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V
Vegetable Glycerine
-
Rich humectant, emollient and lubricant naturally extracted
from vegetable oils, used in cosmetic formulations for thousands
of years. (Synthetic glycerine, derived from propylene alcohol,
is highly irritating to the skin and scalp and should be
avoided.)
Vegetable Protein
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Termed "the building block of life," protein is our most
important food, a leading source of vitamins and essential amino
acids. Generally found in meats, eggs and dairy products,
protein can also be obtained from soy, wheat and other plant
sources. Applied topically, vegetable protein is an excellent
hydrator, readily absorbed by the skin for improved texture. In
hair care formulas, it combines with fatty acids and amino acids
to coat porous or damaged hair and split-ends.
Vitamin A
-
Used topically, it has been shown to balance and normalize the
skin and help keep it clear and healthy. Particularly beneficial
for dry or sun-exposed skin, it is often found in sun protection
creams for its soothing and hydrating properties. (A vitamin A
deficiency in the body reduces the mucopolysaccharides in the
skin, which accelerates the skin's aging process.)
Vitamins A, C and E
-
Their combined action, blended with citrus seed extract, make an
excellent natural preservative.
Vitamin B-complex (Herbal)
-
Water soluble vitamins that when applied topically, help
balance and normalize the skin and keep it clear and healthy.
Since B vitamins are the regulators of the metabolic functions
of our body, they are important to skin cell respiration.
Calcium D-pantothenate and inositol are the two B-complex
vitamins most beneficial to skin and hair health. (See also
Inositol and Panthenol.)
Vitamin B-5
(Panthenol)-
A natural hair thickener that helps give hair body and hold.
An excellent scalp nutrient and hydrator, also beneficial to the
skin. It is sometimes known as Pantothenic Acid.
Vitamin F
-
Consists of linoleic, linolenic and arachidonic acids, the
three essential fatty acids. Vitamin F acts as a skin protector
and revitalizer. Used in moisturizers, it soothes rough, dry or
chapped skin on contact and helps soften and revitalize dry or
damaged hair. The name usually used for vitamin F is essential
fatty acids.
Vitamin H
-
(See Biotin.)
W
Wheat Germ Oil
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A skin nourisher that also acts as a natural preservative
because of its high vitamin E content.
Wheat Protein
-
(See Vegetable Protein.)
White
Clay
- see Clay
Willow Bark Extract
-
The extract of willow bark. The percursor to Aspirin has
anti-inflammatory properties and is also able to gently
exfoliate skin. Does contain salicylic acid - do not use if
allergic to Aspirin.
Witch Hazel
-
Natural skin toner extracted from the bark and leaves of the
witch hazel plant. Witch
hazel water is 15% alcohol. Contains tannins and low amounts of
saponins. Cooling to the skin. Useful for minor skin abrasions,
irritated skin, insect bites and burns.
Y
Yarrow
-
Soothing agent used in skin and scalp treatments for its calming
and conditioning properties.
Yeast
-
High in protein and B vitamins, added to cosmetics for its
nutritional value.
Yucca Root
- Mild, natural detergent used in shampoos and soaps for its
foaming, cleansing abilities. Contains saponins.
Z
Zinc
-
Mineral essential for growth and skin health. It is often
prescribed orally to help control some forms of acne.Has
antiseptic and astringent properties. Works well to form slight
moisture barrier for skin. |
