ingredients
the ingredients in anokha were selected from a large number of natural actives and botanicals which are used throughout the world to achieve beautiful, clear skin. only those ingredients which have also been shown scientifically to be both efficacious and safe were chosen. in order to be responsible to the environment and our earth's limited resources, sustainable resources are always favored over those which are limited in supply.
carefully selected and clinically studied ingredients that will help you feel and look naturally beautiful - that’s our oath to you.
alkanet (Alkanna tinctoria)
origin: India
alkanet is a member of the borage family, with bright blue flowers and dark red roots. in folk medicine, it has been used to treat abscesses and inflammation.
product: bakuchiol & pomegranate facial oil
allantoin
origins: China, Japan
allantoin is endogenous to the human body, but is also found in many plants, including wheat germ, soybean, and comfrey. it has keratolytic, moisturizing, soothing, and anti-irritant properties; promotes epidermal cell turnover; and helps to relieve the symptoms of dryness. for more, please visit our journal entry ingredient focus: allantoin.
product: sake & sandalwood facial lotion
almond (Prunus dulcis)*
origins: Italy, Spain, USA
the almond is native to the Middle East and South Asia. the almond is believed to have been transported in ancient times along the shores of the Mediterranean into northern Africa and southern Europe. almonds were a prized ingredient used in breads served to Egyptian pharoahs, and were found in the tomb of King Tutankhamun. they have maintained their ethnic, religious, and cultural significance throughout history. almond oil is used to soothe and condition the skin by replenishing natural skin oils lost during cleansing. our almond oil is certified organic. for more about almonds, visit our journal entry why we're nuts about almonds.
product: jasmine serum
argan (Argania spinosa)
origin: Morocco
the argan tree is native to southwest Morocco. the seeds are rich in oleic and linoleic fatty acids, tocopherol, phytosterols, and triterpene alcohols. argan is believed to help reduce wrinkles and soften the skin with an increase in elasticity and skin tightening.
product: rosehip replenishing balm
arnica (Arnica montana)
arnica is believed to stimulate the circulation, which in turn helps to reduce swelling, decrease bruising, and repair damaged skin. for more about arnica, visit our journal entry ingredient focus: arnica.
product: rosehip replenishing balm
bakuchiol
origin: Pakistan
bakuchiol is a concentrated natural active ingredient derived from Psoralea corylifolia. it has been shown to impart the benefits of retinol, but without the same degree of associated side effects. bakuchiol acts as an anti-oxidant, helps to stimulate collagen synthesis, and activates anti-aging genes. it is also effective in the treatment of acne and hyperpigmentation. for more about bakuchiol, visit our journal entries ingredient focus: bakuchiol and bakuchiol vs retinol .
product: bakuchiol & pomegranate facial oil
bamboo (Phyllostachis bambusoides)
origin: USA
bamboo is a highly sustainable plant which acts an an antioxidant and helps to balance osmotic pressure to ensure hydration.
product: rice & hinoki facial cleanser
beeswax*
origins: East & West Africa
beeswax forms a protective barrier when applied to the skin, which holds in moisture to reduce dryness. as a humectant, beeswax also attracts water molecules to increase hydration. it is a good source of vitamin A. our beeswax is certified organic. for more about beeswax, visit our journal entry beeswax for skin.
products: lip butter, rosehip replenishing balm
bergamot (Citrus bergamia)*
origin: Italy
bergamot is a fragrant citrus fruit which is the size of an orange, but which has a green color similar to that of a lime. our bergamot essential oil is certified organic, and is cold-pressed from the peels of the fruit. bergamot has antibacterial, anti-fungal, and anti-oxidant properties. the scent is a top note which in aromatherapy has been shown to decrease anxiety and enhance the mood. for more about bergamot, visit our journal entry ingredient focus: bergamot .
products: rice bran & pomegranate facial cleansing oil , sake & sandalwood facial lotion
bisabolol
origin: USA
bisabolol is one of the main compounds found in chamomile. it has been shown to accelerate the healing process of skin and has anti-inflammatory properties. it also enhances the dermal penetration of other active ingredients and has natural anti-bacterial and anti-fungal properties.
product: bakuchiol & pomegranate facial oil
blue clay (kaolin)
origin: Russia
Cambrian blue clay helps to purify the skin, assists in the reduction of pores, gently exfoliates, and stimulates the circulation. for more about this remarkable clay, visit our journal entry ingredient focus: Cambrian blue clay.
