Our Products

EQUOSANO skin care formulations contain only natural and organic plant-derived constituents -- recognised for generations as being therapeutically beneficial for humans and horses. In other words, there are no synthetic or 'nasty' toxic ingredients in our product formulations. We source our natural and organic ingredients from our own gardens and from reputable, BioGro-Certified NZ farms/growers and organic ingredient suppliers. BioGro is New Zealand's most recognised and prestigious organic certification body.

We adhere to strict ingredient quality standards in our product formulating and manufacturing and utilise the highest quality, natural and raw plant-based materials, such as premium (cold-pressed) vegetable oils, waxes, butters, herbal extracts and pure essential oils. Our products are handcrafted without any severe heating or hydrogenating processes that can affect the nutritional content and potency of natural ingredients.

Our work is guided by leading industry ecological standards regarding minimal resource consumption during manufacturing, and minimal and recyclable packaging for our finished products (where possible).

Natural and Organic ingredients we commonly use:         

AHA Fruit Acids: Fruit acids contain naturally occurring alpha hydroxy acids (AHA’s). These naturally occurring AHA’s dissolve surface skin cells, stimulating cell renewal to minimise fine lines, wrinkles, age spots, scarring and acne. Naturally derived AHA fruit acids have anti-aging and skin-renewal properties -- resulting in softer, smoother skin.

Aloe Vera (Leaf Juice, gel): contains more than 75 potentially active components have been identified in the plant, including vitamins, minerals, saccharides, amino acids, anthraquinones, enzymes, lignin, saponins and salicylic acids. It provides 20 of the 22 human-required amino acids and all of the eight essential amino acids, as well as vitamins A, B1, B2, B6, B12, C and E. It is noted for its healing properties and rejuvenating, soothing and cell regeneration properties.

Amalaki Fruit Extract (also known as Emblica, Amla and Indian Gooseberry): A rich source of natural Vitamin C. The main constituents include ascorbic acid, fatty acids, bioflavonoids, polyphenols, B vitamins, calcium, potassium, iron, tannins, and pectin. It provides cell rejuvenation, reduction of pigment and antioxidant protection.

Apple cider vinegar (raw): contains valuable enzymes, beneficial bacteria, and trace elements necessary for human health. The acidity supports the skin’s natural acid mantle, a fine layer on the skin which neutralises invading organisms. Since this acid layer can be stripped away via harsh facial soaps and other cosmetic products, organic apple cider vinegar can be an excellent way to maintain the skin’s natural acidic balance.

Argan Oil: contains high amounts of natural vitamin A, and Omega 6 and 9 essential fatty acids. This antioxidant and vitamin-rich oil stimulates skin cells, reduces premature aging, hydrates the skin and reduces stretch marks and scars. It also has ant-inflammatory properties to prevent age spots and scarring.

Ascorbic Acid: An effective form of Vitamin C for cellular regeneration and renewal. It is a powerful antioxidant, protects the skin from environmental stressors and is essential for collagen synthesis and exceptional anti-aging.

Avocado Oil: contains nearly 20 vitamins including A, B1, B2, C, D, E and K. It is rich in essential fatty acids and minerals as well as zinc, copper, manganese and selenium -- as well as phytonutrients which are widely known for their medical benefits. Avocado oil is highly recommended for hydrating dry or sensitive skin types.

Beeswax: one of earth's treasures and one of my personal favourites. This wonderful substance comes from worker honeybees (females) and the honeycomb and helps to produce different forms of raw honey including the highly beneficial Manuka honey. It is effective for lowering cholesterol, relieving pain and reducing swelling and inflammation. It also effectively treats diaper dermatitis, acne, psoriasis and eczema, dry/cracked lips, jock itch and fungal skin infections, moisturises skin, protects the liver, helps to reduce stretch marks, relieve stress and promotes relaxation.

Bulgarian Rose Damascena: An effective anti-inflammatory agent and tissue regenerator. This floral water and oil nourishes, calms, rejuvenates and soothes the skin while offering antioxidant protection. Also offers redness reduction, exceptional hydration and stress reduction.

