Botanicals - Natural pres

Carrier Oils

Natural Preservatives

 

In the world of "Botanicals with Chemistry," the shift from synthetic to natural preservatives is about choosing biocompatibility over convenience. Synthetic preservatives (like parabens or formaldehyde-releasers) are designed to be "broad-spectrum hammers"—they kill everything efficiently but can disrupt the skin’s delicate microbiome and may have long-term health concerns.
Natural preservatives are superior because they are often derived from renewable sources (like corn, sugar, or plant acids) and work in harmony with the skin's pH. They provide the necessary safety against mold and bacteria while offering secondary benefits like hydration or antioxidant protection.
We use "synergistic blends" (two or three natural preservative ingredients working together) to ensure the product is protected against bacteria, yeast, and mold simultaneously, giving our products broad spectrum protection.

NatDefence / Geogard Ultra
(Gluconolactone & Sodium Benzoate)

The Chemistry: A synergistic blend of a polyhydroxy acid (PHA) and a sodium salt. Gluconolactone is derived from corn through fermentation, while Sodium Benzoate is a nature-identical preservative.

  • Properties: Broad-spectrum antimicrobial, chelating agent, and skin-hydrator.
  • Benefits: Unlike harsh synthetics, this blend actually strengthens the skin barrier. The PHA component (Gluconolactone) gently exfoliates and draws moisture into the skin, making the preservative a functional skincare ingredient in its own right.
  • Products: Used in our water-based lotions, creams, and facial moisturizers.
  • Safety: Very low irritation potential. It is globally accepted by organic certification bodies. It requires a specific pH range (usually 3–6) to remain effective.

Plantaserv E
(Benzyl Alcohol, Salicylic Acid, Glycerin, and Sorbic Acid)

The Chemistry: A blend of organic acids and alcohols derived from plants. This is a "paraben-free" and "formaldehyde-free" system that utilizes the natural defensive properties of Rowan berries (Sorbic Acid) and Willow Bark-style chemistry.

  • Properties: Highly effective against bacteria, yeast, and molds.
  • Benefits: It offers excellent stability in emulsions (creams). Because it contains Glycerin, it helps prevent the product from drying out while ensuring the formula remains sterile and safe for the consumer.
  • Products: Found in our more complex cream formulations and leave-on body products.
  • Safety: Contains Salicylic Acid, so it should be used with caution for those with aspirin allergies. It is not recommended for products intended for children under 3 years old.

Grapeseed Extract
(Vitis vinifera)

The Chemistry: Packed with Proanthocyanidins (OPCs) and tocopherols. While often called a preservative, in green chemistry, it is primarily an antioxidant.

  • Properties: Potent antioxidant and mild antimicrobial.
  • Benefits: Its primary job is to prevent rancidity in oils (oxidation). It protects the delicate carrier oils in our formulas from "going off," ensuring the botanical energy and scent remain fresh from the first pump to the last.
  • Products: Infused in our Body Oils, Serums, and any oil-heavy balms.
  • Safety: Safe for all. We partner this alongside our other dedicated preservatives to provide full protection against mold, as it is better at fighting oil-spoilage than bacteria.

Naticide
(Parfum / Fragrance)

The Chemistry: A vegetable-based liquid made from aromatic plant compounds (often almond and vanilla derivatives). Despite being labeled as "Parfum" for regulatory reasons, its chemical structure is designed to inhibit microbial growth.

  • Properties: Broad-spectrum antimicrobial with a subtle, sweet scent.
  • Benefits: It allows us to preserve a product with 100% plant-derived effectiveness against a wide range of spoilage organisms, all while adding a delicate, natural fragrance.
  • Products: A favorite for ouHigh-End Serums and Sun Guard 30SPF
  • Safety: Excellent safety profiler for sensitive skin. However, like all aromatics, those with specific fragrance sensitivities should patch test first.