Argan oil is derived from the fruit of the Moroccan Argan Tree

emollient, conditioning agent

Argan oil helps maintain strong, supple, and elastic skin. It has also been shown to repair the skin's barrier function and balance/regulate sebum production. In haircare, it deeply hydrates the scalp and protects it from everyday damage.

Avocado oil is extracted from the pulp of ripe avocados. The oil extraction process typically involves cold-pressing the avocado pulp to preserve its natural properties.

emollient, conditioning agent, moisturizing agent

In skincare, avocado oil is deeply moisturizing and rich in vitamins E and C, making it ideal for dry, dull, or mature skin. It helps improve skin elasticity, reduces inflammation, and promotes a radiant complexion. In haircare, it is known for its ability to nourish and strengthen hair follicles, reduce frizz, and enhance shine.

Behentrimonium methosulfate is an ammonium salt that is derived from rapeseed/canola oil.

conditioning agent, anti-static agent

In haircare, behentrimonium methosulfate reduces the friction between the hair shafts by neutralizing electrical charges, providing slip, and improving the combing, general feel, and manageability of the hair. Reduction in friction between the hair shafts may also help to reduce breakage and damage. It creates a thin film on the hair, which helps to protect the hair from moisture loss.

Butylene glycol is derived from petroleum, sugarcane, or distilled corn. (We ensure ours is plant-derived)

humectant, emollient

Butylene glycol hydrates, conditions, and acts as a barrier to protect the skin and hair. In skincare, it has hydrating properties, as it draws water from the skin and brings it to the outer layers, making the skin look healthier and more supple. In haircare, it helps the hair in retaining moisture and prevents dryness.

Cetyl alcohol is a natural ingredient that is extracted from vegetables, coconut, or palm oil. (We ensure our cetyl alcohol is not derived from palm oil)

emollient, hydrating/moisturizing agent, thickening agent

In skincare, cetyl alcohol acts as a moisturizing agent and product thickening agent. It makes the skin hydrated and soft without clogging the pores or causing acne. It greatly enhances the texture of cosmetic products and improves the spreadability of the formulations (including hair care).

Chamomile extract is derived from both German and Roman chamomile varieties, both native to Europe, Western Asia, and North Africa. It is also produced on specialized farms in the United States.

botanical extract

Chamomile extract is widely used in skincare for its soothing and anti-inflammatory properties. It is a valuable ingredient in products designed for sensitive, irritated, or acne-prone skin, but it is suitable for all skin types. It can help calm redness, reduce irritation, and promote overall skin health. 

Chromium Oxide Green occurs naturally as the mineral eskolaite. However, for industrial purposes, it undergoes synthetic production to maintain purity and consistency. Despite its "synthetic" label, it is considered a mineral-based pigment since it is chemically identical to naturally mined pigments.  

colorant

Chromium oxide green is responsible for vibrant green colors found on cosmetics and skincare products. It is used in some skincare products to color-correct redness and even skin tone. Synthetic production provides consistent, high-quality pigments. This synthetic approach ensures pigments are free of impurities (like Lead, Arsenic, and Mercury) commonly found in naturally mined pigments.

Citric acid is a naturally-occurring alpha-hydroxy acid (AHA) obtained from citrus fruits like oranges, lemons, and grapefruits.

exfoliant, preservative, antioxidant

In skincare, citric acid is an effective exfoliant that leaves skin soft and supple. It removes dead skin cells and also unclogs pores. In bath fizzies and shower steamers, it reacts with sodium bicarbonate to produce the "fizz." Generally, citric acid can be used in combination with other preservatives to increase formulation shelf life.

Cocamidopropyl betaine is a surfactant derived from coconut oil.

surfactant, cleansing agent

Cocamidopropyl betaine is a very mild surfactant. In shampoos and body products, it acts as a foam booster, creating a rich lather when it comes into contact with water. The lather helps eliminate oil, cleansing the skin and hair.

Coconut oil is a natural oil derived from crushing coconut pulp.

emollient, conditioning agent, occlusive

In skincare, coconut oil is capable of deeply hydrating the skin's surface and leaving it healthy, smooth, and soft. In haircare, it is beneficial for dry and damaged hair as it seeps deep into the scalp to provide nourishment from within. It leaves the hair shafts moisturized, healthy, and shiny.

Colloidal oatmeal is made from the kernels of oats.

moisturizing agent, conditioning agent

In skincare, colloidal oatmeal is a hydrating and softening agent that forms a film on the surface of the skin and prevents moisture loss. It is popular for its soothing and nourishing properties in skincare.

