INGREDIENT DICTIONARY

As a long time skincare fanatic, I have always been intrigued by ingredients lists and loved to study them to figure out why products I like work. For those similarly inclined, enjoy this Ingredients Dictionary which will explain what all the ingredients used in MATER Beauty products are and do, and why they were chosen.

Also included is whether an ingredient is considered "natural" and which shade of natural, according to The Truth Behind Natural Skincare: A Guide to Understanding Skincare Ingredients.

This dictionary is still work in progress, with some ingredient description yet to come, but all the shades of natural have been added for your information.

MATER Beauty INGREDIENTS

I WOKE UP LIKE THIS Beyond-hydration Perfecting Serum

NAG - N-Acetyl Glucosamine is a natural nano peptide, a part of the protein structure that gives your skin strength and elasticity. NAG works by inhibiting the production of melanin, the pigment that gives skin its color, which can help to brighten and even out skin tone. Additionally, NAG is a natural building block of hyaluronic acid, a substance that helps to hydrate and plump the skin, which may contribute to anti-aging benefits. It is supported by numerous clinical studies, and is extra powerful when combined with Niacinamide.

Shade of natural: 3. Naturally derived

Niacinamide / Vitamin B3 - One of the most powerful ingredients in skincare, and also one with a large body of scientific evidence to back it up. It has multiple benefits: strengthening the skin barrier (and therefore improving hydration), reducing hyperpigmentation, calming irritation, promoting production of ceramides. The concentration that's been scientifically proven to be beneficial, and that many of the studies are based on is 4%, which is how can be found in I WOKE UP LIKE THIS Beyond-hydration Perfecting Serum.

Shade of natural: 3. Naturally derived

Hylauronic Acid - A powerful humectant, also present in our skin. It ramps up the skin's absorption of the water in the product, which in turn helps to hydrate and plump the skin cells for a softer, more youthful complexion. In truth, it's not the magical ingredient many tout it to be, as there are many more effective humectants available according to some of the latest studies, but it's an excellent addition to hydrating skincare products.

Shade of natural: 3. Naturally derived

MSM - Methyl Sulphonyl Methane or Dimethyl Sulfone is a natural form of organic sulphur compound that is found in all living organisms. It is the purest and most bio-available form of sulphur, one of the essential minerals crucial to life and the regeneration of cells. I WOKE UP LIKE THIS Beyond-hydration Perfecting Serum uses the purest form of MSM - OptiMSM™. It is distilled four times for optimum purity and is the only MSM supported by double-blind clinical research.

Shade of natural: 4. Nature identical

Allantoin - A nature identical ingredient, one that is underrated and overlooked. Its benefits are multifaceted. It has strong healing, soothing and anti-irritation abilities. It is also a gentle exfoliator, removing dead skin and therefore allowing humectants to better bind to skin & do their job of hydrating.

Shade of natural: 4. Nature identical

Liquorice Root (Glycyrrhiza glabra) Extract - A cellular botanical extract from one of the world’s oldest herbal remedies. It is a combination of two powerful compounds. Glycyrrhizin is an antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, ideal for reactive and blemished skin conditions, skin radiance and luminosity properties. Glabridin helps reduce hyperpigmentation and increases complexion brightness.

Shade of natural: 3. Naturally derived

Gotu Kola (Centella Asiatica) Extract - A cellular botanical extract from a herb that is a staple in traditional Chinese, Indonesian, and Ayurvedic medicine. It is known for being anti-inflammatory and healing, thus reducing irritated skin, as well as improving skin elasticity and firmness, leading to a more youthful and radiant complexion.

Shade of natural: 3. Naturally derived

Glycerin - One of the most common and yet most powerful humectants, found in most moisturisers, as well as the creams that doctors and dermatologists prescribe for dry/eczema skin. On its own, it has an unpleasant sticky texture, so it requires careful formulation in face products, but it is an invaluable addition to a hydrating product. A skin-identical ingredient which can be extracted from either animal or plant sources. MATER Beauty products use only the palm-free vegetable / vegan glycerine.

