Science

At Luminoso Studios®, we encourage you to understand each ingredient that we carefully select for your skin care products.

The FDA requires manufacturers to list all of the ingredients in a specific product on that product's packaging - in order from highest to lowest concentration.

But the FDA does not require manufacturers to explain to you where each ingredient comes from and what it does. Luminoso Studios™ explains it anyway. Because we believe that your skin is your treasure - why would you put anything on it that you don't fully understand?

But understanding all of the high-quality, natural Chirally Correct® ingredients that you’ll find in Luminoso Studios products and their benefits is just one of our commitments to producing the most effective cosmeceutical line of skin care products.

You see even when the FDA says that it’s okay to use a certain ingredient on your skin at Luminoso Studios we still do our own research into the effects of that ingredient.

• When the effects are harmful, we look for alternative options. Like our decision to manufacture the Illustre Essenza™ line of skincare products completely Paraben Free and contain only natural fragrance such as Camellia Sinensis Leaf Extract (Green Tea) or Citrus Noblis (Mandarin Orange) Peel Oil.
• Parabens are common preservatives found in many skin care and cosmetic products. While most people find little irritation from any of the four most common parabens - methylparaben, ethylparaben, propylparaben and butylparaben. Parabens can cause contact dermatitis if you have skin sensitivities, such as rosacea.
• There is much controversy associated with the use of Parabens, and their possible link to Cancer. There is no specific scientific study at present to support the link, however, many forward thinking brands, like Illustre Essenza™ - and consumers - are looking for ways to eliminate the number of chemicals we introduce to our skin, especially since your skin is your largest living organ. The paraben/cancer link remains questionable and will most likely continue to be investigated. (Source: Happi by Tom Branna - Editorial Director –Feb 15, 2006)

All of our ingredients are listed on the products’ packaging. . At Luminoso Studios™, we never use color additives. And we never, ever test on animals. That’s our promise. Below is a list of the source and function of each ingredient that we carefully select to include in our products. If you have any questions, please don’t hesitate to contact Luminoso Studios™ at 800-408-1168 or sales@luminosostudios.com

The ingredients that you may find in our products include:

• Alcohol Denatured
  which is alcohol made unfit for consumption and is used for its anti-bacterial and anti-microbial properties.
• Algae Extract
  found in seaweed and kelp and is used for it's water binding and antioxidants properties. Minerals from these algae are rich in antioxidants, vitamins and mucilage that can protect, hydrate and soften the skin.
• Algin
  extracted from brown algae and used to stabilize formulas
• Allantoin
  Is derived from the fresh roots of the Symphytum officinale plant; Comfrey or Russian Comfrey is the common name for the herb. Allantoin is a strong and safe keratolytic agent with cell-proliferating, healing, and moisturizing properties. It is used as an anti-inflammatory, immunostimulant, epithelization stimulant, and as a chemical debrider, to clear away necrotic tissue and accelerate the growth of new, healthy tissue. When incorporated into cosmetic formulations, allantoin promotes cell-regeneration in skin which has been subjected to the harsh treatment of external influences, and in addition takes care of intact facial and body skin, keeping it in a healthy condition. Comfrey extract also contains allantoin, triterpene saponins, caffeic acid and rosmarinic acid. The incorporation of allantoin into hand creams and lotions soothes chapped and cracked skin and leaves hands smooth and supple. Allantoin is a very effective skin protectant, and is used in hand sanitizers because of its antimicrobial acitivity. Naturally present in the human body in small concentrations, it is an oxygen radical scavenger and protects skin from damage by UV radiation.
• Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Extract
  Is from the aloe vera plant, a member of the Lily famly. There are more than 200 species of Aloe Vera, but some are more nutritious and more effective medicinally than others and "Aloe Vera Barbadensis" is the species that is most beneficial. Improves skin hydration, is an anti-inflammatory and aids healing of cuts, grazes, burns and insect bites. The gel contains carbohydrate polymers, such as glucomannans or pectic acid, plus various other organic and inorganic compounds, including some antiseptic agents (lupeol, salicylic acid, urea nitrogen, cinnamonic acid, phenol and sulfer). It prevents immune suppression caused by UVB by repairing damage to Langerhans cells.. Aloe vera gel role in burn healing may be related to its capacity to accelerate the turnover of collagen. Also present in the gel are salicylate and a carboxypeptidase, responsible in part for the anti-inflammatory activity of Aloe Vera gel.

• Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Juice (Organic)
  Come from the Aloe Vera plant. This gel improves skin hydration, is an anti-inflammatory and aids healing of cuts, grazes, burns and insect bites. It prevents immune suppression caused by UVB by repairing damage to Langerhans cells. Aloe vera gel role in burn healing may be related to its capacity to accelerate the turnover of collagen. Also present in the gel are salicylate and carboxypeptidase, responsible in part for the anti-inflammatory activity of Aloe Vera gel.
• Alpha Lipoic Acid
  a naturally occurring antioxidant that defends against free radicals and helps to prevent cell damage and to speed up cellular energy production to help cells heal more quickly.

• Aqua (Distilled Water)
  which acts as a solvent in most of our products.
• Acetyl Hexapeptide-3 (Argireline®)
  a patented new peptide manufactured by Lipotec S.A. that both reduces the degree of existing facial wrinkles and has been demonstrated effective against their development.
• Argireline®
  AKA Acetyl Hexapeptide-3 a patented new peptide manufactured by Lipotec S.A. that both reduces the degree of existing facial wrinkles and has been demonstrated effective against their development; *used under the authorization of Lipotec S.A.
• Astaxanthin
  also known as BioAstin™, which is one of the most potent antioxidants found in nature, helping to enhance immune response and reduce inflammation, and giving skin the support it needs after excessive sun and environmental damage.
• Benzyl Alcohol
  which comes from jasmine, hyacinth, and other plants, and serves as a natural preservative, solvent, topical antiseptic, and fragrance component.

• Borago Officinalis Seed Oil
  Comes from The Borage Plant. Borage Oil is a proven Gamma Linolenic Acid (GLA) source with Proanthocyanidin components. GLA is anti-inflammatory; it increases cell resilience and moistens the fatty layer beneath the skin, delivering a multitude of beautifying benefits such as: aiding collagen loss, soothing dry, scaly skin, and combating wrinkles.

• Caffeine
  which comes from coffee beans, kola nuts, and tea leaves, and has de-puffing effects.
• Calcium Pantothenate
  also known as Vitamin B5 - comes from whole grains, eggs, meats, royal jelly and helps improve stratum corneum hydration, reduces surface water loss, and is an anti-inflammatory.
• Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride
  an emollient that comes from coconut oil. It helps our products' other ingredients absorb into the skin for maximum effectiveness.

• Carrageenan
  which comes from seaweed found only in the cold waters of the Atlantic coast and is used for its' soothing anti-inflammatory and anti-microbial properties.
  
  
  
  
• Cassia Angustifolia Seed Polysaccharide
  which is also known as Beta-Glycons and comes from the fruit seeds of the Indian plant Cassia Angustifolia vahl. Used to repair rough, dry skin; has film forming capabilities and helps to provide sustained moisturizing on the surface of the skin.


• Centella Asiatica Extract
  Is an oriental herb used for centuries in both traditionial Chinese and Indian medicine. It is also known by Gotu Kola or Hydrocotyle Asiatica. Centella asiatica helps wound healing, apparently by stimulating the production of type I collagen anddecreasing the inflammatory reaction and myofibroblast production. It contains a variety of active ingredientsincluding glycosides such as madecassoside, a glycoside with strong anti-inflammatory properties, madecassic acid, and a variety of vitamins and minerals. It is often used as an active ingredient in body preparations, body firming products, wound healing and anti-aging skin care products (independent studies have shown the topical effectiveness between centella and treating stretch marks). With its effect on connective tissue, great value is achieved with the synthesis of collagen, thickening of the skin, increasing the tensile strength of the flesh wound healing, repair of damaged tissue as well as promoting hair and nail growth.
• Cetearyl Olivate/Sorbitan Olivate
  a soothing moisturizer that occurs naturally in olives.