Cucumber extract comes from cucumbers that are harvested and then processed to extract the pulp or juice. Active compounds are extracted from pulp/juice.

botanical extract, conditioning agent, antioxidant

Cucumber extract is known for its soothing and hydrating properties for calming skin irritation, but is also useful for its antioxidant properties in protecting skin from the environment. It can also be a mild astringent, used to help control excess sebum production.

Canola oil is derived from the tiny seeds of the canola plant, a hybrid member of the Brassicaceae (mustard) family specially bred from rapeseed in the 1970s (primarily produced in Canada).

emollient, moisturizing agent

In skincare, canola oil helps to replenish the skin's natural moisture barrier, making it beneficial for dry skin types. The oil's high content of fatty acids and antioxidants can also assist in reducing inflammation, soothing irritated skin, and supporting overall skin health. In haircare, it helps to nourish the scalp and hair follicles, promoting healthy hair growth and reducing dryness and frizz. It does not make the hair greasy and is easily absorbed.

Caprylyl glycol is made from caprylic acid, which is found naturally in coconut and palm oils. However, this alcohol can also be made synthetically.

antimicrobial, conditioning agent, humectant

In skincare, caprylyl glycol acts as a humectant, attracting water to the skin from the environment. It deeply hydrates and moisturizes skin. In haircare products, it also hydrates and moisturizes hair. In addition to being deeply hydrating, caprylyl glycol also has antimicrobial properties that boost the effectiveness of preservatives like phenoxyethanol.

Castor oil is obtained by pressing the seeds of the castor oil plant.

emollient, conditioning agent, moisturizing agent

In skincare, castor oil serves as a natural moisturizer, nourishing dry and sensitive skin, and helping to soothe irritations and inflammations. In haircare, it is known to promote hair growth, reduce split ends, and condition the scalp.

Dimethicone is a synthetic, silicone-based polymer derived from silica (silicon dioxide), which is naturally sourced from sand and quartz.

emollient, conditioning agent, humectant, moisturizing agent

In skincare, dimethicone helps the skin retain water and moisturize to soothe dry and itchy skin. It forms a protective layer on the surface to prevent water loss; thus, it hydrates and acts as a protectant. It also protects the surface from coming in contact with allergens or irritants. In haircare, it coats the hair strands to retain moisture, hydrate, and give off a shiny, sleek look. It also protects the hair from extreme heat.

Emulsifying wax is primarily derived from vegetable-based fatty alcohols (usually from coconut or palm) and polysorbates (see polysorbate 80), making it largely plant-based.

emulsifier, thickening agent

Emulsifying wax is a vegetable-derived wax primarily used to bind oil and water together in creams, lotions, and conditioners, ensuring a stable, thick, creamy, and non-separating product.

Fluorphlogopite is a synthetic version of mica, derived from metal mixtures (like aluminum and manganese).

substrate for colorants

Fluorphlogopite (floor-flo-go-pite) is a form of mica (see Mica entry for more info) that offers more sparkle and transparency to colorants used in cosmetics. Think highlighters, bronzers, sparkly colored cosmetics!

Fragrances are carefully crafted from over 500 aromatic compounds by master perfumers and scientists. The aromatic compounds come from various sources, such as natural plant sources like flowers, bark, seeds, fruits, wood, and resins, along with synthetic sources that recreate important fragrance notes of natural products like musk/ ambergris (originally sourced from animals) or those difficult to obtain due to prohibitive cost. Many "fragrance oils" contain the same compounds as "essential oils" and are often of better aromatic quality due to strict standards of reproducibility and important regulations that are followed.

fragrance

Fragrance is ESSENTIAL to enjoyable products! It enhances your sensory experience, creates a brand identity for Green Daisy Soaps, and makes products more fun and pleasurable to use. Once the MoCRA Act (Modernization of Cosmetic Regulation Act) defines what (and how) specific fragrance allergens should be included on labels, our labeling will change to follow regulations.

Glycerin is obtained from plant oils such as coconut, soy, and palm oil (we always ensure our glycerin is not sourced from palm).  

humectant, hydrating/moisturization agent, conditioning agent

Glycerin attracts water from the environment to hydrate the skin/hair. It replenishes the skin by helping remove dead skin cells and stimulating the skin to produce new cells (called desquamation/ keratolytic exfoliation).

