BOTANICALS
OUR INGREDIENTS
Growing ingredients for the cosmetic industry is leading to over harvesting, de forestation and destruction of ecosystems. Katoa Botanicals has done extensive research into Advanced Botanical Extracts, focusing on game changing ingredients such as Plant Stem Cells and Plant Bio ferments. By using these ingredients, it reduces our impact on the environment. Extracting active cells from plants and multiplying them, we are able to formulate products with clinically tested and scientifically studied ingredients, guaranteed to deliver specific, targeted results.
Allantoin
Allantoin is derived from Comfrey Root and is a chemical compound found within the human body. Its used in skincare to hydrate, relieve itchiness and improve the overall appearance and texture of the skin. It aids in hyperpigmentation and is able to soothe as it has the ability to draw moisture to the skin and reduce inflammation which leads to redness.
Found in Luminess Hydra Crème
Aloe vera
Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Juice Powder
Aloe Vera is perhaps one of the most widely known herbs for its reputable skin healing benefits.
Vitamins, enzymes, minerals & other beneficial properties deliver hydration, protection, relieve inflammation and itchiness. Due to its small molecular structure, it helps to quickly heal cuts, abrasion and scratches by supporting collagen and protecting against infection.
Found in Luminess Hydra Creme
Aqua (Water)
Water is a compound and made up of molecules, the water molecules are made of hydrogen and oxygen atoms.
The human body is made up of 60% water and is vital to our health, survival, the ecosystems, environment and planet.
We do not add water to our products as a singular ingredient, yet it is used with other ingredients to act as a solvent and to help extract certain ingredients such as Gotu Kola.
Benzyl Alcohol
Benzyl alcohol is a natural component found in some essential oils, fruits & teas.
Its main use in our products is to act as a co preservative. Benzyl alcohol is widely used as a preservative in the skincare industry, and is regarded as a rare sensitizer, meaning its very safe to use and only in very high percentages will Benzyl alcohol pose a risk of sensitivity.
It acts as an antimicrobial and anti-fungal ingredient too.
Found in Cleansing Enzyme Butter Luminess Hydra Crème
Betaine
Betaine, also known as trimethylglycine, is found naturally in our body and is beneficial in helping balance skin’s moisture levels. It helps to correct uneven skin tones by inhibiting the production of melanin. Studies have shown it increases collagen production, improving fine lines and wrinkles. It makes creams feel silky and smooth when applying.
Our betaine is derived from beets, making it animal free and natural.
Found in Luminess Hydra Creme
Butylene Glycol
Is a clear liquid with a very light texture and acts as a hygroscopic, retaining moisture in the skin. It supports other ingredients by penetrating deeper into the skin
layer and enhances overall texture and feel of the final product.
It helps to support the stability of a product by killing off bad organisms on the skin.
Found in Luminess Hydra Crème
Capryl Trigliceride
Capryl Triglyceride Is a clear fatty oil, a combination of coconut oil and glycerine and has been used in cosmetics for over 50 years.
Capryl Triglyceride has a skin smoothing effect, locking in moisture keeping skin soft and hydrated. It has antioxidant properties, protecting skin cells from damage & premature aging.
It helps to bind ingredients together and can act as a preservative, supporting active ingredients in cosmetics.
Found in Luminess Hydra Crème
CETARYL OLIVIATE
Cetearyl Olivate is made up of a waxy Cetearyl alcohol and the fatty acid of Olive Oil.
Its packed with antioxidants and deeply penetrates the skin, mimicking a healthy skin structure. The liquid crystal structure is similar to the lipid structures in skin so this helps to repair the outer most layers.
Cetearyl Olivate is safe for sensitive skin and hypoallergenic.
Found in Cleansing Enzyme Butter Luminess Hydra Crème.
Cetearyl Alcohol
Cetearyl alcohol is a good, fatty vegetable alcohol that has a white waxy appearance and is a blend of cetyl and stearyl alcohol.
It is used in our products as a stabilizer to create smooth creams and locks in moisture keeping skin soft & hydrated, is non-irritating & non-toxic.
