Skincare Ingredient Glossary
A comprehensive guide to every ingredient we use in our skincare products, detailing its benefits and purpose. We prioritize natural, nutrient-rich ingredients—free from harsh chemicals, preservatives, and fillers—to create wholesome, effective blends for your body and home.
Arrowroot Powder
Arrowroot powder is a starchy, powdery substance derived from the rhizomes of the arrowroot plant. Known for its versatility, it is used in both skincare and cooking applications. At Black Oak Naturals, we use arrowroot powder in skincare products for its soothing and absorbent properties, and in seasoning and cooking applications for its thickening and digestive benefits.
Why Arrowroot powder is great for skin:
• Soothing & Calming – Helps calm irritated or inflamed skin, making it ideal for sensitive or sunburned skin.
• Absorbent – Absorbs excess oil and moisture without clogging pores, helping to balance skin and prevent breakouts.
• Gentle & Non-Irritating – Ideal for delicate skin, it is gentle enough to be used in powders, deodorants, and lotions without causing irritation.
• Supports Skin Healing – Aids in the healing of minor wounds, rashes, and other skin conditions, promoting faster skin regeneration.
Why Arrowroot powder is great for cooking & seasoning:
• Natural Thickener – Used as a healthier alternative to cornstarch, arrowroot thickens sauces, soups, and gravies without altering their flavor.
• Gluten-Free – Ideal for those with dietary restrictions, it can be used as a thickening agent in gluten-free recipes.
• Easily Digestible – Gentle on the stomach, making it a great option for those with sensitive digestive systems.
• Supports Nutrient Absorption – Helps improve the absorption of nutrients in the body due to its gentle, easily digestible nature.
Arrowroot powder is a multi-functional, natural ingredient that provides soothing skincare benefits and enhances cooking recipes, making it a staple in both our personal care and culinary products.
Beeswax
White beeswax is a natural wax derived from honeycombs, refined to remove impurities and color while retaining its beneficial properties. At Black Oak Naturals, we use white beeswax in skincare and personal care products for its protective, moisturizing, and emulsifying abilities.
Why White Beeswax is Great for Skin:
• Natural Moisture Lock – Forms a breathable barrier on the skin, sealing in hydration without clogging pores.
• Skin-Softening – Rich in esters and fatty acids that condition and smooth the skin.
• Anti-Inflammatory & Soothing – Helps calm irritated skin, making it ideal for sensitive or dry skin conditions.
• Rich in Vitamin A – Supports skin cell regeneration and overall skin health.
• Protective & Antibacterial – Shields skin from environmental stressors while naturally resisting bacteria and contaminants.
• Acts as a Natural Emulsifier – Helps blend oils and water-based ingredients for smooth, stable formulations in creams, balms, and lotions.
White beeswax is a gentle, skin-friendly ingredient that enhances the texture and effectiveness of our products while providing lasting nourishment and protection.
Calcium Bentonite Clay
Calcium bentonite clay is a naturally occurring, mineral-rich clay known for its powerful detoxifying, purifying, and soothing properties. At Black Oak Naturals, we use calcium bentonite clay in skincare products to draw out impurities, balance oil production, and promote overall skin health.
Why Calcium Bentonite Clay is Great for Skin:
• Deep Cleansing & Detoxifying – Absorbs excess oil, dirt, and toxins from the skin, leaving it refreshed and purified.
• Balances Oil Production – Helps regulate sebum levels, making it beneficial for both oily and combination skin.
• Soothes Irritated Skin – Reduces redness, inflammation, and irritation, making it ideal for acne-prone or sensitive skin.
• Rich in Minerals – Contains calcium, magnesium, silica, and other essential minerals that nourish and support skin health.
• Tightens & Tones – Helps minimize the appearance of pores and improves skin elasticity for a firmer look.
Calcium bentonite clay is a powerhouse ingredient that gently detoxifies while nourishing the skin, making it an essential part of our natural skincare formulations.
