Protecting
Your Heritage,
Scientifically

Swiss Alpine Water

  • Dermatological Benefits of Mineral-Enriched Alpine Water (2025)

Key Findings

 

- Derived from pristine Alpine glaciers, this water is naturally enriched with essential minerals—including calcium, magnesium, and potassium—through a slow filtration process over mineral-rich mountain terrain.

 

- Offers deep hydration thanks to its light texture and mineral content, enabling efficient skin moisture retention and a revitalised appearance.

 

- Strengthens the skin barrier and helps shield against environmental stressors:

  • Calcium supports skin-cell regeneration and fortifies barrier integrity.
  • Magnesium delivers anti-inflammatory benefits that soothe irritation.
  • Potassium maintains optimal skin hydration, promoting softness and suppleness.

- Naturally acts as a gentle purifier, with its cold, pure composition helping to detoxify the skin by cleansing pollutants and toxins—a boon even for highly sensitive skin.

 

- Delivers a cooling, soothing sensation upon application, reducing redness and refreshing the skin—ideal for post-shave, after-sun care, or whenever skin needs a calm-down boost.

 

- Its clean, mineral-rich profile supports improved skin texture and elasticity, contributing to a hydrated, youthful-looking complexion over time.

 

Source: Alpine Glacier Water. Mythos Men. (2025). Retrieved from Mythos Men website

Tapioca Starch

  • Moisture-Absorbing and Anti-Chafing Properties of Tapioca Starch (2024)

Key Findings

 

- Serves as an effective moisture‑absorbing agent, helping to manage excess moisture in areas prone to sweat accumulation.

 

- Reduces friction and helps prevent chafing, which supports comfort—especially in sensitive skin zones.

 

- Maintains dry skin conditions, promoting better hygiene by minimising the damp environment that can foster irritation.

 

- In the 2024 Brazilian Journal of Pharmaceutical Sciences study, tapioca starch—especially when combined with corn starch—demonstrated excellent physical‑mechanical stability, including thixotropic behaviour and preserved rheological properties, even under thermal stress for 28 days. It was characterised by a soft, easy-to-spread texture with a hydrating feel, enhancing user comfort.

 

Source: Infante, V. H. P.; Calixto, L. S.; Campos, P. M. B. G. M. Application of Tapioca and Corn Starches as an Alternative for Synthetic Polymers in Cosmetic Products. Brazilian Journal of Pharmaceutical Sciences, 60 (2024). DOI:10.1590/s2175‑97902024e2012

Propanediol

  • Moisture-Retaining and Skin-Sensitisation Profile of Propanediol (2025)

Key Findings

 

- Functions as a highly effective humectant and skin-conditioning agent, attracting and retaining moisture to maintain optimum skin hydration and flexibility.

 

- Helps reduce skin irritation, offering a gentler alternative to propylene glycol, which is more likely to cause sensitisation in some individuals.

 

- Enhances the penetration of active ingredients, acting as a solvent and delivery agent that increases the efficacy of other beneficial compounds in formulations.

 

- Contributes to a light, non‑greasy skin feel and smooth sensory experience in cosmetic products, improving texture and user comfort.

 

Sources: En Claire. Propanediol: Everything You Need to Know about this Versatile Ingredient. En Claire, 2025. Available at: https://enclaire.in/article/propanediol-everything-you-need-to-know-about-this-versatile-ingredient

 

Paula’s Choice. Ingredient Dictionary: Propanediol. Paula’s Choice, 2025. Available at: https://www.paulaschoice.com/ingredient-dictionary/ingredient-propanediol.html

 

Healthline. Propanediol: Uses, Benefits, and Safety. Healthline, 2025. Available at: https://www.healthline.com/health/propanediolhttps://enclaire.in/article/propanediol-everything-you-need-to-know-about-this-versatile-ingredient

 Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride

  • Skin-Conditioning and Protective Barrier Benefits of Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride (2025)

Key Findings

 

- Acts as a lightweight, non‑greasy emollient and skin‑conditioning agent, creating a protective barrier that locks in moisture and softens the skin Medical News.

 

- Helps prevent irritation and dryness by forming a gentle, nourishing layer—derived from coconut and/or palm kernel oil—ideal for maintaining skin comfort and hydration.

 

- Serves as an excellent dispersing agent and solvent, helping to evenly distribute other ingredients within formulations and prolonging product stability.

 

- Exhibits antioxidant properties, which help protect the skin from oxidative stress and support a youthful appearance.