Shade of natural: 3. Naturally derived

Propanediol - A powerful natural humectant made from corn sugar. It is considered a natural and eco-friendly alternative to traditional synthetic humectants such as propylene glycol. In addition to its eco creds, it is nothing short of amazing in skincare. It helps other ingredients to penetrate the skin and boosts preservative efficacy.

Shade of natural: 3. Naturally derived

Betaine - A very gentle also natural and eco-friendly humectant. It is an amino acid made from sugar beets and other plant sources. It helps to balance skin moisture and can improve skin tone over time. It is also known for its ability to reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.

Shade of natural: 3. Naturally derived

Provitamin B5 / Panthenol - A dermatologist favourite, panthenol is a humectant and an emollient, so it helps to seal the cracks that can appear in dry skin. Panthenol is a derivative of vitamin B5, which is a natural component of the skin and hair so it is known as a skin-identical ingredient. Panthenol has an excellent ability to penetrate the skin and hair, providing deep hydration and nourishment. It is also known for its ability to promote cell growth and repair, as well as reduce inflammation, thus restoring the skin barrier.

Shade of natural: 3. Naturally derived

Water - Good old H2O is one of the best hydrators - both inside and out! It's an important component in many skincare products, and it's essential to drink enough water to stay hydrated from the inside, which will also show on your skin.

Shade of natural: 2. Natural with some physical processing

Hydrosol (Floral Water) - While most hydration serums have water as the main ingredient, we’ve gone a step further and instead incorporated floral hydrosols (a water-based ingredient made by distillation of fresh flowers) for extra skin benefits, as well as a beautiful natural scent.

Shade of natural: 2. Natural with some physical processing

Saccharide Isomerate - An incredible natural (made from corn) skin-identical humectant. It binds to skin, hydrating it for exceptionally long periods compared to other humectants. It significantly boosts skin's hyaluronic acid production, thus keeping it plump and hydrated.

Shade of natural: 3. Naturally derived

Sodium Lactate - Another skin-identical natural humectant, and a type of alpha-hydroxy acid or AHA, so it both hydrates and gently exfoliates the skin. It is an excellent addition to a moisturising skincare product as it is also found in our skin. Sodium lactate is a natural component of the top layers of the skin and functions as part of the NMF or Natural Moisturizing Factor - essential for maintaining healthy skin.

Shade of natural: 3. Naturally derived

Lactic Acid - A skin-identical natural alpha-hydroxy acid (AHA) that can exfoliate and hydrate, also a part of skin's Natural Moisturising Factor. Used in I WOKE UP LIKE THIS Beyond-hydration Perfecting Serum not as an exfoliator (as it's designed to be a gentle serum suitable for sensitive skin), but to achieve a desired pH level.

Shade of natural: 4. Nature identical

Sodium Phytate - An all-natural multi-purpose ingredient that is primarily used as a chelating agent, preventing oxidation of ingredients, and boosting the preservative system. It is also an antioxidant, protecting skin from free radical damage caused by environmental stressors such as pollution and UV radiation.

Shade of natural: 3. Naturally derived

Benzyl Alcohol & Salicylic Acid & Sorbic Acid - A natural preservative, a must in any product containing water to prevent bacterial and fungal growth! It is ECOCERT (organic certification organisation) and COSMOS (guarantee for organic and natural cosmetics) compliant.

Shade of natural: 3. Naturally derived

YOU ARE MY SUNSHINE Supercharged Glow Drops

Bakuchiol - Known as nature's retinol, bakuchiol is a natural compound derived from the seeds of the Psoralea corylifolia plant. Because of its anti-ageing benefits being comparable to retinol, but without the commonly experienced irritation, it is much more suitable for those with sensitive skin. It is also not unsafe to use while pregnant and breastfeeding, and isn't known to cause photosensitivity, so can be used during the day - unlike retinol on both counts. YOU ARE MY SUNSHINE Supercharged Glow Drops has a high 1% of straight bakuchiol, in addition to the complete bakuchi oil, making the total percentage of bakuchiol over 1%.

