No List: What and Why

We choose not to utilize several ingredients in our formulas which are widely used throughout the cosmetics industry. In this section we explain these ingredients or practices and why we choose not to use them in our products.

Paraben

Parabens are the most commonly used preservatives in the cosmetic and pharmaceutical industries for their effective antimicrobial action and low cost. In small quantities parabens are relatively harmless, however, the fact that they may cause allergies and irritations to the skin are definitely enough for us to not adopt them.

We currently utilize in our formulas a European Union approved synthetic preservative known as Neolone. We are performing research to adopt natural alternatives in the future.

Silicone

Silicones are semi-organic compounds manufactured from silica and methyl chloride used to confer shine but contribute no nutritional value and generate residues in the environment.

In our formulas we substitute silicones for natural oils and butters that leave the skin nourished and healthy.

Mineral oil

Mineral oils are utilized in cosmetics for their emollient properties. These oils are very inexpensive but don’t have any nutritional value to the skin and are not biodegradable.

We only utilize oils of vegetable origin in our formulas which have excellent emollient properties as well as high nutritional value.

Lauryl or sodium laureth sulfate

Lauryl is an aggressive inexpensive detergent derived from petroleum and is widely utilized for its cleansing and foaming properties. Known for causing desquamation (an effect similar to dandruff) and other irritations to skin and eyes as well as allergic reactions, Lauryl is not being biodegradable.

In our formulas, we apply a detergent agent from natural oil extracted from a plant called Babaçu found in the Amazon. It provides gentle cleansing action and is a biodegradable emollient!

Propylene glycol

In its natural form, propylene is a vegetable glycerin. However, in the cosmetic industry propylene glycol is currently used in a synthetic form made from petroleum, with the purpose of minimizing water evaporation. It is known for causing allergic reactions, rashes and skin inflammation.

In our formulas, we replace propylene for natural oils and butters which moisturize and prevent natural water loss.

Colorants

Information on ingredients used in the formulation of synthetic colorants is commonly undisclosed by manufacturers. We don’t use artificial colorants in our formulas. The natural color of raw materials may vary from one lot to another and color variation in our products may occur.

Fragrances

Natural fragrances are made from a mixture of essential oils. They are characterized for being very perfumed and are used in aromatherapies. In the Amazon, essential oils are extremely rare and only available in very limited quantities. On the other hand, the region is extremely rich in vegetable oils, which are nutritious and emollient, but lack the perfume required in the cosmetic industry.

We currently utilize synthetic fragrances made with non-carcinogenic ingredients, but we are working to try to change that. Through our partnership with Sou+Brasil Institute and leading local researchers, we actively support the development of initiatives that strive to sustainably extract Amazonian essential oils for commercial use.

Animal testing

We take great care in certifying that no animal testing is used in the development and/or production of the ingredients we use or in their components. More importantly, our effort is to make sure that our suppliers have as much respect for the environment as we do by adopting sustainable practices in their businesses.