LAB

Resin from the Boswella serrata tree found in parts of Asia and Africa is commonly used in traditional Ayurvedic medicine for a variety of disorders associated with inflammation. It has been used medicinally for centuries and is now gaining support through research. The main ingredients of the resin are boswellic acids. Boswellic acids have anti-inflammatory effects when applied topically. Preparations using either the resin or pure boswellic acid extracted from the resin can help treat inflammatory disorders such as osteoarthritis, eczema, and psoriasis. The extract helps reduce sun damage, fine lines, and acne. It stimulates collagen production. Also, it aids in wound healing and inhibits tumor growth. Research shows boswella serrata extract has a variety of useful anti-inflammatory effects and can help alleviate the symptoms of a variety of conditions. This extract has been popularized as Boswelox™ by L’Oreal and its Wrinkle-de-crease.

NOTE: To assist you with solubility issues, we now also sell Boswellia serrata (Boswelic acid) as a liquid standardized pre-dissolved solution. Just add the liquid to your cream and mix well.

• 16% solution gives 1% Boswelic Acid content in final product.
• 46% solution gives 3% Boswelic Acid content in final product.
• 66% solution gives 5% Boswelic Acid content in final product.

Key benefits of Boswellia serrata in skin care:

• Anti-inflammatory ^{[1] [2] [3] [4] [5] [6] [7] [8] [9] [10]}
• Sun damage repair ^{[1] [5]}
• Stimulate collagen production ^[1]
• Reduce fine lines ^{[1] [5]}
• Anti-bacterial ^[10]
• Anti-acne ^[10]
• Tumor inhibition ^[3]
• Wound healing support ^[4]

Centella asiatica is a tropical plant that has been used extensively in Indian medicine. It has diverse applications for skin cosmetics: firstly, it is effective in wound care, as it promotes healing of simple, infected, non-healing, or burn wounds, as well as wounds in patients with diabetes, undergoing radiotherapy or steroid medication. Centella is also used for treating scars and preventing or reducing stretch marks. The extract of this plant promotes synthesis of collagen, hydroxyproline, hyaluronic acid and cell growth factors, thus helping to maintain the elasticity, strength and general appearance of healthy skin. It also protects the skin from ageing damage, such as glycation, and UV damage, likely by activating antioxidant synthesis.

NOTE: To assist you with solubility issues, we now also sell Centella asiatica as a standardized pre-dissolved solution. Just add the liquid to your cream and mix well.

• 15% solution gives 1% triterpenes content in final product.
• 43% solution gives 3% triterpenes content in final product.
• 72% solution gives 5% triterpenes content in final product.
   

Key benefits of Centella asiatica in skin care:

• Wound healing support ^{[1] [2] [4] [5] [8]}
• Stimulate HA production ^[2]
• Stimulate collagen production ^{[2] [4] [5] [7]}
• reduce fine lines and wrinkles ^{[2] [4] [5] [7]}
• Increase skin elasticity ^[2]
• Glycation inhibitor and repair ^[9]
• Scar care ^{[2] [4] [12]}
• Sun damage protection ^[9]

Ceramides are a type of lipid that is abundant in skin tissue, where it exerts both structural and signaling functions. Its structural function includes maintaining the barrier function and retaining water content and hence integrity of the skin. Its signaling function includes regulating the proliferation, differentiation, and apoptosis of the cells. Ceramides have been used to treat skin conditions that are a result of disrupted barrier function, such as atopic dermatitis, irritant/allergic contact dermatitis, and aged skin, and they might be used against skin cancer as well. Ceramides extracted from plant cells are superior in terms of safety and toxicity and are currently being explored. BulkActives sells safe ceramides, extracted from plant cells, we do NOT sell ceramides extracted from the bovine central nervous system. It is recommended that Ceramides are used in combination with Cholesterol NF and Natural Fatty Acids at a ratio of 3:1:1  cholesterols, ceramides and free fatty acids. Ceramides are used in Elizabeth Arden products, Ceramides in a Liquid Crystal Emulsion are used in Atopalm products.

Ceramide 2, 3, 6II Lamellar Liquid Crystal Emulsion is a stable pre emulsion base containing ceramide 2, ceramide 3, ceramide 6II, and phytosteryl isostearate.  Forms lamellar liquid crystal structure which provides enhanced delivery of the Ceramide 2, 3, 6II in to the skin, moisturize and nourishes the intercellular matrix, and additionally stabilizes the ceramides when diluted with water. after formulaton.

