Ingredient Glossary

We know you have a lot of questions about "why" we use specific ingredients. We'll be expanding this section as we get time. If you have a question about a specific ingredient, please contact us on Facebook, Instagram or through our website.

Click each link to view categories:

[SURFACTANTS] [OILS] [BUTTERS] [EXTRACTS] [OTHER]

SURFACTANTS

We use these ingredients most often in our hair care products.

Cocamidopropyl betaine (CAPb)

CAPb is a very mild and versatile surfactant derived from coconut oil. It is frequently used in shampoos due to its excellent cleansing and foaming abilities. CAPb effectively removes dirt, oil, and impurities from the hair and skin without causing excessive dryness or irritation. It is known for its gentle nature, making it suitable for sensitive skin types. CAPb also helps to enhance the overall texture and feel in formulations, leaving hair soft, manageable, and the skin refreshed. We use this in our hair care products.

Decyl Glucoside

This ingredient is a mild, plant-derived surfactant often found in natural and organic skincare and haircare products. It is gentle yet effective in cleansing and foaming, making it suitable for sensitive skin and scalp. Decyl glucoside helps to remove dirt, excess oil, and product buildup while maintaining the skin and hair's natural moisture balance.

Sodium Lauryl Sulfoacetate (SLSa)

This is a mild surfactant used in gentle cleansers and foaming products. It produces a rich lather that effectively cleanses the hair and skin without causing irritation or dryness. It creates a luxurious lather and effectively cleanses the hair and skin without causing irritation or stripping away essential oils. It helps to keep the hair and skin clean and refreshed.

Sodium Cocoyl Isethionate (SCI)

SCI is a gentle surfactant used in shampoos and cleansers. It helps to remove dirt and excess oil from the hair and skin without stripping away natural moisture. It also produces a creamy lather and leaves the hair and skin feeling soft and refreshed. Sodium Cocoyl Isethionate: It is a gentle surfactant derived from coconut oil that is commonly used in cleansers and shampoos. It helps to create a rich lather and effectively removes dirt and impurities from the hair and skin without causing dryness or irritation.

CONDITIONERS

BTMS-25

BTMS25 (Cetearyl Alcohol, Behentrimonium Methosulfate) is a gentle emulsifying wax sourced from Colza (Rapeseed) oil that is often used in hair conditioners and lotions. It helps to improve the texture and spreadability of products, leaving hair feeling smooth and moisturized. It also helps to soften and hydrate the skin.

BTMS-50

BTMS-50 (Behentrimonium Methosulfate, Cetyl Alcohol and Butylene Glycol)) is a conditioning agent sourced from Colza (Rapeseed) oil commonly used in hair and skincare products. It provides excellent conditioning and detangling properties, making hair easier to comb and reducing frizz, especially in the dry Sonoran Desert climate. Additionally, it can provide moisturizing benefits to both the hair and skin, reducing dryness and improving overall hydration.

EXTRACTS

Bamboo

Bambusa vulgarisextract is naturally derived from the bamboo plant and is commonly used in haircare and skincare products for its strengthening and volumizing properties. In the Sonoran Desert, bamboo extract can help fortify the hair, add volume, and improve its overall appearance. It is naturally rich in silica, which strengthens the hair strands and can help promote hair growth by improving collagen production. Bamboo also has antioxidant properties that can protect against environmental damage.

Daikon Seed

Daikon seed extract is often used in hair and skincare products for its nourishing and moisturizing properties. It is rich in vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants that help promote healthy hair growth and improve skin elasticity. Daikon seed extract can provide hydration and strengthen the hair and skin, leaving them soft, smooth, and rejuvenated.

Desert Blend

Our custom luxurious blend of botanical extracts is a virtual powerhouse of protein and protection! This blend is created from our store of Sonoran desert plants. We have selected a blend of extracts from Dune Primrose (Oenothera deltoides), Sand Verbena (Abronia villosa), Agave (Agave americana), Joshua Tree (Yucca brevifolia), Cholla Cactus (Opuntia), Ocotillo (Fouqueria splendens), and Creosote Bush (Larrea tridentata).

