Caprylic acid is a fatty acid found in the milk of some animals. It serves as an antimicrobial and antifungal agent, helping to preserve a product.

Also known as: Caprylyl Glycol.

Lanolin is a waxy substance secreted from the glands of sheep. Lanolin is mostly a by-product of the meat industry.

If derived from animals, Stearic Acid is fat from cows, pigs, sheep, and dogs + cats in laboratory settings. It's used as a surfactant and/or emulsifier.

Also known as: Isostearyl Neopentanoate, Stearamide, Stearamine, Stearates, Stearic Hydrazide, Stearone, Stearoxytrimethylsilane, Stearoyl Lactylic Acid, Stearyl Betaine, Stearyl Imidazoline.

Derived from animal fats, Glycerin is used as a skin softener/smoother in cosmetics and skincare. It’s one of the most commonly used ingredients in personal care products.

Also known as: Ethylhexylglycerin, Glycerides, Glyceryls, Glycreth-26, Polyglycerol.

Carmine is a vibrant red pigment obtained from crushing up female cochineal insects (beetles). It’s used to add bright red coloring to eye makeup, lipsticks, and nail polish.

Also known as: Carminic Acid, Cochineal, Crimson Lake, CI 75470, E120.

Guanine is derived from the scales of fish; it’s what gives them their shimmery appearance. It’s used in shadows, blush, highlighters, and bronzers for the same iridescent effect.

Also known as: Pearl Essence or CI 75170.

Very common in eyeshadows, foundation, and lipstick, Tallow is fatty tissue from cows or sheep. It is used as a skin conditioner and stabilizer.

Also known as: Sodium Tallowate, Tallow Imidazoline, Tallow Acid, Tallow Amide, Tallow Amine, Talloweth-6, Tallow Glycerides.

Derived from shark liver oil, Squalene is used as a moisturizing agent. It's found in eye makeup, hair products, foundations, lipstick, sunscreen, body powders, and skin care products.

Also known as: Shark Liver Oil, Squalane.

Commonly known as ‘whale vomit’, Ambergris is an excretion of male sperm whales that is used in fragrances and cosmetics.

Extracted from pregnant horses, Estrogen is found in many creams, lotions, and fragrances.

Also known as: Estradiol.

Honey is essentially bee food. It starts with the nectar bees draw from flowers - they store the nectar in their honey stomach, it’s drawn out, chewed and broken down, and spat into the combs of the hive. Honey is what’s leftover in that mixture once the water evaporates.

A fibrous protein derived from animal tissue. Collagen is used in many lip products and skincare.

Gelatin is made by boiling the skin, bones, and cartilage of animals. It’s mainly used as a thickening agent in cosmetics, nail care, and skincare products.

Also known as: Gelatine, gelatin, hide glue, gel.

Protein from the ground-up hooves, horns, feathers, and hair of animals.

Also known as: Animal Keratin, Hydrolyzed Keratin, Cysteine.

The purified wax from the honeycombs of bees. It’s formed by boiling honeycombs, and then straining and cooling them.

Also known as: Cera Alba.

Retinol is a naturally-occurring form of vitamin A. It can be derived from plants, animals, or created synthetically.

Also known as: Retinyl Palmitate, Retinol Acetate, Vitamin A.

Used as a cosmetic colorant, aluminum powder is classified as a nervous system/respiratory toxicant.

Preservatives linked to skin irritation, hormone disruption, and cancer.

These ingredients are incapable of breaking down. This means they end up accumulating in the environment and water, impacting fish and other wildlife.

These ingredients can be contaminated with carcinogens like Nitrosamines.

This group of ingredients are synthetically produced using Ethylene Oxide, a known carcinogen. They also have a high potential of being contaminated with 1,4-Dioxane, another documented carcinogen.