• Cetyl Alcohol
  Is derived from coconut oil or may be synthetically produced. Cetyl Alcohol is a fatty alcohol, not an "alcohol" in the sense of a rubbing alcohol, but is used as an emollient and emulsifier. Cetyl alcohol is a nonionic surfactant, a gentle humectant that promotes the retention of moisture in the skin, lather booster, emulsifier and thickener in creams and lotions.
• Chrondus Crispus
  an Atlantic seaweed known to have an abundance of mineral salts, trace elements, proteins, and vitamins. It is used to soothe and soften inflamed skin and to prevent the signs of premature aging.

• Chrysanthemum Parthenium Extract
  also known as Feverfew comes from the Chrysanthemum Parthenium plant. The chemicals in feverfew may help reduce inflammation and temperature. Feverfew may also help to regulate blood pressure and blood vessel tone.
• Cinnamidopropyltrimonium Chloride
  Is a patented ingredient Manufactured by Croda. Its benefit is as an Ultraviolent absorber.
• Citric Acid
  which occurs naturally in all citrus fruit, softens and revitalizes the skin.
• Citrus Aurantifolia (Lime) Oil
  which comes from limes. Provides antiseptic, antiviral, disinfectant, bactericidal, astringent, restorative and tonic capabilities. Excellent acne fighter due to the high antiseptic and infection bursting properties.
• Citrus Grandis Peel (Grapefruit) Oil
  commonly known as a "Pomelo" which is related to grapefruit. Used for antioxidant and antibacterial properties.

• Citrus Noblis (Mandarin Orange) Peel Oil
  from the rinds of Mandarin Tree fruit, works to help purify and re-balance the skin, promoting a finer-texture, fighting infections, and removing congestion. Non-toxic and non-irritating, it also helps to promote the growth of healthy new skin cells.
• Citrus Sinensis (Sweet Orange Oil)
  from orange peels, it helps renew dull, oily, puffy skin, and remove the signs of wrinkles. It works to strengthen the epidermis, increase circulation, hydrate skin cells; and it supports cell regeneration.
• Citrus Sinensis Var. Sanguina Oil
  also from orange peels, acts as an antibacterial, antidepressant, antifungal, and antiseptic. It works to reverse the damage of skin disorders and infection and to rejuvenate the skin.
• Cocomidopropyl Hydroxysultaine
  comes from the salt of the fatty acid of coconut oil - is a foaming and wetting agent and thickens formulas.

• Collagen
  also known as Hydrolized Collagen taken from Bovine cells and/or plant source. More than a third of the body's protein is collagen. Collagen makes up 75% of our skin. Anti-irritant film former keeping the moisture in the skin.



• Cranberry Enzymes
  used for their anti-bacterial, antioxidant and nourishing properties




• Curcurbita Pepo (Pumpkin) Seed Oil
  Pumpkin, Cucurbita pepo L., is native to Central America, especially México, where it has been cultivated for many years. Pumpkin is used as an exfoliation accelerator, a powerful antioxidant and a mild retinoic acid substitute. Pumpkin contains a wide spectrum of Vitamin A derivatives that fit into the retinoic acid receptors found in the skin, activiating cellular turnover. The keratolytic properties of pumpkin enzymes make a good non-abrasive preparation for much stronger exfoliations, while decreasing the oxidative and free radical stress associated with chemical exfoliations.

• Cymbopogonmartini (Palmarosa) Oil
  also called Lemon Grass and Indian Geranium. This essential oil is usually obtained by steam distillation. The leaves and flower tops contain a sweet smelling oil which is used for the production of geraniol, which is a natural antioxidant. It is also distilled into palmarosa oil and used in aromatherapy for its calming effect to help relieve nervous tension and stress. The oil is antiseptic, antiviral and bactericidal. Lemon Grass oil moisturizes the skin, stimulates cell regeneration and works well in addressing acne, dermatitis, and minor skin infections, scarring. Lemongrass Oil has antifungal activity



• D-Alpha Tocopherol
  also known as Vitamin E, it comes from cereal germ oils, including wheat germ oil. It's a powerful antioxidant that scavenges free radicals in the fatty areas of the skin, working to repair skin tissues.