Calendula: known to have antioxidant, antiseptic, anti-inflammatory and regenerating properties, and has been proven to aid in wound healing.

Chamomile (German/Roman): considered to be one of the most ancient and versatile medicinal herbs known to mankind. Dried chamomile flowers have numerous, widespread health implications thanks to their high level of disease-fighting antioxidants like terpenoids and flavonoids. Chamomile also helps fight anxiety and depression, improves digestion, has strong anti-inflammatory and pain-reducing abilities, helps to fight cancer, relieves congestion, promotes skin health, keeps gums and teeth healthy and improves heart health.

Emulsifiers: We only use natural, ECOCERT-approved plant-based emulsifying compounds in our products.

Evening Primrose Oil: contains high levels of GLA essential fatty acids and is good for dry and mature skin. Primrose is an anti-inflammatory for both the skin and scalp. Inflammation often leads to hyper pigmentation, age spots and scarring, even hair loss, so primrose is considered preventative.

Frankincense (Olibanum): exceptional for mature skin preparations as a result of its regenerative properties. I use this oil more than any other essential oil -- it's truly extraordinary.

Goji Berry: considered one of the richest sources of vitamins and other nutrients. They contain over 18 different amino acids and vitamins like B1, B2, B6, C and E. This fruit is said to contain more Beta carotene (vita A) than carrots and is a natural source of vitamin C for anti-aging, cell regeneration and more.

Grapeseed Oil (or Grape Seed Oil): A by-product of winemaking and loaded with wonderful anti-oxidants, to combat free radical damage and protect the skin. This naturally occurring oil is great for all skin types including mature, oily and acne prone skin.

Green Tea: Green Tea extract is a rich source of anti oxidants, such as Vitamin C and Vitamin E. Green Tea is naturally rich in antioxidants which help to remove toxins and rejuvenate skin cells.

Gotu Kola (Centella Asiatica): This native plant from India has been used for centuries to treat inflammation, redness, burns and accelerate healing. Studies have shown this amazing plant to also stimulate collagen synthesis and improve elasticity.

Helichrysum: known and respected for it's incredible skin healing properties. Helichrysum has the strongest anti-inflammatory properties of all the essential oils. It is used to treat dark circles under the eyes and bruises and is helpful in reducing the appearance of scars.

Jojoba Seed Oil: has a similar molecular structure to the oil our skin produces, making it a wonderful skin care oil -- especially for hydrating and replenishing skin cells.  It is also an excellent carrier oil for essential oils. I love this oil!

Lavender Essential Oil (Lavandula Angustifolia): Not surprisingly, lavender essential oil is the most versatile and widely used essential oil in the world today. Discovered over 2,500 years ago, lavender has powerful anti-oxidant, anti-microbial, sedative, calming and anti-depressive properties. Today, lavender is known to help to reduce anxiety and emotional stress; protect against diabetes symptoms; improve brain function; help to heal burns and wounds; improve sleep; restore skin complexion and reduce acne; slow the aging process with powerful anti-oxidants; and relieve pain (and alleviate headaches).

Macadamia Nut Oil: should be the most praised beautifying oil of all. It has an amazing affinity with the skin, and can be taken both topically and internally. The oil contains one of the highest sources of palmitoleic fatty acids, between 16 to 23%. Palmitoleic is vital for delaying skin and premature aging; as our skin ages it rapidly becomes depleted in this important fatty acid, which is why macadamia is the perfect inclusion for mature skin types. Topical application will improve your skin’s palmitoleic acid levels and decrease the rate your skin will deteriorate, keeping it taut and discouraging wrinkles from forming.

Neem Seed Oil: used for centuries in traditional Indian medicine to aid in the healing of topical skin disorders such as eczema, psoriasis, rashes, burns and acne. It is rich in fatty acids and glycerides.

Neroli (Orange Blossom): helps to reduce redness and irritation while purifying the complexion. Neroli refreshes, helps to stimulate circulation of lymphatic fluid to reduce puffiness and encourages cell regeneration and collagen production.

