ABI Ingredient Definitions
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Acetyl Hexapeptide (Argireline®) - Acetyl Hexapeptide, trade name Argireline®, is a non toxic amino-peptide that displays anti-wrinkle results by blocking the transmitter from the muscle to the skin, keeping skin relaxed and smooth. It was designed specifically to reduce wrinkles and the signs of premature aging. When used twice daily for a minimum of 30 days, fine lines and wrinkles will appear less noticeable due to its ability to restrict facial movement (similar to the effects of Botox). When used in conjunction with Botox, this unique product will provide longevity to the procedure, approximately 4-6 weeks. Hyaluronic Peptide Serum
Algae – Algae are organisms in a family that includes more than 20,000 known species. They have been used in the medical and cosmetic field for various reasons throughout the years. They are extremely rich in amino acids, proteins, antioxidants and vitamins, all of which are beneficial in supporting the skin’s ability to heal and repair. Algae are also known for their anti-inflammatory properties. Moisturizing Antioxidant
Allantoin - Allantoin is a natural component found in wheat germ, beets, rice and comfrey leaves. It is a valuable healing agent with prolific moisturizing, soothing and anti-irritating qualities. Allantoin stimulates healthy tissue formation with its pronounced keratolytic action, ridding the skin of oil and debris, creating a soft and healthy complexion. Corrective Pads, Corrective Scrub, Pomegranate Recovery Mask
Aloe Vera Extract – Aloe Vera is extracted from the Aloe Barbadensis plant and is renowned for its medicinal properties. The biologically active components of this plant promote exceptional antibiotic, anti-inflammatory and wound healing actions. Aloe Vera is also a powerful moisturizer that is able to penetrate directly into the tissue, supplying moisture to dry, tired skin. When applied to the skin, Aloe Vera produces an almost immediate calming and soothing effect. The cosmetic industry uses many forms of Aloe Vera including Aloe Vera Gel, Aloe Vera Extract and Aloe Vera Oil. The only differences between these are how the plant has been processed; each one offers the same benefits. Corrective Mist, Corrective Pads, Honeysuckle Hydrating Mask, Calming Cucumber Mist, Sensible Sunscreen
Alpha Lipoic Acid – Alpha Lipoic Acid has been considered to be 400 times stronger than Vitamin C. It is a potent antioxidant that not only helps to negate free radical damage in our bodies and protect our cells from harm but also promotes the growth of collagen. It has the unique ability to neutralize free radicals inside and outside the cell membrane. After it has passed through the cell membrane, it breaks down into an even more potent free radical neutralizer known as dihydrolipoic acid or DHA. Another important function of Alpha Lipoic Acid is its ability to renew other antioxidants such as Vitamin C and E. Topically, Alpha Lipoic Acid has a very calming and anti-inflammatory effect on the skin and since it is lipid and water soluble it is able to penetrate more readily. Firming Peptide Crème
Aluminum Oxide Crystals- Aluminum oxide crystals are primarily used as an exfoliant in cosmetic scrubs and microdermabrasion. Micro Exfoliating Scrub
Ascorbyl Palmitate – Ascorbyl Palmitate is considered one of the most stable forms of Vitamin C and has the dual functions of being a preservative and an antioxidant. It is nonirritating unlike L-ascorbic acid which has been known to cause skin irritation. Moisturizing Antioxidant, Intense Antioxidant, Micro Exfoliating Scrub
Astaxanthin – Astaxanthin is a potent anti-inflammatory antioxidant that is derived from the carotenoid family, found mostly in plants and micro algae. Studies show that astaxanthin has 10 times higher antioxidant activity than beta-carotene, and can be more than 100 times more effective as an antioxidant than Vitamin E. It also provides protection against UVA and UVB damage and is able to enhance the functions of Vitamin C and E. Intense Antioxidant
Avocado Oil - Avocado Oil is one of the deepest penetrating oils available and has the special ability to “carry” active ingredients rapidly into the skin. Due to its high levels of oil soluble vitamins, lecithin and plant sterols, this regenerative oil is an exceptional emollient that significantly aides in skin rejuvenation. The high levels of plant steroids or sterolins, which are found in Avocado Oil, have been reputed to help reduce age spots and to help heal dry, sun damaged skin. Exfoliating Enzyme Wash
Bamboo Stem Extract- Crushed bamboo is used as a natural exoliant to gently yet effectively remove oil, debris and dead skin cells allowing for better products to penetrate. Corrective Scrub
