Ingredient Glossary

Belle Natural Skincare products are formulated in Australia using precious plant, marine and mineral extracts sourced primarily from native Australian botanicals where possible, we have then selected fine ingredients from all over the world. Our preservatives are plant sourced so that you know you are using only the best of nature.


Plant Oils
Essemtial Oils
Botanical Extracts
Vitamins/ Antioxidants
AHAs, BHA’s + Enzymes
Mineral Clays / Mud
Anti Ageing Actives
Natural Abrasives / Exfoliants
Butters
Ingredient Definitions

Plant Oils

Plant oils contain intensive healing properties, anti aging properties that can significantly reduce fine lines, wrinkles, rosacea and scarring due to the magic of the selected plant oils incorporated into our formulas.

Plant oils helps keep the skin healthy in numerous ways. The high content of essential fatty acids (EFA) such as oleic, linoleic and linolenic is known to stimulate cell activity, and tissue regeneration.

The selected vegetable, fruit, seed and nut oils are all high in natural lubricating and moisturising properties and contain numerous vitamins and minerals, proteins, beta-carotene, anti-oxidants, lipids, essential fatty acids, soothing and calming properties to promote natural beauty. Oils used in Belle Natural Skincare:



Essential Oils

Essential oils, the pure essence of a plant, the soul of the plant, have been found to provide both psychological and physical benefits. Essential oils work quickly on the mind and the body. Through our sense of smell – the olfactory nerves – our brains start to react to the vapour from an essential oil in less than 4 seconds.

Essential oils are highly concentrated aromatic substances extracted from a single plant part. The liquid extract could be from the flowers, blossoms, leaves, gums, fruits, seeds or roots. Essential oils are proven in anti-septic, anti-viral, and anti-bacterial properties according to the individual plant.

The essential ingredients of oil when applied to the body are also absorbed quickly into the skin via the hair follicles, some almost instantly.

The advantage of the natural product over a chemically created substitute is that the essential oil is more complex and retains its additional anti-bacterial properties in a concentrated form.

The Chinese discovered essential oils, the Romans employed maidens to indulge their bodies in it, the Egyptian emperors were mummified in it, Priests prepared temples with it and explorers crusaded for it. Essential oils have been recognised for thousands of years for its therapeutic benefits but interest in essential oils appears to have intensified markedly in the recent years. Essential oils can be used to calm the mind, promote natural healing of the body, or simply for sensual pleasure.

Oils used in Belle Natural Skincare:



Botanical Extracts

Plant extracts are rich in numerous vitamins, pro-vitamins, antioxidants and skin emollients resulting in a unique naturally occurring reservoir of skin friendly nutrients. They exhibit natural bactericide, analgesic, antiseptic and astringent properties, making botanical extracts extremely valuable.

Botanical extracts used in Belle Natural Skincare:



Vitamins and Anti-Oxidants

Antioxidants are a group of compounds that help to protect the body from the formation and elimination of free-radicals. Free-radicals are formed from exposure to sunlight and pollution and also as a by product of cell metabolism. Alcohol, cigarette smoke, stress and even diet also affect the level of free-radical development in the body. Some excellent antioxidants include Vitamin A, Vitamin E, Vitamin C, zinc, selenium, ginkgo biloba, grape seed extract, and green tea extract.

Vitamins / Antioxidants used in Belle Natural Skincare:



AHAs, BHA’s + Enzymes

Alpha-hydroxy acids are a group of organic carboxylic compounds. AHAs most commonly used are typically derived from food products including glycolic acid (from sugar cane), lactic acid (from sour milk), malic acid (from apples), citric acid (from citrus fruits) and tartaric acid (from grape wine). For any topical compound, including AHA, it must penetrate into the skin where it can act on living cells. Bioavailability (influenced primarily by small molecular size) is one characteristic that is important in determining compound's ability to penetrate the top layer of the skin. Glycolic acid having the smallest molecular size is the AHA with greatest bioavailability and penetrates the skin most easily; Alpha hydroxy acids are better used on thickened, sun-damaged skin where breakouts are not a problem.