Calendula
Calendula Jojoba infusion
Calendula, also known as marigold, is a vibrant, flowering plant known for its soothing, healing, and anti-inflammatory properties. At Black Oak Naturals, we use calendula in skincare products to help calm, repair, and nourish the skin, making it an excellent choice for sensitive or irritated skin.
Why Calendula is Great for Skin:
• Soothing & Calming – Helps reduce redness, irritation, and inflammation, making it ideal for sensitive or inflamed skin.
• Promotes Skin Healing – Accelerates wound healing, helps fade scars, and is effective for conditions like eczema, dermatitis, and minor cuts.
• Antibacterial & Antifungal – Naturally combats bacteria and fungi, helping to prevent infection and support clear, healthy skin.
• Rich in Antioxidants – Contains flavonoids and carotenoids that protect the skin from free radical damage and support a youthful appearance.
• Hydrating & Moisturizing – Helps to maintain the skin’s moisture balance, keeping it soft and hydrated.
• Non-Irritating – Gentle enough for delicate or sensitive skin, calendula is widely used in baby products and formulations for sensitive skin types.
Calendula is a powerful, natural ingredient that helps soothe, heal, and nourish the skin, making it a valuable addition to our skincare products.
Cetyl Alcohol
Cetyl alcohol is a naturally derived fatty alcohol, often sourced from coconut or palm oil, that acts as a skin-conditioning agent and emulsifier. At Black Oak Naturals, we use cetyl alcohol in skincare products to enhance texture, improve moisture retention, and create a luxurious feel.
Why Cetyl Alcohol is Great for Skin:
• Hydrating & Emollient – Helps soften and smooth the skin by drawing in and locking in moisture.
• Supports Skin Barrier – Strengthens the skin’s natural protective layer, reducing dryness and irritation.
• Gentle & Non-Irritating – Unlike drying alcohols, cetyl alcohol is soothing and beneficial for sensitive skin.
• Improves Texture & Spreadability – Gives creams, lotions, and balms a silky, lightweight feel.
• Enhances Product Stability – Helps blend oil- and water-based ingredients, ensuring a smooth, consistent formulation.
Cetyl alcohol plays a key role in creating effective, nourishing skincare products that feel great on the skin while providing lasting hydration and protection.
Clove Powder
Clove powder is derived from dried clove buds and is known for its powerful antioxidant, antibacterial, and soothing properties. At Black Oak Naturals, we use clove powder in skincare and personal care products for its ability to cleanse, refresh, and support overall skin health.
Why Clove Powder is Great for Skin:
• Natural Antibacterial & Antiseptic – Helps combat acne-causing bacteria and keeps skin clear.
• Rich in Antioxidants – Protects skin from environmental stressors and premature aging.
• Soothing & Anti-Inflammatory – Reduces redness, irritation, and swelling, making it beneficial for sensitive or acne-prone skin.
• Gently Exfoliating – Helps remove dead skin cells, promoting a smoother, brighter complexion.
• Supports Circulation – Stimulates blood flow, which can enhance skin radiance and promote healing.
Clove powder is a potent natural ingredient that deeply cleanses and revitalizes the skin, making it a valuable addition to our skincare and personal care formulations.
Diatomaceous Earth
Diatomaceous earth is a fine, powdery substance made from fossilized algae called diatoms. Rich in silica and minerals, it is known for its exfoliating, purifying, and absorbent properties. At Black Oak Naturals, we use diatomaceous earth in skincare and personal care products to gently cleanse, detoxify, and support healthy skin.
Why Diatomaceous Earth is Great for Skin:
• Gentle Exfoliation – Helps remove dead skin cells, unclog pores, and promote a smoother complexion.
• Oil-Absorbing & Detoxifying – Naturally absorbs excess oil and impurities, making it ideal for oily or acne-prone skin.
• Rich in Silica – Supports collagen production, promoting firm, youthful-looking skin.
• Soothing & Calming – Helps reduce irritation and inflammation, making it beneficial for sensitive skin.
• Antibacterial & Purifying – Aids in cleansing the skin while helping to prevent breakouts.
Diatomaceous earth is a powerful yet gentle ingredient that enhances skincare by deeply cleansing and revitalizing the skin, making it a key component in our natural formulations.