They may be listed as: Polyethylene Glycol, PEG-100 (or PEG-any number), Sodium Laureth Sulfate (SLES), Ammonium Laureth Sulfate, most ingredients ending in “-eth, Emulsifying Wax, Polysorbate-20, Polysorbate-40.

This known carcinogen is not intentionally added to formulas, it’s released through other ingredients like: Imidazolidinyl Urea, Diazolidinyl, Polyoxymethylene Urea, DMDM Hydantoin, Tosylamide, 2-Bromo-2-Nitropropane-1,3-Diol, Quaternium-15, Sodium Hydroxymethylglycinate, Glyoxal, Benzyl Hemiformal, Methenamine.

These synthetic chemicals are used as hydrators and penetration enhancers. They’re linked to skin irritation and sensitivity.

This skin-lightening chemical has been linked to cancer, skin irritation, and organ system toxicity.

Used as preservatives, these ingredients can cause skin irritation and are linked to nervous system toxicity. The EU has banned these preservatives from leave-on beauty products.

These incredibly tiny particles are synthetically created versions of naturally occurring substances. They function as preservatives or UV-filters. Studies have shown that these smaller versions are more toxic than their larger, natural counterparts. These particles may be able to penetrate the skin, and inhalation can cause the particles to stay in the organs long-term.

On labels, look for: micronized quartz silica, micronized titanium dioxide, fullerenes, micronized zinc oxide, nano zinc oxide.

Chemical sunscreens like oxybenzone are linked to hormone disruption and photo-allergenic effects.

A common preservative used in cosmetics and personal care products, parabens are linked to cancer, endocrine and immune disorders, and neurological and developmental conditions.

Parabens may be listed as: Propylparaben, Ethylparaben, Butylparaben, Isobutylparaben, Isopropylparaben, or Methylparaben.

Derived from petroleum, these ingredients can be contaminated with Polyaromatic Hydrocarbons which are linked to cancer.

These chemicals have been linked to birth defects and endocrine disruption. They’re not usually listed on the label, but instead hidden under the blanket term ‘fragrance’.

Microbeads are tiny pieces of plastic found in many cosmetic and skincare products. These beads can end up in lakes and oceans where they’re ingested by fish and other animals.

This ingredient can disrupt thyroid function and cause skin irritation.

It may be listed as: Resorcinol, Resorcin 1,3-Benzenediol, 1,3-Dihydroxybenzene.

There are two types of silicones - linear silicones and cyclic silicones:

• We ban linear silicones for their negative impact on the environment and pore-clogging potential.
• We ban cyclic silicones (cyclotetrasiloxane (D4), cyclopentasiloxane (D5), cyclohexasiloxane (D6), and cyclomethicone) as they’re linked to developmental/reproductive toxicity and endocrine disruption. They also don’t break down well and can accumulate in the environment and food chain.

Brands are not required to disclose the ingredients that make up a synthetic fragrance. The word ‘fragrance’ can hide any number of toxins.

All our products are fragrance free and we’ll always disclose every ingredient in our formulas.

Used to create fragrances, these ingredients have been linked to hormonal disruption. They also accumulate in the environment, affecting plants, wildlife, and our water supply.

Used in powder products to soften, absorb moisture, and create opacity. Because it’s extracted from the ground, some talc is contaminated with asbestos, a known carcinogen.

Used as an anti-slipping/bulking agent, Teflon can be contaminated with PFOA (perfluorooctanoic acid), a substance linked to cancer, endocrine disruption, and reproductive toxicity.

Teflon may be listed as: Teflon, Perfluoroalkylethyl Phosphate, Polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE), Polyperfluoromethylisopropyl Ether, DEA-C8-18.

Makeup colorants are naturally derived or synthetic.

Mineral colorants are considered healthier or more sustainable, but that isn't always the case.

Mined minerals can be contaminated with heavy metals like lead and can be coming from inhumane sources like child labor.

Some natural pigments fade faster and can not be as bright as their synthetic counterparts. Some synthetic colorants are more sustainable because they are not grown on a farm that uses water and other resources to grow them.