NOTE: To assist you with solubility issues, we now also sell Ceramide 2, 3, 6II Lamellar Liquid Crystal PRE Emulsion as a standardized pre-dissolved solution. Just add the liquid to your cream and mix well.

Key benefits of ceramides in skin care:

• Moisturizing and hydration ^{[24] [25] [26] [27] [28] [29]}
• Restore barrier function ^{[24 ][25] [26] [27] [28] [29]}

Cholesterol is an organic molecule, more precisely a steroid alcohol that is present in animal cells and body fluids, regulates membrane fluidity, and functions as a precursor molecule in various metabolic pathways. Cholesterol is one of three major lipid classes found in the skin, besides ceramides and fatty acids, and plays a major role in maintaining cell membranes structural integrity and fluidity. Due to its role in maintaining and repairing skin barrier and moisturizing topical cholesterol is used in treating a wide variety of dry skin barrier conditions such as xerosis, ichthyosis, various types of dermatitis and other skin manifestations, in regulating sebum excess and as an antidote to skin aging. Usually cholesterol is associated with ceramides and fatty acids in lipid mixtures for an enhanced topical effect, asd the skin's extracellular matrix has a unique composition of 50% ceramides, 25% cholesterol, and 15% free fatty acids. It is recommended that Cholesterol NF is used in combination with Ceramides and Natural Fatty Acids at a ratio of 3:1:1  cholesterols, ceramides and free fatty acids. There are two other main sources of Cholesterol in skin care: Emul oil and Lanolin.

NOTE: To assist you with solubility issues, we now also sell Cholesterol N as a standardized pre-dissolved solution. Just add the liquid to your cream and mix well.

Key benefits of cholesterol in skin care:

• restore barrier function [3] [4] [5] [6] [7] [8] [9] [10] [11] 12] [13] [14]
• moisturizing and hydration [5] [8] [14]

Ferulic acid is a plant compound with numerous known health benefits. It is absorbed efficiently through skin, where it is effective as a strong antioxidant. Most often it is used in combination with vitamins C and E – this way, the individual benefits of each ingredient are strengthened, resulting in very effective UV protection. This combination even prevents DNA damage and cancer formation. The antioxidant protection is stable, remains safe from rubbing and sweating, and even resistant to natural chemical degradation, giving the product a long shelf-life. Ferulic acid alone is also beneficial, as it can restore collagen synthesis after UV exposure and thus reduce the symptoms of skin ageing. These properties make it a desirable component in sunscreens and antioxidant formulations.

NOTE: To assist you with solubility issues, we now sell Ferulic acid in three liquids: pre-dissolved solution, lipsome microemulsion, and ethosome microemulsion. Just add the liquid to your cream and mix well.

• 6% pre-dissolved solution gives 0.5% Ferulic Acid content in final product.
• 31% pre-dissolved solution gives 3% Ferulic Acid content in final product.
• 51% pre-dissolved solution gives 5% Ferulic Acid content in final product.

Ferulic acid is commonly used in the Skinceuticals C+E Ferulic serum.  C E Ferulic is a revolutionary antioxidant combination that delivers advanced protection against photoaging by neutralizing free radicals, boosting collagen synthesis, and providing unmatched antioxidant protection. More protection means more youthful looking skin and better defense against environmental aging.

Key benefits of Ferulic acid in skin care:

• Sun damage protection ^{[4] [5]] [6] [7] [8] [9] [10]}
• Sun damage repair ^{[9] [10] [13] [14]}
• Antioxidant ^{[1] [3] [7] [8] [9]}
• Stimulate collagen production ^{[13] [14]}
• Lightening & brightening ^[15]
• Anti-androgenetic alopecia ^[3]
• Stabilizes l ascorbic acid ^[5]

Ginkgo biloba is a unique tree species. Its leaf extract contains a diverse variety of molecules useful in cosmetics and pharmacology. Firstly, they are potent antioxidants, and can even activate the production of enzymes that neutralize free radicals. Combined with the anti-inflammatory effects, this extract provides an effective defense against UV radiation and ageing symptoms. Dermal applications of this extract can even lead to protection of other organs. Another major application of Ginkgo biloba is moisturizing the skin, which helps to increase its elasticity and visual appearance, even reducing the amount of wrinkles. Furthermore, this extract helps to maintain the barrier function of the skin – it reduces water loss through epidermis, thus reducing skin dryness and irritation. In combination with green tea extract, Ginkgo shows even stronger benefits in these areas.