Essential Oils
Essential oils are highly concentrated plant extracts known for their therapeutic benefits, natural fragrance, and skin-nourishing properties. At Black Oak Naturals, we use pure essential oils to enhance our products with natural scents and skin-supporting benefits—never synthetic fragrances.
Why Essential Oils Are Great for Skin:
• Natural & Non-Toxic – Free from harsh chemicals, synthetic fragrances, and artificial additives.
• Skin-Soothing & Healing – Many essential oils, like lavender and chamomile, help calm irritation and support skin repair.
• Antibacterial & Purifying – Essential oils such as tea tree and eucalyptus naturally cleanse and help prevent breakouts.
• Aromatherapeutic Benefits – Promote relaxation, energy, or focus through their natural scent profiles.
• Rich in Antioxidants – Help protect skin from environmental stressors and premature aging.
By choosing essential oils over synthetic fragrances, we ensure our products are safe, effective, and beneficial for both skin and overall well-being.
Helichrysum
Helichrysum Jojoba infusion
Helichrysum, often referred to as “immortelle” or “everlasting flower,” is a highly prized plant known for its regenerative, anti-inflammatory, and skin-healing properties. At Black Oak Naturals, we use helichrysum in skincare products for its ability to support skin rejuvenation, calm irritation, and promote a youthful, radiant complexion.
Why Helichrysum is Great for Skin:
• Promotes Skin Regeneration – Known for its cell-rejuvenating properties, helichrysum helps repair damaged skin and reduce the appearance of scars, stretch marks, and fine lines.
• Anti-Inflammatory – Calms redness, swelling, and irritation, making it ideal for sensitive or inflamed skin conditions like acne, rosacea, and eczema.
• Rich in Antioxidants – Protects the skin from oxidative stress and free radical damage, supporting a more youthful appearance.
• Antibacterial & Antifungal – Helps combat bacteria and fungi, aiding in the prevention of infections and supporting clear skin.
• Hydrating & Nourishing – Helps lock in moisture and restore balance, leaving the skin soft, hydrated, and revitalized.
• Enhances Skin Tone – Improves skin elasticity and evens out skin tone, giving the skin a smoother and brighter appearance.
Helichrysum is a potent, skin-loving ingredient that supports healing, promotes rejuvenation, and provides antioxidant protection, making it a valuable addition to our skincare formulations.
Jojoba Oil
Some products contain Calendula infused Jojoba oil or Helichrysum infused Jojoba oil. Please see Calendula or Helichrysum for details.
Jojoba oil is a nutrient-rich, liquid plant wax extracted from the seeds of the jojoba plant. Known for its similarity to the skin’s natural sebum, it deeply hydrates and balances without clogging pores. At Black Oak Naturals, we use jojoba oil in skincare products for its moisturizing, soothing, and protective benefits.
Why Jojoba Oil is Great for Skin:
• Deeply Hydrating – Mimics the skin’s natural oils, providing long-lasting moisture without a greasy feel.
• Balances Oil Production – Helps regulate sebum levels, making it ideal for both dry and oily skin.
• Non-Comedogenic & Lightweight – Absorbs easily into the skin without clogging pores or causing breakouts.
• Rich in Antioxidants & Vitamins – Contains vitamin E and B-complex vitamins that protect and nourish the skin.
• Soothing & Anti-Inflammatory – Calms irritation, redness, and sensitive skin conditions like eczema and psoriasis.
• Supports Skin Barrier & Healing – Helps strengthen the skin’s protective barrier while promoting healing for minor wounds and blemishes.
Jojoba oil is a versatile, skin-loving ingredient that enhances hydration, soothes irritation, and supports overall skin health, making it a key component in our natural skincare formulations.
Magnesium Hydroxide
Magnesium hydroxide is a naturally occurring mineral compound known for its soothing, deodorizing, and pH-balancing properties. At Black Oak Naturals, we use magnesium hydroxide in personal care products like deodorants to help neutralize odor and support skin health without irritation.