Bentonite- Bentonite is absorbent natural mineral clay that has been used for centuries for its drawing and detoxifying properties. Corrective Clay Mask
Black Currant (Ribes Nigrum) Seed Oil- Black Currant Oil is a natural non-volatile plant oil that promotes healthy skin growth and is a potent anti-inflammatory agent. It also contains GLA (Gamma Linolenic Acid) which is an effective emollient, powerful antioxidant and cell regulator. Hydrating Soy Cream, Clinical Eye Repair, Firming Peptide Crème
Caviar Extract – Caviar Extract contains micro-nutrients that feed and nourish the skin, improve elasticity and enhance the overall health and appearance of maturing skin. Skin texture appears firmer and more supple as it helps to restore the skins natural balance. It also promotes vital communication between cells and skin, strengthening and repairing important barrier functions while also naturally stimulating cellular metabolism and rejuvenation. Caviar Extract also has the ability to help to prevent free radical formation. It includes B1, B2, B6 as well as A, E, and D. It also contains constituents including cobalt, copper, iodine, iron, magnesium silicium and zinc. Amino acids present are glutamic acid, glycine, methionine, Iysine, arginine, histidine, and aspartic acid. Intense Antioxidant
Ceramides 3 – Ceramides are naturally occurring skin lipids that are major structural components of the skin’s outer layer which in turn helps to restore the skin’s barrier system. The function of the skin’s barrier system is to inhibit water movement via its extracellular matrix, which has a unique composition of 50% ceramides, 25% cholesterol, and 15% free fatty acids as well as other vital skin nutrients. Ceramides are necessary for the skin’s water-retention capacity as well as for cell regulation and regeneration. Moisturizing Antioxidant
Chamomile (Anthemis Nobilis) Extract - Chamomile Extract is a non-comedogenic material that has been proven to have potent anti-inflammatory and reparative properties. It is also considered to be antiseptic, soothing, and hypoallergenic. Extra Strength Corrective Pads, Micro Exfoliating Scrub, Corrective Clay Mask
Co-Enzyme Q10 –Co-Enzyme Q10 is a vitamin like antioxidant that helps to boost cellular activity. It helps to fortify the skin's defenses against UV damage, while reducing the appearance of wrinkles, strengthening cell membranes, and providing the skin with new energy. It is found in every cell of the human body. Moisturizing Antioxidant
Copper Peptides- Copper peptides assist in tissue repair and promote collagen synthesis. The skin becomes firmer and wrinkles and fine lines become less noticeable (see ABI Skincare FAQ’s). Moisturizing Antioxidant
Cranberry Extract- Cranberry Extract contains natural components known as proanthocyanidins which are responsible for this extract’s abundant antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. Corrective Wash
Cucumber Extract- Cucumber Extract contains vital amino acids and minerals that help to firm and regenerate the skin. It is an anti-inflammatory agent that is known for its cooling, cleansing and soothing properties. Calming Cucumber Mist
D-Panthenol (Pro-Vitamin B5) –Panthenol is able to penetrate quickly and effectively into the skin, providing assistance in tissue repair and increased elasticity. It is also a very effective anti-inflammatory and helps to minimize damage caused by the sun. Moisturizing Antioxidant, Exfoliating Enzyme Wash, Corrective Wash, Calming Cucumber Mist
Eyeliss™- Eyeliss™ is a highly effective substance that is used to treat “bags” under the eyes. It increases lymphatic circulation thereby reducing under eye “bags” and preventing puffiness. It is also a great anti-inflammatory agent that improves skin tone and texture. Clinical Eye Repair
Ginseng (Withania Somnifera) Root Extract- Ginseng Root Extract provides powerful anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties while also stimulating collagen production. Honeysuckle Hydrating Mask
Glycerin- Glycerin is an amazing humectant. It is able to boost the skin’s natural protection by filling in the area known as the intercellular matrix, considered to be the “mortar” that holds layers of skin cells together. It attracts the right amount of water to maintain the skin’s homeostasis. By fortifying the intracellular matrix, glycerin is able to help create a continuous, natural, external barrier; keeping bacteria out, moisture in, and the skin’s surface smooth. The skin’s intercellular matrix includes ceramides, hyaluronic acid, vitamin C, glycerin, cholesterol, and free fatty acids.