Epidermal effect: AHA's have a profound effect on keratinization; which is clinically detectable by the formation of a new stratum corneum. It appears that AHAs modulate this formation through diminished cellular cohesion between corneocytes at the lowest levels of the stratum corneum.

Dermal effects: AHAs with greater bioavailability appear to have deeper dermal effects. Glycolic acid, lactic acid and citric acid, on topical application to photo damaged skin, have been shown to produce increased amounts of collagen and increased skin thickness without detectable inflammation.

Beta Hydroxy Acid - salicylic acid. The main difference between alpha hydroxy acids and beta hydroxy acid is their lipid (oil) solubility. Alpha hydroxy acids are water soluble only, while beta hydroxy acid is lipid (oil) soluble. This means that beta hydroxy acid is able to penetrate into the pore which contains sebum and exfoliate the dead skin cells that are built up inside the pore. Because of this difference in properties, beta hydroxy acid is better used on oily skin with blackheads and white heads.

Enzymes – The skin is a rich reservoir of enzyme activity. There are skin care products that can enhance or inhibit the activity of natural enzymes in the skin. Fruit Enzymes can be used with great success to exfoliate the skin. Enzymes are special organic substances (most are proteins) that act as catalysts in a whole host of chemical reactions vital to normal metabolism. What does this mean? Catalysts have the unique ability to speed up reactions without being changed themselves. Enzymes help dissolve dead cells from the skin's surface, resulting in a healthy, glowing complexion. Enzymes can also help prevent or treat skin damage by fighting free radicals. And healthy skin is rich in natural enzymes that serve a vital purpose maintaining normal cellular activity and repair.

AHA’s, BHA’s and Enzymes used in Belle Natural Skincare:



Mineral Clays/ Mud

Australia's ancient geology provides us with a huge range of minerals; Our clays have been carefully chosen for their therapeutic and beautifying benefits to the skin. These clays have cleansing and detoxifying properties, they also moisturise the skin and revitalise the complexion. Australian clays and mud have the best pH value for protecting and balancing the acid mantle of our skin.

Clay Minerals Supply essential minerals through the skin, Cleans, nourish and soften the skin, Remove dead skin cells and trap dirt and toxins.

Mineral clay/ mud used in Belle Natural Skincare:



Anti Aging Actives

Anti aging actives are active ingredients formulated into intra-dermal and trans-dermal nano-delivery vehicles. Actives can reverse appearances of age-related skin blemishes and are more than mere sales hype. Anti Aging actives can reach underlying skin areas where they can be most useful. Anti Aging actives are important ingredients that must be in skin care for it to deliver real natural beauty and key to anti aging cosmeceuticals. Highly active specialty ingredients to boost the potency and efficacy of your skin and hair products. From ingredients that exfoliate, soothe, hydrate and revitalise to those that nourish skin cells and protect them from free radical damage.

Anti Aging Actives used in Belle Natural Skincare:



Natural Abrasives / Exfoliants

Exfoliants (or abrasives) are compounds able to slough away the top layer of dead epidermis cells of the skin, thereby leaving the skin appear smoother, fresher and less wrinkled (peelings). The result of exfoliation is to promote blood circulation in the skin and to increase the turnover of surface skin cells. Exfoliation can be achieved either mechanically by scrubbing the skin with cleansers containing small, hard particles (scrubs) or also chemically by applying cleansers containing active ingredients with a peeling effect (e.g. alpha-hydroxy acids, beta-hydroxy acids and others). Our Exfoliants and abrasives are all sourced from nature.

Natural abrasives used in Belle Natural Skincare:



Butters

There are several kinds of natural (vegetable) butters which are extracted from various plants, trees, roots, or seeds. They all consist of solid or semi-solid fat oils (i.e. they remain solid at room temperature) making them excellent emollients, softeners and protecting agents. Their composition of oils, fatty acids and active ingredients, however, is quite different so that each butter additionally has different properties as, for example, anti-inflammatory, soothing, moisturizing or antioxidant activities.

Butters used in Belle Natural Skincare:



Ingredient Definitions



Our pure, natural ingredients are plant sourced and our preservatives are natural such as Citrus seed extract, Rosemary extract and Benzoin. Pure plant oils feed and nourish your skin, to enhance your natural beauty.