We use a combination of natural and synthetic dyes to create the perfect shade, while always trying to use the most sustainable option as possible.

Rest assured colorants are in less than 1% of any formula.

Used as a colorant to create black, mostly found in eyeliner and mascaras, coal tar has been a known human carcinogen and rated a 10 on EWG.

Found in eyemakeup and used as a preservative, it's known as a respiratory toxicant. It is persistent and bioaccumulative in humans.

This petrochemical solvent has been linked to birth defects and is toxic to the immune system.

These ingredients are used as preservatives and antibacterial agents. They’re linked to hormonal disruption and can accumulate in the environment.

To grow palm oil, growers burn down forests to clear the land. Animals lose their homes, communities lose their natural land, and air pollution levels rise from the smoke. Not to mention the worker exploitation and labor abuse that is rampant.

We only use palm-oil derived ingredients that are certified sustainably sourced. They include an RSPO certificate to validate that no deforestation, land burning, or exploitation of workers or local communities were involved. We are looking into ways from removing Palm Oil altogether.

25% of the world’s Mica is produced with child labor, with the majority coming from Jharkhand and Bihar in Eastern India. Because of this, we ban natural mica unless we can verify it was produced without child labor.

If we can’t find a verified source, we use a safe synthetic version to ensure purity and origin.

This moisturizing, skin-softening duo help seal in moisture, reduce inflammation, and calm redness. They also function as a natural preservative.

EWG Rating = 1

Organic Lavender Oil is ultra-restorative. It helps soothe the skin, reducing the appearance of redness and discoloration. Lavender oil also helps heal acne and combat aging free radicals with its high antioxidant content and antibacterial qualities.

EWG Rating = 1

Sea Buckthorn Oil's rich concentration of omega 3, 6, and 9 fatty acids help protect the skin from sun damage by reducing UV-related inflammation.

EWG Rating = 1

This moisture-rich oil is full of nourishing fatty acids that help your skin stay hydrated and youthful. Antioxidant-rich vitamins A and C boost radiance, combat discoloration and sun damage, and encourage healthy collagen production.

EWG Rating =1

A liquid wax derived from the Simmondsia chinensis plant, Jojoba oil is deeply hydrating with many antioxidants benefits. Rich in Vitamin E, this oil helps fight oxidative stress that can cause premature aging.

EWG Rating = 1

Moringa Oil contains Vitamin A to help build collagen, Vitamin C to reduce the look of fine lines and wrinkles, and Vitamin E to help heal and prevent inflammation.

EWG Rating = 1

Prickly Pear is high in Omega 6 and 9, Vitamin E, and Amino Acids which stimulate collagen production in the skin. Vitamin K helps brighten the skin and promote elasticity.

EWG Rating = 1

Derived from plant oils, Ethylhexyl Stearate functions as a conditioner, helping to soften and smooth the skin.

EWG Rating = 1

Derived from the honeysuckle flower, this extract soothes the skin with its high antioxidant content. It also functions as a natural preservative booster.

EWG Rating = 1

Derived from the Japanese Honeysuckle flower, this extract soothes and conditions the skin and acts as a natural preservative booster.

EWG Rating = 1

Mica is the group of minerals that gives sparkle and shine to our shadows and highlighters. When we use natural mica, we source only from suppliers in the US or Malaysia. These areas have (and enforce) ethical labor standards which prevent the use of child labor. Visit our blog for more on Mica.

EWG Rating = 2

Synthetic mica is made in a lab and is essentially identical to natural mica, but brighter and more uniform in color and finish. We choose synthetic when we can’t find a verified source of non-child labor natural mica.

EWG Rating = 1

Naturally derived from plant-based oils, Magnesium Myristate is the behind-the-scenes worker: it helps the formula stay together, gives it a soft feel, creates a smooth texture, and helps repel water.

