Ingredient Glossary

Every ingredient in a Halik formula, whether botanical oil or functional emulsifier, is selected with the same question: does it serve the skin, the formula, and the values behind the brand? Functional ingredients like emulsifiers and preservatives are what make safe, stable products possible. They are not hidden. We believe that knowing what something is and why it is there is part of what it means to care, intentionally, from the first ingredient to the last.

Botanicals & Actives

Açaí Oil: Rich in omega fatty acids, vitamins A, C, and E, and plant sterols, it combats free radical damage, improves skin tone and brightness, and restores elasticity to fatigued or stressed skin.

Açaí Stem Cells: Derived from the fruit of the açaí palm (euterpe oleracea), native to the Amazon rainforest and among the most antioxidant-dense botanicals on earth. In cosmetic formulation, açaí stem cell technology harnesses the phenolic metabolites produced by the plant's own cellular structure to deliver antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and skin-revitalizing benefits. Rich in vitamins C and E, omega fatty acids, and plant sterols, this extract works to defend the skin against oxidative stress, support its natural repair processes, and visibly improve elasticity and tone over time. The result is skin that looks and feels more supple, more luminous, and quietly more itself.

Aloe Vera Juice: Deeply hydrating and immediately soothing, it delivers moisture to the skin and coat without heaviness or buildup. It calms inflammation, cools and replenishes moisture, and supports the skin's natural healing process so that other active botanicals can absorb evenly and effectively.

Apricot Kernel Oil: Exceptionally gentle and readily absorbed, it works to fortify the skin's protective barrier and maintain softness and suppleness without disturbing its natural balance, making it well-suited for sensitive and reactive skin.

Bamboo Extract: One of the most silica-dense plants in the natural world, it reinforces the hair's internal structure and cuticle layer to improve elasticity, reduce brittleness, and minimize breakage or shedding. It adds structural integrity, natural body, and a light-catching sheen or luminosity to strands across all types, including voluminous curl patterns.

Banana Leaf Extract: Abundant in silica, potassium, and natural antioxidants, it fortifies hair from root to tip, reduces inflammation, improves scalp health, and promotes more resilient strands that hold up to daily styling.

Batana Oil: Sourced from the forests of Honduras, it penetrates deeply into the hair shaft to strengthen strands, reduce breakage, and mend split ends over time. Rich in oleic and linoleic fatty acids, it stimulates the follicle and encourages the growth of stronger, more resilient hair.

Beeswax: A natural humectant that draws moisture to the skin. It creates a breathable, protective barrier that helps shield the skin from environmental stressors. Also as a structural foundation providing a firm yet flexible hold that locks styles in and keeps edges and flyaways in place without stiffness or residue. Its natural emollient properties coat the hair shaft with a smooth, glossy finish.

Boswellia Sacra (Sacred Frankincense) Oil: Often called the "natural botox" plant, this oil is rich in AHAs and antioxidants that help improve skin elasticity and promote a firmer appearance. Highly valued for its skin-rejuvenating properties. Powerhouse oil rich in boswellic acids that strengthens the skin, evens out the complexion, and supports the production of collagen and elastin to minimize the appearance of wrinkles, fine lines, and sagging. It also acts to calm and soothe irritated skin, reducing redness associated with acne, eczema, and psoriasis.

Broccoli Seed Oil: Naturally rich in erucic acid, it provides a silky, silicone-like slip that smooths the hair shaft and tames frizz without synthetic ingredients, adding instant polish and manageability to every hair type.

Calendula Oil: Grown and cold-infused in-house, it brings potent natural antiseptic, antibacterial, and antifungal properties to dissolve impurities and excess oil. It actively calms redness, soothes inflammation, promotes healing in cracked or painful skin, and supports a clearer, more balanced complexion.

Castor Oil: A powerful humectant and has antimicrobial properties. Dense with ricinoleic acid and omega-6 fatty acids, it deeply conditions the hair while delivering slip and shine for smooth, effortless styling application. It tames frizz, reinforces the hair shaft, and supports the overall health of both the hair and the scalp.

Cedarwood Essential Oil: Provides a grounding, woody aroma and has antiseptic properties that help balance oily skin and soothe the scalp. A natural, endocrine-safe insecticidal botanical that repels a wide range of insects including mosquitoes, ticks, and fleas. It provides steady, grounding, and lasting antimicrobial protection.

Ceramide Complex: Ceramides are lipid molecules that occur naturally within the skin's own structure, forming the essential mortar between skin cells that makes up the outermost protective layer. They are responsible for maintaining the skin's ability to retain moisture and resist environmental aggressors; when ceramide levels are depleted, the barrier weakens, and dryness, sensitivity, and accelerated aging can follow. Halik's ceramide complex, listed as Ceramide NP, is a plant-derived ceramide that closely mirrors the structure of the ceramides naturally found in the stratum corneum. Applied topically, it integrates into the skin's lipid matrix to reinforce barrier integrity, seal in hydration, and support the skin's capacity for self-repair. Compatible with all skin types; especially valuable for dry, mature, or environmentally stressed skin.

Chamomile: A gentle, antiseptic, and deeply calming botanical that addresses bacterial and fungal concerns on the skin's surface. It actively calms redness, reduces surface inflammation, soothes reactive or sensitive skin, and brings a natural brightening quality to lighter coats.