NOTE: To assist you with solubility issues, we now also sell Ginkgo Biloba extract as a standardized pre-dissolved solution. Just add the liquid to your cream and mix well.

Key benefits of Ginkgo Biloba in skin care:

• Sun damage protection ^{[1] [6] [8] [10] [11]}
• Sun damage repair ^{[7] [10]}
• Antioxidant ^{[1] [6]}
• Capillary health ^{[6] [14]}
• Increase skin elasticity ^[2]
• Moisturizing & hydration ^{[2] [3] [4]}
• Restore barrier function ^{[2] [3] [4] [5]}
• Reduce fine lines and wrinkles ^{[2] [4] [9]}
• Anti-inflammatory ^{[9] [12] [13]}

Green tea has numerous benefits in almost all aspects of skin care. The main active ingredient, EGCG, is a potent antioxidant, and protects skin from UV damage. This results in reduced wrinkling, increased collagen content, smoother skin, thicker and more elastic epidermis and other visual benefits. Green tea also helps to moisturize the skin and improves the long-term barrier capabilities. Among the numerous clinical benefits are antibacterial and antifungal effects, which make green tea useful in wound care. Most important health effect is the prevention of melanoma and other types of skin cancer, resulting partly from the EGCG capability to neutralize free radicals and activate DNA repair. Since the extract also reduces inflammation and sebum secretion, it is an effective treatment against acne. Finally, green tea has also been proven to reduce hair loss and follicle death. Active ingredient in Teamine™ and ReVive™ lines.

NOTE: To assist you with solubility issues, we now also sell Green Tea EGCG in a standardized, pre-dissolved solution. Just add the liquid to your cream and mix well.

• 11% solution gives 1% EGCG content in final product.
• 33% solution gives 3% EGCG content in final product.
• 54% solution gives 5% EGCG content in final product.

Key benefits of Green Tea EGCG in skin care:

• Sun damage protection ^{[1] [2] [3] [4] [5]}
• Sun damage repair ^{[1] [2] [3]}
• Antioxidant ^{[1] [2] [3] [7]}
• Capillary health ^[19]
• Moisturizing & hydration ^{[8] [9] [11]}
• Reduce fine lines and wrinkles ^{[10] [11]}
• Wound healing support ^{[17] [18]}
• Oil/sebum control ^[12]
• Lightening & brightening ^[6]
• Restore barrier function ^{[8] [9]}
• Anti-inflammatory ^[1]
• Anti-acne ^{[12] [13]}
• Anti-bacterial ^{[13] [14] [16]}

Key benefits of Lemon Bioferment in skin care: 

• antioxidant
• skin lightening and brightening
• inhibitor of melanin synthesis
• inhibits tyrosinase
• increased luminosity
• bactericide
• non sensitizing
• not cytotoxic

The Palmitoyl oligopeptide and palmitoyl tetrapeptide-7 peptides liposome emulsion contains the peptides pal-ghk and pal-gqp acting in synergy to repair the cutaneous damages of age. By activating the skin’s natural production of collagen, elastin and hyaluronic acid, the peptides work to reduce wrinkles and other signs of aging. Collagen, made up of long strands of amino acids, is really the main building block of skin, giving the skin its smooth, and youthful appearance. As we age, collagen is lost, and this gives way to aged, wrinkled looking skin. When the long strands of amino acids in collagen are broken down they create small chains commonly referred to as peptides. The presence of these peptides signal to the skin that it has lost collagen and the production of more is necessary. The peptides Palmitoyl oligopeptide and palmitoyl tetrapeptide-7 work to mimic the appearance of this broken down collagen, causing your skin to react by producing more collagen, as well as elastin (responsible for the skin’s elasticity, and  hyaluronic acid (which plumps up the skin and gives it that healthy, full look).