EWG Rating = 1

A naturally occurring mineral found in granite, clay, sandstone, and some plants, Silica is used as a thickening agent and to help create an opaque finish.

EWG Rating = 1

Bismuth oxychloride is a synthetically-created powder made by combining the natural elements oxygen, chlorine, and bismuth. Bismuth is the only non-toxic heavy metal, purified in a multi-step process before use in cosmetics. The end-product, Bismuth Oxychloride is used as a makeup colorant that creates an iridescent effect. Visit our blog for more on this ingredient.

EWG Rating = 1

A naturally derived mixture of minerals, Calcium Aluminum Borosilicate functions as a thickening agent. It does not penetrate the skin.

EWG Rating = 1

Naturally derived from the mineral, Cassiterite, Tin Oxide is a bulking and opacifying agent that helps create a lustrous, shimmery finish.

EWG Rating = 2

A naturally occurring mineral, Titanium Dioxide is used as a bright, white colorant. It also functions as a natural sunscreen, protecting the skin from UVA and UVB radiation.

EWG Rating = 2

Color pigments derived from natural ores and minerals. Once sourced, Iron Oxides are processed in a lab for use in cosmetics.

EWG Rating = 2

A synthetically created dark blue pigment.

EWG Rating = 1

A synthetically created skin conditioner and solvent.

EWG Rating = 1

Octyldodecyl Stearoyl Stearate is an amber colored liquid that forms a barrier on the skin’s surface to prevent moisture loss. It is formulated with plant-based stearic acid.

EWG Rating = 1

A synthetically created compound that creates a silky texture and helps soften and smooth the skin.

EWG Rating = 1

A synthetically created compound that creates a smooth, silky feel and helps repel excess water from the skin’s surface.

EWG Rating = 1

Synthetic beeswax is created by mixing plant-based fatty acids and alcohol to achieve a similar consistency to natural beeswax, but vegan!

EWG Rating = 1

Synthetically created blue, pink, green, violet, and red pigments. Natural Ultramarine is initially derived from the rich-blue stone, lapis lazuli. It’s then processed in a lab to ensure purity.

EWG Rating = 1

A naturally occurring mineral used as a thickening agent.

EWG Rating = 2

Manganese Violet is a bright violet pigment. Initially derived from naturally occurring manganese oxide, this compound is then processed in a lab to ensure purity.

EWG Rating = 2

Yellow 5 is a synthetic yellow pigment. It’s also used as a food colorant.

EWG Rating = 1

A green colorant synthesized from mineral sources.

EWG Rating = 2

A yellow crystalline colorant made up of powdered bronze.

EWG Rating = 1

A synthetic blue pigment.

EWG Rating = 1

Synthetically created from a naturally-derived mixture of minerals, Calcium Aluminum Borosilicate functions as a thickening agent. It does not penetrate the skin.

EWG Rating = 1

A mixture of plant-based acids, Zinc Stearate is a hydrating compound that helps prevent oil and liquid components from separating.

EWG Rating = 2

A truly skin-soothing stone, amethyst emits infrared rays which boost circulation in the skin, calming inflammation and redness. Its negative ion-charge helps detoxify the skin by drawing out toxins and free radicals. Amethyst is also known to target bacteria growth, making it beneficial for acne-prone skin.

This high-vibe stone helps stimulate collagen production, reduces the appearance of sun damage, and helps brighten the skin.

Topaz releases tension from the face which can cause premature aging.

Sapphire helps soothe, hydrate, and calm the skin, creating that smooth, even glow.

The succinic acid found in Amber is a powerful antioxidant. It helps fight the damaging effects of free radicals on your skin.

Helps hydrate, nourish, and protect the skin from aging free radicals.

Helps reduce the appearance of wrinkles, redness, and fine lines by calming inflammation, releasing tension, and encouraging skin healing.

Helps energize the skin for that radiant, youthful glow.