Each of these plants hosts a number of adaptations helping them to survive and flourish in this acrimonious environment. Many of these plants have adapted means of protection from UV radiation and the damage that it often causes. Thermodynamically, these plants have adapted means to protect their proteins, which may be accomplished via the generation of Heat Shock Proteins. Cosmetically, this blend is suited to protect the skin from the ravages of the environment, assisting to protect more sensitive skin types from the conditions that are damaging to the skin.

Evening Primrose Root

Evening primrose root extract is derived from the roots of the evening primrose plant. It is rich in essential fatty acids, such as omega-6, which can help nourish and soothe the scalp, promoting healthier hair growth. Furthermore, its anti-inflammatory properties may assist in calming irritated skin in the desert environment.

Honey

Hydroxypropyltrimonium Honey (Honey) is a modified form of honey that is commonly used in hair and skincare products. It acts as a natural humectant, helping to attract and retain moisture, which can leave the hair and skin hydrated and soft. It also provides nourishment and antioxidants that can promote healthy hair and skin.

Radish Seed

Raphanus Sativus (Radish) Seed Extract is obtained from radish seeds and is used in hair and skincare products for its moisturizing and conditioning properties. It helps to nourish and hydrate the hair and skin, leaving them feeling soft and smooth. Additionally, radish seed extract has natural antimicrobial properties, which can help maintain a healthy scalp and prevent skin infections. In the Sonoran Desert, radish seed extract can help nourish and hydrate the hair and skin, leaving them soft and supple. It may also provide some antioxidant benefits.

Rice Protein

For hair that shines and is easy to manage, special proteins can be added. We call them "quaternized proteins," and they have a unique structure with something called a "quaternary ammonium ion." This special ingredient attaches to the hair and makes it shinier, easier to comb, and less prone to static or tangles.

Hydrolyzed rice protein is naturally derived from rice and is a popular ingredient in hair and skin care products. It may help to strengthen and repair damaged hair, making it appear shinier, healthier and more resilient. Additionally, it can provide hydration and nourishment to the skin, leaving it smoother and more supple. We use this in nearly all of our Shampoo and Conditioner Bars.

Silk

Hydrolyzed silk protein is naturally derived from silk fibers and is known for its ability to improve the appearance and texture of hair and skin. It has a lightweight, non-greasy texture that helps to moisturize and condition the hair and skin, making them feel smoother and silkier. Additionally, silk protein can strengthen the hair and add shine, while also enhancing the skin's elasticity and promoting a more youthful complexion. It helps to improve the elasticity and strength of hair, making it less prone to breakage and damage. Additionally, it has a smoothing effect on the skin, promoting a soft and radiant complexion. In the Sonoran Desert, hydrolyzed silk protein can help repair and strengthen hair, while also providing hydration and smoothing benefits to the skin.

BUTTERS

Cocoa Butter

Cocoa butter (inci: Theobroma Cacao Seed Butter) is a rich, creamy fat that is naturally derived from cocoa beans. It deeply moisturizes skin and hair, leaving them soft and supple. It's also rich in antioxidants, which help combat free radicals and promote a youthful appearance. It is commonly used in skincare and haircare products due to its moisturizing properties. Cocoa butter helps hydrate the skin and hair, leaving them feeling soft and smooth, while also providing nourishment and promoting elasticity.

Cupuaçu Butter

Cupuaçu (inci: Theobroma Grandiflorum Seed Butter) is a natural butter extracted from the seeds of the Cupuaçu tree. It is highly moisturizing and rich in essential fatty acids, making it beneficial for dry and damaged hair. It can also nourish and protect the skin, providing hydration and improving its elasticity.