Found in Luminess Hydra Creme
Citric Acid
Is found naturally in fruits such as lemons, limes & oranges. It’s an AHA (alpha hydroxy acid) and aids in lightly exfoliating the skin, removing dead skin cells on the surface layer, brightening and smoothing the overall complexion. It helps to combat oxidative stress and reverses the effects of photodamage. It is not added to any of our products, yet it is found in Saccharide Isomerate to support the pH level of that ingredient.
Found in Luminess Hydra Creme
COCO GLUCOSIDE
Coco Glucoside is an eco-friendly surfactant, derived from glucose and coconut oil. It's natural and used in our products as an ultra-gentle cleansing agent and emulsifier. It’s very gentle and non irritating on sensitive skin, helps to remove dirt and impurities while coconut oil keeps skin hydrated and soft.
Biodegradable and safe for the environment, it's non toxic to aquatic life and keeps our waterways clean.
Found in Cleansing Enzyme Butter
Dipteryx Odorata Seed Bio Ferment
An in vivo study was conducted over a 24 hour period on Dipteryx OdorataSeed Bio Ferment (Tonka bean), results showed an increase in moisture levels of 35% Polyphenols are isolated during the fermentation process preventing oxidative stress, and slowing down the signs of aging by destroying free radicals.
Tonka bean Bio Ferment acts as an optical brightener, absorbing UV light, emitting light and increasing the luminescence of our skin. It also helps to reduce the appearance of uneven skin tones and fine lines.
Found in Luminess Hydra Creme
EVENING PRIMROSE OIL
Oenothera Biennis (Evening Primrose) Oil
EPO is a rich source of omega 6 & linoleic acid which is renowned for enhancing the skins epidermis and repairing damaged cells.
It inhibits the development of melanin, reducing dark spots and brightens skin complexion. Collagen levels are boosted, enhancing elasticity and skin appears firm and radiant.
Evening Primrose is native to north & South America but now grows freely through Europe and parts of Asia.
The cluster of bright yellow flowers open in the evening and close during the day.
Found in Cleansing Enzyme Butter
Ginkgo Biloba Leaf Bio Ferment Extract
The Ginkgo tree is one of the oldest living trees on the planet and is considered a living fossil, its the symbol of Vitality, Love and Hope.
The health research and studies that has taken place are unapparelled.
Its rich in antioxidants which help fight free radicals that lead to premature aging. It has antibacterial properties which help kill off bad bacteria in skin, reducing redness and inflammation, making it beneficial for acne prone and problematic skin types. Ginkgo Biloba stimulates fibroblasts in the skin which stimulate collagen production, plumping fine lines, restoring elasticity and also making it valuable for tissue damage such as scarring.
Found in Luminess Hydra Creme
GLYCERINE
Commonly known as Glycerine or Glycerol, it is a substance that is naturally found in human bodies.
Glycerine acts as a humectant helping to retain moisture. The emollient properties relieve dry, irritated skin creating a protective barrier and preventing moisture loss.
Glycerine has the ability to draw moisture from its surrounding environment, delivering it to the outer layers of skin, improving overall skin function and hydration.
GLYCERYL CAPRYLATE
Glyceryl Caprylate is made by esterifying coconut oil and glycerine. It is a paraben-free natural preservative that includes broad spectrum, antimicrobial and antifungal properties, anti-acne activity, skin conditioning, refatting and hydrating properties.
It helps to restore the oils in the skin, regulates moisture levels and acts as a humectant.
Glyceryl Stearate
Glyceryl stearate is a white waxy grain and is made by a reacting stearic acid and glycerine together. Stearic acid is an animal or vegetable fat - such as Palm, Olive, or Coconut (we use vegetable). It helps to bind water and oil together and is used as emulsifier and emollient in cosmetics. It has excellent moisturising properties trapping moisture in the skin but can be mildly comedogenic if you have acne prone skin.
Found in Luminess Hydra Creme
Grape seed oil
Vitis Inifera Seed Oil (Grape seed)
Grape seed oil revitalizes dull, dehydrating looking skin. It's high in Vitamin E and Linoleic acid which helps skin to retain moisture and restores elasticity.