Rosehip and Primrose are high in palmitic and Palmitoleic, linoleic and linolenic acids (fatty acids essential for healthy skin), and natural vitamin E. Carrot oil is rich in beta carotene. Vitamin A. Apricot kernal oil rich in Vitamins A, B1, B2, B5, B12 and C.

Our products are also packed with other goodies herbal extracts and powerful anti-oxidants properties, they work by destroying free radicals (oxygen molecules that break down collagen, which causes wrinkles and sagging).

The resulting skin care products are rich in natural vitamins, proteins, minerals and delivers the healing properties found in plant oils, to enhance your natural beauty.

ALLANTOIN - Anti-inflammatory properties. Promotes the healing of damaged skin by stimulating new tissue growth. Protects and softens the skin.

Almond Butter - A superior moisturizer that hydrates the skin and enhances collagen synthesis, restoring the skin's support tissue. Derived from almonds.

ALMOND OIL - A great emollient, softening and conditioning skin, and also helps skin to balance its loss and absorption of moisture. Loaded with vitamins and minerals and has been known to relieve itchy, dry and inflamed skin.

ALFALFA - Leaf & Seeds. A highly nutritive herb, rich in carotene, vitamin K, chlorophyll, amino acids, octacosonal and a full spectrum of minerals and trace minerals.

ALOE VERA - Promotes rapid cell regeneration ALOE VERA JUICE - A powerful natural moisturizer rich in vitamins, minerals, amino acids, enzymes, proteins, and humectants. An antiseptic with antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties. Has exceptional ability to enter the skin - four times faster than water.

ALPHA HYDROXY ACID - They exfoliate skin cells by breaking down the substance that holds skin cells together and aids in the regeneration of surface skin cells, making skin radiant and fresh. The most effective and well-researched AHAs are glycolic and lactic acid. Derived from various plant sources (like fruit and sugars) or from milk.

ANTI-OXIDANT - Vitamins A, E & C, reduce the effects of free radical damage caused by external factors, eg, carbon monoxide, sunlight & pollution which destroy collagen & skin components.

APPLE FRUIT EXTRACT - nourishing, moisturising, soothing.

APRICOT KERNAL OIL - Moisturizing, nourishing, and revitalizing properties. With its high Vitamin A content, Apricot Kernel Oil is particularly helpful for dehydrated, delicate, mature, and sensitive skin.

AVOCADO BUTTER - Moisturizing and healing butter perfect to use for dry or “aging” skin. Contains natural sunscreen properties. Excellent penetrating qualities and has low comedogenicity (pore clogging) on skin.

AVOCADO OIL - A highly therapeutic oil rich in vitamins A, B1, B2 Panthothenic acid, Vitamin D, E, protein, lecithin and fatty acids. Excellent, penetrating nutrient for dry skin and eczema.

BEESWAX - A powerful antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and anti-bacterial skin softener. Provides the skin a natural moisture retention, and forms a protective, long-lasting barrier against the elements. Derived from honey combs.

BERGAMONT OIL - Antiseptic, deodorizing and anti-bacterial properties. Helps skin conditions, such as, acne, eczema, psoriasis, and rosaceous. Promotes relaxation, balance, and is uplifting.

BORAX - A natural mineral. Borax naturally occurs from the repeated evaporation of seasonal lakes. Used as an emulsifier & preservative.

BENZOIN - Both soothing and stimulating. Natural preservative.

CALENDULLA - Also known as Marigold, this cheerful yellow blossom is revered for its reputed ability to ease skin ailments. Aids in healing wounds, inflamed skin and most minor skin problems, including acne, eczema and other rashes. Antiseptic, antifungal, and antibacterial.

CHAMOMILE - Very useful for skin problems, especially where skin is red or dry itchy skin.

COLLAGEN - Major component of the skin structure. Sun damage is a major factor in skin’s collagen breakdown.

COCONUT OIL - From the coconut. High in saturated fat, good moisturising properties.