product: blue clay clarifying masque
blue yarrow (Achillea millefolium)*
origin: Bulgaria
blue yarrow essential oil has anti-inflammatory and disinfectant properties, with a scent that has both sweet and grounding top and middle notes. when distilled, one of its constituents decomposes into chamazulene, which lends its entrancing, deep blue color. our blue yarrow essential oil is steam distilled from the leaves and tops of the plant, and is certified organic. if you yearn for yarrow like we do, visit our journal entry ingredient focus: yarrow .
product: blue lotus body oil
burdock root (Arctium lappa)
origin: USA
burdock root has been shown to have both anti-microbial and anti-inflammatory properties. it is often used in the treatment of acne. burdock root also contains multiple types of potent anti-oxidants, including quercetin, luteolin, and phenolic acids. for more, visit our journal entry ingredient focus: burdock root .
product: lotus flower & rosewater toner
camellia (Camellia oleifera)*
origin: China
camellia oil is an excellent emollient which keeps skin soft and supple. it is rapidly absorbed into the skin and is non-comedogenic. it also helps to repair damage secondary to aging and dehydration. our camellia oil is certified organic. for more about camellia, visit our journal entry camellia oil for the face.
product: lip butter
caprylic/capric triglycerides
origin: USA
caprylic/capric triglycerides are formed from a combination of glycerol with medium chain coconut fatty acids. it has a very light texture, and is readily absorbed into skin without leaving a greasy residue.
product: blue lotus body oil
castor seed (Ricinus communis)*
origin: India
castor oil is obtained from cold-pressing the seeds of the castor plant. it contains approximately 90% ricinoleic acid, which provides its analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties. castor oil is quite viscous and disperses pigment well. it’s often used as a “dirt magnet” to remove makeup and cleanse skin, as a skin conditioning agent, and a stabilizer of cosmetic products. our castor seed oil is certified organic.
products: lip butter, rice bran & pomegranate facial cleansing oil
coconut (Cocos nucifera)
origin: USA
coconut pulp contains high levels of fatty acids which intensely hydrate the skin. they are capable of deep cleansing without stripping the skin of its natural oils.
product: rice & hinoki facial cleanser
coenzyme q10 (ubiquinone)
origin: USA
coenzyme Q10 has been shown to act as an antioxidant, slow the loss of hyaluronic acid, promote the proliferation of fibroblasts, increase the expression of elastin and collagen, reduce collagenase levels, and decrease skin wrinkle depth. for more about this powerhouse, visit our journal entry on coenzyme Q10.
product: bakuchiol & pomegranate facial oil
cranberry (Vaccinium macrocarpon)
origin: USA
cranberry seed oil has a unique natural balance of omega 3, 6 & 9 fatty acids in addition to being rich in vitamin E, natural antioxidants, phytosterols, phospholipids, and vitamin A. it is ideal for irritated skin types, including eczema and psoriasis. our cranberry seed oil is cold-pressed and unrefined.
product: bakuchiol & pomegranate facial oil
cucumber (Cucumus sativus)
origin: India
cucumber seed oil has been shown to have anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, astringent, and brightening properties. our cucumber oil is extracted from the seeds of non-GMO cucumbers and is cold-pressed and unrefined.
product: bakuchiol & pomegranate facial oil
elderberry (Sambucus nigra)
origin: USA
elderberries possess a large number of phytonutrients with antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, including caffeic acid, chlorogenic acid, ferulic acid, and quercetin. they also contain anthocyanins, which help boost the immune system. the bioflavonoids found in elderberries are astringent, helping to tighten the skin and provide anti-wrinkle benefits. elderberry is also an excellent source of undecylenic acid, an organic fatty acid with antimicrobial and anti-fungal properties. for more about elderberry, visit our journal entry ingredient focus: elderberry .
product: lotus & lychee facial crème
gotu kola (Centella asiatica)
origin: India
gotu kola, also known as Indian Pennywort, is believed to contain active ingredients which stimulate the production of human collagen. it has been shown to be effective in the treatment of burns, wounds, ulcers, and the prevention of scars, and is an anti-inflammatory agent. it's essentially an antidote to 2020. for more about this beauty, visit our journal entry ingredient focus: gotu kola .
products: lotus flower & rosewater toner , lotus & lychee facial crème , rosehip replenishing balm , sake & sandalwood facial lotion , white tea & lychee toner
grapefruit (Citrus paradisi)
origin: USA
our grapefruit essential oil is cold-pressed from the peels of the fruit. it has a wonderfully citrus top note. it is anti-bacterial, anti-fungal, and helps to limit cravings and hunger. it is believed to be useful in the treatment of acne.