It helps protect from environmental stress and prevent UV induced free radical damage.
Grapeseed oil contains a powerful antioxidant ingredient called Proanthocyanidin. This antioxidant will even out skin tone when used consistently and help with overall appearance.
Our Organic grape seed oil is sourced as a by-product from Organic vineyards.
Found in Cleansing Enzyme Butter
Jojoba esters
Hydrolysed Jojoba Esters
Hydrolysed Jojoba Esters are an essential fatty acid and is extracted from the seed of the Jojoba Plant. It is used to improve skin barrier function by retaining moisture and it mimics the skins natural oil (sebum) found in the different layers of skin. Esters are hydrating without being greasy, are non-comedogenicand are valuable in maintaining healthy, hydrated & soft skin.
LACTIC ACID
Lactic acid is naturally produced from bacteria during a fermentation process. It is an AHA (alpha hydroxy acid) and used in skincare as a multipurpose ingredient.
It’s a very gentle exfoliant helping to lift dull skin cells by breaking down protein attached to the dead skin, revealing a brighter complexion.
Lactic acid can help to fade sun spots and skin discolouration’s, smooths fine lines and wrinkles.
It has the ability to encourage ceramide production, which helps skin stay moisturised by binding water with the skin.
We use a very low concentration of Lactic acid, safe to use as part of a daily skincare routine.
Found in Cleansing Enzyme Butter
LACTObacillus Bio Ferment
An in vivo study was conducted over a 24 hour period, Lactobacillus Bio Ferment showed to increase moisture levels over 42%.
Lactobacillus is a non-living probiotic ingredient made by a fermentation process. During the fermentation process, Lactobacillus produces antimicrobial peptides, known as bacteriocins, which are powerful at killing harmful bacteria.
It helps to create a healthy, thriving microbiome for your skin by restoring balance to the skin’s microflora.
It stimulates the cellular renewal process and reinforces the epidermis barrier function to help visibly soothe skin, and boost its resilience.
Found in Cleansing Enzyme Butter Luminess Hydra Creme
Leuconostoc
Leuconostoc/Radish Root Ferment Filtrate
Leuconostoc is used as a natural preservative in some of our Bio Ferment ingredients to prevent contamination, before that particular ingredient is added to our skincare products.
It is created by fermenting radish root with the microorganism, Leuconostoc, which is a bacteria isolated from lactic acid.
This ferment also comes with numerous skin benefits too. During the fermentation process it excretes a peptide which can benefit problem skin types by killing bad bacteria on the skin. It balances out oil skin and calms inflammation.
Found in Luminess Hydra Creme
Naicinamide
Niacinamide also known as Vitamin B3, is a standout ingredient and possesses numerous skincare benefits.
It builds keratin which is an important protein to build strength & skin health, resulting in smoother & brighter skin.
Niacinamide nourishes & protects from environmental stressors.
Its water soluble, enhancing the function of the lipid barrier resulting in hydrated & less sensitive skin.
Niacinamide can minimize pores by regulating the amount of sebum (oil) produced helping acne prone and aggravated skin types.
Found in Luminess Hydra Creme
Oat Lipid - Avena sativa oil
Avena Sativa (Oat) Kernel Oil,
The ceramides in Oat Lipids are identical to the ceramides found in our skin, it helps to reinforce our skin barrier and increase cell turnover, brightening our complexion and reducing fine lines and wrinkles. Linoleic acid makes skin appear smoother and soft, delivering deep hydration.
Oat Lipids are an Omega-6 fatty acid and deliver potent antioxidant properties and are rich in Vitamin E to help to fight cell deterioration, which results in aging, damaged skin.
Oat lipids are an occlusive and humectant, creating a physical barrier on the skin, reducing irritation and inflammation which help to control acne.
Found in Luminess Hydra Creme
Panthenol
Is also commonly known as Pro Vitamin B5. This unsung hero works miracles on rough, dry & damaged skin. It’s a humectant and acts by drawing moisture in from the surrounding environment, locking it in and preventing moisture loss.