Key benefits of the peptides Palmitoyl oligopeptide and palmitoyl tetrapeptide-7 liposome emulsion in skin care:

• reduce fine lines and wrinkles
• stimulate HA production
• glycation inhibitor and repair
• increase skin elasticity
• moisturizing and hydration
• stimulate collagen production
• sun damage repair

BulkActives Peptide Liposome Emulsion

• Palmitoyl oligopeptide (PAL GHK) 260ppm  
• Palmitoyl tetrapeptide-7 ppm (PAL GQPR) 140ppm
• Twice the strength of Matrixyl 3000

Phytosterols are a family of plant-produced molecules with diverse health benefits. In cosmetics, the ability to stimulate collagen production is most interesting. Together with antioxidant activity and down-regulation of collagen degrading enzymes, these abilities help repair damage in photoaged skin. Phytosterols also have anti-inflammatory properties, which are useful in UV protection, dermatitis treatment, and even cancer prevention. They are widely used in burn wound care – phytosterols were found to improve healing, improve scar appearance and possess analgesic properties, reducing the need of opiate drugs. Antimicrobial activity of phytosterols is also important in skin care, as it can be utilized in both wound care and general fight against infections, such as Candida. Finally, phytosterols regulate transport of cholesterol and thus sebum production – this may present a good treatment option for acne and other sebum-related conditions.

NOTE: To assist you with solubility issues, we now also sell Phytosterol in a standardized  pre-dissolved solution. Just add the liquid to your cream and mix well.

• 11% solution gives 1% Phytosterols content in final product.
  32% solution gives 3% Phytosterols content in final product.
  53% solution gives 5% Phytosterols content in final product.

Key benefits of Phytosterols in skin care:

• Anti-inflammatory [2], [12]–[14]
• Anti-bacterial [6], [7]
• Oil/sebum control [8]
• Anti-acne [8]
• Sun damage protection [10], [11]
• Stimulate collagen production [9]–[11]
• Restore barrier function [5]
• Matrix metalloproteinase (MMP) inhibitors [9]–[11]
• Wound healing support [3]–[5]
• Scar care [3]–[5]

Pre Liposome Microemulsion Preparation Base, is especially suited as carrier for active ingredients in light lotions or serums. Pre Liposome Microemulsion Base is a micro-emulsion premix based on hydrogenated soybean lecithin and olive squalane. Pre Liposome Microemulsion Preparation Base forms clear to translucent preparations with excellent texture just by diluting with water. BulkActives' Pre Liposome Microemulsion Base allows to prepare clear / translucent formulations with various oily ingredients, such as oil-soluble vitamins, vegetable oils, esters, hydrocarbons and silicone oils. Larger amounts of oily ingredients can be incorporated in the product without the texture being affected by high surfactant levels. Hydrogenated soybean lecithin works as a natural emulsifier and promotes penetration of actives into the skin.  Liposomes are synthetic microscopic vesicles with an external, fully enclosed double lipid membrane of phospholipids. Liposomes are not active themselves, but function in creams as carriers of  active substances to enhance penetration into the skin's fatty layers.

Pre Liposome Microemulsion Base in skin care:

• penetration enhancer
• base serum/lotion
• emulsifier

Our Pumpkin Bioferment  is a natural, gentle enzyme "peel" that you can use straight from the bottle or add to any lotion or cream. Pumpkin (Cucurbita pepo) proteases hydrolyze the proteins, exfoliating dead skin cells and impurities while delivering vitamins and nutrients to the skin. The Pumpkin Enzyme Peel leaves the skin cleansed and silky smooth. Pumpkin proteases and nutrients are released from fresh pumpkin cells by the action of the same organism that transforms milk into yoghurt.

Key benefits of Pumpkin Enzyme Peel (Pumkin Bioferment) in skin care: 

• natural gentle and safe enzyme peel
• enzymatically excite cell turnover
• unblock pores and dissolve oils
• remove blackheads
• improve skin texture and tone due to exfoliation properties
• treat hyperpigmentation.