Honeyquat is created by modifying the chemical structure of honey to produce a molecule that will bind to negatively charged skin and hair.

humectant, conditioning agent

Honeyquat offers excellent moisturizing, softening, and conditioning benefits for both skin and hair. It attracts water from the environment to hydrate the skin/hair. When used in haircare, honeyquat can provide shine and luster, improve combability of hair, and reduce static buildup when hair is dry.

Hydrolyzed rice protein is a protein derived from rice (hydrolyzed meaning protein is broken down into smaller peptides for better absorption into skin/hair)

conditioning agent, moisturizing agent

In skincare, hydrolyzed rice protein is often used to enhance skin hydration, improve skin texture and elasticity, and support the skin barrier function. It also possesses antioxidant properties, which can assist in combating free radicals and reducing oxidative stress on the skin. In haircare, it aids in smoothness and silkiness. In damaged hair, the hair cuticles lose their protein and become dry, dull, and brittle. Hydrolyzed rice protein fills in the gaps in the cuticle, strengthening hair and forming a protective barrier.

Iron oxides used in personal care products are primarily synthetic, but also naturally occur in minerals like hematite and magnetite (iron-based minerals). Despite their "synthetic" label, they are considered mineral-based pigments since they are chemically identical to naturally mined iron oxides.

colorant

Iron oxides are responsible for red, yellow, brown, and black colors in cosmetics and skincare products. While they occur naturally as minerals, synthetic production provides consistent, high-quality pigments. This synthetic approach ensures they are free of impurities (like Lead, Arsenic, and Mercury) commonly found in naturally mined iron oxides.

Isopropyl myristate is an ester produced from the combination of isopropyl alcohol and myristic acid. Myristic acid is a naturally occurring fatty acid commonly derived from plant-based sources.

emollient, conditioning agent

In skincare, isopropyl myristate locks in the hydration and enhances the penetration of other ingredients in the formulation. It leaves the skin soft and smooth without an oily surface film.

Jojoba oil is a liquid wax ester produced from the jojoba plant native to Arizona, California, and Mexico.

emollient, conditioning agent, moisturizing agent

In skincare, jojoba oil helps hydrate and soften the skin, promoting a smoother, more supple complexion, and helps reduce sebum. In haircare, it hydrates, softens, reduces frizz, and assists in detangling, leaving hair shiny and manageable.

Kaolin is a natural clay that comes from in the mineral, kaolinite.

emollient, structurant

In skincare, kaolin has the ability to draw excess oil from the skin and exfoliate it to leave the surface clean and smooth. It can also aid in giving structure to cosmetics and a matte appearance on skin.

Kokum butter is a natural butter derived from the seeds of the kokum tree (also known as the wild or red mangosteen)

emollient, moisturizing agent, conditioning agent

Kokum butter deeply hydrates and conditions the skin, making it soft and smooth. It helps to hydrate, reduce dryness, promote overall health, and leave hair feeling manageable.

Leuconostoc/Radish Root Ferment Filtrate is a natural ingredient derived from the fermentation of radish roots (Raphanus sativus) by Leuconostoc kimchi, a lactic acid bacteria traditionally used in kimchi production.

antimicrobial, humectant, moisturizing agent

Leuconostoc/radish root ferment filtrate is often used to boost the effectiveness of preservatives to prevent microbial growth in products. It has also been shown in recent studies to work to condition both hair and skin in various products like shampoos and lotions.

Manganese violet is a synthetic pigment produced by reacting manganese, phosphorus, and ammonium compounds. Despite its "synthetic" label, it is considered a mineral-based pigment since they are chemically identical to naturally mined pigments.

colorant

Manganese violet is responsible for the beautiful purple colors in cosmetics and skincare products. Synthetic production provides consistent, high-quality pigments. This synthetic approach ensures pigments are free of impurities (like Lead, Arsenic, and Mercury) commonly found in naturally mined pigments.

Mica is a group of naturally occurring silicate minerals, which is extracted and ground into powder.

substrate for colorants

Mica is often used in colored cosmetics and skincare as a substrate/base for colorants such as manganese violet and iron oxide. It is responsible for adding the sparkle and shimmer to many cosmetics and improves adhesion to skin in products like eyeshadow.

Niacinamide is derived naturally from nicotinic acid, which is present in yeast used to make bread products and beer.

conditioning agent, humectant, moisturizing agent

Niacinamide is a form of Vitamin B3 (niacin). In skincare, it brightens and firms skin by aiding in keratin building. It minimizes the appearance of pores by helping skin retain moisture, and it can also boost collagen production. In haircare, it helps build keratin, which improves the texture of rough and damaged hair.