product: rice bran & pomegranate facial cleansing oil
hinoki (Chamaecyparis obtusa wood oil)
origin: Japan
hinoki is grown for its extremely high-quality timber in Japan where it is used to build temples and shrines. we use it for its aroma which is dry, fine, and woody.
product: rice & hinoki facial cleanser
hyaluronic acid (Sodium hyaluronate)
origin: USA
hyaluronic acid is an incredibly efficient hydrating agent for skin care, capable of holding 1000 times its weight in water. it delivers moisture to plump the skin without clogging pores. for more about hyaluronic acid, visit our journal entry hyaluronic acid benefits.
product: jasmine serum
jasmine (Jasminum grandiflorum)*
origin: India
the jasmine flower is one of the most beloved and fragrant flowers throughout Asia. according to aromatherapist Patricia Davis, jasmine brings together the fiery dyanamism associated with the masculine aspect (yang) and the soft earthiness of the feminine (yin). our jasmine extract is derived from a benign solvent extraction without hexane and is certified organic. it provides a voluptuous and rich base to middle note. for more about this true beauty, visit our journal entry ingredient focus: jasmine.
products: jasmine serum
kukui nut (Aleurites moluccan)
origin: Hawaii, USA
kukui nut contains linoleic and linolenic fatty acids which are excellent for repairing the skin's barrier mechanisms and decreasing transepidermal water loss. it also contains oleic acid, which moisturizes and softens the skin. crazy for kukui? visit our journal entry ingredient focus: kukui .
product: blue lotus body oil, bakuchiol & pomegranate facial oil
lavender is one of the most popular scents and has been used in perfumery for centuries. our lavender oil is a high elevation variety which possesses a refined, subtly sweet aroma. its scent is said to help calm the mind, body, and spirit.
product: rosehip replenishing balm
lemon (Citrus limon)*
origin: Italy
the humble lemon has a tremendous number of excellent qualities: anti-oxidant, anti-bacterial, anti-fungal, anti-spasmodic, mood enhancer, analgesic, anti-anxiety, and skin penetration enhancer - to name a few. our lemon essential oil is cold-pressed from the peels of the fruit and is certified organic. learn more in our journal entry ingredient focus: lemon .
products: rice bran & pomegranate facial cleansing oil , rosehip replenishing balm
lemongrass (Cymbopogon flexuosus)*
origins: India, Sri Lanka
lemongrass has anti-inflammatory, anti-microbial, and anti-oxidant abilities in addition to its refreshing and calming middle to top note. our lemongrass essential oil is steam distilled from the leaves of the plant. it is certified organic.
products: blue clay clarifying masque , rice & hinoki facial cleanser
lime (Citrus aurantifolia)*
origin: Sri Lanka
lotus (Nelumbo nucifera)
origin: India
throughout human history the lotus flower has been treasured as a sacred symbol of purity and vitality. depictions of this plant adorn the walls of Hindu temples and Egyptian tombs. it contains vitamins such as vitamin C, which protects the skin from free radicals, and minerals including potassium to assist with hydration. lotus flower also contains fatty acids, flavonoids and proteins, which help to strengthen connective tissue. lotus flower's anti-inflammatory properties assist in calming redness and swelling, while restoring the skin's natural pigmentation. for more about the lovely lotus, visit our journal entry ingredient focus: lotus flower .
products: lotus flower & rosewater toner , lotus & lychee facial crème
lychee (Litchi chinensis)
origin: China
lychee is a a fleshy, white, sweet fruit with a floral scent. its extract derived from the fruit is rich in natural vitamin C. it also provides significant antioxidant and rejuvenating properties, and has been shown to help brighten skin tone. for more about the lovely lychee, visit our journal entry ingredient focus: lychee .
products: lotus & lychee facial crème , white tea & lychee toner
mandarin (Citrus reticulata blanco)
origin: Italy
products: rice bran & pomegranate facial cleansing oil
mango (Mangifera indica)
origin: West Africa
mango butter is obtained from the kernels of the mango fruit. it has high levels of omega fatty acids, vitamin a, and vitamin e. when used topically, it helps to nourish skin and boost elasticity. it's ideal for use on dry, damaged, and aging skin. for more, visit our journal entries mango madness and mango: food of the gods.