Kokum Butter

Kokum (inci: Garcinia Indica Seed Butter) is naturally derived from the seeds of the kokum tree and has excellent emollient and healing properties. It is highly moisturizing and helps improve the elasticity of the skin and hair. Kokum butter also contains antioxidants that assist in rejuvenating the skin and promoting a smooth and even complexion. It can be particularly beneficial for dry and damaged hair, providing deep hydration and promoting healthier-looking locks. It also aids in healing dry, damaged skin, providing relief from irritation and improving skin elasticity.

Mango Butter

Mango (inci: Mangifera indica) butter is extracted from the seeds of mangoes and is known for its nourishing properties due to its high concentration of vitamins and fatty acids. It is packed with vitamins and essential fatty acids that provide intense hydration to both the skin and hair, restoring moisture and promoting a healthy glow. Mango butter helps moisturize and soothe dry or irritated skin, leaving it feeling hydrated and refreshed. It is also rich in antioxidants that can help protect against free radicals and promote a healthy complexion. Additionally, mango butter can help protect against environmental damage and reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.

Sal Butter

Sal (inci: Shorea Robusta Seed Butter) is naturally derived from the seeds of the Shorea robusta tree, is a rich and creamy butter that is commonly used in skincare products. It helps to soften and condition the hair, making it more manageable and reducing breakage. When applied to the skin, it forms a protective barrier and locks in moisture, keeping the skin hydrated and smooth.

Shea Butter

Butyrospermum Parkii (Shea) Butter is a versatile ingredient naturally derived from the nuts of the shea tree. It is widely used in skincare and haircare due to its exceptional moisturizing abilities. Shea butter helps retain moisture, soothes dry and irritated skin, and promotes a soft and supple texture. It can also enhance the health of the hair by nourishing the scalp, reducing frizz, and adding shine. Shea butter is renowned for its nourishing and moisturizing properties, proving highly beneficial for both hair and skin as it helps retain moisture, soothe dryness, and promote a healthy scalp. It also contains vitamins and antioxidants that support skin rejuvenation and may offer protection against environmental damage.

OILS

These are just a few of the oils that we use often in our products. We will be updating this page as we get time.

Argan

Argania Spinosa Kernel Oil is a versatile oil extracted from the kernels of the argan tree. It's rich in vitamin E and fatty acids, making it great for nourishing both hair and skin. It can help moisturize dry hair, reduce frizz, and promote a healthier scalp, while also providing hydration and softness to the skin.

Castor

Castor (inci: Ricinus Communis Seed Oil) oil is a thick oil derived from the seeds of the castor plant and has been used for centuries for its various benefits. It is a thick and sticky oil that is highly moisturizing and helps prevent water loss from the hair and skin in the dry Sonoran Desert. Castor oil is known to strengthen hair follicles, promote hair growth, and provide nourishment to the skin. It also has emollient properties that moisturize and soothe dry skin.

Coconut

Cocos nucifera (coconut) oil is a popular natural oil extracted from coconuts. It is rich in medium-chain fatty acids that can penetrate the hair shaft and deeply moisturize the hair in the arid Sonoran Desert climate. Coconut oil also has antimicrobial properties that can help fight scalp infections and promote healthy, hydrated skin. Coconut oil is known for its moisturizing and nourishing properties. It forms a protective barrier on the skin, preventing moisture loss, and helps repair damaged hair. It's especially beneficial for dry and damaged hair and skin in the Sonoran Desert.

Jamaican Black Castor

Jamaican Black Castor Oil is a variation of Castor Oil that is made by roasting the castor beans before extracting the oil, resulting in a darker and thicker consistency. It is believed to have a higher concentration of ash, which contains beneficial nutrients like minerals and proteins. Black Castor Oil is often used for hair growth and strengthening, as well as for moisturizing dry and damaged skin, while Castor Oil is known for its lubricating and conditioning properties. Both oils may help with issues like dandruff, dry scalp, and promoting healthier-looking hair and skin.