• D-Beta-Glucosamine
  Aka Beta Glucosamine and comes from Chinese Foxglove and strengthens the skin
• Decyl-Glucoside
  is a nonionic surfactant which is extremely mild and gentle.
• Deuterium Oxide/Heavy Water/D20
  which comes from saline lakes and deep sea water. Used for its calming, moisturizing and plumping capabilities. Accelerates regeneration of tissue.
• Epigallocatechin Gallate (ECGC)
  which is an antioxidant polyphenol flavonoid isolated from green tea. Its antioxidant action protects cells from lipid peroxidation and DNA damage induced by reactive free radicals.

• Fucus Vesiculosos
  comes from seaweed found on the coasts of the North Sea, Western Baltic Sea and the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans and is an anti-bacterial, anti-fungal and antioxidant
• Gamma Amino Butyric Acid (GABA)
  aan amino acid and antioxidant that is important in reducing the production of oxygen free radicals. It also works to lighten discolored skin.
• Gluconolactone
  Is capable of chelating metals and may also function by scavenging free radicals, thereby protecting skin from some of the damaging effects of UV radiation; Antioxidant; Highly moisturizing and gentle. Used as a moisturizer in preparations applied topically to the skin.
• Glucose
  which is a sugar generally taken from starch, that has soothing, water-binding properties for the skin.
• Glycerine
  which helps the skin to retain moisture.
• Glyceryl Stearate
  from palm kernel oil, which helps our products retain their important moisturizing properties over time.

• Glycine Soya
  which is taken from soybean germ, has protein bio-peptides and antioxidants that scavenge free radicals to delay UV-induced skin aging and make the skin look and feel smoother and younger.









• Glycyrrhize Glabra
  which is also knows as Licorice Root and is a powerful anti-inflammatory. Also provides anti-bacterial and natural skin lightening properties.



• Grapefruit (Citrus Grandis) Essential Oil
  which is taken from grapefruit rinds, has toning, brightening, stimulating, and aroma therapeutic properties.

• Green Tea (Camellia Sinensis) Extract
  which comes from green tea leaves, is an antioxidant and bacteriostatic with soothing, nutritional, and healthful qualities. It increases the effectiveness of sunscreens and also helps prevent skin irritation.
• Hamamelis (Hamamelis Virginiana) Extract
  from the leaves and twigs of the Hamamelis Virginiana plant, which helps to cleanse, moisturize, and soften the skin. It also works to increase circulation in the skin.

• Honey Extract
  which comes from Honey and is used as an anti-bacterial, emollient and moisturizer.
• Hydroxypropyl Beta-cyclodextrin
  which helps to tighten and firm skin.
• Jojoba (Buxus Chinensis) Oil
  which comes from the bean of the Jojoba shrub, is a moisturizing, healing lubricant that works to prevent water loss, making the skin supple and soft.
• Kojic Acid
  comes from mushrooms and is used in cosmetics for skin lightening, anti-inflammatory and wound healing properties.

• L-Ascorbic Acid
  which comes from citrus fruits, acts as a preservative and antioxidant, stimulating and supporting those enzymes in the skin that produce and maintain collagen and elastin, to help your skin look and feel smoother, firmer, and younger.
• L-Cysteine
  which is formed in the liver and found in pumpkin. Free radical scavenger and also helps to moderate and mediate melanin dispersal.
• L-Glutathione
  which comes from Purslane and spinach. Enhances skin's cellular metabolism and oxygen utilization.
• L-Lysine
  which is an essential amino acid. Helps suppress melanin production and for skin conditioning.
• L-Soduim Hyaluronate
  which is one of the best natural moisturizing components used in cosmetics. It improves cellular ability to hold moisture and helps skin 'plump' to correct wrinkles and fill depressed surface scars.

• Lavandula Angustifolia (Lavender) Oil
  Commonly known as Lavender. Although a common ornamental in many parts of Europe, France is the only Mediterranean country where lavender is grown commercially for extraction of lavender oil used in perfumery. There is also lavender oil production in Hungary and Bulgaria. The essential oil can be extracted from the flowering spikes. The essential oil is rich in linalyl acetate and linalool. Its powerful antiseptic properties are able to kill many common bacteria, as well as being very useful in the treatment of burns, sunburn, scalds, bites, where it soothes and can prevent the formation of permanent scar tissue
• Magnesium Ascorbyl Phosphate
  which is a synthetically derived version of Vitamin C, is a powerful antioxidant.