CETYL STEARYL ALCOHOL - Derived from the coconut. Binds water & oil

CITRUS SEED EXTRACT- Oil extracted from the citrus seed. An antioxidant & preservative.

CINNAMON BARK/LEAF - stimulant for the circulation, antiseptic. A natural skin toner.

CITRIC ACID - This natural powder is derived from citrus fruit. Often Citric Acid is used to adjust pH balance in body care products. Citric Acid also has astringent qualities.

CLAYS - There are a wide variety of natural clays with an array of slightly different benefits, depending on the origin. Rich in a variety of minerals and trace elements, natural clays draw toxins and impurities to the skin’s surface absorbing them thereby leaving the skin purified, rebalanced, and softened.

Cocoa Butter - Cocoa is the fruit of the Cocoa Tree, Theobroma cacao, which grows in the Tropics, even though it originates from the tropical forest of the Amazons. In its natural state, the Cocoa Tree can grow to 35 to 40 feet in height and bears flowers and fruits all year long. Inside these fruits are the raw seeds called cocoa beans. Cocoa Butter is obtained using pressure to extract the moisturizing substance from cocoa beans. Cocoa Butter is a rich emollient with excellent skin softening and conditioning properties. It is valued for its high melting point, which is close to body temperature.. A nutrient-rich emollient and skin moisturizer. It softens the skin and improves skin flexibility. Derived from roasted cocoa seeds.

COCONUT OIL - Coconut Oil is obtained from the “copra,” or dried meat of coconut. The copra is separated from the hull of the coconut. It is dried, crushed and then expressed to remove the oil.

CRANBERRY - Cranberries are rich in vitamins and minerals such as zinc and Vitamins B and C. They are thought to have detoxifying and purifying properties. Cranberry Seeds contain potent antioxidants and are excellent exfoliants.

CARROT SEED OIL - - Source of beta carotene, vitamins A & E and provitamin A. Helps heal dry, chapped, and cracked skin by balancing moisture. Excellent antioxidant. Derived from carrot seeds.

EVENING PRIMROSE - Oenothera biennis: Evening Primrose is not an essential oil, but is valuable as a carrier oil for aging skin, and as a treatment with other oils for treating allergic skin problems. Helpful in menstrual and premenstrual problems, PMS!

EMULSIFYING WAX - : a vegetable based emulsifier used to keep water and oil ingredients combined in formulation. Derived from coconut oil and fatty acids from vegetables.

EVENING PRIMROSE OIL - This plant has been used for many years by North American Indian medicine men to make infusions for the healing of wounds. Evening Primrose Oil is exceptionally high in fatty acids, especially the essential gamma linolenic acid (GLA). This oil has superb moisturizing properties and is believed to be effective in helping with eczema and psoriasis.

GLYCERINE - An odourless, colourless, syrupy derivative of olive oil, Glycerine is a humectant, attracting moisture to the skin. It is sweet tasting, warming to the skin, and edible.

GERANIUM - Helpful for sluggish, restores good circulation aids detoxing. GINGER - Warming sweet spicy scent, Ginger has over 300 different properties. Used as a stimulant for general circulation of blood and lymphgland system, supports warming in the body.

GRAPEFRUIT - Great for cellulite and fluid retention. Being a diuretic, detoxifier and a stimulant of the lymphatic system makes it an excellent oil for massage. It is good for oily skin and acne.

GLYCOLIC ACID - - An Alpha Hydroxy Acid (AHA) that loosens the "glue" that holds dead cells on the surface of the skin, allowing the dead cells to slough off, leaving behind a smoother skin surface. Derived from sugarcane.

GRAPESEED OIL - High in Vitamin E and Omega 6 fatty acids. This oil is very rich in vitamins and minerals, including natural chlorophyll and valuable antioxidants. Since it is slightly astringent, Grapeseed Oil tightens and tones the skin.

HONEY - : Enriched with minerals, vitamins and amino acids, Honey is believed to be moisturizing, softening, and healing for the skin. Honey is also used in natural remedies for its antibacterial properties. A by-product of bees concentrating plant nectars. A nutrient-rich antioxidant known for it soothing and healing properties. Derived from honey combs.