Jojoba

Simmondsia Chinensis (Jojoba) Seed Oil is naturally derived from the seeds of the jojoba plant, which are native to Arizona. Jojoba oil closely resembles our skin's natural sebum, making it a great moisturizer for the Sonoran Desert's dry climate. It is lightweight and easily absorbed, making it an excellent moisturizer for both hair and skin. Jojoba oil helps to balance oil production, soothe dryness, and maintain healthy hair and skin. It naturally helps regulate oil production, soothe irritated skin, and strengthen hair follicles.

Neem Seed

Azadirachta Indica Seed Oil is a natural product derived from the seeds of the neem tree. It has potential pest repellent benefits as it contains compounds that repel and disrupt the life cycles of various insects, including mosquitoes and ticks. It can be used as a safe and effective alternative (or supplement) to chemical-based repellents in the Sonoran Desert. You’ll find this oil in our Camping Shampoo and Conditioner bars, as well as our sprayable lotion, Desert Defense.

Olive

Olea Europaea (Olive) Fruit Oil is a versatile oil that is deeply moisturizing and contains antioxidants. It nourishes and softens both hair and skin, providing relief from dryness and promoting a more youthful appearance. Its high vitamin E content also helps protect against environmental damage. Olive oil is packed with antioxidants, vitamins, and healthy fatty acids, making it highly beneficial for hair and skin in the Sonoran Desert.

RSPO Palm

Elaeis Guineensis (Palm) Oil is a versatile ingredient used in many beauty and personal care products due to its potential benefits for hair and skin. It contains vitamin E and natural antioxidants that can nourish and moisturize the skin, making it appear smoother and healthier. We are proud to only use palm oil that is certified by the Roundtable on Sustainable Palm Oil (RSPO). While it’s not perfect, this certification does ensure its production is environmentally friendly and doesn't contribute to deforestation or harm wildlife habitats. By using RSPO-certified palm oil, we can enjoy the beauty benefits while also supporting sustainable practices and protecting our planet.

Prickly Pear Seed

Opuntia Ficus-Indica Seed, also known as cactus seed oil, is extracted from the seeds of the prickly pear fruit (which are native to Arizona). This luxurious oil is lightweight and fast-absorbing, rich in antioxidants, vitamins, and essential fatty acids. Prickly pear seed oil deeply moisturizes the hair and skin, reduces inflammation, improves elasticity, and protects against environmental damage in the Arizona sun. It promotes collagen production and helps fight signs of aging. We use this in many of our product due to its ability to moisturize dry skin, add shine to hair, and help protect against environmental stressors in the arid Sonoran Desert.

Fun Fact: Prickly pear oil is one of the most expensive oil products in the world!

Sea Buckthorn

Hippophae rhamnoides oil extracted from the berries of the sea buckthorn plant and is rich in vitamins, antioxidants, and essential fatty acids. In the Sonoran Desert, sea buckthorn fruit oil can nourish and protect both the hair and skin from environmental damage, promote healthy hair growth, and provide anti-aging benefits. It also has anti-inflammatory properties that can help soothe irritated skin and promote skin healing.

Sesame Seed

Sesamum Indicum Seed Oil is a versatile oil known for its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. As it is packed with antioxidants, minerals, and vitamins, it deeply moisturizes and protects both hair and skin in the Sonoran Desert. Sesame seed oil soothes and nourishes dry, itchy skin, while also providing hydration and reducing the appearance of dryness and fine lines. Sesame seed oil has antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties and it promotes hair growth, adds shine, and helps repair damaged hair.

Soybean

Hydrogenated Soybean Oil [Glycine Soja Oil (Soybean) oil] is soybean oil that has been processed by adding hydrogen to make it more saturated. This oil possesses excellent insect-repellent properties and can act as a natural repellent against desert insects. You’ll find this oil used in our Camping Shampoo and Conditioner bars, as well as our sprayable lotion, Desert Defense.

Sunflower Seed

Helianthus annuus (sunflower) seed oil is a lightweight, natural oil extracted from sunflower seeds that moisturizes and nourishes both hair and skin. It is rich in vitamin E and fatty acids, making it a great moisturizer for both hair and skin in the dry Sonoran Desert climate. It helps to hydrate and nourish, promoting healthy hair growth and soft, supple skin.