The body has the ability to convert Panthenol into Vitamin B5, or Pantothenic Acid. Panthenol also acts as an emollient, strengthening barrier function by sealing in moisture and penetrating the deeper layers of the dermis.
Panthenol is also very beneficial for minor cuts and abrasions as well as delivering anti inflammatory benefits, helping soothe redness and irritation.
Found in Luminess Hydra Creme
Pantolactone
Pantolactone is a humectant and used for its moisturising and anti-inflammatory properties. This ingredient is needed to make Panthenol (B5) so it acts together in our Luminess Hydra Crème.
It retains moisture in the skin keeping it soft and hydrated.
Found in Luminess Hydra Creme
PAPAIN ENZYMES
Papaya enzymes are found naturally in Papaya and is rich in magnesium, potassium, minerals and vitamins like A, B and C which together contribute to its numerous skin benefits.
Papain, is a proteolytic enzyme that helps in the breakdown of skin protein, to rid our skin of dead and damaged skin cells. It helps prevent acne by removing pore-clogging oil, sebum and dirt.
It contains AHAs which help to even out discoloration and pigmentation to reveal a brighter more even skin tone after regular use.
It aids in accelerating the metabolism of epidermal cells, acting as an anti-aging ingredient by improving the collagen content of the skin.
Papain has anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties that help in treating acne and preventing breakouts.
Found in Cleansing Enzyme Butter
Phenethyl Alcohol
Phenethyl alcohol is a very safe component to use in skincare. It’s a colourless liquid and found in numerous plants, flowers and has a faint floral scent, its non-irritating or sensitising.
Its two primary roles in cosmetics are to act as a natural co preservative and a fragrance ingredient.
Its added to our Luminess Hydra Crème to complement the Rose Otto Floral water and support our natural preservation system.
Found in Luminess Hydra Creme
Phytoglycogen
Glycogen (Phytoglycogen)
Phytogycogen is scientifically proven to have longer moisturising benefits than hyaluronic acid and when the two are used together in a formulation (which you can find in our Luminess Hydra Crème) you get a powerhouse ingredient.
Phytoglycogen is found naturally in our bodies, its turned into glucose and our muscles use it for energy.
In skincare, studies have shown that fine lines were reduced within 2 hours after applying phytoglycogen, collagen was induced & hydration levels are increased.
By delivering energy to damaged cells, it can also help with pigmentation.
Found in Luminess Hydra Creme
Reishi Mushroom Ferment
Ganoderma Lucidum Bio Ferment (Reishi mushroom)
In some cultures, Reishi mushroom is the sign of Immortality. They have been used for centuries in medicines and tinctures, their skincare benefits are now being recognised for multiple reasons.
The active cells of the Reishi mushroom have been extracted during the fermentation process and studies have shown when applied topically, it increases the cellular turnover of the stratum corneum, increasing skin firmness and hydration.
Beta Glucans protect from environmental stress such as pollution, light exposure and free radicals. Adaptogens signal and deliver anti-inflammatory properties and reducing redness in the skin. Packed with powerful antioxidants, they reduce levels of glutathione which is responsible for premature ageing. Polysaccharides provide deep hydration, strengthen the skin barrier and plump fine lines.
Found in Luminess Hydra Creme
Rose Otto floral water
Rosa Damascena (Damask Rose) Flower Water
The Rosa Damascena Flower has been used for centuries and it’s a prized commodity in many cultures. From traditional medicines to ancient rituals, influencing multiple varieties of Roses to flavouring foods.
Praised for its intimate scent, Rose Otto floral water has astringent properties which help to mildly improve skin's tone and its appearance.
It's full of nutrients that support the skins overall health and helps to soothe and reduce inflammation.
ROSEHIP CO2
Rosa Canina Fruit Oil
High in GLA (Gamma Linoleic acid) it stimulates cell growth and antioxidants support a strong cell structure, which is imperative for healthy skin. It prevents bacteria from invading reducing break outs and infection.
Reputed for its healing and anti-aging properties, Rosehip oil reduces age spots and enlarged pores, encouraging a youthful appearance by creating a protective barrier on the skin, preventing dehydration and maintaining elasticity.