Resveratrol is a compound found in grapes and many other plants. It is currently investigated in many skincare applications. Resveratrol protects cells from oxidative stress – it is an antioxidant itself, and activates the synthesis of other such compounds. It also regulates inflammatory responses and even aids the distribution of cosmetical sunscreens, thus helping to prevent UV damage to the skin. Similarities in structure allow resveratrol to replace estrogen in post-menopausal women, helping to reduce collagen loss and reduce skin ageing symptoms. Additionally, it counters photoageing by inhibiting melanin synthesis, resulting in lighter skin and less pigmented spots. Even acne can be alleviated by applying resveratrol, as it has antibacterial properties and controls sebaceous cell growth. Finally, it is a promising agent in melanoma prevention, able to delay the emergence and reduce the size of skin tumors.

NOTE: To assist you with solubility issues, we now also sell Resveratrol in a standardized  pre-dissolved solution. Just add the liquid to your cream and mix well.

Key benefits of Resveratrol in skin care:

• Anti-acne [15]–[17]
• Anti-bacterial [16]
• Antioxidant [1]–[4]
• Anti-inflammatory [1], [4], [8], [9]
• Sun damage protection [1], [6]–[8], [11]
• Increase skin elasticity [14]
• Lightening & brightening [10]–[13]
• Natural phytoestrogens [1], [8], [9]

Salicylic acid is a hydroxyl acid compound originally derived from willow tree bark. It has many useful effects on skin, the most prominent being its use as an anti-acne treatment. It penetrates deep into pores, removing trapped oil that can cause blemishes. Salicylic acid is a keratolytic compound, meaning it exfoliates the skin and sloughs off dead skin cells, leaving smooth skin. This makes it useful for treating scaly skin, as well as calluses and warts. It also has anti-inflammatory and anti-bacterial properties. Salicylic acid has been shown to influence photodamage by reducing hyperpigmentation and providing protection against UV exposure.

NEW: We are excited to announce that we now also sell a WATER-SOLUBLE salicylic acid powder (assay 50%)!
Build effective Salicylic Acid formulations free from alcohol, discoloration, and recrystallization. WATER SOLUBLE salicylic acid increases water solubility of Salicylic Acid from 0.2% to 5%, and results in a pH of about 4. No need for organic solvents.

For higher strength formulations we also have Salicylic Acid (Beta Hydroxy Acid) as a pre-dissolved solution. Just add the liquid to your cream and mix well.

• 6.7% solution gives 1% Salicylic acid content in final product.
• 13.3% solution gives 2% Salicylic acid content in final product.
• 20% solution gives 3% Salicylic acid content in final product.
• 26.7% solution gives 4% Salicylic acid content in final product.
• 33.3% solution gives 5% Salicylic acid content in final product.
   

Key benefits of Salicylic acid in skin care:

• Anti-acne [2] [4] [6] [9] [10]
• Anti blackheads [2] [4]
• Anti-inflammatory [1] [3] [4] [5]
• Exfoliator [2] [6] [10]
• Oil/sebum control [2] [4]
• Pore refinement [2] [4]
• Increase skin cell turnover [2] [5] [6] [10]
• Treat hyperpigmentation [2] [7]
• Reduce fine lines and wrinkles [2] [7]
• Anti-bacterial [8] [10]
• Sun damage protection [8]
• Sun damage repair [7] [8]

Sea Kelp bioFerment (also know as seakelp ferment) is a natural kelp extract that is obtained using traditional fermentation technology. Our  Sea Kelp Bioferment can be used as a great nutritional active or as a skin care base for our other active ingredients. It is a perfect base for users with oily skin types as it moisturizes without supplying extra oil. It is also very effective for normal and dry skin, as it is a powerful nutritive moisturizer. From creams to serums to washes, it is the perfect active for almost any purpose. NEW Green Preservative formulation: Paraben AND Phenoxyethanol free. Now enriched with extra fucoxanthin and fucoidans

Sea Kelp Ferment in skin care: 

• skin serum base
• shampoo base
• nutrition
• moisturizer
• mask base
• hair conditioner
• shaving gel
• anti-inflammatory

White willow bark extract has been used by many cultures to reduce pain and inflammation. It contains salicin, a natural form of salicylic acid known to have anti-inflammatory effects. Salicin can reduce signs of aging by reducing the appearance of pores, wrinkles, and pigmentation. It also softens and moisturizes the skin. Salicin contributes to white willow bark extract’s exfoliating and acne-reducing power. White willow bark extract also contains polyphenols that contribute anti-oxidant and anti-inflammatory effects. These can help protect against sun damage and premature aging when used with sunscreen. White willow bark extract is a natural alternative to salicylic acid that has additional properties to enhance skin health.