Olive Oil: good for skin cell regeneration/collagen stimulation. Turning over new healthy skin cells is essential as we age to impart a healthy glow and allow for the skin to breathe effectively (take in oxygen) as the largest organ of the body.

Palmarosa Essential Oil: known for skin regeneration and regulating oil production of the skin to bring it to the optimum balance. Its anti-fungal and anti-viral benefits offer additional skin protection. Palmarosa is an anti-aging and 'balancing' essential oil for all skin types.

Patchouli Essential Oil: Due to it’s cicatrisant properties, patchouli is known to be beneficial for loose and sagging skin. It stimulates collagen and elastin for a more firm, plump appearance -- reducing fine lines and wrinkles.

Pomegranate Fruit: Pomegranate falls into the superfruit category because of its exceptional nutrient value and antioxidant properties. It contains age-defying ellagic acid -- a powerful antioxidant. Alpha hydroxy acids gently exfoliate dead skin cells, leaving skin feeling supple, glowing and rejuvenated.

Preservatives: We use ECOCERT-approved, plant-based preservatives in our skin care formulations. * Please scroll down the page to read more about preservatives and why they are important in skin care products.

Rooibos Tea (Red Tea): Rooibos contains healthy amounts of iron, magnesium, zinc and Vitamin C -- essential for helping to prevent premature aging and combating free radical damage. It also contains natural alpha hydroxy acids to exfoliate and renew skin texture. I regularly drink this tea and it tastes delicious with a bit of lemon juice.

Rosehip Seed Oil: contains high amounts of Vitamins C, D, E and A, essential fatty acids (linoleic) and anti-oxidant flavonoids. Known to be a tissue regenerator, Rose Hip Seed Oil helps to prevent premature aging; minimise fine lines and wrinkles; and minimise the appearance of stretch marks, keloids and scars.

Rose Geranium Essential Oil: helps to rid the body of toxins. It is ideal for strengthening capillaries and blood vessels in damage-prone skin and it is a powerful anti-oxidant. This is a wonderful anti-inflammatory, healing oil that is beneficial for all skin types.

Rosemary Oil Extract (ROE): known to be an effective anti-oxidant. It contains natural anti-oxidant compounds, carnosic acid, carnosol and rosmarinic acid -- which are beneficial in both skin care and hair care. Rosemary Extract has also demonstrated anti-inflammatory and anti-microbial characteristics.

Sandalwood: In aromatherapy, sandalwood is used to help combat bronchitis, chapped and dry skin, mood disturbances, laryngitis, leucorrhea, stress, and stretch marks. It is known to have anti-microbial properties which makes it effective in treating skin conditions such as acne, oily skin and eczema, and it is often used in anti-aging skin care products due to it’s balancing characteristics.

Shea Butter: Shea butter is a skin 'superfood' that comes from the seeds of the fruit of the Shea (Karite) tree. It is naturally rich in vitamins A, E and F. It offers some UV protection (SPF 6) and provides the skin with essential fatty acids and the nutrients necessary for collagen production. Historically, shea butter has been used for skin and hair, wound care and treating leprosy. The concentration of natural vitamins and fatty acids in shea butter makes it incredibly nourishing and moisturising for skin. It is often used to heal dry skin conditions and to help protect the skin’s natural oils. A 2010 study found that due to its cinnamic acid and other natural properties, shea butter is an effective anti-inflammatory. One compound in particular, lupeol cinnamate, was found to reduce skin inflammation and even potentially help avoid skin mutations. This also makes it beneficial for some people with acne. Shea butter aids in the skin’s natural collagen production and contains oleic, stearic, palmitic and linolenic acids that protect and nourish the skin to prevent drying.

Sunflower Seed Oil: naturally high in oleic acid, rich in vitamins A and D -- supplying more vitamin E than most vegetable oils, and it is especially beneficial for mature skin.

Surfactants: We use ECOCERT-approved botanical surfactants such as decyl glucoside, coco glucoside, lauryl glucoside and cocobetaine in our skin care product formulations.