product: rosehip replenishing balm
milk
origin: USA
milk and milk products, such as yogurt and cream, have been valued since ancient times for their soothing and luxurious properties. milk protein contains lactic acid, an effective exfoliant. Cleopatra is even known to have bathed in a concoction of milk and rose petals. it is still used daily in Asia as a gentle facial cleanser. make it milk, with our journal entry ingredient focus: milk .
product: oatmeal cleansing milk
oatmeal (Avena sativa)
origin: USA
oatmeal is a supremely gentle cleanser which is excellent for all skin types. it absorbs excess sebum while restoring the barrier function of skin, retains water to hydrate, and acts as a gentle exfoliant. it also relives areas of inflammation, and is thought to improve the elasticity of the skin. for more about colloidal oatmeal and its many benefits, visit our journal entry ingredient focus: oatmeal
product: oatmeal cleansing milk
olive trees are a prized plant in the Mediterranean basin. olive oil is rich in omega fatty acids capable of penetrating the skin to deliver key nutrients. olive oil contains the antioxidant vitamin e, as well as polyphenols which have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.
product: rosehip replenishing balm
panthenol
origin: USA
panthenol is pro-vitamin B5, a vitamin precursor that is converted to vitamin B5 in the skin. it penetrates deeply into the skin, and provides long-term moisture while improving barrier function. it also helps to control inflammation and itching.
product: jasmine serum
papaya seed (Carica papaya)
origin: Turkey
papaya seed, rich in fatty acids, penetrates and moisturizes the skin effectively. it also contains the enzyme papain, an effective keratolytic. it is antibacterial and assists in wound healing. for more about the potent papaya, visit our journal entry ingredient focus: papaya .
product: blue lotus body oil
peppermint (Mentha piperita)*
origin: India
peppermint contains vitamins A and C, and soothes with its refreshing top note. our peppermint essential oil is steam-distilled from the partially dried leaves of the plant and is certified organic. for more, visit our journal entry ingredient focus: peppermint
product: lip butter
plum (Prunus domestica)*
pomegranate (Punica granatum)
origin: Europe
pomegranate seed oil is obtained from the seeds of the pomegranate fruit. It has a very high concentration of punicic acid, a powerful anti-inflammatory. pomegranate has also demonstrated potent antioxidant activity, helps with skin elasticity, and is deeply nourishing for skin. for more about the powerful pomegranate, visit our journal entry ingredient focus: pomegranate .
products: rice bran & pomegranate facial cleansing oil, bakuchiol & pomegranate facial oil
propanediol
origin: USA
propanediol is a plant-based humectant derived from corn sugar fermentation. it also acts as a preservative booster, solvent, stabilizer, and emollient. it is an excellent alternative to propylene gycol. for more about propanediol, visit our journal entry propanediol in skin care.
products: lotus flower & rosewater toner , white tea & lychee facial toner
rice bran (Oryza sativa)
origin: India
rice, a universal food staple, has been used in beauty treatments around the world. the oil derived from rice bran is a moisturizer which helps to brighten the skin and contains anti-oxidants. need more? visit our journal entry ingredient focus: rice .
products: rice bran & pomegranate facial cleansing oil , sake & sandalwood facial lotion , rice & hinoki facial cleanser
rice milk (Oryza sativa)
origin: USA
rice milk consists of grain milk derived from rice. rice milk contains high levels of carbohydrates and is an excellent moisturizer. for more, visit our journal entry ingredient focus: rice .
product: rice & hinoki facial cleanser
rosehip (Rosa mosqueta)
origin: Chile
rosehip seed oil contains high levels of essential fatty acids which are not found within the human body. rosehip seed oil is a natural source of trans-retinoic acid, and has been shown to provide benefits similar to those of retinoic acid, including increasing collagen and elastin production and decreasing damage secondary to photo-aging. for more about rosehip seed oil, visit our journal entry rosehip seed oil.
products: bakuchiol & pomegranate facial oil , rosehip replenishing balm
rose (Rosa damascena)
origin: Lebanon
the alluring rose is a wonderful source of beauty remedies. rose oil tones the skin. rosewater, which is the distilled essence of rose petals, is not only astringent, but also has anti-inflammatory and anti-septic properties. the powder of dried and crushed rose petals also provides an astringent effect. for more about the regal rose, visit our journal entry ingredient focus: rose
products: lotus flower & rosewater toner
rosemary (Rosmarinus officinalis)*
origins: Morocco, Greece
rosemary is a natural antioxidant with very high activity. it is useful in breakout-prone skin. our rosemary is certified organic.
