Deionized Water - Filtered water
Dihydroxyacetone (DHA) - A colorless three-carbon sugar enzyme which is non-toxic in nature and originates from raw sugar cane. It reacts with the skin's amino acid in the surface skin cells, producing a golden tone, caused by the carmelization of sugar on the skin. The complete effect takes place within 2 to 3 hours and affects the outermost skin cells of the epidermis. DHA is the only sunless tanning ingredient appreoved by the FDA.
Caprillic/Capric Triglyceride (CCT) - Derived from coconut oil, and considered to be a good emolient and thickening agent in cosmetics. It improves spreading on the skin.
Glycerine - A humectant (water-attracting/binding ingredient), emulsifier and emolient.
Glyceryl Stearate - Emulsifier, produced from fatty acids and glycerin, it readily penetrates the skin.
PEG Stearate - "PEG" stands fro polyethylene glycol. Various forms of PEG compounds are mixed with fatty acids and fatty alcohols, creating a variety of substances. These substances have diverse functions in cosmetics, including surfactants, binding agents (to keep engredients blended), stabilizers and emolients.
Hazelnut Oil - Oil extracted from the hazelnut, used as an emolient to moisturize the skin.
Pecan Oil - Natural nonfragrant emolient plant oil that hydrates the skin.
Sorbitan Stearate - Used to thicken and stabilize cosmetic formulations.
Aloe Vera Extract - Natural botanical hydrator and skin soother. A concentration derived from one of the oldest medicinal plants known.
Dimethione - Substance derived from silica sand. The unique fluid properties of silicone give it a great deal of slip and in its various forms it can feel like silk on the skin. It imparts emolliency, and is a water binding agent that holds up well, even when skin becomes wet.
Hydroxyethicellulose - Plant-derived thickening agent typically used as a binding agent or emulsifier.
Methylparaben - Preservative with anti-microbial abilities that prevents the formation of bacteria and is effective in low concentrations.
Phenoxyethonol - Cosmetic preservative that is considered one of the less irritating ones to use in formulations.
Propylparaben - Used as a preservative, bactericide and fungicide, it is effective against a large variety of contaminants at low concentration.
Sodium Metabisulfite - Preservative, can also be a strong antioxidant. Fragrance.
Research Sources
Mayo Clinic, Natural Home, Scientific American,
DermNet NZ, Nation Institutes of Health, Skin Car Rx
©2012 The Shades of Summer
