TALLOW
Tallow is a powerful moisturizer loaded with a wealth of nutrients: vitamins, essential fatty acids and antioxidants. It offers antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties to help soothe irritated skin. Tallow and sebum share many of the same lipids in similar concentrations, which allows tallow to absorb deep within the layers of the skin. Tallow does not clog pores or cause irritation; it is high in CLA (conjugated linoleic acid), which soothes and decreases redness in irritated or acne-prone skin. Abundant in vitamins A, D, K, and E, tallow helps to protect the skin from free radical damage, thus reducing the signs of aging. Its topical use increases collagen production and stimulates blood flow to the skin, keeping it smooth and firm.
HEMP SEED OIL
Hemp seed oil has a very similar composition of fats and amino acids as natural skin oils, making it one of the most well tolerated carrier oils for all skin types. Light, thin consistency of this “dry” oil makes it a particularly good moisturizer for oily and acne-prone skin. Its astringent properties help control excess sebum production, tone the skin, and tighten large pores. Rich in magnesium, potassium, iron, calcium, zinc and phosphorus, vitamins B, E and C, as well as essential fatty acids, including omega-3, omega-6 and gamma-linolenic acid, hemp seed oil is an excellent emollient. Hemp seed oil improves the appearance of skin by increasing circulation. It also reduces redness and inflammation associated with acne breakouts and is a great treatment for eczema, psoriasis, and dry, itchy skin. Hemp seed oil has comedogenic rating of 0, meaning that it is noncomedogenic and will not clog pores.
SODIUM HYDROXIDE
Making soap requires sodium hydroxide (lye), water, and oil to start the chemical process of saponification. While a fair amount of lye may be used to create the soap, a properly finished product doesn’t contain sodium hydroxide anymore.
ACTIVATED CHARCOAL
Charcoal binds to certain poisons, heavy metals, and other toxins and flush them from your body, making it a wonder substance for acute and general detoxification. Used in skin products, activated charcoal is effective at treating body odor, acne, and relieving discomfort from insect bites and rashes. It’s anti-bacterial properties help fight blemishes. Activated charcoal aids in drawing microparticles, such as dirt, dust, chemicals, toxins, and bacteria to the surface of the skin, making their removal easier.
TEA TREE ESSENTIAL OIL
Tea tree (melaleuca) essential oil is best known for its purifying properties—it cleanses and rejuvenates the skin, promoting a clear, healthy complexion. Melaleuca essential oil is a powerful solvent which breaks the oil, dirt, and debris that clog up the pores. Tea tree essential oil is rich in terpenes that destroy bacteria, while offering soothing qualities. Anti-inflammatory and antiseptic properties of melaleuca oil help to reduce skin redness, irritation, and swelling. Studies show that tea tree essential oil can be just as effective as benzoyl peroxide at treating acne, but with fewer irritating side effects. Used in aromatherapy, the earthy, balsamic, herbaceous fragrance of tea tree has calming effects, allowing the brain and body to relax.