Shade of natural: 2. Natural with some physical processing

Bisabolol - A natural ingredient that has been used in traditional medicine for hundreds of years as an effective anti-inflammatory and anti-bacterial agent. Extracted from the essential oil of the Candeia wood (Eremanthus erythropappus) by fractional distillation, original from Brazil and 100% natural.

Shade of natural: 2. Natural with some physical processing

CoQ10 / Ubidecarenone (Coenzyme Q10) - A naturally occurring antioxidant that is found in every cell in the body, but decreases with age. It has scientific data showing it to reduce oxidative damage caused by UV rays and even decrease the depth of wrinkles. As potent antioxidant, it can provide a range of benefits in skincare products. It can help to protect the skin from free radical damage, improve skin elasticity and firmness, and reduce redness and inflammation. It is well-tolerated by most skin types.

Shade of natural: 3. Naturally derived

Squalane - A very light oil, odourless and colourless, extracted from olives. It is similar in structure to the squalene that is naturally found in the skin's sebum. In skincare, it is used for its ability to hydrate and protect the skin, as well as for its anti-aging properties. Squalane is an excellent emollient (meaning it can help to lock in moisture and keep the skin soft and supple) that is quickly absorbed into the skin, making it an effective moisturiser for all skin types, including oily and acne-prone skin.

Shade of natural: 2. Natural with some physical processing

Coco Caprylate - A natural, plant-derived emollient with a lightweight, non-greasy texture and moisturising properties. It is non-comedogenic and non-irritating so it's suitable for sensitive and acne-prone skin. It has excellent spreadability and feel, penetrating quickly leaving skin silky and non-greasy. It is biodegradable and non-toxic, and is often used as a safe alternative for silicones in skin and haircare. While coco caprylate can be derived from palm oil, MATER only uses the coconut derived option.

Shade of natural: 3. Naturally derived

Jojoba (Simmondsia Chinensis) Seed Oil - A very unique plant oil that is actually a liquid wax. Its chemical structure is very similar to our skin's sebum, which makes it an effective moisturiser, that is easily absorbed and that can help to balance the skin's natural oil production and prevent excess oiliness. Jojoba oil is rich in antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds. It can help to protect the skin from free radical damage and reduce redness and inflammation, making it particularly beneficial for sensitive and acne-prone skin. Jojoba oil also contains several vitamins and minerals, including vitamin E, B-complex vitamins, zinc, copper, and selenium. These nutrients can help to nourish and strengthen the skin, promoting healthy cell growth and repair.

Shade of natural: 2. Natural with some physical processing

Meadowfoam (Limnanthes Alba) Seed Oil - A lightweight, non-greasy plant oil that is rich in antioxidants, emollients, and fatty acids. Meadowfoam seed oil's unique fatty acid profile has a high concentration of long-chain fatty acids that help to create a protective barrier on the skin, preventing moisture loss and keeping the skin hydrated and supple. It is also rich in antioxidants and vitamin E which protect and nourish the skin.

Shade of natural: 2. Natural with some physical processing

Kawakawa (Macropiper Excelsum) Leaf - A native New Zealand plant known for its traditional medicinal usage thanks to its range of bioactive compounds like flavonoids, phenols, and terpenoids. These compounds can help to soothe and heal the skin, reduce inflammation, and protect against oxidative stress. Kawakawa can be used to treat a range of skin concerns, including eczema, psoriasis, acne, and dry or irritated skin. In YOU ARE MY SUNSHINE Supercharged Glow Drops, hand harvested kawakawa leaves are cold-infused in New Zealand Hemp Seed Oil.

Shade of natural: 1. Natural (truly!)