Olive oil is obtained from pressing the fruit of the evergreen olive tree or shrub, mostly grown in the Mediterranean.

emollient, conditioning agent

Olive oil is great for nourishing dry skin and is easily absorbed into the skin. In haircare, its abundance of fatty acids and vitamins revitalizes and nourishes the scalp. It effectively reduces split ends by hydrating the hair and softening the cuticle.

Panthenol is made from vitamin B5, also known as pantothenic acid which is found in all living things.

conditioning agent, humectant

In skincare, panthenol improves hydration and elasticity of the skin and reduces itching and inflammation. In haircare, it coats the hair and seals its surface, lubricating the hair shaft and giving it a shiny appearance. It can also help protect hair from styling or environmental damage by locking in moisture.

Phenoxyethanol is found naturally in green tea. However, for commercial purposes, it is made synthetically in the lab and is known as a ‘nature identical’ chemical with a pleasant "rose" type smell.

preservative

Phenoxyethanol is a safe, effective, formaldehyde- and paraben-free preservative that inhibits bacterial growth. In any water-based products (and those exposed to high-moisture environments), preservatives, like phenoxyethanol, are ESSENTIAL to keeping your products safe for use and free from harmful bacteria, yeast, and mold. No one wants to use a product that has mold in it, and you surely wouldn't want to get sick from bacterial contamination in a product.

Polysorbate 80 is produced from sorbitol, a sugar alcohol derived from natural sources.

surfactant, emulsifier

Polysorbate 80 serves as an effective emulsifier and solubilizer, enabling the blending of water- and oil-based ingredients in cosmetic formulations. 

When obtained from vegetable sources, glycerin and hydrogen are reacted together at high pressures and temperatures to result in propylene glycol.

humectant, emollient

In skincare, propylene glycol has hydrating properties, as it draws water from the skin and brings it to the outer layers, making the skin look healthier and more supple. In haircare, it helps the hair retain moisture and prevents dryness.

Rice bran oil is extracted from the outer layer of rice kernels.

emollient, conditioning agent, moisturizing agent

In skincare, rice bran oil is a great moisturizer that provides hydration to the skin without clogging the pores. It is naturally rich in antioxidants and vitamins that protect and soothe the skin. In haircare, it seals in moisture, protecting the hair shafts from dryness and breakage. It can also enhance the texture of the hair, leaving it soft, shiny, and manageable.

Safflower oil is derived from the seeds of the safflower plant through a process of cold-pressing or solvent extraction. Safflower is primarily cultivated in arid and semi-arid regions with high temperatures, notably in the Western United States.

emollient, conditioning agent, moisturizing agent, humectant

In skincare, safflower oil deeply hydrates and nourishes, promoting a smooth and supple complexion. Its lightweight texture absorbs quickly, making it ideal for moisturizing all skin types without clogging pores. In haircare, it strengthens hair follicles, preventing breakage and split ends while adding shine.

Shea butter is a natural butter extracted from the mature fruit of the Shea tree. The Shea tree grows in the wild across a 3,700-mile "shea belt" in the dry savanna woodlands of Sub-Saharan Africa.

emollient, moisturizing agent, occlusive

Shea butter has a rich texture and is also a rich source of antioxidants, as well as skin-replenishing fatty acids (stearic and linoleic). It is used as an emollient in cosmetics and has smoothing properties for dry skin. In haircare, it is ideal for dry, irritated scalps, due to its hydrating capabilities.

Sodium Cocoyl Isethionate is a naturally-derived surfactant that comes from the fatty acids present in the flesh of coconuts.

surfactant, cleansing agent

In skincare, sodium cocoyl isethionate produces a rich foam that does not dry out or irritate the skin. The lather helps eliminate oil, cleansing the skin and hair. In haircare, it is a gentle cleanser that is safe for color-treated hair and is highly favored for sensitive scalps and dry hair because it cleanses without disrupting the skin's moisture barrier.

Sodium hydroxide (NaOH) is a chemical compound that originates primarily from saltwater through an industrial process (electrical current is passed through the saltwater, and then the water is evaporated).

chemical agent, pH adjuster

In soap, sodium hydroxide is used to turn fats and oils into soap (saponification)- there is no sodium hydroxide remaining in the final bars of soap. It is also sometimes used to raise the pH of a product into an acceptable range for skin or hair.

