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OUR
INGREDIENTS
Our formulations are an integration between nutrient-dense African botanicals and clinically proven scientific ingredients, each complementing and enhancing the function of the other. This synergistic collaboration allows our products to reach their full potential as a skin care system that offers noticeable results from the very first application.
AFRICAN BOTANICALS
BAOBAB
[Adansonia digitata]
Found throughout sub-Saharan Africa, the fruit of the Baobab tree is commonly referred to as a “super-fruit” due to its rich nutritional profile. A cocktail of vitamins A, C, D3, E, F and K, amino acids, phytosterols and minerals with excellent anti-oxidant properties, it protects the skin against free radical damage, boosts collagen production and helps to renew cell membranes to improve tone and elasticity and promote healthy skin.
BUSH TEA
[Athrixia Phylicoides]
Preferring cooler grassland slopes in the eastern and northern parts of South Africa, this herbaceous shrub, traditionally prepared as a tea, is rich in flavonoids, linoleic acid and phenolic acids. Due to its remarkable anti-oxidant activity from the high concentrations of phenolic compounds it is able to reduce collagen degradation by lowering the concentration of free radicals in the skin, resulting in a smoother, firmer appearance. It also boasts anti-fungal and anti-bacterial properties.
CAPE ALOE
[Aloe Ferox]
Found abundantly across various regions of South Africa in a broad range of habitats, the Cape Aloe is often referred to as “the miracle plant” due to its intense healing properties. Although related to the well known Aloe Vera, this variant, which is indigenous to South Africa, is 20 times more potent with significantly higher nutrient levels. Rich in polysaccharides, anti-oxidants, amino acids and minerals, this remarkable plant contains enzymes which accelerate collagen production. It has known anti-inflammatory, analgesic, and anti-microbial properties, making it an excellent choice for sunburn, skin irritations and skin blemishes.
HONEYBUSH
[Cyclopia Genistoides]
Native to the mountainous areas of the Western - and Eastern Cape regions of South Africa, this woody legume has traditionally been prepared as a caffeine-free tea with a distinctly sweet honey-like flavour. A rich source of bioactive phenolic compounds, trace elements and minerals with potent anti-oxidant properties, it has been shown to reverse photo-ageing and suppress collagen breakdown. It also boasts antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties useful in the treatment of eczema and psoriasis.
IMMORTELLE
[Helichrysum splendidum]
Commonly referred to as “Cape Gold", this beautiful shrub occurs naturally in the eastern South African mountain gullies and slopes. Exceptionally rich in flavinoids and terpene compounds, it is a strong antioxidant with profound cell regeneration abilities and antimicrobial properties, all of which promotes wound healing, increases collagen production and improves skin barrier function.
KALAHARI MELON
[Citrullus Vulgaris]
Native to the arid Kalahari regions of Namibia and Botswana, the seeds of this hardy, drought-resistant “wild watermelon” are revered for its rich nutritional profile. At 70% linoleic acid content and 2800mg/kg natural vitamin E, it contains twice the amount of essential fatty acids and 5 times more vitamin E than argan oil. An exceptionally powerful antioxidant, this fast-absorbing, lightweight “Golden Oil of Africa” easily penetrates the skin without leaving a greasy residue, making it beneficial to all skin types, including oily and acne prone skins. The rich linoleic acid content restores sebum imbalance in the skin which helps unclog pores in addition to strengthening the skin’s protective barrier, restoring elasticity, and maintaining optimal hydration.
KIGELIA
[Kigelia africana]
This large evergreen tree, found throughout tropical Africa, is commonly referred to as a “Sausage Tree” because of its long sausage-shaped fruit. Rich in a number of powerful skin-boosting phytochemicals such as flavinoids, phytosterols, fatty acids, steroidal saponins and quercetin, it has powerful antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties which have been shown to inhibit the enzymes involved in inflammation by up to 83% while protecting the skin against damage caused by UV radiation. This remarkable plant extract has also been demonstrated by independent trials to improve skin firmness and elasticity by up to 13% in just 28 days of use.