Why Magnesium Hydroxide is Great for Skin:
• Natural Odor Neutralizer – Effectively combats body odor by balancing pH and reducing bacteria growth.
• Gentle & Non-Irritating – Unlike baking soda, it won’t disrupt the skin’s natural barrier or cause irritation, making it ideal for sensitive skin.
• Soothing & Calming – Helps reduce redness and discomfort, especially in delicate areas like underarms.
• Moisture-Absorbing – Aids in keeping skin dry and fresh without blocking pores or sweat glands.
• Supports Skin Balance – Works to maintain a healthy skin microbiome without disrupting natural processes.
Magnesium hydroxide is a safe, effective alternative to harsh chemicals in deodorants and skincare, making it a valuable ingredient in our natural formulations.
Non-Nano Zinc Oxide
Uncoated
Non-nano zinc oxide is a mineral compound known for its skin-protective, soothing, and antibacterial properties. At Black Oak Naturals, we use non-nano zinc oxide in skincare products to provide gentle sun protection, calm irritation, and promote overall skin health.
Why Non-Nano Zinc Oxide is Great for Skin:
• Natural Sun Protection – Acts as a physical barrier against UVA and UVB rays without being absorbed into the skin.
• Soothing & Anti-Inflammatory – Helps calm redness, irritation, and skin conditions like eczema and acne.
• Non-Comedogenic & Gentle – Suitable for sensitive skin, as it won’t clog pores or cause irritation.
• Supports Skin Healing – Aids in wound healing, making it beneficial for minor cuts, burns, and diaper rash.
• Antibacterial & Protective – Helps combat bacteria while forming a protective layer against environmental stressors.
Non-nano zinc oxide is a safe, effective ingredient that provides lasting skin benefits, making it a valuable addition to our natural skincare formulations.
Rosehip Oil
Rosehip oil is a nourishing, cold-pressed oil derived from the seeds of the wild rose bush. Known for its high concentration of vitamins, essential fatty acids, and antioxidants. Rosehip oil is a powerful skincare ingredient used to hydrate, repair, and rejuvenate the skin. At Black Oak Naturals, we use rosehip oil in our products for its ability to support skin regeneration and improve overall skin health.
Why Rosehip Oil is Great for Skin:
• Promotes Skin Regeneration – Rich in vitamins A and C, rosehip oil stimulates collagen production, helping to reduce the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles, and scars.
• Brightens & Evens Skin Tone – Helps fade dark spots, hyperpigmentation, and discoloration, giving the skin a more even and radiant complexion.
• Rich in Essential Fatty Acids – Contains omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids, which help hydrate the skin, reduce inflammation, and strengthen the skin’s natural barrier.
• Antioxidant Protection – Packed with antioxidants, rosehip oil helps protect the skin from free radicals, reducing oxidative stress and premature aging.
• Soothing & Anti-Inflammatory – Calms redness, irritation, and inflammation, making it ideal for sensitive or acne-prone skin.
• Improves Skin Elasticity – Supports skin elasticity and firmness, contributing to a smoother and more youthful appearance.
Rosehip oil is a versatile and skin-rejuvenating ingredient that provides deep hydration, promotes healing, and helps restore a youthful, glowing complexion, making it an essential part of our natural skincare formulations.
Sweet Almond Oil
Sweet almond oil is a lightweight, nourishing oil pressed from the seeds of the almond tree. Known for its softening and moisturizing properties, it is a popular choice in skincare for its ability to hydrate and restore the skin’s natural radiance. At Black Oak Naturals, we use sweet almond oil in skincare products to enhance hydration, improve skin tone, and promote overall skin health.
Why Sweet Almond Oil is Great for Skin:
• Deeply Moisturizing – Rich in fatty acids, it deeply hydrates the skin without feeling greasy, making it ideal for dry or sensitive skin.
• Gentle & Soothing – Calms irritated skin and reduces inflammation, making it perfect for those with conditions like eczema or psoriasis.
• Rich in Vitamins – Contains vitamins A, E, and B-complex, which help to nourish, protect, and rejuvenate the skin.