Glycolic Acid- Glycolic Acid is one of the most widely known and used Alpha Hydroxy Acids or AHA’s. Glycolic acid has a small molecular structure which helps to provide better product penetration, significantly increasing its effectiveness. When glycolic acid is applied to the skin, it reacts with the upper layer of the epidermis, dissolving the bonds that hold dead skin cells together, thus revealing newer healthier looking skin. Due to its considerable exfoliating and moisturizing properties, glycolic acid is able to refine surface texture, improve skin hydration, increase cellular turnover and assist in skin lightening. Glycolic Acid is generally found in sugar cane, sugar beets and unripe grapes. Corrective Pads, Extra Strength Corrective Pads
Glycosaminoglycans- Glycosaminoglycans, or GAGs, are fundamental components of skin tissue, part of a group of complex proteins which include hyaluronic acid, ceramides and cholesterol. They, like hyaluronic acid, bind water and other cellular elements to connective tissues within the skin forming a matrix that holds skin cells together. Glysocaminoglycans are considered vital moisturizers and lubricants that present in the interstitial spaces between epidermal cells. GAG’s also promote wound healing, speed up cell regeneration, and have keratolytic or skin-softening effects. Extra Strength Corrective Pads
Green Tea (Camellia Sinensis) Extract - Green Tea Extract is a powerful anti-inflammatory antioxidant that reduces free radical damage within the skin. Green tea is also a natural astringent, reducing pore size, helping to create a fresh and flawless complexion. Corrective Pads
Haloxyl™- Haloxyl™ has been proven to significantly reduce dark circles under the eye. It does this by increasing circulation which in turn aids in the removal of hemoglobin and other waste products that accumulate in the skin under the eye, causing the appearance of dark circles in the first place. It has also been shown to reinforce and build skin firmness around the eye improving the skin tone and texture. Clinical Eye Repair
Honeysuckle Extract- Honeysuckle Extract soothes, softens and smoothes the skin. It is anti-bacterial, anti-inflammatory and is also an excellent cleanser and purifier. Honeysuckle Hydrating Mask, Corrective Clay Mask, Pomegranate Recovery Mask
Hyaluronic Acid (Sodium Hyaluronate): Identified biochemically as a glycosaminoglycan (GAG), which the body produces naturally. Hyaluronic acid is capable of binding 1,000 times its own weight in water. Hyaluronic Acid is found in great abundance in young skin and has been deemed by the press as "the key to the fountain of youth." It shows incredible moisture boosting properties and is a natural humectant, taking water from the air and binding it into the skin. Hyaluronic Acid has also been shown to reduce dryness, itching and burning and offers an excellent environment for the growth of new cells. Hyaluronic Peptide Serum, Firming Peptide Crème, Exfoliating Enzyme Wash, Corrective Treatment Gel, Corrective Pads, Extra Strength Corrective Pads, Sensible Sunscreen
Jojoba Seed Oil- Jojoba Seed Oil is an effective moisturizer and emollient that helps to improve skin elasticity and suppleness. It contains natural tocopherols that help to minimize oxidation and lipid peroxidation. Jojoba oil is able to effectively penetrate the skin due to it’s strikingly similarity to human sebum and small molecular size. It is also considered as a natural cellular renewal ingredient. Hydrating Soy Cream
Kaolin- Kaolin is a natural occurring clay mineral (silicate of aluminum) that provides tightening and drawing properties that can also help to stimulate circulation. It is primarily is used in cosmetics for its ability to absorb sebum and oil produced by over active sebaceous glands. It is non-comedogenic. Corrective Clay Mask
Lactic Acid – Lactic acid is a gentle, effective AHA (alpha hydroxyl acid) that is noted for its moisturizing properties as well as its ability to exfoliate dead skin cells without provoking skin irritation. Lactic acid also increases cellular turnover helping to diminish fine lines and wrinkles while also helping with pigmentation. Corrective Wash
Lime (Citrus Aurantifolia) Fruit Oil- Lime Fruit oil helps to improve circulation and has been shown to be helpful in combating the appearance of cellulite. It also has potent astringent properties and is often used in cosmetics for its clean and refreshing scent. Foaming Sea Salt Body Scrub
Magnesium Sulfate (Sea Salt)- Magnesium Sulfate is commonly known as Epsom Salt, a magnesium salt used as a thickening agent in cosmetic applications. However, it is more often used in bath soaks to draw harmful toxins from the body while effectively relieving sore and tired muscles. Foaming Sea Salt Body Scrub