NOTE: To assist you with solubility issues, we now also sell White Willow bark extract as a standardized pre-dissolved solution. Just add the liquid to your cream and mix well.

Key benefits of White Willow bark (salicin) in skin care:

• Anti-inflammatory [3] [4] [6] [8]
• Anti-oxidant [4] [7]
• Anti-acne [5]
• Anti-bacterial [7]
• Anti-blackheads [5] [7]
• Oil/sebum control [5]
• Pore refinement [2] [3]
• Sun damage repair [7]
• Treat hyperpigmentation [2]
• Exfoliating [5]
• Moisturizing and hydration [1] [2]
• Wrinkle tightener [2]
• Reduce fine lines and wrinkles [2]
• Stimulate HA production [1]
• Matrix metalloproteinases [MMP] inhibitor [1]

Ceramide Complex (with Phospholipids, Sphingolipids) is a  formulation designed to restore the barrier function, address TEWL and to maintain an overall healthy Stratum Corneum.  It contains 2% plant-derived lipids in a lamellar liquid crystalline form. The lipids are a combination of phospholipids and sphingolipids (minimum 10%) that easily penetrate skin due to their structure and nourish it. Both phospholipids and sphingolipids are fundamental elements in corneocytes membrane and interstitial lamellar fluid and that is why Ceramide complex (with Phospholipids, Sphingolipids) is highly efficient in restoring the barrier function. The content in natural sphingolipids is also a plus as  sphingolipids are key components to ceramides. Ceramide complex (with Phospholipids, Sphingolipids) has a lamellar presentation form for efficient SC delivery and penetration. It is easily added to any cream or lotion, and can also be combined with our Ceramide 2, 3, 6II Lamellar Liquid Crystal PRE Emulsion

Key benefits of ceramides in skin care:

•    Moisturizing and hydration
•    Restore barrier function
 

In order for skin to be healthy we need a well maintained stratum corneum. A healthy stratum corneum offers protection against environmental stress and water loss.  BulkActives’ multi lamellar cream imitates the skin’s own lipid structure and enhance the skin's natural barrier function. 

BulkActives’ multi lamellar cream is formulated with a new generation, European, sugar based, liquid crystals emulsifying system based on sorbitan stearate with sucrose cocoate. It is formulated specifically for DIY Skin care customers. BulkActives’ multi lamellar cream can be used as is. However, it can easily accept both water, oil, and water soluble and oil soluble powders and liquids. BulkActives’ multi lamellar cream is a great carrier for active skin care ingredients. The multi lamellar structure is ideal for even and effective delivery of skin actives into the skin.

BulkActives’ multi lamellar cream is exclusively and professionally formulated, manufactured and packaged for us by the same biochemist who manufactures our seakelp bioferment, pumpkin bioferment, and lemon bioferment.

NOTE: Based on customer feedback we have reformulated our multi lamellar cream, making it "greener' and even more elegant!  In this NEW formulation we have also replaced the xantham gum with Sclerotium Gum, the preservative system combines the extremely safe, yet effective, Sodium Levulinate and Sodium Anisate, with Potassium sorbate and citric acid.  This means our cream now does NOT contain parabens or phenoxyethanol.

Multi Lamellar Base Cream with SeaKelp Bioferment and Sclerotium Gum (No Oil and No Polymer): 

• Multi-lamellar cream offers outstanding moisturization
• skin barrier repair and maintenance
• optimized delivery of actives

Benefits of Liquid crystal systems:

• Improved dissolution of poorly water soluble actives .
• Liquid crystals can protect and facilitate the transport of fragile molecules e.g. proteins
• Controlled active release:
• Multilayers reduce the interfacial transport of actives dissolved in oil phase
• Active delivery can be tailored depending on the active
• Oleosome structure may enhance delivery of oil soluble ingredients
• Hydrosome structure may enhance delivery of water soluble actives
• Prolonged hydration potential:
• Up to 50% water bound up in swollen water layers.
• This water is less prone to evaporation.
• In-vivo tests moisturization lasts 3 times longer
• Effective Transepidermal Water Loss (TWEL)
• Structure similar to skin

To thicken these creams after adding actives dissolved in waters add a few drops of Gelmaker Ultra (polymer emulsifier)