How and why are ingredient's chosen? This guide outlines the core components of a natural body product.

Hemectants

A hemectant attracts moisture from the air to the skin and hair. Many body products use propelene glycol which is petroleum-based. A natural hemectant, such as vegetable glycerin or jojoba oil, serves as a healthier natural source.

Emollients

By lubricating the hair and skin, emollients prevent water loss. Cocoa butter is one of the most commonly used natural emollients.

Detergents

By reducing surface tension, detergents clean the hair and skin. They are derived from petroleum or plant sources and vary in strength. Sodium Lauryl Sulfate (SLS) is the most commonly used detergent because it is inexpensive, however, it is best to avoid SLS because it is harsh and corrosive. A gentle, mild cleansing agent is preferable.

Anti-Oxidants

Anti-oxidants prevent free radicals from forming by inhibiting oxidation. Tocopheryl (the natural source of Vitamin E) and Rosemary are effective anti-oxidants.

Vitamins

Many products are enriched with vitamin sources to nourish the skin and hair. D-Panthenol is commonly added because of its effectiveness.

PH Adjusters

A product's acidity or alkalinity can be adjusted to 5 to match the ph of your hair and skin. Therefore, a product that is "PH Balanced" has been adjusted to a ph of 5 to complement your body's natural ph. Usually, ph is adjusted with citric acid, a naturally-occurring substance.

Emulsifiers

If you mix oil and water they will separate. You can add an emulsifier to mix ingredients that don't normally mix. Lanolin (from sheep) and beeswax (from bees) are both effective emulsifiers.

Colorants

Artificial colors have no added benefit to products other than to create a visual appearance. If possible, colorants should be avoided. Coloring agents are strictly regulated by the FDA and must be listed on the product's ingredient label as a "D&C" or "FD&C" color.

Thickeners

Sodium Chloride, more commonly known as salt, is used to thicken shower gel and shampoo formulas.

Preservatives

Any body product that is made with water will cultivate bacteria. This is why the FDA's regulations require all body products to use adequate preservatives to prevent deterioration and decay. By law, even "natural" body products must contain small amounts of preservatives, particularly if they are water-based.

Scents

To fragrance the hair and skin, body products use small amounts of essential oils, extracted from plant sources, or fragrance oils, a combination of essential oils and synthetic scents.