• Malachite Extract
  Malachite is a hydrated copper carbonate and it plays an anti-radical role by activating the cellular enzymatic system, Copper increases the amounts of collagen and elastin produced by the fibroblasts by activating the lysyloxidases.



• Marine Oligopeptides
  which works to make the skin feel fuller and firmer, reduce fine lines and wrinkles, improve the skin's elasticity, and even out skin tones.
• Palmitoyl Oligopeptide-Palmitoyl Tetrapeptide-7 (Matrixyl™ 3000)
  AKA Palmitoyl Ogliopeptide-Palmitoyl Ogliopeptide 7 which is a patented ingredient manufactured by Sederma, Inc. It is both a firming and de-wrinkling peptide complex formulated to promote collagen production and repair deep tissue with visible anti-wrinkle efficacy. *Matrixyl™ 3000 is used under authorization of Sederma Inc.
• Menthyl Anthranilate (3.4%)
  which protects against UVA radiation.

• Morus Alba Bark Extract
  comes from plant source which helps with tyrosinanse activity inhibition-and provides skin whitening properties due to its arbutin content



• Oat Beta Glucan
  An oat derived fiber which can penetrate the skin and smooth out wrinkles

• Ocimum Basilicum (Basil) Oil
  which comes from the basil plant. Excellent anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties.
• Octyl Salicylate (3.22%)
  which is a chemical sunscreen agent that blocks UVB rays. The salicylate portion of the molecule absorbs ultraviolet light, protecting skin from the harmful effects of exposure to sunlight. The ethylhexanol portion is a fatty alcohol, adding emollient and oil-like (water resistant) properties.
• Phenoxyethenol
  is used as a fragrance ingredient as well as a preservative.
• Phospholipids
  also known as Soybean Phospholipd and Lecithin. Comes from living cells in humans and plants. Powerful oil soluble emollient.

• Pogostemon Cablin (Patchouli) Oil
  The oil is derived from the leaf of the plant. Patchouli oil is made from the young dried leaves of the patchouli plant, which are fermented and then dried prior to steam distillation. Patchouli has a cell regeneration action (as do lavender, neroli, tangerine and mandarin). Patchouli is also a natural insect repellent (as are lavender and ylang ylang), antiseptic, anti-fungal, diuretic, anti-inflammatory, antidepressant, antibacterial, and the treatment of skin problems. Due to the above properties, the oil is particularly useful in skin preparations for acne and some forms of eczema. As it is an anti-fungal, athletes foot can be treated as well as dandruff.With the skin regenerating action, it is particularly helpful for scar tissue, cracked skin and the more mature type skin. In a lotion or cream, patchouli oil is excellent for general skin care, dermatitis, athletes' foot, eczema, acne and sores.

• Prunus Amygdalus Dulcis (Sweet Almond) Oil
  Comes from almonds and is an excellent emollient, rich in fatty acids that the skin can use to synthesize its own lipids, like oleic, linoleic acid and palmitic acid. Almond oil is used topically to moisturize dry skin, soothe chapped lips, and relieve itching due to dryness. Because sweet almond oil is not greasy, it is absorbed quickly. It is also an especially mild oil, it generally does not irritate skin and it does not appear to cause sensitization that may lead to allergic reactions. It also contains beta-sitosterol, squalene and alpha-D-tocopherol (Vitamin E). It is commonly used as a basis for massage oil that can be used “neat” or have scented aromatherapy oils included.
• Pyrus Malus (Apple)
  which comes from the fruit of a rosaceous tree, prevents damage to elastin and maintains the skin's elasticity. Also known for its exfoliating and antioxidant properties.