Tamanu

Calophyllum inophyllum seed oil is extracted from the nuts of the tamanu tree and is renowned for its healing properties. It can be beneficial for both hair and skin due to its anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties. Tamanu oil can help promote hair growth, reduce scalp irritation, and moisturize dry, damaged hair. It's also used to soothe and repair skin, helping with conditions like acne, eczema, and scars.

ESSENTIAL OILS

These are a few of our favorite essential oils to formulate with! You will see these in many of our products.

Catnip

Catnip essential oil is derived from the leaves and stems of the catnip plant, which is a member of the mint family. It contains a compound called nepetalactone, which is known to repel mosquitoes, ticks, and other biting insects. It has been shown to repel mosquitoes and other biting insects, making it a useful ingredient in repellent products for use in the Sonoran Desert.

Cedarwood

Cedarwood essential oil is extracted from the bark of cedar trees. It has a strong and woody aroma and is known to repel pests such as mosquitoes, ants, moths, and fleas. These insect-repellent properties make it an excellent choice for use in the Sonoran Desert.

Citronella

Citronella essential oil is derived from the leaves and stems of certain varieties of grass. It is well-known for its insect-repelling properties and is often used in candles, sprays, and lotions. Citronella oil can help keep mosquitoes and other insects at bay, making it a valuable ingredient for pest repellents in the Sonoran Desert.

Geranium

Geranium essential oil is derived from the leaves and flowers of the geranium plant. It has a pleasant aroma and is known for its insect-repelling properties. Geranium oil has shown effectiveness against mosquitoes, ticks, and flies, making it a popular choice in natural insect repellent products for the Sonoran Desert.

Lemon Eucalyptus

Lemon Eucalyptus essential oil is obtained from the leaves and twigs of the lemon eucalyptus tree. It contains a compound called PMD (para-menthane-3,8-diol), which has been proven effective against mosquitoes, including those that carry diseases like West Nile virus. It also contains a compound called citronellal, which acts as a natural repellent against mosquitoes and other flying insects. Using products containing lemon eucalyptus essential oil can provide excellent protection against pests in the Sonoran Desert. You will find that we use it in our Desert Insta-towels, our camping shampoo and conditioner bars, and in our sprayable lotion, Desert Defense.

Lemongrass

Lemongrass essential oil is obtained from the lemongrass plant and has a citrusy aroma. It has several benefits for hair and skin, including its ability to promote a healthy scalp by reducing oiliness and dandruff. Lemongrass oil can also act as a natural toner for the skin, helping to minimize pores and improve overall skin texture. Don't miss our award-winning Conditioner Bars scented with pure essential oils!

Peppermint

Peppermint essential oil is extracted from the peppermint plant and is widely recognized for its cooling and invigorating properties. It can provide a refreshing sensation when applied to the scalp, promoting blood circulation and potentially stimulating hair growth. Peppermint oil is also known to have antimicrobial properties that can help combat scalp infections and soothe itchy skin.

Rosemary

Rosemary essential oil is derived from the leaves of the rosemary plant and is known for its refreshing scent and potential benefits for hair and skin. When applied to the scalp, it can stimulate hair growth and help combat dandruff and oily scalp. Additionally, it has antioxidant properties that may contribute to healthier, rejuvenated skin.

EXTRACTS

We use several different extracts to add the many benefits we want in our skincare products. You will find many of these in our lotions, haircare products, and skincare solutions.

Agave

Agave extract is derived from the agave plant and is rich in natural sugars, vitamins, and minerals. This natural humectant helps attracts and retains moisture. In the Sonoran Desert, where dehydration is a common concern, agave extract can help replenish moisture levels in both hair and skin, providing hydration and improving their overall texture and appearance. It provides hydration and moisture to both hair and skin, helping to improve their overall health and appearance. It also has soothing properties that can help alleviate dryness and irritation.