Tea Tree Essential Oil: A broad spectrum, anti-bacterial, anti-fungal and anti-microbial essential oil used to treat infections. It is highly effective for blemishes, bug bites and fungal infections.

Turmeric: highly beneficial internally and externally (when applied to skin).  In fact, it has been used as a skin care ingredient for centuries. It is helpful in treating a range of skin conditions: from an uneven skin tone to acne, eczema or cracked feet. The skin benefits of turmeric essentially stem from its active compound curcumin and its anti-bacterial, anti-oxidant, anti-inflammatory and antiseptic properties.

Vitamin C: boosts protective anti-oxidant action and repairs past skin damage by stimulating new collagen production. Vitamin C is an incredible anti-oxidant for cellular skin renewal and repair.

Vitamin E (d alpha-tocopherol): Tocopherols are nature’s perfect antioxidant. Vitamin E plays a crucial role in protecting skin cells from free radical/environmental damage. It protects the skin from UV rays, pollutants and the aging process. Vitamin E penetrates deep within the cells to assist with the reduction of fine lines and wrinkles.

Willow Bark Extract: known to have potent anti-microbial properties. The fresh bark is rich in tannins and salicylic acid-like constituents. Efficacy testing has shown that willow bark extract has activity against resistant acne bacterias and is useful for exfoliation and cell regeneration of all skin types.

Ylang Ylang Essential Oil: known to promote a sense of peace and calm. It is particularly useful for women of hormonal age and those who suffer from depression. It smells beautiful!

Ingredients we avoid in our skin care products:

• Animal-derived ingredients: these are hormone disrupters that cause harm to animals.
• Artificial Colours: these are derived from petroleum or coal tar sources and are presumed to be a human carcinogen and skin irritant. they have also been linked to ADHD in kids.

• Formaldehyde: Formaldehyde and formaldehyde-releasing preservatives (FRP’s) are chemicals that are utilised in numerous cosmetic products to prevent microbial growth. Formaldehyde is classified as a human carcinogen and has been linked to various types of cancers such as nasal and nasopharyngeal. It is also known to cause allergic skin reactions and damage the body's immune system -- making you more vulnerable to infection and disease.
  
• GMO’s: 'Genetically Modified Organisms' that contain harmful chemicals.

• Mercury: exposure to even a small amount of mercury is toxic to the brain and nervous system, as well as the digestive and immune system, lungs and kidneys. To avoid hidden mercury, steer clear of products with these ingredients: calomel, mercurio, mercurio chloride, or mercury. Read: "Mercury and Health Fact Sheet." World Health Organization. Mar. 2017.

• Nanoparticles: these are particles that are less than 1/1000th the width of a human hair. They are relatively new but are already widely used in cosmetic products, especially sunscreens. A number of recent studies have questioned their safety. Studies indicate that various types of nanoparticles caused problems in human cells, including DNA damage, oxidative stress and cellular toxicity. Products do not necessarily say that they contain nanoparticles, but if you see “ultrafine” or “microfine” listed in the packaging, these are a giveaway. Unless you know that a particular nanoparticle is safe, such as collodial silver - you can avoid them or do your research to find out which ones to avoid. Read: Song, Y. et al. "Exposure to nanoparticles is related to pleural effusion, pulmonary fibrosis and granuloma." Eur Respir J. 2009 34(3),559-567.

• Oxybenzone: Sunscreens contain oxybenzone to absorb UV light. While the American Academy of Dermatology says oxybenzone is safe, the Environmental Working Group -- an environmental nonprofit that publishes the Skin Deep® Cosmetics Database, warns of moderate to high concern due to its endocrine-disrupting properties. One study found that oxybenzone caused the excess creation of reactive oxygen species which can cause DNA mutations, cell death, and lead to cardiovascular problems. Synonyms for oxybenzone include benzophenone and phenyl-methanone. Read "Oxybenzone: Skin Deep® Database." Environmental Working Group.