MARULA
[Sclerocarya Birrea]
Renowned for its delicious fruit, enjoyed by humans and animals alike, this notorious tree is typically found in the “bushveld” or savannah vegetation on the low slopes of plateaus in southern Africa. The nutrient-dense oil produced from its fruit, hailed internationally as a “miracle oil” is packed with powerful antioxidants, omega 3, 6 and 9 essential fatty acids, vitamin E and potent skin-boosting nutrients. What truly sets marula oil apart, however, is its remarkably high oleic acid content which allows this intensely nourishing lightweight oil to penetrate deep into the skin where it hydrates, builds collagen and increases elasticity while steric acid seals in moisture by forming a natural coating over the skin.
MANKETTI
[Schinziophyton rautanenii]
Distributed widely across the harsh environments of the Kalahari, this hardy tree can survive several years of draught and huge variations in temperature. The highly nutritious nutty center of its fruit has been a staple diet among locals for centuries. In addition to its noteworthy calcium, copper and zinc content, it is also rich in vitamin E, making it a potent antioxidant with a natural calming and rejuvenating effect on the skin. What is truly remarkable about this well-rounded oil, however, is it’s high linoleic acid (up to 45%) and alpha-eleostearic acid (up to 35%) content which means not only does it strengthen the skin barrier so it can effectively keep moisture in and irritants out, but it also has a unique ability to shield both skin and hair from harmful UV rays due to its natural sun protecting properties.
RESURRECTION PLANT
[Myrothamnus flabellifolius]
Growing naturally along the mountain formations across central and southern Africa, this remarkable plant appears to die completely during times of drought, with its leaves becoming dark and shrivelled up. After rain, however, the plant miraculously resurrects itself and, within a few hours its desiccated leaves become green and lush again. Clinical studies have confirmed that a combination of the polyphenolic tannnin 3,4,5-tri-O-galloylquinic acid, and a disaccharide (trehalose) activates this rapid rehydration response in the skin and offers protection against transepidermal water loss. Resurrection plant has been found to increase skin hydration by as much as 47% within a mere 2 hours of application, with an overall increase in skin firmness and elasticity and decrease in wrinkle depth over 28 days of continuous use.
ROOIBOS
[Aspalathus Linearis]
Directly translated to “red bush”, this endemic fynbos species can be found in the Western and North-Western Cape provinces of South Africa. The leaves of this drought-resistant shrub are commonly brewed as an herbal, caffeine-free tea with well-documented health benefits. Rich in polyphenols including flavonols, flavones, flavanones and dihydrochalcones (aspalathin and nothofagin), Rooibos is notorious for its powerful antioxidant content. It is also a natural source of hydroxy acid and minerals like zinc, potassium, copper, magnesium and calcium. Boasting anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties, it is nonallergenic and gentle enough to be used by even the most sensitive skin types, and has been shown to improve skin conditions such as rashes, acne, eczema and dermatitis.
ROSE GERANIUM
[Pelargonium Graveolens]
Deriving its name from its attractive, rose-scented leaves and pinkish-white flowers, this multi-branched shrub is native to the Limpopo and Western Cape provinces of South Africa. With its strong antimicrobial, antifungal and antiseptic properties, Rose Geranium has been shown beneficial in reducing acne breakouts, skin irritation and skin infections when applied topically. It also boasts anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties which helps improve skin barrier function while protecting the skin from harsh environmental pollutants and free radical damage.
STALKED BULBINE
[Bulbine Frutecens]
Native to South Africa, Lesotho, Swaziland and Namibia, the leaves of this wild succulent plant contains a gel that has traditionally been used as an effective remedy for topical skin conditions such as burns, wounds, rashes, eczema and insect bites, providing instant relief to discomfort by expediting the skin recovery process. The incredible healing, soothing and hydrating qualities of this unique plant has been confirmed by studies demonstrating its ability to repair and protect the skin by restoring the barrier function, reducing sensitisation, and significantly increasing hydration and elasticity.
ACTIVE INGREDIENTS
AHA
[Alpha-hydroxy Acid]
These water-soluble molecules speed up cell turnover by weakening the “cellular glue” that cause dead skin cells to clump together. By exfoliating the outermost layer of the skin, AHA’s can minimise dullness, even out texture and reduce irregular pigmentation. By combining various fruit and plant derived AHA’s a gentle, multi-level exfoliation can be achieved.