HORSETAIL - A high silica herb that helps rebuild and provide elasticity to skin, hair and nails.

IRISH MOSS - A sea coast vegetable widely used for its natural gelling, emulsifying, It also has soothing demulcent ability for the skin. A skin softener, mineral-rich combination.

JOJOBA - The structure of Jojoba Oil closely resembles that of your own skin’s sebum; therefore it is an excellent moisturizer and is ideal for all skin types. Contains myristic acid, which has anti-inflammatory qualities.

JUNIPER - The Juniper is a thorny bush with long dark needles and produces a brownish-black berry. Has purifying and astringent qualities. It has antiseptic qualities.

JASMINE ABSOLUTE - Antiseptic, anti-inflammatory and aphrodisiacal properties. Great for mature, irritated skin and stretch marks. It has a sweetly intoxicating fragrance and is soothing and moisturizing to the skin. Derived from the flower - a potent form.

LACTIC ACID - - An Alpha Hydroxy Acid (AHA) that helps remove old, upper layers of skin to reveal new skin. Exfoliates, refines and clears skin. Derived from milk sources.

LECITHIN - A vegetable based emulsifier used to keep water and oil and fat ingredients combined in formulation. Helps deliver moisturiSing agents to the skin. Derived from vegetables.

LAVENDER ESSENTIAL OIL - An antiseptic and disinfectant, and helps heal eczema, acne, and psoriasis. It has a calming effect on the mind and body, which can be helpful in treating insomnia. It is one of the mostly widely used essential oil because of its versatility. Derived from the flower.

LICORICE ROOT - Anti-inflammatory, anti-fungal, anti-spasmodic, and anti-bacterial herb. Whitening properties.

MALIC ACID - An Alpha Hydroxy Acid (AHA) that helps remove old, upper layers of skin to reveal new skin. Exfoliates, refines and clears skin. Derived from raw fruits, such as apples and pairs.

MANGO BUTTER - Prevents drying of the skin and formation of wrinkles. Promotes cell rejuvenation and restores flexibility to the skin. Derived from mango kernels.

NETTLE - : Blood tonic & circulatory stimulant. Strengths respiratory system. Vit. A, C, D, K, iron, & serotonin for brain function.

NEROLI - Has wonderful therapeutic values; it Iis an antiseptic. Neroli is very valuable for skin care, for it has special properties of stimulating the growth of healthy new cells, and therefore has rejuvenating effects.

ORANGE FRUIT EXTRACT - Antiseptic and anti-inflammatory properties. Detoxifying, refreshing and cleansing. Derived from the rind of the orange fruit.

OREGANO OIL - This oil is pungent and strong , it smells just like the herb! It is known for its anti-viral and tonic and immune stimulant abilities. It is good for colds, fevers, flu and other bacterial infections.

PEPPERMINT - It has been used since the Roman times and probably by the Egyptians before them for digestive upsets. Antiseptic properties. Stimulating, rejuvenating, cleansing and purifying. Helps reduce oiliness and leaves skin feeling soft and silky. Derived from the leaf.

PUMICE STONE - A naturally occurring stone composed of balsamic minerals such as silicon, oxygen, magnesium and iron, all essential minerals for soft and radiant skin.

As an exfoliator, superfine pumice stone is particularly good for areas of hard skin, such as the feet and elbows, to assist the removal dead skin cells.

ROSEMARY OLIORESIN - Stimulating, purifying and rejuvenating. An all-natural preservative which provides a long-lasting antioxidant protection to our formulations. Derived from the rosemary plant.

ROSEHIP SEED OIL - Rich in essential fatty acids, vitamins (especially Vitamin C) and minerals. An antioxidant that has been shown to help improve elasticity of the skin, regenerate skin cells, slow down premature aging, reduce the formation of wrinkles, and reduce scarring. Derived from the extract of roses.

SEAWEED - The Sea contains, in solution, every element necessary to maintain healthy life. Therefore, Seaweed is naturally rich in a myriad of vitamins and minerals. For many centuries, Asian cultures have believed in the miraculous properties of Seaweed as a beauty and health aide. Seaweed treatments are reputed to nourish the skin, fortifying the body’s natural detoxification powers.