•  Parabens: These have an estrogen-mimicking effect that has been linked to the development of breast cancer cells. Parabens are readily absorbed through the skin and traces of the chemical have been identified in breast tumors. Read: "Parabens Fact Sheet." U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. April 7, 2017.

• Phthalates: these are a group of chemicals used in numerous products to increase the flexibility and softness of plastics. The main phthalates in cosmetics and personal care items include the following: dibutyl phthalate in nail polish; diethyl phthalate in perfumes and creams; and dimethyl phthalate in hairspray. These chemicals are classified as endocrine disruptors and have been linked to increased risk of breast cancer, early breast development in girls and congenital reproductive disabilities in males and women.
• Propylene (PEG) Glycol (and Butylene Glycol): Polyethylene Glycol (PEG) is used in cosmetics to create a cream base, and are used to thicken, soften or moisturise. PEG compounds are petroleum-based and include propylene glycol, polyethylene glycols and polyoxyethylene. Propylene glycol and butylene glycol are extremely powerful chemicals. If they are capable of dissolving and cleaning industrial surfaces -- imagine what they can do to your skin. Propylene glycol and butylene glycol easily penetrate skin and weaken protein and cellular structure.  Certainly this is not a result anyone would desire, as the goal of skin care should be to nourish, repair, rebuild and refresh cells, especially the vital protein chains that power them.

• Retinol, Retinyl Palmitate, and Retinyl Acetate: These are forms of vitamin A, however they may not be safe to put on your skin. A few studies have found that when retinyl palmitate or retinol was applied to skin that was exposed to UV light, it broke down into harmful by-products, including reactive oxygen species -- which caused damage to cellular DNA and even caused cell death.
  

• SLS/SLES (Sodium Lauryl sulfate/Salt Laureth Sulfate): Both are surfactants (compounds that lower the tension between two or more substances) common in more than 90% of personal hygiene and cleaning products. They are both known to cause skin, lung and eye irritation and they become carcinogenic when combined with other chemicals to create nitrosamines -- resulting in respiratory and kidney disease. Read: "Sodium Laureth Sulfate: Skin Deep® Database." Environmental Working Group.
• Synthetic Preservatives: these are lab-created chemicals that are potential carcinogens and formaldehyde donors.
• Synthethic Fragrances: known to be a contributing factor in allergic reactions, breathing problems, dermatitis and reproductive disorders.
• Silicones (e.g., dimethicone): may clog pores and are not biodegradable.
• Siloxanes and Cyclomethicone: Siloxanes are used in cosmetics to soften and smooth skin, as well as to help deodorants glide on more easily and to help hair products dry more easily. Three in particular: cyclotetrasiloxane (D4), Cyclopentasiloxane (D5) and cyclohexasiloxane (D6), are harmful to the environment -- D4 is a known endocrine disruptor which interferes with fertility. Cyclomethicone is a mixture of D4, D5, and D6.
• Triclosan: Used extensively as an antimicrobial chemical even though it is a known endocrine disruptor (thyroid and reproductive hormones, and a skin irritant). Studies raise concerns that triclosan adds to making germs antibiotic-resistant. Likewise, there is not enough supporting evidence that washing with anti-bacterial soaps containing triclosan has any benefit over washing with regular soap and water. Better to use natural soaps! Read: Veldhoen N, et al. "The bactericidal agent triclosan modulates thyroid hormone-associated gene expression and disrupts postembryonic anuran development." Aquat Toxicol. 2006;80(3),217-27.

There are countless toxic chemicals in everyday products when it comes to the manufacture of skin care products -- far too many to list/describe here.

What are preservatives and why are they important?

Preservatives (synthetic and natural) are antimicrobial ingredients that prevent the growth of harmful moulds, yeasts, and bacteria -- nasty microorganisms that can adversely affect your health and the health of your animals. They also work as an anti-oxidant to prevent oxygen damage, which keeps skin care products from becoming rancid or brown, or developing black spots. Rancid skin care products may not make you sick, but they might smell bad or be a different colour or consistency.

