Ingredient Insight: Deep dive into our new after sun
Being based just 25 minutes away from the only certified desert in the UK (technically a shingle desert) we know a thing or two about the effects the sun can have on our skin. The goal with our brand new after sun balm, was to try and bring together as many beneficial ingredients as possible, in an effective way to give your skin the best possible chance of post-sun recovery. It’s not just about the ingredients, Ros, who formulated the balm says:
‘The complexity in formulating products is finding the right balance between different types of oils, butters & extracts, to achieve a specific outcome that addresses a specific skin concern’
With this balm, the goal was to help reduce redness, flaking and dryness, which all contributes to skin that feels and looks healthier. This also has the added benefit of prolonging your tan! The other challenge is achieving all of this, without using any synthetic ingredients that are not only cheaper, but can make the formulation process much easier.
Here’s a rundown of all the ingredients we chose to include and how they contribute to the formulation.
INGREDIENT INSIGHT
Hemp Oil: Rehydration Without the Grease
Hemp oil is renowned for its ability to deeply hydrate the skin without leaving a greasy residue. Rich in essential fatty acids, this oil helps to replenish lost moisture, leaving your skin feeling soft and supple. Its non-comedogenic properties mean it won’t clog pores, making it perfect for all skin types, especially after a day in the sun.
Seabuckthorn Oil: Protein Boost for Skin Repair
We’re big fans, since it grows naturally all along the coast around us! Its high protein content boosts collagen production, aiding in the regeneration of skin cells. This not only repairs damage but also enhances the skin's elasticity and firmness.
Sunflower Oil: Antioxidant-Rich Repair
Sunflower oil is a fantastic source of antioxidants, which are crucial in combating the damage caused by free radicals from sun exposure. These antioxidants, including vitamin E, help to repair and rejuvenate your skin, promoting a healthy and radiant complexion.
Mango Butter: Fighting Free Radicals
Mango butter is a rich, creamy ingredient full of free radicals. This means mango butter can significantly minimize the damage caused by UV rays, keeping your skin smooth and healthy.
Babassu Oil: Fatty Acids for Healing
Babassu oil is loaded with fatty acids that encourage healing and provide deep moisturization. It helps to soothe irritated skin, reducing redness and inflammation. This lightweight oil absorbs quickly, leaving your skin feeling nourished and refreshed.
Candelilla Wax: Natural Binding Agent
Candelilla wax is a plant-based wax that helps to bind all these wonderful ingredients together. It provides a smooth texture to the balm, making it easy to apply while offering additional moisturizing benefits. Plus, it's vegan-friendly!
Shorea Butter: Natural Moisturizer and Anti-Inflammatory
Shorea butter is a luxurious ingredient that serves as a natural moisturizer. It also has anti-inflammatory properties, making it perfect for reducing skin inflammation caused by sun exposure.
Lavender Spike: Redness Reducer
Lavender spike oil is celebrated for its ability to ease and reduce redness. Its soothing properties make it an excellent addition to our after sun balm, providing relief to irritated skin and promoting a more even skin tone.
Chamomile Oil: Soothing Irritation
Chamomile oil is another superstar when it comes to soothing irritated skin. Known for its calming effects, this oil helps to reduce inflammation and provides gentle care for your sunburned skin, leaving it feeling soft and comforted.
Spearmint Oil: Instant Cooling Sensation
For that much-needed cooling effect after a hot day in the sun, spearmint oil is the perfect solution. Its refreshing properties provide an instant cooling sensation, alleviating the discomfort of sunburn and leaving your skin feeling cool and revitalized.
St. John's Wort Extract: Speeding Up Healing
St. John's Wort extract is a herbal remedy known for its healing properties. It helps to speed up the recovery process of sun-damaged skin, promoting faster healing and reducing the appearance of burns and redness.
In summary
If you made it this far, well done for getting through that list of ingredients, it’s extensive to say the least! To conclude our deep dive, if you’re planning to spend some time in the sun, our after sun balm could be a great addition to your collection. Aside from all the benefits, it comes in a handy pocket sized cardboard tube, so you can easily take it around with you on your travels.
Also, 25% of sales minus the VAT of our after-sun balm is being donated to Surfers Against Sewage up until the 31st of December. You can find out all about the fundraiser here!
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