Sodium lauryl sulfoacetate is a plant-derived, biodegradable surfactant, commonly sourced from coconut and palm oils.

surfactant, cleansing agent

In skincare, sodium lauryl sulfoacetate acts as an emulsifier (allowing water and oil to form a stable mixture), creates mild foam, makes the skin smooth, and provides a hydrating feel. In haircare, it is a mild surfactant that reduces the potential for irritation, as well as stabilizes and boosts foam.

Sorbic acid for skincare originates naturally from the berries of the mountain ash tree (Sorbus aucuparia), first isolated in 1859, but is primarily manufactured synthetically today for purity, consistency, and cost-effectiveness.

preservative

Sorbic acid is a safe, effective preservative mainly inhibiting the growth of mold and yeast. In any water-based products (and those exposed to high-moisture environments), preservatives, like phenoxyethanol, are ESSENTIAL to keeping your products safe for use and free from harmful bacteria, yeast, and mold. No one wants to use a product that has mold in it, and you surely wouldn't want to get sick from bacterial contamination in a product.

Stearic acid is obtained by the hydrolysis of common vegetable and animal oils and fats. The resulting fatty acids then undergo crystallization or distillation and separation.

emollient, emulsifier, thickening agent

In skincare, stearic acid helps keep the skin soft and moisturized. It also binds the ingredients and keeps them from separating. In hair care, this ingredient coats the hair well, acting as a barrier against the harmful elements in the environment. It does not weigh the hair down. It is also essential for the structure of many products.

Sunflower oil is extracted from sunflower seeds. The seeds can be cold-pressed or hot-pressed to obtain the oil.

emollient, conditioning agent, moisturizing agent

In skincare, sunflower oil deeply moisturizes the skin, making it supple and soft. It forms a barrier on the surface that locks in moisture and protects the skin. In haircare, it is moisturizing, conditioning, and protecting.

Tin oxide occurs naturally as the mineral cassiterite. However, for industrial purposes, it undergoes synthetic production to maintain purity and consistency. Despite its "synthetic" label, it is considered a mineral-based pigment since it is chemically identical to naturally mined pigments.  

colorant

Tin oxide acts as a shimmering, pearlescent ingredient in cosmetic colorants. Synthetic production provides consistent, high-quality pigments. This synthetic approach ensures pigments are free of impurities (like Lead, Arsenic, and Mercury) commonly found in naturally mined pigments. It provides luster and shimmer to products (think highlighters and shimmery products)

Titanium dioxide can come from ilmenite and rutile, which are titanium-iron and titanium ores, respectively, found in mineral sand, metamorphic and igneous rocks.

colorant, whitener

While there is a lot of concern about titanium dioxide in skincare, it's actually very useful in sunscreens and cosmetic products. In skincare products, it is merely used as a whitener, making products brighter and less "yellow." It does not penetrate the skin barrier and poses no risk to human health once it is incorporated into products. It is also used in sunscreen products as a mineral barrier against UV rays. The safety risk comes from inhalation of the raw ingredient, which is only relevant in manufacturing environments.

Tocopherol is a natural ingredient found in a variety of vegetable oils and fats such as peanuts, sunflowers, walnuts, sesame, and olive oil. It can also be made from microbial fermentation or produced synthetically.

conditioning agent, antioxidant, hydrating agent

Tocopherol is an active form of vitamin E. In skincare, it acts as a skin conditioning agent and supports the structure and function of the skin's natural barrier. It helps retain moisture, reduces water loss, and can calm inflammation. Tocopherol also has antioxidant properties and can aid in reducing the appearance of age spots and fine lines. In haircare, it hydrates and conditions hair. It has anti-inflammatory properties that can moisturize and repair damaged hair.

Ultramarine blue is produced by melting clay, soda ash, sulfur, charcoal, quartz, and other raw ingredients at high temperatures, cooling the mixture, and drying and grinding the finished product. Despite its "synthetic" label, it is considered a mineral-based pigment since it is chemically identical to naturally mined pigments found in lazurite.

colorant

Ultramarine blue is responsible for bold blue colors in cosmetics and skincare products. Synthetic production provides consistent, high-quality pigments. This synthetic approach ensures pigments are free of impurities (like Lead, Arsenic, and Mercury) commonly found in naturally mined pigments.

Xanthan gum is produced by the fermentation of glucose and sucrose by the bacterium Xanthomonas campestris.

emulsifier, thickening agent, structurant

In skincare and haircare products, xanthan gum stabilizes the oil phase of creams and lotions and delivers the active ingredients to the skin in a uniform manner. It can also be used to thicken products.