Preservatives stop (kill) microbial growth by acting on spores when they germinate (usually by disrupting cell membranes) or by making the product hostile to growth. Without preservatives, cosmetic products (just like food) can (quickly) become contaminated, leading to product spoilage, skin irritation and/or infections (sometimes even death).

Preservatives are one of the most important ingredients in skin care. Yet, they have become one of the most controversial and debatable topics in the skin care industry. Critics with limited scientific knowledge campaign against the use of preservatives in cosmetics and skin care products. These dangerous anti-preservative campaigners lack an understanding of the importance of preservatives for keeping people and animals safe. Personally, I would rather use a skin care product with synthetic preservatives in it than one which has NO preservatives. It is pointless (and dangerous) to use natural skin care products that have no preservative or are not properly preserved.  Have you ever wondered why/how you got that fungal or bacterial skin infection?

The bathroom in particular, is an environment that fosters mould and bacteria growth because of the humidity and moisture levels. However, this is where many of us keep our skin care products -- which are a great food source for relentless microorganisms. This reason alone is why a broad spectrum preservative is imperative in our skin care products. Although it is not a legal requirement to use preservatives in skin care products -- it is illegal and unethical to make potentially toxic and harmful skin care products!

When is a preservative required?

If your natural skin care product contains water (including hydrosols, floral water, aloe vera, goat’s milk and so forth) or will come into contact with water (e.g., a face or body scrub used in the shower or with wet fingers) a broad spectrum preservative is needed. However, cold process soap (made with sodium hydroxide) does not require a preservative. Anhydrous products (that contain no water) typically do not require a preservative unless there is a possibility that water may be introduced to the product, such as face and body scrubs that are kept in a jar or pot. Water-based skin care products that have no preservative may last up to 3-5 days if stored in the fridge.

Preservatives we use in our skin care products

We typically use a combination of complimentary natural preservatives (ECOCERT-approved) in our skin care products to provide broad spectrum protection. This is because natural preservatives (despite what ingredient suppliers' state/advertise) are ineffective on their own for providing a broad spectrum effect. However, when knowledgeably combined, natural preservatives are effective in preventing harmful microbe and fungi growth. That said, I am only guided by ECOCERT. I do my own independent research to determine which ingredients I will use or not use in our skin care products. Despite ECOCERT's approval, if academic research studies find that a particular botanical ingredient is harmful/toxic or not safe in certain conditions or combinations -- I won't use it. 

Some facts about natural and organic skin care

The global skin care industry is worth an estimated $134.5 billion as of 2018 and it is expected to soar to $180.4 by 2024. Most consumers who spend the extra money to buy organic skin care products feel they are getting higher quality natural products. However, this is not the reality -- as there are 'organic' skin care products which still contain the same (well-used) toxic chemicals, so it’s critical to read labels and avoid products with these harmful ingredients.

On the other hand, a high-quality organic skin care product can do wonders for your skin. Studies have shown that many organic ingredients have anti-oxidant properties that protect against damage caused by UV radiation and environmental pollution. A review study found that several natural compounds have a positive impact on skin health. For example, green tea can help hyperpigmentation, acne and rosacea, while colloidal oatmeal and aloe vera can help reduce the effects of psoriasis and atopic dermatitis.  Acai berry, turmeric, and pomegranate are also beneficial and can balance damage caused by the sun. Plants oils such as olive oil, borage oil and argan oil (to name a few), promote healthy skin through anti-oxidant and anti-inflammatory effects.

Organic skin care products also help the environment. Buying skin care products that are developed from natural sources and which do not contain toxic chemicals reduces environmental pollution. Take microbeads for example (those tiny plastic beads which are added to lotions, creams and soaps to exfoliate skin) -- these end up washed down the drains and into the oceans, lakes and rivers, which adversely affects the food chain.

As consumers, we need to become knowledgeable about what we are buying and using, especially when it is something we eat, breathe or put on our skin -- as these things have an impact on the environment and everything in it. Even though the cosmetic industry is largely unregulated, with some sound foundational knowledge and a few mindful steps, you can protect, heal and restore your skin in a way that keeps you healthy and helps the environment.