products: bakuchiol & pomegranate facial oil , rosehip replenishing balm
sake (rice ferment filtrate)
origin: Japan
sake has been shown in scientific studies to inhibit melanin production, activate natural moisturizing factors, augment the skin barrier, and act as an anti-inflammatory and antioxidant. for more about sake, visit our journal entry ingredient focus: sake.
product: sake & sandalwood facial lotion
sandalwood (Santalum spicatum and Santalum album)
origins: Australia, India
sandalwood, believed to bring one closer to the divine, is indigenous to the Indian subcontinent. it has long been prized for its anti-septic, soothing, and moisturizing properties. the oil has been used as a perfume for over 4000 years. for more about this spiritual beauty, visit our journal entries ingredient focus: sandalwood and sandalwood oil for skin.
products: jasmine serum , sake & sandalwood facial lotion
sea buckthorn (Hippophae rhamnoides)
origin: China
sea buckthorn seed oil is harvested from the seeds contained in the berries of deciduous shrubs found in Europe and Asia. the berries are rich in vitamins A, B1, B12, C, E, and K; flavonoids, lycopene, carotenoids, and phytosterols. the oil contains a near 1:1 ratio of linolenic (omega-3) and linoleic (omega-6) acids. clinical studies have demonstrated that sea buckthorn seed oil can improve skin metabolism and delay skin maturation while reducing the damaging effects of the sun. for more about sea buckthorn, visit our journal entry sea buckthorn oil skin benefits.
products: bakuchiol & pomegranate facial oil , rosehip replenishing balm
squalane
origin: USA
squalane is a potent carrier oil which has incredible emollient properties and helps to reduce trans-epidermal water loss. we use only plant-based squalane derived from olives.
products: blue lotus body oil
sunflower seed oil (Helianthus annuus)*
origin: USA
sunflower seed oil is high in vitamins A, C, E, and D and essential fatty acids. it is readily absorbed into the skin to improve barrier function, and is an antioxidant. our sunflower oil is certified organic.
products: lip butter , lotus & lychee facial crème , rice bran & pomegranate facial cleansing oil , rosehip replenishing balm
tocopherol
origin: China
tocopherol (vitamin E) is an excellent antioxidant which helps to prevent free radical damage to the skin. it is also an anti-inflammatory, and moisturizer. it does appear to help reduce scarring in the clinical setting despite a relative lack of scientific data in this area.
products: blue lotus body oil, rice bran & pomegranate facial cleansing oil, lip butter, lotus & lychee facial crème , rosehip replenishing balm , rice & hinoki facial cleanser
white tea (Camellia sinensis)*
origin: China
white tea is made from the uppermost and most tender tea leaves. the phytochemicals of white tea provide potent antioxidant activity.
product: white tea & lychee toner
willow bark (Salix alba)
origin: Central & Eastern Europe
willow bark contains salicin which is known to provide anti-inflammatory effects. our extract contains a salicylic acid concentration of 10% which enhances skin cell turnover and acts as a natural anti-microbial agent.
product: white tea & lychee toner
ylang ylang (Canaga odorata)*
origin: Madagascar
although ylang ylang is best known for its rich floral fragrance, it has demonstrated anti-microbial, anti-fungal, anti-inflammatory, and anti-oxidant activity. a study examining effects on melanogenesis (the formation of pigment of skin) found that several compounds isolated from the flower can inhibit the production of melanin. inhalation of the scent of ylang ylang significantly decreases blood pressure while promoting relaxation. finally, it is believed to act as an aphrodisiac. our ylang ylang essential oil is steam distilled from the flowers of the plant and is certified organic. for more about this delicate beauty, visit our journal entry ingredient focus: ylang ylang .
product: lotus & lychee facial crème
yuzu (Citrus junos)
origin: Japan
cultivated in Japan and Korea, the rare and prized yuzu fruit is traditionally floated in a hot ceremonial bath on the night of the winter solstice with the aim of protecting against colds, stimulating the skin, warming the body, and relaxing the mind. it has been shown to have anti-inflammatory, and anti-anxiety properties, and eases tension, anger, and hostility. our yuzu essential oil is steam distilled from the peels of the fruit. we treasure it for its bright and uplifting top note.
products: blue lotus body oil, blue clay clarifying masque
*certified organic
note:
the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has not evaluated the statements on this website. no claims are made as to the medicinal value of any products from anokha. the information presented here is for educating our customers and is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. if you have any questions, please call or email us for further information.