• Retinol
  Are also known as Retinoids. Retinols/Retinoids are the precursors to Vitamin A. Retinoids (all-trans retinoic acid or tretinoin) are the prescription ingredient in Retin-A® or Renova® and retinols are the less irritating ingredients available in a wide variety of products. Retinol is a pro-drug that can be converted to retinoic acid by the skin (it will be changed to all-trans retinoic acid within the keratinocytes and become active). Topical retinoids promote the normalization of follicular epithelial desquamation and reduce cellular cohesion

• Ribes Nigrum (Black Current) Seed Oil
  also known as Black Current and comes from the actual Black Current plant. Rich is gamma linolenic acid, an important ingredient for maintaining the elasticity of the skin. Used for its moisturizing properties and is excellent for use on sensitive skin, eczema or psoriasis.

• Rosemarinus Officinalis (Rosemary) Leaf Oil
  Is derived from the leaves of the Rosmarinus officinalis plant. Rosemary Extract is a great antioxidant, its numerous chemicals also make it very useful in fighting acne. It contains the anti-inflammatory ursolic acid, carnosic acid, which inhibits melanogenesis, , its antioxidant power is a tool in cancer prevention.

• Salix Alba (Willow) Bark Extract
  which comes from the Salix Alba, or White Willow bark. Used primarily for its antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, astringent and antiseptic properties.
• Sambucus Nigra Flower Extract
  which acts as a colorant and nutritive.
• SC-Glucan
  also known as Beta Glucan. SC-Glucan is beta glucan of high purity made by liquid cultivation from Schizophyllum commune’s mycelium from mushroom species by Bio-conversion Technology. Provides skin moisturizing, promotes skin renewal and has anti-irritation benefits.

• Shea (Butyrospermum Parkii) Butter
  from the karite tree fruit, which is a powerful antioxidant and free radical neutralizer as well as moisturizer. Helps to increase epidermal thickness, alleviate skin dryness, and protect the skin against sun damage.
• Silicone
  which is used to increase our skin care products’ protection capabilities against water evaporation from the skin. It gives the skin an extra-soft, glossy feel.
• Sodium Benzoate
  is produced by reacting sodium hydroxide with benzoic acid and is used as a Preservative
• Sodium Hydroxide
  which is used to modulate the pH of a product.
• Sodium Hydroxymethylglycinate
  which is derived from Glycine, a naturally occurring amino acid. It is a broad spectrum antimicrobial that is active against Gram-negative and Gram-positive bacteria, yeast and mold.

• Sorbitol
  which comes from the leaves and berries of the Mountain Ash plant, absorbs moisture from the air to prevent skin dryness, leaving the skin velvety smooth.
• Sphingolipids
  which come from mammal and plant cells as well as synthetic sources and is used for moisturizing properties and may help with cell regeneration.
• Spin Trap
  which is derived from Nitrogen, is an antioxidant that – instead of destroying the rogue oxygen – traps free radicals and then escorts the oxygen back into the respiratory cycle where it is utilized in tissue respiration.

• Squalane
  which comes from olives, wheat germ and rice bran, and other plant sources, is a moisturizer that may reduce skin irritation and allergic responses. It is a lipid similar to what the body produces naturally to lubricate and heal.
• Stearic Acid
  which occurs naturally in butter acids, tallow, cascarilla bark, and vegetable lipids, is an emulsifier and thickening agent that softens the skin.