Matrixyl™ 3000 (palmitoyl oligopeptide and palmitoyl tetrapeptide-7) – Matrixyl 3000 has been clinically proven to increase the synthesis of the dermal matrix molecules essential for repairing damaged skin and scar tissue. It significantly aids in the formation of Collagen I, III and IV. Firming Peptide Crème
Matriyxl® (Palmitoyl Pentapeptide-4) – Palmitoyl Pentapeptide-4, trade name Matrixyl, has been clinically proven to regenerate the skin's upper layers by stimulating collagen production and by thickening the epidermis. Palmitoyl Pentapeptide-4 is a synthetic protein that is a fragment of the C-terminal portion of Collagen I (the most common type of the nineteen forms of collagen) and is combined with palmitic acid to make it more lipophilic. When this protein is added to cultured human fibroblasts, it enhances the synthesis of Collagen I, Collagen III and fibronectin, significantly reducing fine lines and wrinkles. Intense Antioxidant
Montmorillonite (Exchanger) - Montmorillonite is a phyllosilicate mineral, or clay, that has been used in numerous cultures throughout the world for its therapeutic benefits. Exchanger contains vital minerals such as copper, zinc, titanium, calcium and magnesium and is able to penetrate directly into the skin, helping to maintain essential hydration levels. Other important functions of Exchanger are its ability to decrease sebum production while also reducing pore size, which significantly lowers the number and severity of acne lesions. Corrective Mist, Corrective Scrub, Corrective Clay Mask
Niacinamide (Vitamin B3) – Niacinamide is a water soluble vitamin that is proven to be stable in the presence of heat and light. It is an antioxidant, an anti-inflammatory and helps to reduce acne “P” bacteria. Studies have shown that niacinamide stimulates microcirculation in the dermis, increases the ceramide and fatty acid levels in the skin, reducing water loss and increasing hydration. Corrective Mist, Corrective Treatment Gel, Corrective Scrub
Niaouli (Melaleuca Viridiflora) Oil- Niaouli Oil is a non-toxic, non-irritating, essential oil that exhibits many of the same disinfecting and clarifying properties as Tea Tree Oil. Niaouli Oil is an excellent acne fighting ingredient due to its astounding antibacterial and antiseptic attributes. Corrective Mist, Corrective Scrub
Papaya (Papain) Extract- Papaya contains a natural enzyme called papain which when applied topically gently exfoliates the skin promoting cellular renewal. Papain has the natural ability to select only the dead skin cells leaving the living ones alone and is also considered to be a powerful free radical scavenger. Exfoliating Enzyme Wash
Peppermint (Mentha Piperita) Leaf Extract- Peppermint Extract contains a high amount essential oil which contains menthol, menthone, menthyl acetate and menthofuran. It is an anti-microbrial and antibacterial agent that also provides a cooling effect on the skin. Honeysuckle Hydrating Mask
Pineapple (Bromelain) Extract- Pineapple Extract contains the enzyme bromelain which can break down the connecting layers between skin cells to help exfoliate the skin. It also has the ability to reduce sun damage and the effects of free radical damage created by exposure to UV radiation. Exfoliating Enzyme Wash
Pomegranate Fruit Puree/Extract- Pomegranate is rich in vital antioxidants that have been shown to restore important cellular activity. Pomegranate Recovery Mask
Retinol (Vitamin A) – Retinol is a fat soluble vitamin and an antioxidant. It renews and refreshes the skin by acting as a keratinizing agent, helping the skin stay soft and plump as well as improving its water-barrier properties. Retinol helps to normalize cellular turnover and supports collagen production by inhibiting collagen breakdown. L-Retinol is capable of reprogramming a genetically mutated cell, a fact proven in 1996. The FDA has recognized retinol for its ability to penetrate intra-cellularly and affect an increase in cellular activity. Firming Peptide Crème
Retinyl Palmitate (Vitamin A) – Retinyl Palmitate is a combination of retinol and palmatic acid that demonstrates the same cellular turnover and collagen support that retinol does, though in a milder form. It is considered a natural anti-aging ingredient that is responsible for anti-keratinization, boosting the skin’s elasticity, assisting in the normalization of dry skin and improving photo damage. Intense Antioxidant
Rosehip (Rosa Canina) Fruit Oil- Rosehip oil comes from the fruit of the rose bush and is high in Vitamin C and rich in essential fatty acids and minerals. It has natural antioxidant properties and is soothing, moisturizing, and hydrating to the skin. Rosehip oil has been shown to help improve skin elasticity, regenerate skin cells, slow down premature aging, reduce the formation of wrinkles, and also reduce scarring. Hydrating Soy Cream
Rosemary (Rosmarinus Officinalis) Leaf Oil - Rosemary is a potent antioxidant that helps to increase circulation and boost the skin’s ability to fight free radical damage. Corrective Wash