• Improves Skin Tone & Texture – Helps even out skin tone, reduce dark circles, and promote a smoother, more youthful appearance.
• Non-Comedogenic – Light enough to absorb easily into the skin, it won’t clog pores or contribute to breakouts.
• Supports Skin Repair – Aids in healing minor skin issues and protects against environmental damage.
Sweet almond oil is a versatile and gentle ingredient that provides deep moisture, improves skin health, and supports a glowing complexion, making it a perfect addition to our natural skincare products.
Tallow
Grass-fed beef
Tallow is a nutrient-rich, rendered animal fat that has been used for centuries in skincare and cooking. At Black Oak Naturals, we incorporate tallow into body butter, face moisturizers, deodorants, and even cooking applications due to its incredible versatility and benefits.
Why Tallow is Great for Skin:
• Deeply Moisturizing – Tallow closely resembles the natural oils in human skin, allowing for deep hydration without clogging pores.
• Rich in Skin-Loving Nutrients – Contains vitamins A, D, E, and K, along with essential fatty acids that promote skin regeneration and elasticity.
• Supports Skin Barrier – Helps strengthen the skin’s natural protective barrier, reducing moisture loss and environmental damage.
• Non-Irritating & Gentle – Ideal for sensitive skin, tallow is free from synthetic additives and works well with all skin types.
• Naturally Antibacterial & Anti-Inflammatory – Aids in soothing irritated skin, reducing redness, and supporting wound healing.
This traditional, time-tested ingredient is a powerhouse for nourishing, protecting, and revitalizing the skin while being a sustainable and multi-purpose addition to our product line.
Unrefined Shea Butter
Unrefined shea butter is a rich, creamy fat extracted from the nuts of the shea tree. It is minimally processed to preserve its natural vitamins, antioxidants, and healing properties. At Black Oak Naturals, we use unrefined shea butter in skincare products for its deeply nourishing, moisturizing, and skin-repairing benefits.
Why Unrefined Shea Butter is Great for Skin:
• Deeply Moisturizing – Packed with fatty acids and vitamins, it provides intense hydration and nourishment for dry or damaged skin.
• Rich in Antioxidants – Contains vitamins A, E, and F, which help protect the skin from free radical damage and support a youthful complexion.
• Soothing & Anti-Inflammatory – Calms irritated or inflamed skin, making it ideal for conditions like eczema, psoriasis, or sunburns.
• Promotes Skin Elasticity – Helps improve skin’s suppleness, reduce the appearance of stretch marks, and promote a smoother texture.
• Supports Healing – Aids in healing minor cuts, wounds, and scars, helping to regenerate healthy skin.
• Protective & Nourishing – Acts as a barrier to lock in moisture and protect the skin from harsh environmental elements.
Unrefined shea butter is a powerful, all-natural ingredient that helps rejuvenate, protect, and repair the skin, making it an essential part of our skincare formulations.
Vitamin E Oil
Vitamin E oil is a powerful antioxidant derived from plant oils, particularly wheat germ, sunflower, and jojoba oil. It is renowned for its ability to nourish, protect, and repair the skin. At Black Oak Naturals, we incorporate vitamin E oil in our skincare products for its moisturizing, healing, and rejuvenating benefits.
Why Vitamin E Oil is Great for Skin:
• Deeply Hydrating & Moisturizing – Helps retain moisture and keep the skin hydrated, promoting a smooth and soft texture.
• Rich in Antioxidants – Protects the skin from free radicals and environmental stressors, helping to prevent premature aging.
• Supports Skin Repair & Healing – Aids in healing scars, burns, and other skin irritations by promoting cell regeneration.
• Reduces Redness & Inflammation – Calms irritated skin and helps reduce the appearance of redness and swelling.
• Improves Skin Elasticity – Boosts collagen production, supporting firm, youthful-looking skin.
• Protective Barrier – Strengthens the skin’s natural barrier, shielding it from harsh environmental factors and moisture loss.
Vitamin E oil is a skin-loving, multi-benefit ingredient that helps repair, hydrate, and protect the skin, making it an essential component in our natural skincare formulations.