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Glycolic Acid, considered the “gold standard” of AHA’s, has the smallest molecule size, allowing it to easily penetrate the outermost layers of the skin where, in addition to accelerating cell turnover, it can stimulate collagen production, reverse photo damage and improve skin firmness.
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With a slightly larger molecular size Lactic Acid does an amazing job of improving overall tone and texture by reducing pore size and minimising age spots and uneven pigmentation. As a humectant, Lactic Acid attracts water to the skin, making it a particularly good choice for drier, more sensitive skin types.
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Malic Acid is a gentle AHA which works well as a mild surface exfoliant to support the functions of Glycolic and Lactic Acid, sloughing off dead cells and unclogging pores to reveal younger, healthier, more radiant skin.
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Known for its anti-oxidant properties, Citric Acid works well as a supporting AHA, neutralising the skin’s pH and actively fighting free radical damage to lighten dark spots and even out skin texture.
arbutin
[Alpha Arbutin]
This natural alternative to hydroquinone, extracted from the leaves of plants like bearberry, mulberry and blueberry, is considered one of the most efficient skin brightening agents available. Acting as an inhibitor of tyrosinase, a key enzyme involved in the production of melanin (pigment) in melanocytes, Alpha Arbutin slows down the pigmentation process . While melanin plays an important role in protecting our skin against cellular damage from UV exposure, concentrated melanin formation results in patches of uneven discoloration, giving the appearance of age spots and hyperpigmentation. Topical treatment of arbutin has also been shown to effectively treat melasma (a condition that causes gray-brown patches on the cheeks, forehead, nose and chin due to hormonal changes) and the appearance of purple, red and brown acne scars.
bha
[Beta-hydroxy Acid]
These oil soluble molecules have a unique ability to penetrate and unclog pores, cleaning out excess oil build up that commonly lead to breakouts. It also acts as a gentle exfoliant by loosening dead cells that accumulates on the surface of the skin. Salicylic Acid, a BHA derived from willow bark, is a remarkable exfoliant with anti-inflammatory and anti-bacterial properties, making it a particularly great choice for breakout-prone skin. With regular use it can help minimise pore size by tightening the skin and reducing excess oil. In addition to treating and preventing breakouts and the accompanying post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation, it has also been shown to reduce the appearance of dark spots and uneven skin tone and texture.
crocus crysanthum
An innovative approach to stimulating cell-to-cell communication, both in vivo and in vitro studies have demonstrated the remarkable ability of this plant extract to induce the secretion of growth factors in keratinocytes deep in the dermis, as well as its role in activating growth factor-like effects in fibroblasts. By stimulating the activity and communication between cells in this way, the skin matrix is rejuvenated and the biomechanical properties of the skin are preserved and improved. The result is a boost in collagen and elastin production, improved resilience and firmness of the skin, and an overall rejuvenating effect.
ferulic acid
This powerful antioxidant fights free radicals to neutralise and prevent damage typically caused by pollution, ultraviolet light or infrared radiation, all of which accelerate skin aging. It also actively boosts the effectiveness of other antioxidants, such as vitamins A, C, and E. When combined with vitamin C and E, it not only acts as a stabilising agent to the notoriously unstable L-Ascorbic Acid, but it also offers up to twice the amount of photoprotection compared to each of these antioxidants on their own.
hyaluronic acid
[Sodium Hyaluronate]
This water-soluble form of Hyaluronic Acid, which can hold up to 1000 times its weight in water, easily penetrates the skin, making it an exceptional hydrating agent. As a powerful humectant, it attracts moisture deep into the skin where it provides intense hydration while helping to maintain the integrity of the skin barrier to prevent transepidermal water loss. By providing structure and volume to the skin these hydrated molecules help to create a temporary but instantaneous plumpness in the skin, promoting a naturally radiant, youthful complexion.
provitamin b5
[D-Panthenol]
This precursor to Vitamin B5 easily penetrates the skin where it is converted into Pantothenic Acid (Vitamin B5). As a skin-friendly nutrient it functions both as humectant and emollient. Humectants bind to and hold water in the skin, while emollients seal the skin to prevent transepidermal water loss. In addition hydrating the skin, it also has anti-inflammatory properties, helps stimulate fibroblasts (the cells responsible for the production of collagen and elastin in the skin) and actively boosts the barrier function.