 

Sources: Brazilian Journal of Pharmaceutical Sciences. Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride: Emollient and Formulation Benefits. (2025). Available at: https://www.healthline.com/health/caprylic-capric-triglyceride

 

Paula’s Choice. Ingredient Dictionary: Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride. Paula’s Choice, 2025. Available at: https://www.paulaschoice.com/ingredient-dictionary/ingredient-caprylic-capric-triglyceride.html

Calendula Officinalis Flower Extract

  • Anti-Inflammatory Activity of Calendula officinalis L. Flower Extract (2021)

Key Findings

 

- Demonstrates potent anti-inflammatory and skin-healing activity, primarily through the inhibition of nitric oxide (NO) production in activated macrophages — a key pathway in inflammatory skin responses.

 

- Provides measurable soothing effects by attenuating pro-inflammatory mediators, helping to calm sensitive or inflamed skin.

 

- Supports tissue regeneration and wound healing, consistent with its traditional and clinical use in managing minor skin injuries and irritations.

 

- Reduces erythema (skin redness) and irritation, making it especially suitable for sensitive areas such as the groin, where skin is more prone to inflammation and discomfort.

 

Source: Pistollato, F.; Giampieri, F.; Battino, M. Anti-Inflammatory Activity of Calendula officinalis L. Flower Extract. Cosmetics 2021, 8(2), 31. https://doi.org/10.3390/cosmetics8020031

Cucumis Sativus (Cucumber) Fruit Extract

  • Hydrating and Soothing Benefits of Cucumber Fruit Extract (2021)

Key Findings

 

- Functions as a naturally cooling and hydrating agent, providing immediate refreshment and moisture to the skin.

 

- Exhibits notable anti-inflammatory and soothing properties, helping to calm irritation and support sensitive or stressed skin.

 

- Contains bioactive compounds such as flavonoids, tannins and cucurbitacins, which contribute to its antioxidant and skin-protective activities.

 

- Supports overall skin comfort and hydration balance, making it particularly beneficial for delicate areas prone to redness or irritation.

 

Source: Ugwu, C. & Suru, S. (2021). Cosmetic, Culinary and Therapeutic Uses of Cucumber (Cucumis sativus L.). In IntechOpen eBooks. https://doi.org/10.5772/intechopen.96051

Acrylates/C10-30 Alkyl Acrylate Crosspolymer

  • Thickening, Stabilisation and Textural Benefits of Acrylates/C10-30 Alkyl Acrylate Crosspolymer (2013)

Key Findings

 

- Serves as an effective thickening and stabilising agent, enhancing viscosity and spreadability for smoother application and increased comfort—especially important for sensitive skin.

 

- Acts as an excellent emulsion stabiliser and film-forming agent, helping oil‑ and water‑based ingredients remain homogeneous and levelling the product texture over time.

 

- Shows notable electrolyte tolerance and can be structurally modified (by adjusting crosslink density or hydrophobicity) to maintain viscosity even in salt-containing systems—offering unique texture advantages to formulators.

 

- Adds to product aesthetics with its silky, gel-like feel, contributing to a pleasant sensory experience upon application.

 

Sources: Benderly, D. & Zolotarsky, Y. (2013). Beyond Thickening – Use of Alkyl Acrylate Crosspolymer in Personal Care Formulations. Polymers for Personal Care and Cosmetics, pp. 205–218. DOI:10.1021/bk-2013-1148.ch013

 

Ingredient Dictionary: Acrylates/C10-30 Alkyl Acrylate Crosspolymer. Paula’s Choice, 2025. Available at: https://www.paulaschoice.com/ingredient-dictionary/ingredient-acrylates-c10-30-alkyl-acrylate-crosspolymer.htmlhttps://www.paulaschoice.com/ingredient-dictionary/ingredient-acrylates-c10-30-alkyl-acrylate-crosspolymer.html

1,2-Hexanediol and Caprylyl Glycol

  • Skin-Conditioning and Preservative-Boosting Properties of 1,2-Hexanediol and Caprylyl Glycol (2024)

Key Findings

 

- Function as skin-conditioning agents that also act as preservative boosters, enhancing product safety and stability.

 

- Possess broad-spectrum antimicrobial activity, inhibiting the growth of bacteria, fungi and yeast – thereby maintaining hygiene in formulations.

 

- By supporting the efficacy of preservatives, they allow for lower concentrations of traditional preservatives, reducing the risk of irritation while ensuring protection against contamination.

 

- Contribute to overall skin comfort and hydration through their conditioning properties, making them especially suitable for use in sensitive areas.

 

Source: Tang, Z. & Du, Q. (2024). Mechanism of Action of Preservatives in Cosmetics. Journal of Dermatologic Science and Technology, 100054. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jdsct.2024.100054

Allantoin

  • Skin Regeneration and Irritation-Reducing Benefits of Allantoin (2017)

Key Findings

 

- Acts as a skin-soothing and healing agent, widely recognised for its ability to calm irritation and promote skin comfort.

 

- Encourages cell proliferation and tissue regeneration, accelerating the skin’s natural repair processes.