New Zealand Hemp (Cannabis Sativa) Seed Oil - A fantastic plant oil that is rich in essential fatty acids, including omega-3 and omega-6, which help to strengthen the skin's natural barrier and lock in moisture. Easily absorbed, with no greasy or heavy feeling. Hemp seed oil is also rich in antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds, helping to soothe and calm irritated skin, reduce redness and inflammation, and promote a more even skin tone. This makes it particularly beneficial for those with dry, sensitive, or acne-prone skin. Hemp seed oil also contains vitamins A and E, which can help to nourish and protect the skin from environmental stressors, such as UV radiation and pollution. These vitamins also have anti-aging benefits, helping to reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.

Shade of natural: 2. Natural with some physical processing

Rosehip (Rosa Canina) Fruit Oil - An oil is rich in essential fatty acids, including omega-3 and omega-6, which help to strengthen the skin's natural barrier and prevent moisture loss. Rosehip oil contains high levels of vitamin A, which can help to promote cellular turnover, reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, and improve skin texture. In addition to its moisturising and anti-aging properties, it also has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. It contains a range of bioactive compounds, including carotenoids, flavonoids, and phenolic acids, which can help to reduce inflammation, protect the skin from environmental stressors, and improve overall skin health. Suitable for all skin types, including sensitive and acne-prone skin, as it is non-comedogenic and non-irritating.

Shade of natural: 2. Natural with some physical processing

Sunflower (Helianthus Annuus) Seed Oil - An oil rich in several compounds that have benefits for skin: oleic and linoeic fatty acidx, vitamin E and sesamol. Sunflower oil is non-comedogenic and highly absorbent, so won’t clog pores. It’s non-irritating and suitable for all types of skin, including dry, normal, oily, and acne-prone. It helps to maintain the skin’s natural barrier, supporting its ability to retain moisture. It also has an anti-inflammatory and skin healing effect.

Shade of natural: 2. Natural with some physical processing

Prunus Armeniaca (Apricot) Kernel Oil - This oil that has extremely nourishing qualities and absorbs easily into the skin, especially soothing on irritated skin. The oil is rich in vitamins A, C, and E, as well as the essential linoleic and oleic fatty acids. Apricot kernel oil is known to be used in traditional Chinese medicine to treat inflammatory skin disorders. It is also excellent for sensitive and prematurely aging skin, leaving it feeling smooth and soft.

Shade of natural: 2. Natural with some physical processing

Punica Granatum (Pomegranate) Seed Oil (Organic) - Pomegranate seed oil is a unique oil packed with conjugated fatty acids, and an extremely high level of punicic acid, which helps skin retain moisture by boosting ceramide synthesis in skin cells. This fortifies the skin barrier and helps to retain moisture in the skin.It also boosts skin's collagen production, enhances its elasticity, reduces the appearance of scars, promotes the reversal of skin damage, and leaves lasting moisture without a greasy residue. It is also non-comedogenic so won't clog pores.

Shade of natural: 2. Natural with some physical processing

Borago Officinalis (Borage) Seed Oil (Organic) - Borage oil is an excellent source of fatty acids, including linoleic, oleic, palmitic and high levels of gamma-linolenic acid or Omega 6. This makes it excellent for dry, irritated or inflamed skin, as well as elderly skin. Borage oil is believed to help reduce inflammation and eczema, increase hydration, and restore dry skin.

Shade of natural: 2. Natural with some physical processing

Vaccinium Macrocarpon (Cranberry) Seed Oil - A lovely medium/light oil with an exceptionally high level of essential fatty acids, particularly linoleic and gamma-linoleic (Omega 6). It is also rich in polyphenols and phytosterols, making it a potent antioxidant boost. Cranberry seed oil is wonderfully suited to address ageing or damaged skin, as well as protect the skin from free radical damage from ageing or environmental factors. This oil is also sustainably produced as an 'upcycle' product from the natural biowaste of food and beverage production.

Shade of natural: 2. Natural with some physical processing

Caryodendron Orinocense (Cacay) Seed Oil - Cacay oil is touted as a new anti-wrinkle miracle oil as it is rich in Vitamins A, E, and retinol, resulting in improved skin tone, smoother and softer skin. It is believed to contain three times more retinol than other popular anti-aging oils including Rosehip, and 50% more Vitamin E and linoeic acid than Argan oil. It is easily absorbed, non-comedogenic and does not cause irritation. Its high levels of linoleic acid also make it an excellent choice for blemish or acne-prone skin.