vitamin a
[Retinyl Palminate]
This gentle Retinoid, ideal for sensitive skin types, is easily absorbed by the skin where it is converted to retinoic acid. Retinoids are commonly used to treat pigmentation disorders, such as melasma and post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation, due to their ability to inhibit tyrosinase and the overproduction of melanin in the epidermis. They also function as a gentle exfoliant which has an overall skin brightening effect. By promoting skin cell turnover, retinoids improve skin tone and texture and unclog pores. They help minimise fine lines and wrinkles by not only preventing the breakdown of collagen, but also by stimulating the production of collagen and elastin deep in the dermis where wrinkles begin to form. Studies have shown that vitamin A palmitate, specifically, can effectively improve the overall quality of photoaged skin in as little as 2 weeks, with increased improvement continuing to escalate over a 12 week period of continued use.
vitamin b3
[Niacinamide]
As the physiologically active amide of niacin (vitamin B3) this powerhouse vitamin is involved in the synthesis of the enzymes Nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide (NAD) and nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide phosphate (NADP) required for cellular metabolism. Various studies have demonstrated that Niacinamide, which penetrates well into the skin, offers multiple benefits such as strengthening the skin barrier and preventing transepidermal water loss to retain the skin’s moisture content, reducing inflammation caused by acne, eczema and other inflammatory skin conditions, and minimising enlarged pores. It has also been shown to interfere with the interaction between keratinocytes and melanocytes to inhibit the overproduction of melanin which causes hyperpigmenation and uneven skin tone. Clinical trials have demonstrated a significant reduction in hyperpigmentation after 4 weeks of treatment at levels as low as 2% Niacinamide.
vitamin c
[Ascorbic Acid]
This powerhouse vitamin is a well-researched antioxidant used topically to improve the overall appearance of the skin. Numerous studies have demonstrated how the application of vitamin C can help diminish the appearance of uneven pigmentation, is involved in the production of collagen, reduces inflammation, treats and prevents the changes associated with photoaging, and maintains skin barrier integrity. Environmental factors such as UVA and UVB radiation, pollution, smoking and diet can put the skin in a state of oxidative stress, resulting in a disproportionate accumulation of free radicals in the skin. As a powerful antioxidant, vitamin C neutralises free radicals in the skin by interacting with superoxide, hydroxyl and free oxygen ions to prevent the ensuing inflammatory process that usually accelerates photoaging in the skin.
L-Ascorbic Acid (LAA), vitamin C in its purest form, easily permeates the skin and, as a result, consistently outperforms all other vitamin C derivatives in its antioxidant potential, its effect on free radicals, and its ability to prevent and reduce skin damage on a cellular level.
Ethyl-Ascorbic Acid (EAA), a stable, water- and oil-soluble vitamin C derivative, is a powerhouse antioxidant renowned for brightening, reducing wrinkles, visibly firming, and fading hyperpigmentation. Its unique stability and slower conversion to pure vitamin C make it a tolerable alternative, particularly for those who may find higher-strength vitamin C products irritating.
vitamin E
[Tocopherol]
Labelled the “chain-breaking” antioxidant for its ability to hinder the chain reaction set in motion by free radicals in the skin, this fat soluble vitamin is delivered into the cell membrane where it offers protection from oxidative damage. It also does a great job at protecting and strengthening the skin’s natural barrier to hydrate the epidermis and prevent transepidermal water loss. The lipophilic (oil-loving) nature of vitamin E helps maintain the skin barrier by replenishing natural oils in the skin while improving the skin’s capacity to retain moisture. Research suggests that the topical application of tocopherol offers photoprotective activity against sunburn and other acute UV-induced damage, as well as symptoms of chronic UV exposure, such as fine lines, wrinkles and age spots, by means of its powerful antioxidant activity which reduces the effects of free radicals produced by exposure to the sun. When combined with vitamin C, the antioxidant activity of tocopherol becomes even more powerful, creating a synergistic relationship with vitamin C enhancing UVA protection, while vitamin E is more effective against UVB radiation.