Rosehip CO2 is extracted using high pressure gas, resulting in a pure, potent oil. This form of extraction is found to retain more nutrients and important components compared to traditional macerating, resulting in less waste.
ROSEMARY LEAF ANTIOXIDANT
Rosmarinus Officinalis (Rosemary) Leaf Extract.
Rosemary CO2 Extract is a powerful antioxidant and is derived from the leaves of the rosemary plant.
Rosemary’s circulation-promoting effect is great for reducing puffiness, swelling and helps relieve skin inflammation. It purifies the skin & offers cleansing properties while balancing blemish prone skin.
It soothes acne, eczema, and psoriasis conditions while antioxidant properties protect cells against oxidation and pathogens.
Rosemary CO2 Extract can be up to 10 times stronger than Vitamin E as an antioxidant.
Found in Cleansing Enzyme Butter Luminess Hydra Creme
Saccharide Isomerate
This powerhouse moisturiser delivers instant results, and long-term benefits. Its derived from plant glucose, the atoms are arranged to be identical to carbohydrates found naturally in the skin. This gives Saccharide Isomerate the ability to bind naturally to the skin natural carbohydrate complex (NMF) enabling deep and long-lasting hydration. This ingredient has the unique ability to pull moisture from the environment and binds to keratin in the skin which prevents moisture from washing away.
Saccharide isomerate encourages natural hyaluronic acid production by up to 60% delivering hydration and improving skin volume and density.
Found in Luminess Hydra Creme
Salicylic Acid
Salicylic acid is a BHA (Beta Hydroxy Acid) , its derived from the Willow Bark tree and has numerous benefits for a broad range of skin concerns.
It gently exfoliates, clearing pores & congestion making it great for acne/oily skin.
Dry/psoriasis skin types also benefit from using Salicylic Acid as it helps to lift any dry/dead skin cells on the surface layer of the skin, revealing a brighter & softer complexion.
Salicylic acid also acts as an anti-inflammatory, soothing swelling and redness associated with acne.
Salicylic acid can act as a preservative, inhabiting the growth of microorganisms. We use it as a co preservative, mixing it with other ingredients to create a broad-spectrum preservative, allowing us to avoid preservatives such as Ethylhexylglycerin and phenoxyethanol.
Shea butter profile
Butyrospermum Parkii (Shea) Butter
Shea butter contains Vitamins A, E, K & F. It boosts skins moisture levels & elasticity, has high concentrations of omega fatty acids which strengthen the skins surface layers resulting in a smooth, healthy, younger looking complexion.
It contains triterpenes which prevent collagen fiber destruction and antioxidants help to generate new skin cells.
Its anti-inflammatory properties help soothe skin irritations whilst minimizing the production of keloid fibroblasts which helps prevent scar tissue from reproducing.
Found in Cleansing Enzyme Butter
Shiitake Mushroom Bio Ferment
Lentinus Edodes Bio Ferment (Shiitake Mushroom)
A twelve week in vivo clinical study of Lentinus Edodes Bio Ferment (Shiitake Mushroom) showed dramatic improvements in overall skin hydration, firmness and fine lines.
Our lab also performed a cell renewal study. Results showed an 18.5% increase in cell turnover when using Lentinus Edodes Bio Ferment (Shiitake Mushroom)
They are an excellent source of copper, a mineral essential for the support in collagen production. It helps by increasing the cellular turnover rate of the stratum corneum, increasing hydration and skin firmness.
Shiitake mushrooms are rich in kojic acid, a compound that works by inhibiting the production of melanin, improving skin texture and discoloration.
Shiitake mushrooms are high in a polysaccharide compound called Lentinan which is effective in protecting cells from oxidative damage, and used globally in medicine & treatments to prevent disease.
Shiitake mushrooms also contain high levels of ergothioneine, a powerful antioxidant that can help to protect skin from damage caused by free radicals, along with reducing Inflammation which is the cause of many skin conditions including acne, rosacea, and eczema.