 

- Demonstrates efficacy in reducing redness and sensitivity, making it highly suitable for delicate or compromised skin.

 

- According to dermatological research, allantoin supports wound healing by stimulating fibroblast activity and enhancing extracellular matrix formation, thereby improving the skin’s recovery from damage.

 

Sources: An Investigation into Multifaceted Mechanisms of Action of Allantoin in Wound Healing. (2017). Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology, 76(6), AB40. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jaad.2017.04.176

 

Allantoin for Skin. Healthline. Available at: https://www.healthline.com/health/allantoin-for-skin

Phenoxyethanol

  • Preservative and Safety Profile of Phenoxyethanol (2019)

Key Findings

 

- Functions as a widely used preservative, protecting cosmetic formulations from bacterial, fungal and yeast contamination.

 

- Ensures product safety and efficacy by preventing microbial growth throughout the product’s shelf life.

 

- Recognised as being generally well tolerated by the skin, with a low risk of sensitisation or irritation when used at regulated concentrations.

 

- According to a comprehensive safety review, phenoxyethanol demonstrates a favourable safety profile in cosmetics, balancing antimicrobial effectiveness with consumer tolerability.

 

Source: Dréno, B., Zuberbier, T., Gelmetti, C., Gontijo, G. & Marinovich, M. (2019). Safety Review of Phenoxyethanol When Used as a Preservative in Cosmetics. Journal of the European Academy of Dermatology and Venereology, 33(S7), 15–24. https://doi.org/10.1111/jdv.15944

Sodium Hydroxide

  • Skin-Friendly pH Regulation Benefits of Sodium Hydroxide (2021)

Key Findings

 

- Serves as an essential pH adjuster in cosmetic formulations, helping to maintain the product at a skin-friendly pH.

 

- By balancing acidity and alkalinity, it ensures the product remains gentle and non-irritating, even when applied to sensitive areas.

 

- Plays a key role in formulation stability, preventing degradation of ingredients that could otherwise destabilise under unsuitable pH conditions.

 

- According to toxicological reviews, sodium hydroxide is considered safe for cosmetic use at controlled concentrations, with its function limited to pH regulation rather than as an active ingredient.

 

Sources: Burnett, C. L., Bergfeld, W. F., Belsito, D. V., Hill, R. A., Klaassen, C. D., Liebler, D. C., Marks, J. G., Shank, R. C., Slaga, T. J., Snyder, P. W., Gill, L. J. & Heldreth, B. (2021). Safety Assessment of Inorganic Hydroxides as Used in Cosmetics. International Journal of Toxicology, 40(2_suppl), 16S-35S. https://doi.org/10.1177/10915818211018381

 

Sodium Hydroxide in Skin Care. Healthline. Available at: https://www.healthline.com/health/sodium-hydroxide-skin-care

Glycerin

  • Hydration, Barrier Support and Elasticity Benefits of Glycerin (2008)

Key Findings

 

- Functions as a powerful humectant, attracting water molecules from the environment and deeper skin layers to the outermost layer of the skin.

 

- Improves hydration and elasticity, helping the skin remain supple and comfortable, while reducing dryness and roughness.

 

- Plays a role in supporting the skin barrier function, which is essential for protecting against external irritants and maintaining long-term skin health.

 

- According to dermatological studies, glycerin enhances epidermal repair and resilience, making it highly effective in formulations for dry or sensitive skin.

 

Sources: Fluhr, J. W., Darlenski, R. & Surber, C. (2008). Glycerol and the Skin: Holistic Approach to Its Origin and Functions. British Journal of Dermatology, 159(1), 23–34. https://doi.org/10.1111/j.1365-2133.2008.08643.x

 

Glycerin for Face: Uses, Benefits, Risks. Healthline. Available at: https://www.healthline.com/health/glycerin-for-face

Xanthan Gum

  • Thickening, Stabilisation and Application Benefits of Xanthan Gum (2017)

Key Findings

 

- Serves as a natural thickening agent, improving viscosity and providing structural stability to formulations.

 

- Helps suspend and evenly disperse active ingredients, ensuring consistent delivery throughout the product’s use.

 

- Enhances application ease by giving products a smooth, gel-like texture that spreads comfortably across the skin.

 

- Recognised as non-irritating and well tolerated, making it suitable even for sensitive skin.

 

- According to cosmetic science research, xanthan gum belongs to a class of polymers that not only enhance product texture but also contribute to long-term stability of emulsions.

 

Sources: Lochhead, R. Y. (2017). The Use of Polymers in Cosmetic Products. Cosmetic Science and Technology, pp. 171–221. https://doi.org/10.1016/b978-0-12-802005-0.00013-6

 

The Comprehensive Benefits of Xanthan Gum in Skincare. Natrl Skincare. Available at: https://natrlskincare.co.uk/blogs/news/the-comprehensive-benefits-of-xanthan-gum-in-skincare

Potassium Sorbate and Sodium Benzoate

  • Preservative Benefits of Potassium Sorbate and Sodium Benzoate (2024)

Key Findings

 

- Function as preservatives, protecting cosmetic formulations against microbial contamination from bacteria, yeast and mould.

