Our ingredient glossary is designed to provide customers with a clearer understanding of the terms, claims, and materials found on our product labels. We believe that informed choices begin with access to accurate and easy-to-understand information. By explaining our ingredient standards, formulation principles, and the meanings behind commonly used descriptions, we hope to help families select products that align with their personal preferences, values, and everyday needs.
When discussing alcohol in personal care products, it is important to recognize that not all alcohol ingredients serve the same purpose. Some types of alcohol, such as ethanol and isopropyl alcohol, are commonly used for their functional properties in products like sanitizers and cleansing formulas. However, these ingredients may contribute to dryness for some individuals when used frequently. Other alcohol ingredients, including fatty alcohols and longer-chain alcohols such as cetyl alcohol and stearyl alcohol, have very different characteristics. These ingredients are often used to improve texture, maintain product stability, and provide conditioning benefits that help leave skin feeling smooth and comfortable.
The terms Honest Clean, Clean, and Clean Conscious reflect our overall approach to product development and ingredient selection. These concepts represent our commitment to creating formulas that avoid ingredients we identify as having certain health or environmental concerns. Each ingredient is carefully reviewed before being included in a product, and finished formulas undergo evaluation to help ensure they meet our standards for safety, quality, and effectiveness. Because product manufacturing involves many complex processes, trace amounts of unintended substances may occasionally occur. However, we remain focused on thoughtful ingredient choices and responsible formulation practices.
Our commitment to product safety includes detailed reviews conducted by qualified experts, including toxicologists who evaluate ingredients, potential exposure levels, and overall product performance. These assessments help us better understand how formulas interact with people and the environment. We also work with external organizations and use science-based evaluation methods to support our approach to responsible product development. Beyond ingredients, we continue exploring improvements in packaging design, including the use of recycled materials and more sustainable options whenever possible.
Many products include naturally sourced ingredients selected for their beneficial properties. Colloidal oatmeal is one example of an ingredient valued for its ability to support dry and sensitive skin. This naturally derived ingredient works as an emollient that helps soften and comfort the skin while supporting the skin barrier. Its gentle properties make it a popular choice in formulas created for people seeking soothing and moisturizing care.
Animal welfare is also an important part of our product philosophy. We are committed to cruelty-free practices and do not test our products on animals during development or production. We also do not authorize outside organizations to perform animal testing on our behalf. This commitment reflects our belief that high-quality personal care products can be developed through responsible methods that respect both people and animals.
Another important ingredient standard involves avoiding intentionally added microplastics. We define microplastics as very small solid synthetic polymer particles that are not easily broken down and do not dissolve in water. Products described as microplastic-free are developed without the intentional use of these materials, supporting our continued focus on thoughtful formulation choices.
The terms natural and naturally derived describe different levels of ingredient sourcing and processing. Natural ingredients generally come directly from sources found in nature, such as plants, minerals, or other naturally occurring materials, with limited processing. Naturally derived ingredients begin with natural sources but may undergo controlled modifications to improve their function, stability, or performance while maintaining their connection to their original source.
Plant-based products focus on formulas that contain ingredients primarily obtained from botanical sources. These ingredients may come directly from plants or may be created from plant-derived materials that have been carefully processed to provide specific benefits. This approach allows products to combine natural origins with effective performance.
Some formulas also include prebiotics, which support the skin’s natural balance by helping nourish beneficial microorganisms. These ingredients can contribute to maintaining a healthy skin environment and supporting the protective functions of the skin barrier.
The term Toxicologist Audited represents an additional level of review within our product development process. It means that qualified professionals have examined ingredients and complete formulas to evaluate possible concerns, expected usage levels, and overall safety considerations. While no product can be considered completely free from all potential risks, this careful evaluation process helps provide greater confidence in product quality and responsible use.
Vegan and free-from-animal-by-product labels provide additional clarity for customers who prefer products made without animal-derived ingredients. These formulas do not contain materials sourced from animals, including ingredients such as honey, beeswax, collagen, lanolin, gelatin, or similar substances. By defining these terms clearly, we aim to make ingredient information easier to understand and help customers feel more confident about the products they choose for themselves and their families.