Shade of natural: 2. Natural with some physical processing

Opuntia Ficus-Indica (Prickly Pear) Seed Oil - Another superpower oil, prickly pear oil is packed with antioxidants, fatty acids, vitamin E, K and phytosterols. It can help with reducing the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, and as an oil with the highest concentration of vitamin E (among other antioxidants!), it can help heal and even reverse damage from UV rays. The high concentration of vitamin K helps with hyperpigmentation and brightening dark spots. Prickly pear oil also helps to improve skin elasticity and is an excellent moisturiser, leaving the skin feeling velvety soft.

Shade of natural: 2. Natural with some physical processing

Psoralea (Bakuchi) Corylifolia Oil -

Shade of natural: 2. Natural with some physical processing

Hippophae Rhamnoides (Sea Buckthorn) Fruit Oil -

Shade of natural: 2. Natural with some physical processing

Jojoba Esters -

Shade of natural: 3. Naturally derived

Tocopherols (Vitamin E) -

Shade of natural: 3. Naturally derived

Essential oils / Lavandula Angustifolia (Lavender, Bulgarian) Oil, Pelargonium Roseum (Rose Geranium) Oil, Boswellia Serrata (Frankincense) Oil, Pelargonium Graveolens (Geranium) Oil, Daucus carota (Carrot) Seed Oil, Cymbopogon Martinii (Palmarosa) Oil, Copaifera Officinalis (Copaiba) Resin Oil, Cananga Odorata (Ylang Ylang) Flower Oil, Citrus Aurantium Dulcis (Orange) Peel Oil, Cymbopogon Flexuosus (Lemongrass) Oil, Citrus Aurantium Amara (Petitgrain) Oil -

Shade of natural: 2. Natural with some physical processing

Rosmarinus Officinalis (Rosemary) Leaf Extract -

Shade of natural: 2. Natural with some physical processing

T.L.C. Nourishing Shampoo Bar

Sodium Cocoyl Isethionate - A gentle surfactant derived from coconuts, suitable for sensitive skin, and even approved for use on babies.

Shade of natural: 3. Naturally derived

Brassica Alcohols -

Shade of natural: 3. Naturally derived

Cocamidopropyl Betaine -

Shade of natural: 3. Naturally derived

Dimethyl Sulfone (MSM - Organic Sulphur) -

Shade of natural: 4. Nature identical

Disodium Laureth Sulfosuccinate -

Shade of natural: 3. Naturally derived

Behentrimonium Methosulfate (Palm Free) & Isopropyl Alcohol - A superb palm-free conditioning agent made from rapeseed (Canola) oil. It leaves hair soft and tangle free.

Shade of natural: 3. Naturally derived

Stearic Acid (Palm Free) - A fatty acid found in many oils. Most often the source is palm based but MATER Beauty uses only palm-free stearic acid. It is a waxy acid with emollient and skin softening properties, used to harden the bar.

Shade of natural: 3. Naturally derived

Propanediol - A potent natural humectant, hydrates the hair without weighing it down.

Shade of natural: 3. Naturally derived

Polyquaternium 7 -

Shade of natural: Synthetic

Essential oils / Lavandula Angustifolia (Lavender) Oil, Pelargonium Graveolens (Geranium) Oil, Salvia Sclarea (Clary Sage) Oil -

Shade of natural: 2. Natural with some physical processing

Garcinia Indica (Kokum) Seed Butter -

Shade of natural: 2. Natural with some physical processing

Betaine - A natural humectant derived from beets, hydrates the hair without weighing it down.

Shade of natural: 2. Natural with some physical processing

Coco Caprylate -

Shade of natural: 3. Naturally derived

Saccharide Isomerate - An incredible natural (made from corn) skin-identical humectant. It binds to hair, hydrating it for exceptionally long periods compared to other humectants, without weighing it down.