Creosote

Creosote extract is derived from the creosote bush, a common plant found in the Sonoran Desert. It has antimicrobial, antibacterial, and antioxidant properties, making it beneficial for skincare products. Creosote extract can help combat bacteria and protect the skin from free radicals, potentially reducing the risk of skin issues and promoting a healthier complexion in the desert's challenging conditions. It helps protect the hair and skin from free radicals and environmental damage, promoting a healthier and more youthful appearance. It also has cleansing properties that can help remove impurities and promote a clean and clear complexion.

Daikon Seed

Desert Sand Verbena

Desert sand verbena extract is obtained from the desert sand verbena plant, known for its adaptability to arid conditions. This extract is often utilized in hair and skincare products for its moisturizing and antioxidant properties. It can help protect the hair and skin from environmental stressors, such as sun damage and dryness, commonly experienced in the Sonoran Desert. It also has moisturizing and nourishing effects, making it beneficial for dry or damaged hair and skin.

Evening Primrose

Evening primrose root extract is derived from the evening primrose plant and is known for its soothing and anti-inflammatory properties. It can help calm irritated scalp and skin, reducing redness and promoting a healthier appearance. It also contains essential fatty acids that can improve the overall health and condition of both hair and skin.

Radish Seed

Raphanus sativus seed extract, derived from radish seeds, is a natural antioxidant that offers benefits for both hair and skin. It helps to protect against free radicals, which can cause premature aging and damage. It also has moisturizing properties, leaving hair and skin feeling hydrated and refreshed.

Ocotillo

Ocotillo extract is obtained from the ocotillo plant, which is known for its resilience in desert environments. It possesses anti-inflammatory properties that can help calm and soothe irritated skin. Additionally, ocotillo extract can assist in improving the elasticity and strength of hair, reducing breakage and promoting healthier, more resilient strands. It helps to hydrate and nourish both hair and skin, reducing dryness and improving their texture. It also has soothing effects that can help calm irritated scalp and skin.

Yucca

Yucca extract is obtained from the yucca plant and is known for its cleansing and purifying properties. It also includes extraordinary cleansing and soothing properties. It can help remove excess oil and impurities from the scalp and skin without stripping away essential moisture, making it beneficial for those dealing with oily or combination skin and scalp conditions in the desert climate. It helps to remove excess oil and build-up from the scalp and skin, promoting a clean and balanced environment. It can also add volume and shine to the hair, making it look more vibrant and healthy.

Other Ingredients We Use

These are just a few of the ingredients we use on a regular basis. We will add to these as we have time!

Aloe Vera

Aloe vera is a plant extract known for its soothing and healing properties for damaged skin. It has a high water content, making it incredibly hydrating for both hair and skin. Its moisturizing properties help combat the dry and arid climate, soothing and hydrating the skin to alleviate dryness, itching, and irritation. Aloe vera's nourishing and conditioning properties promote healthier hair, preventing breakage and adding shine, which is especially beneficial in the desert's harsh conditions. Its natural cooling effect also provides relief from sunburns and minor skin irritations caused by excessive sun exposure. Its natural enzymes and vitamins nourish and strengthen hair, promoting healthy growth and combating damage from our harsh desert environment.

Cetyl Alcohol

Cetyl alcohol is a fatty alcohol derived from natural sources like coconut oil. It is commonly used in skincare and haircare products as a thickening agent and emollient. In the Sonoran Desert, cetyl alcohol can help moisturize and condition both hair and skin, preventing dryness and promoting softness.

DL-Panthenol

DL-Panthenol, also known as Provitamin B5, is a versatile ingredient often found in hair and skin care formulations. It has excellent moisturizing properties and can penetrate the hair shaft, strengthening and improving its elasticity. When applied to the skin, it helps to hydrate and soothe, promoting a healthier and more youthful complexion.

Sodium Lactate

Sodium lactate is a natural salt derived from the fermentation of sugars. It is widely used in skincare products for its hydrating and exfoliating properties. In the Sonoran Desert, sodium lactate can provide much-needed moisture to the hair and skin, helping to retain hydration and improve their overall texture.