Salicylic Acid- Salicylic Acid is referred to as a BHA (beta hydroxyl acid) and is an exceedingly efficient keratolytic agent that encourages the sloughing off of dead skin cells, while clearing skin impactions and helping to reduce oil content. Salicylic acid is a multifunctional ingredient that has been used for decades to treat acne breakouts due to it is antimicrobial properties. A unique function of Salicylic acid is its ability to exfoliate inside as well as outside the pore making this ingredient an effective acne treatment. Corrective Treatment Gel, Extra Strength Corrective Pads, Corrective Scrub
Shea Butter (Butyrospermum Parkii)– Shea Butter is an excellent emollient. It protects against lipid peroxidation and is extremely beneficial for dry damaged skin, providing essential moisture while also retaining skin elasticity. Shea Butter contains L-phytosterols and D-alpa-tocopherol as well as high concentrations of non-sapifiables which help to stimulate fibroblast activity. Micro Exfoliating Scrub
Sodium PCA- Sodium PCA is natural component found in all living cells. It is considered to be a high performance humectant, boosting the skin’s natural moisture levels. Corrective Mist
Soy (Glycine Soya) Oil- Soy is rich in vitamin E and fatty acids and is a potent antioxidant that improves skin clarity and induces collagen production. Hydrating Soy Cream, Clinical Eye Repair, Micro Exfoliating Scrub, Foaming Sea Salt Body Scrub
Squalane Oil – Squalane oil is a natural component of skin and is an excellent emollient that has antioxidant and stimulating properties. It helps to improves skin elasticity and hydration. Squalane is non-comedogenic and is generally derived from olives. This ingredient is not to be confused with squalene which is highly comedogenic and is found mostly in shark liver. Moisturizing Antioxidant, Clinical Eye Repair, Firming Peptide Crème, Pomegranate Recovery Mask, Hydrating Soy Cream
Sulfur- Sulfur is an extremely effective acne treatment that naturally contains Vitamin B1 and essential amino acids. It acts as a keratolytic agent by dissolving the top layer of dry dead skin while also helping to slow down over productive sebaceous glands. Corrective Clay Mask
Tea Tree (Melaleuca Alternifolia) Oil- Tea Tree Oil has been used for centuries for a wide range of medical conditions due to its incredible disinfecting properties. It is a natural antiseptic, germicide, fungicide and ant-bacterial agent. Corrective Treatment Gel
Tocopherol (Vitamin E)- Tocopherol naturally provides protection from damage caused by the sun. It is also known as an antioxidant “superstar” due to its incredible healing and repairing properties. Pomegranate Recovery Mask, Foaming Sea Salt Body Scrub, Micro-Exfoliating Scrub, Corrective Scrub, Calming Cucumber Mist, Clinical Eye Repair, Hydrating Soy Cream
Wasabi (Wasabia Japonica) Root Extract– Wasabi Root Extract also known as Japanese Horseradish and Wasabi Root has consistently demonstrated powerful anti-bacterial and antimicrobial properties since the 10th-century. This ingredient is only found near pure cold running water such as rivers and streams and will not grow in a polluted environment. Wasabi Root is recognized for having a high Vitamin C (antioxidant) content and contains isothiocyanates, which provide anti-carcinogenic, antibacterial, and antimicrobial benefits. When applied to the skin, Wasabi Root’s natural warming properties are able to soothe the most inflamed conditions, making this an ideal ingredient for acne prone skin. Corrective Wash, Corrective Mist, Corrective Treatment Gel
Wheat Protein– Wheat Protein contains high levels of amino acids and proteins which help to tighten, nourish, and naturally aid the skin in retaining moisture. It helps to decrease the number and depth of wrinkles by providing tightening effects due to its elastic and water binding properties. Exfoliating Enzyme Wash
Willow Bark (Salix Alba) Extract- Willow Bark has been used for centuries for its considerable anti-inflammatory and immune boosting properties. Its natural ability to act as a potent anti-bacterial agent makes this ingredient ideal for treating acne prone skin. As a natural form of Salicylic Acid, Willow Bark is able to provide the skin with gentle, exfoliating benefits as well as astringent and anti-inflammatory properties. Corrective Pads, Corrective Wash
Witch Hazel (Hamamelis Virginiana) Extract – Witch Hazel, also known as Snapping Hazel and Winterbloom, is endowed with exceptional cleansing, soothing and healing properties. It is an effective astringent and helps to reduces oil, sooth bruises and dry out acne lesions. Corrective Wash, Corrective Mist, Corrective Pads, Corrective Treatment Gel, Honeysuckle Hydrating Mask, Pomegranate Recovery Mask, Calming Cucumber Mist