Shade of natural: 3. Naturally derived

Panthenol (Provitamin B5) - A derivative of vitamin B5, which is a natural component of the skin and hair so it is known as a skin-identical ingredient. Panthenol has an excellent ability to penetrate the skin and hair, providing deep hydration and nourishment.

Shade of natural: 3. Naturally derived

Mangifera Indica (Mango) Seed Butter -

Shade of natural: 2. Natural with some physical processing

Hydrolysed Rice Protein -

Shade of natural: 3. Naturally derived

Avena Sativa (Colloidal Oat) Kernel Flour -

Shade of natural: 2. Natural with some physical processing

Zinc Oxide + Ferric Oxide - Also known by the more common name of Calamine powder, the main ingredient of Calamine lotion. It is known to soothe and calm irritated itchy skin.

Shade of natural: 2. Natural with some physical processing

Kaolin - A natural Brazilian Purple clay which gives the bar its lovely colour, as well as absorbing oil from the scalp.

Shade of natural: 2. Natural with some physical processing

Dehydroacetic Acid, Benzyl Alcohol - A natural preservative, Ecocert and BIO-GRO Organic approved.

Shade of natural: 3. Naturally derived

Urea - A potent humectant, hydrates the hair without weighing it down.

Shade of natural: 3. Naturally derived

Lactic acid -

Shade of natural: 3. Naturally derived

GOOD HAIR DAYS Supercharged Conditioner Bar

Behentrimonium Methosulfate (palm free) & Isopropyl Alcohol - A superb palm-free conditioning agent made from rapeseed (Canola) oil. It leaves hair soft and tangle free.

Shade of natural: 3. Naturally derived

Brassica Alcohols - A natural, palm-free alternative to common palm-derived fatty alcohols such as Cetyl Alcohol and Cetostearyl Alcohol. Derived from waxes found in plants from the Cabbage (Brassica) family.

Shade of natural: 3. Naturally derived

Rosa Damascena (Rose) Flower Water -

Shade of natural: 2. Natural with some physical processing

Theobroma Cacao (Cocoa) Seed Butter -

Shade of natural: 2. Natural with some physical processing

Garcinia Indica (Kokum) Seed Butter -

Shade of natural: 2. Natural with some physical processing

Butyrospermum Parkii (Shea) Butter -

Shade of natural: 2. Natural with some physical processing

Polyquaternium-7 -

Shade of natural: Synthetic

Shade of natural: 3. Naturally derived

Betaine - A lovely natural eco-friendly humectant. It is an amino acid made from sugar beets and other plant sources. It helps to hydrate hair strands without weighing them down.

Shade of natural: 3. Naturally derived

Essential oil blend -

Shade of natural: 2. Natural with some physical processing

Cetrimonium Chloride -

Shade of natural: Synthetic

Coco Caprylate -

Shade of natural: 3. Naturally derived

Hydrogenated Ethylhexyl Olivate + Hydrogenated Olive Oil Unsaponifiables -

Shade of natural: 3. Naturally derived

Hydrolyzed Cannabis Sativa (Hemp) Seed Extract -

Shade of natural: 3. Naturally derived

Hydrolyzed Rice Protein -

Shade of natural: 3. Naturally derived

Guar Hydroxypropyltrimonium Chloride -

Shade of natural: 3. Naturally derived

Sodium Lactate - A skin-identical natural humectant, providing excellent hydration to hair, as well as helping to harden the bar once dry.

Shade of natural: 3. Naturally derived

Phenoxyethanol + Ethylhexylglycerin - Preservative, only used in the MATER Beauty conditioner bar because of its tolerance of high heat, unlike any of the more natural preservatives. As it's included in a wash-off product that doesn't stay on the skin, it's the best preservative option in this case.

Shade of natural: Synthetic

Dicetyldimonium Chloride -

Shade of natural: 3. Naturally derived

Sodium Hydroxide - A natural alkali salt used to get the conditioner bar to the pH level perfect for hair strands.

Shade of natural: 3. Naturally derived