Gentle Exfoliating Essence

Aqua, Propanediol, Gluconolactone, Glycerin, Betaine, Caprylyl Glycol, Xanthan Gum , Sodium Hydroxide

Aqua

Solvent. Water. The main vehicle for our water based products

Propanediol

Solvent and humectant. Apart from being an excellent, non-irritating solvent, the glycol propanediol has excellent hydrating and preservative boosting properties. The one we use is made from fermentation of glucose, from corn.

Gluconolactone

Skin conditioning. Gluconolactone is a gentle, exfoliating and regenerating polyhydroxy acid (PHA) that does not irritate the skin even at the 10% concentration we use it at in the Exfoliating Essence. It's an effective but gentler alternative to the widely used glycolic acid (alpha hydroxy acid, AHA) thanks to its larger molecular size – gluconolactone does not absorb as deeply into the skin, and therefore regenerates the skin without irritating it. At the same time, gluconolactone moisturises the skin, fades fine lines and strengthens the skin's protective barrier.

Glycerin

Humectant and skin protecting. Technically a sugar alcohol, glycerin is one of the oldest, most common and most versatile humectants used in cosmetics. It moisturises and protects the skin, accelerates skin barrier recovery and has antimicrobial properties, among other things. For our Cream we use vegetable, rapeseed-derived glycerin.

Betaine

Humectant and skin conditioning. Betaine is highly purified sugar beet extract, chemically speaking an amino acid derivative, that maintains skin moisture balance and strengthens the skin barrier even under very dry conditions. It is a so-called osmolyte, controlling water balance in living cells. The one we use is made from Finnish sugar beets.

Caprylyl Glycol

Skin conditioning and emollient. Caprylyl Glycol is an fatty alcohol derived from caprylic acid, which is naturally found in palm and coconut oils. It’s a humectant (like glycerin), i.e. a hydrating ingredient that works by attracting water to and holding it in the skin. It improves absorption, spreadability and the feel of a product on skin, and is also an antimicrobial, with preservative-like properties. And this is what it does in the Concentrate – boost the power of our main preservative, sodium dehydroacetate.

Xanthan Gum

Thickening, gel forming and emulsion stabilising. A natural and commonly used mainly thickener and gelling agent in cosmetics, xanthan gum is a polysaccharide produced through Bacterial fermentation of pure culture Xanthomonas Campestris with protein and carbohydrate sources, in this case from soy or corn. In our Cream, it is combined with sclerotium gum, lecithin, pullulan and silica to lend that lovely gel meets cream feel.

Sodium Hydroxide

Buffering. Sodium hydroxide is used in skincare products at a very low level to adjust the products pH to the appropriate level, making it safe for use.

Apply 1-3 pumps to clean skin using fingers, after Balancing Essence Mist and before serums, creams, Oil or Balm. Can be used AM and PM, but very sensitive types are recommended to patch test. Always use SPF during the day.

Tip 1: For deep cleansing and softening action layer under our Cleansing & Balancing Mask.

Tip 2: For rosacea, combine with our Calming Serum to clear up and soothe skin.

Tip 3: For acne, impurities and clogged skin, combine with our Purifying Serum to target inflammation and soothe skin.

Tip 4: To give mature and dull skin some glow, layer under our Renewing Serum and add the Hydrating Face Mask & Cream on top as a leva-on sleep mask.

Can be used during pregnancy and while breastfeeding and suitable for use around the eyes, but avoid getting product into eyes.

October 31, 2026