 

- Ensure product hygiene and safety, which is especially critical for use in sensitive skin areas.

 

- Extend the shelf life of formulations by maintaining stability and preventing degradation caused by microbial activity.

 

- According to recent cosmetic research, potassium sorbate and sodium benzoate are widely regarded as safe and effective at low concentrations, offering broad-spectrum antimicrobial protection while maintaining good skin tolerability.

 

Source: Poddębniak, P. & Kalinowska-Lis, U. (2024). A Survey of Preservatives Used in Cosmetic Products. Applied Sciences, 14(4), 1581. https://doi.org/10.3390/app14041581

Ethylhexylglycerin

  • Antimicrobial and Conditioning Benefits of Ethylhexylglycerin (2016)

Key Findings

 

- Functions as a skin-conditioning agent, improving skin softness and smoothness.

 

- Acts as a preservative booster, enhancing the antimicrobial efficacy of other preservatives such as phenoxyethanol.

 

- Exhibits direct antimicrobial activity by impairing microbial membrane integrity, thereby helping to prevent contamination in formulations.

Supports overall product hygiene and safety, while maintaining good skin tolerability.

 

Source: Langsrud, S., Steinhauer, K., Lüthje, S., Weber, K., Goroncy-Bermes, P. & Holck, A. L. (2016). Ethylhexylglycerin Impairs Membrane Integrity and Enhances the Lethal Effect of Phenoxyethanol. PLoS ONE, 11(10), e0165228. https://doi.org/10.1371/journal.pone.0165228

Asian Ginseng

  • Odour Protection, Antioxidant and Reproductive Health Benefits of Asian Ginseng (2023)

Key Findings

 

- Provides odour protection by helping to reduce the proliferation of odour-causing bacteria on the skin.

 

- Contains ginsenosides, bioactive compounds with strong antioxidant properties, supporting a healthier skin environment and protecting against oxidative stress.

 

- Demonstrates potential benefits for male reproductive health: ginsenosides are reported to protect sperm cells from oxidative stress and may enhance hormone regulation related to reproductive function.

 

- Offers skin health benefits, including improved resilience, protection from environmental aggressors and support for a balanced, refreshed feel.

Effective in cosmetic formulations at low concentrations (typically up to 0.1%), making it suitable for targeted skincare products.

 

Sources: Koppula, S., Kopalli, S. R., Kang, H. H. & Kim, S. K. (2023). Benefits of Panax Ginseng on Male Reproductive Systems: A Comprehensive Review. Food Suppl Biomater Health, 3(4): e32. https://doi.org/10.52361/fsbh.2023.3.e32

 

Leung, K. W. & Wong, A. S. (2013). Ginseng and Male Reproductive Function. Spermatogenesis, 3(3). https://doi.org/10.4161/spmg.26391

 

Ginseng Benefits for Skin. Healthline. Available at: https://www.healthline.com/health/beauty-skin-care/ginseng-benefits-for-skin

Nigella sativa (Black Cumin) Seed Oil

  • Odour Protection, Antimicrobial and Reproductive Health Benefits of Nigella sativa (2022)

Key Findings

 

- Provides odour protection by inhibiting the proliferation of odour-causing bacteria on the skin.

 

- Rich in thymoquinone, a bioactive compound with strong antioxidant and antimicrobial properties, which supports hygiene and skin protection.

 

- Exhibits antimicrobial activity that helps reduce microbial growth, contributing to product safety and freshness.

 

- Contains antioxidants that neutralise reactive oxygen species (ROS), protecting sperm cells from oxidative damage and supporting male reproductive health.

 

- Research indicates that Nigella sativa may also have a positive hormonal effect, contributing to enhanced sperm function and production.

 

- Effective in cosmetic formulations at concentrations typically ranging from 0.5% to 5%, providing both antimicrobial and conditioning benefits.

 

Sources: Nasiri, Z., Ghorbani, F., Seify, M. & Sharbati, A. (2022). Effect of Aqueous Nigella sativa Extract on the Functional Parameters of Post-Thaw Human Spermatozoa During Vitrification. Clinical and Experimental Reproductive Medicine, 49(2), 110–116. https://doi.org/10.5653/cerm.2021.04861

 

Marbat, M. M., Ali, M. & Hadi, A. M. (2013). The Use of Nigella sativa as a Single Agent in Treatment of Male Infertility. Tikrit Journal of Pharmaceutical Sciences, 9(1). https://doi.org/10.25130/tjphs.2013.9.1.2.19.29