam Face Wash, Face Serum with Vitamin C)

Sodium Lactate

The sodium salt of lactic acid. It enhances the preservatives and acts as a great moisturiser. (Exfoliating Tonic with AHA & PHA, Face Serum with Vitamin C))

Saccharum Officinarum (Sugar Cane) Extract

Otherwise known as sugar cane. It brightens the skin, improves exfoliation and enhances cellular proliferation (growth of new cells). (Exfoliating Tonic with AHA & PHA)

Sodium Phytate

The sodium salt of phytic acid. It is used as a stabiliser and helps with discoloration of the formulation. Additional benefits include moisturising skin, helping reduce pore size and improves skin elasticity. (Reviving Cleansing Cream, Exfoliating Tonic with AHA & PHA, Radiance-Boosting Face Cream, Face Serum with Vitamin C)

Squalane

Squalane is derived from squalene, which is a fat-soluble, natural component of plant, animal and human skin sebum. It is an antioxidant and oxidises quickly, meaning it has a short shelf-life. This is where squalane steps in….. Squalane has a lighter consistency than squalene and is much more stable, with a longer shelf life. As an individual ingredient, it is good for dry, oily, combo and acne prone skin and is completely weightless when applied. It is known as an emollient, which means it helps soften and soothe skin.    
The natural levels of squalene in your skin start to decrease from your late 20’s/early 30’s, so it’s a good idea to use products that include this, or its derivatives such as squalane.

Moisturising, helps with skin suppleness, reduces fine lines and wrinkles, improves skin firmness and brightness. (Brilliant Balm, Vitamin A Anti-Ageing Eye Serum, Hydra-Bod Body Cream, Moringa & Pineapple Enzyme Face Mask)

 

T 

Theobroma Cacao (Cocoa) Seed Butter

Edible fat from the roasted seeds of cacao. It is well known to help dry skin and is suitable for the most delicate skin types, a source of natural antioxidants and has excellent emollient (traps moisture making it soothing and hydrating) properties. (Radiance-Boosting Face Cream, Face Serum with Vitamin C)

Titanium Dioxide

A naturally occurring mineral widely used for its opacity, for added brightness. (Face Serum with Vitamin C)

Tocopherol

Otherwise known as Vitamin E, it is a naturally occurring antioxidant which is also used to stabilise oils and fats in a formulation. (Radiance-Boosting Face Cream, Natural Deodorant, Reviving Cleansing Cream, Vitamin A Anti-Ageing Eye Serum, Face Serum with Vitamin C, Hydra-Bod Body Cream, Moringa & Pineapple Enzyme Face Mask)

Tribehenin

Derived from the seeds of the ben-oil tree. It is a very soft wax that helps to soften a formulation and skin. (Reviving Cleansing Cream, Radiance-Boosting Face Cream, Brilliant Balm, Natural Deodorant)

 

Triticum Vulgare (Wheat) Germ Oil

A nutrient-rich oil with moisturising and antioxidant properties.  (Face Serum with Vitamin C, Radiance-Boosting Face Cream, Reviving Cleansing Cream)

V

Vaccinium Myrtillus (Bilberry) Fruit Extract

A plant extract derived from the fruits and leaves of Bilberry. It helps to reduce redness due to its calming properties and it can boost skin's environmental defenses to UVA light. (Exfoliating Tonic with AHA & PHA)

Vit-A-Like™️ 

This is a vitamin A alternative that doesn’t cause redness or irritation and has the benefits of reducing the signs of ageing by stimulating cell renewal and collagen synthesis and decreases the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. (Vitamin A Anti-Ageing Eye Serum

Vitamin C (Ascorbyl Glucoside)

Is brightening and helps to even skin tone, leaving skin looking radiant. Vitamin C is also involved in collagen production, as well as being an antioxidant which means it protects skin cells from damaging free radicals caused by environmental stress. (Face Serum with Vitamin C)

Vitis Vinifera (Grape) Seed Oil

The oil from grape seeds and is a by-product of wine-making, containing a small amount of vitamin E. It is anti-inflammatory and has moisturising and nourishing properties due to the high linoleic acid content. (Reviving Cleansing Cream, Brilliant Balm, Face Serum with Vitamin C, Moringa & Pineapple Enzyme Face Mask)

 

X

Xanthan Gum

A sugar-based polymer produced by bacteria. It is a natural ingredient that is needed to stabilise formulas by increasing the viscosity (the thickness of the product) or binding other ingredients together. (Reviving Cleansing Cream, Radiance-Boosting Face Cream, Naturally Glowing Self-Tan Drops, Hydra-Bod Body Cream, SPF 30 Face Serum, Face Serum with Vitamin C)

 

Lucy Bee is a lifestyle brand selling food, skincare and soap products all completely free from palm oil and with minimal use of plastic. Lucy Bee is concerned with Fair Trade, organic, ethical and sustainable living, recycling and empowering people to make informed choices and select quality, natural products for their food and their skin. 

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