Found in Luminess Hydra Creme
Sodium Citrate
Sodium citrate is the salt of citric acid. It is not added to our products, yet itsfound as a trace in other ingredients such as Saccharide Isomerate. It can be used as a chelating agent which helps support the stability of the product by binding positive irons to stop metallic cations reacting. It can aid in adjusting pH levels and also used as a co preservative to help prevent certain microorganisms and bacteria from growing.
Found in Luminess Hydra Creme
Sodium Hyaluronate
This is a salt form of Hyaluronic acid but LMW (low molecular weight). This means it penetrates deeper into the layers of the skin, compared to Hyaluronic acid that sits on top of the skin.
Because it penetrates deeper, it provides longer hydration and delivering a plump and healthy glow, whilst supporting skin elasticity. Its more stable than Hyaluronic acid so it delivers results for longer periods.
Found in Luminess Hydra Creme
Sodium Phytate
Sodium Phytate acts as a chelating ingredient, meaning it binds with trace metals to eliminate bacteria from forming in our products.
Its also a beneficial ingredient to hydrate skin, improving the overall elasticity and minimizes pores.
Sorbic Acid
Sorbic acid is found in some of the ingredients we use and acts as a preservative. Its used to prevent the growth of bacteria, mould, and fungi and safe when used up to .6% in skincare.It’s a common preservative used in wine, meat, breads and other foods.
Found in Cleansing Enzyme Butter Luminess Hydra Creme
SORBITAN OLIVIATE
Sorbitan Olivate is a mixture of fatty acids derived from Olive Oil and Sorbitol, a dehydrated sugar. Used as an emulsifier and mild cleansing agent, Sorbitan Olivate helps prevent moisture loss is nontoxic, non irritating, hypoallergenic & biodegradable.
SUNFLOWER SEED OIL
Helianthus Annuus (Sunflower) Seed Oil
High in linoleic acid, antioxidants and oleic acid it soothes, strengthens and smooths skin.
Linoleic acid, a fatty acid found naturally in our skin’s sebum helps to improve the skin barrier function and keeps skin well hydrated.
High in Vitamin E which is a powerful antioxidant, it protects skin from free radical damage.
Oleic acid soothes inflamed skin and has healing benefits, beneficial for light scaring and acne prone skin.
Tocopherol Vit E
Vitamin E is found naturally in Sebum (skin oil), is a fat-soluble vitamin and decreases with age. Its depleted through sun exposure & UV damage and is a powerful antioxidant, preventing cell damage, along with acting as an emollient and humectant. It has the ability to attract and lock in moisture, keeping skin soft, hydrated and reducing the signs of aging.
Tuberose Cells
Polianthes Tuberosa Callus Extract (cells)
Active cells from the Tuberose flower have been extracted & multiplied, resulting in a potent & scientifically active ingredient designed to protect, restore & repair.
Research into plant cell technologies show that plant cells increases the availability of active molecules, strengthening the dermis and restoring a healthy skin barrier.
Tuberose cells have been clinically shown to reduce dark circles & puffiness under the eyes, reducing fine lines & wrinkles, whilst brightening your complexion and enhancing overall radiance.
Tuberose Cells are a key ingredient in our Luminess Hydra Crème, delivering a dual-purpose product for under eyes & face. Targeting under eye discolouration & puffiness, brightening overall complexion & increasing skin tone & health.
Found in Luminess Hydra Crème
WAKEME BIO FERMENT
Undaria Pinnatifida Cell Culture Extract (Wakeme Bio Ferment)
An in-vivo study was conducted over a period of three weeks. Studies showed that moisture levels increased by 55% and activated fibroblast (cell) Detoxification by 10%.
Wakame Bio ferment efficiently detoxifies the skin by targeting internal pollution, providing the skin with powerful antioxidants, nutrients, moisture and a way to detoxify offering cellular longevity. It increases collagen synthesis and supports the skins microbiome helping with skin health & radiance.
Found in Cleansing Enzyme Butter
Xanthan Gum
Xanthan Gum acts as a humectant adding an occlusive layer to the skin locking in moisture. Its main role is to add stability to formula’s by acting as a thickening agent and giving a luxe texture to products.
Found in Luminess Hydra creme