• Thymus Vulgaris (Thyme) Oil
  Comes from Thymus Vulgaris Leaf Extract from the Lamiaceae family, is derived from the commonly known herb, Thyme.
  BENEFITS: The extract contains the natural compounds including phenylethanoids, flavonoids, and chlorogenic acid, that provide powerful ozone-protecting activity. Also contains terpenes and alcohols, including thymol, with antiviral and anti- inflammatory activities.
• Tocotrienols
  Are also known as Tocomin™. Tocotrienols are purified from palm, among others, and they are naturally chirally correct. It is an expensiveingredient (even more than natural Vitamin E), because tocotrienols are present in plants in even small concentrations than alpha-D-tocopherol. We use the word alpha-D-tocopherol as a synonym for Vitamin E but chemicals other than alpha-D-tocopherol also display Vitamin E activity. Tocotrienols (alpha, gamma and delta) are very similar to tocopherol, but they have three double bonds in their isoprenoid side chain. The extra double bonds in the chemical structure of tocotrienols make them more powerful antioxidants and UV-protectants than tocopherol. They also give the molecule a better insertion into the lipid bilayer that is the core of every single biological membrane. The antioxidant activity of tocotrienols is likely to be the underlying mechanism of their tumor suppressing activity. Tocotrienols is a great ingredient, and you will see it as a companion to alpha-D-tocopherol (natural Vitamin E. Why a companion and not a replacement? Because their structures are different, their physiological effects will be too. In a way, they are different vitamins, likely to act at different points in preventing the destructive effects of oxygen radicals, and we need them both.
• Ultrez-10 Polymer
  also known as Carbomer, which is a patented ingredient manufactured by NOVeon for use as an emulsion stabilizer and thickening agent.
• Vitamin A Palmitate
  also known as Retinol, which helps to improve the skin’s texture, firmness and smoothness. Vitamin A is essential for the generation and function of skin cells, providing anti-aging benefits, preventing skin dryness, and keeping the skin healthy, clear, and resistant to infections.
• Vitamin B Complex
  Is also known as D-Panthenol. The Vitamin B complex includes a number of natural chemicals with diverse functions, including B1 (thiamin), B2 (riboflavin), B3 (niacin), B6 (pyridoxine), B9 (folic acid), B12 (cyanocobalamin), panthotenic acid and Biotin. Application of Vitamin B complex to the skin increases resistance to irritation by noxious chemicals (a good reason to include them in a “big city” protective lotion, they improve the skin’s ability to take in oxygen and help to keep the production of sebum at appropriate levels, and it is a natural constituent of the skin. Vitamin B also helps the skin tolerate sun and maintain a smooth, non-dry surface; they can also improve facial pigment conditions

• Vitis Vinifera Seed Oil
  which comes from grape seeds and is a counter-irritant with soothing and anti-bacterial properties; moisturizing and emollient, heals and softens the skin. Also a powerful antioxidant.
• Wheat Germ (Triticum Vulgare) Oil
  also known as Tocopherol or Vitamin E, which is a conditioning emollient with antioxidant properties. It works well to reverse the symptoms of eczema, psoriasis, and prematurely aged skin.

• Willowherb (Epilobium Angustifolia) Extract
  which is a naturally soothing, anti-inflammatory botanical.
• Xanthan Gum
  which stabilizes and thickens our skin care products.

• Yucca Saponis Extract
  also known as Yucca Aloeifolia which comes from the leaves and roots of the Yucca Plant. Increases cell growth and is an anti-irritant.
• Zinclear™ (7.55%)
  which is a patented form of Zinc Oxide manufactured by Advanced Nanotechnology Limited. It protects the skin against the sun’s harmful UVA and UVB rays, without the white residue found in traditional Zinc Oxide formulas.

But understanding all of the high-quality, natural Chirally Correct® ingredients that you'll find in Luminoso Studios products and their benefits is just one of our commitments to producing the most effective cosmeceutical line of skin care products.

You see even when the FDA says that it's okay to use a certain ingredient on your skin at Luminoso Studios we still do our own research into the effects of that ingredient. When the effects are harmful, we will always look for alternative options, like our decision to produce a line that's Paraben free and contains only natural fragrance such as Camellia Sinensis Leaf Extract (Green Tea) or Citrus Noblis (Mandarin Orange) Peel Oil and we never use color additives. That's our promise.

*Matrixyl™3000 is used under authorization of Sederma, Inc.
**Argireline® is a registered trademark used under the authorization of Lipotec, S.A.

For more information on skin care ingredients you can also visit the U.S. Food and Drug Administration website @ http://www.fda.gov/opacom/hpchoice.html or Cosmetic Ingredient Review. The Cosmetic Ingredient Review (CIR) was established in 1976 by the Cosmetic, Toiletry & Fragrance Association (CTFA) with support of the U.S. Food & Drug Administration and the Consumer Federation of America. Although funded by CTFA, CIR and the review process are independent from CTFA and the cosmetics industry. The Cosmetic Ingredient Review thoroughly reviews and assesses the safety of ingredients used in cosmetics in an open, unbiased, and expert manner, and publishes the results in the open, peer-reviewed scientific literature. Their website address is www.cir-safety.org

To contact Luminoso Studios, please give us a call at 800-408-1168 or e-mail us at sales@luminosostudios.com.