SHEA BUTTER - This lush butter is extracted from the pit of a fruit, resembling a plum, which grows on the Mangifolia Tree, also called the Shea Nut Tree. Shea Butter softens and nourishes skin and is believed to have antioxidant and regenerative properties. This emollient is especially useful for renewing skin suffering from the effects of sun or wind.

SPEARMINT - The distinctive aroma of Spearmint is believed to invigorate, improve concentration, relieve headaches, and reduce mental fatigue.

Stearic Acid: This naturally occurring acid is vegetable based, which can be derived from either palm or coconut. This rich fatty acid is an essential ingredient to many lotions and creams.

SILK PEPTIDE - are a highly purified grade of natural silk power, processed in such a way as to retain the original physical structure and chemical composition of silk. This is a 100% natural silk protein, in a fine powder form for ease of use. It also has the unusual quality of holding and releasing moisture depending on the temperature and humidity of the surroundings.

SOAPBARK EXTRACT. An extract of the Soapwort tree. Has mild foaming properties.

SOAPBARK EXTRACT - An extract of the Soapwort tree. Has mild foaming properties.

STEARIC ACID— Fat derived from vegetables. Acts as a binder of water and oil

SWEET ALMOND OIL - Skin nourishing properties, rich in essential fatty acids, vitamins A, B, E and minerals. Known to help repair the skins lipid matrix barrier by balancing its loss and absorption of moisture.

ST. JOHN'S WORT - Exceptional healing and soothing properties. It has been used for treatments of burns, wounds, bruises and pain of various kinds.

STRAWBERRY LIQUID EXTRACT - Rich in polyphenols and Vitamin C, it provides protection for the skin, contains soothing properties and is a wonderful toner to reduce the appearance of pores.

SWEET ORANGE - Warm and rounded in aroma, like the skin of the orange. Orange blends well with almost any of the spice oils: cinnamon, Nutmeg or Clove, also with lavender and Frankincense.

VIOLET LEAF - It is antiseptic, and has healing

properties which are especially valuable in treating skin problems, such as acne, oily skin and large pores. Very helpful for aging skin.

VITAMIN A - Retinol Palmitate. Stimulates skin tissue, collagen production and exfoliation. Improves skin elasticity, epidermal and dermal thickening, and helps reverse photo-damage. Nourishes the skin and assists in the rejuvenation process that maintains a more youthful appearance. Derived from Carotenoids, like beta-carotene, which are found in plants, such as dark or yellow vegetables and carrots.

VITAMIN B COMPLEX - Panthenol. Deeply moisturizes and heals the skin. Derived from rice husks.

Vitamin B:When applied to skin, Vitamin B is believed to aid skin cells in repairing and reproducing themselves. It is also thought to stimulate production of collagen, enhancing skin smoothness and elasticity. This vitamin is excellent for skin showing signs of aging. A potent antioxidant which protects the skin from adverse environmental effects. Derived from citrus fruits, such as lemons, oranges and grapefruits.

VITAMIN C ESTER - Ascorbic Palmitate. A well known and long documented antioxidant that protects the surface of the skin from free radicals that can damage the skin. Comprised of Vitamin C joined with a fatty acid derived from palm oil.

VITAMIN E - Commonly referred to as nature’s own healing agent. Vitamin E has been cited as having positive effects on the wound healing process. Vitamin E is believed to penetrate below the skin’s surface to rejuvenate damaged skin cells and promote healthy regeneration of scarred skin. Vitamin E is also believed to help the skin overcome the harmful effects of the sun. Vitamin E helps to preserve the health and integrity of the skin and prevent premature signs of aging.

Vitamin E - Tocopherol. An excellent antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and anti-aging properties. Soothes sun damaged skin, promotes skin suppleness, protects against UVA and UVB radiation from the sun, stimulates cell regeneration and supports skin regeneration, while protecting the skin against the damaging effects of free radicals. Derived from natural sources of vegetable oil.

WHEAT GERM OIL - Rich source of vitamin E, softens and smoothes the skin. Derived from wheat kernel.

WATERCRESS HERB - High mineral combination.