Citronella Oil: A well-established botanical repellent that disrupts the sensory receptors insects rely on to locate hosts, effectively masking the skin's natural scent. Beyond protection, it brings antibacterial and antifungal properties that calm inflammation and act as a gentle toner for the skin beneath.

Cocoa Butter: A rich, plant-derived emollient packed with antioxidants that forms a soft, protective layer over the skin to seal in moisture, shield against environmental stressors, support long-term skin elasticity, and gradually improve the appearance of uneven tone. For hair, it is rich in fatty acids that coat the hair shaft and seal the cuticle, which improves manageability, imparts lasting softness without buildup, and works to reduce breakage and split ends over time.

Coffee Extract: Rich in caffeine and antioxidants, it invigorates the scalp and supports circulation at the follicle level to extend the active growth phase of the hair cycle and encourage fuller, stronger strands over time. It also provides powerful antioxidant protection to guard hair against the oxidative stress and environmental exposure that cause dullness.

Colloidal Oatmeal: One of the most well-studied botanicals for skin relief, it restores the skin's natural moisture barrier, calms itching and inflammation, and soothes the irritation that underlies dry skin, hot spots, and environmental sensitivities.

Cupuaçu Butter: Known as a "super-moisturizer," it can hold up to 440% of its weight in water. Sumptuous and deeply replenishing, it cocoons the skin in lasting moisture, penetrates deeply into the skin barrier to restore softness, improves elasticity, and maintains hydration beneath the surface to repair and replenish dehydrated skin without weight.

Daikon Seed Extract: Rich in vitamins C and E, it offers antioxidant protection against UV exposure and environmental damage while reinforcing the hair's natural moisture barrier and adding brightness and luminosity to dull or stressed strands.

Foaming Oats: A cleansing agent derived from whole oats that gently lifts dirt, debris, and odor from the coat and skin while preserving the natural moisture barrier. It is inherently moisturizing and anti-inflammatory, ensuring skin is left soft and comfortable rather than stripped.

Geranium Oil: A botanical multitasker that regulates sebum production for both oily and dry skin, reduces inflammation, encourages healthy cell regeneration, and helps restore equilibrium to skin exposed to stress, imbalance, or environmental change.

Ginseng Root Extract: Derived from the root of panax ginseng, a plant revered for millennia across East and Southeast Asian traditions for its restorative and energizing properties. In skin care, ginseng root extract brings a concentrated source of ginsenosides, saponins, and antioxidants that work to invigorate the complexion, support collagen synthesis, and protect against the oxidative stress that accelerates visible aging. It has been studied for its role in improving skin firmness and brightness, and in reducing the appearance of dullness and uneven tone with consistent use. A botanical that has earned its reputation not through trend, but through time.

Glycerin: One of the most foundational ingredients in botanical formulation, glycerin is a naturally occurring compound present in all plant fats and oils. Halik sources plant-derived glycerin, obtained as a byproduct of vegetable oil processing, as a vegan alternative to petroleum-derived or animal-based forms. As a humectant, it draws moisture from the surrounding environment and from the deeper layers of the skin, holding that hydration where the skin needs it most. It also functions as a gentle solvent, helping to dissolve and stabilize active ingredients within a formula, and as a conditioning agent for both skin and hair. Compatible with every skin type, non-comedogenic, and recognized as safe by both the FDA and the Cosmetic Ingredient Review (CIR) Expert Panel.

Guava Seed Oil: Cold-pressed from the seeds of the guava fruit, known in Tagalog as bayabas, a fruit long celebrated across the Philippines for its remarkable nutritive properties. Guava seed oil is rich in linoleic and oleic fatty acids, vitamin C, and a spectrum of natural antioxidants that work in concert to replenish the skin's moisture barrier, support a more even and luminous complexion, and defend against the free radical damage that dulls and ages skin over time. Its texture is light and fast-absorbing, making it an effective delivery mechanism for these actives without heaviness or residue. A botanical that arrives with heritage and stays for its performance.

Gugo Bark: A revered Filipino botanical derived from the entada phaseoloides vine that supports scalp vitality, reduces shedding, and maintains a calm, healthy scalp environment during both cleansing and conditioning phases. It creates a naturally lathering, purifying base that deeply cleanses without stripping the scalp's moisture balance.

Hempseed Oil: Rich in omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids in a ratio that closely mirrors the skin's own natural composition, it works in harmony with the body's biology to reinforce the protective barrier of the paw pad and snout, reduce dryness and flaking, calm persistent inflammation, and support natural repair.

Hibiscus Sabdariffa Oil: Cold-pressed from the seeds of the Hibiscus sabdariffa plant, also known as Roselle, a flowering herb native to tropical regions of Asia and West Africa with deep roots in traditional botanical culture across the Philippines and wider Southeast Asia. The oil is rich in essential fatty acids, primarily linoleic acid (omega-6) and oleic acid (omega-9), which replenish the skin's lipid layer, support barrier function, and help soothe dry or reactive skin. It also contains vitamin E (tocopherol) and phytosterols, which contribute antioxidant protection against environmental stressors. On the hair, its fatty acid profile nourishes and strengthens the strand while imparting softness and luminosity. The oil has a notably dry, fast-absorbing texture that delivers its benefits without heaviness or residue.

Hydrolyzed Baobab Protein: Rich in essential amino acids, it works at a cellular level to fill in gaps along the hair cuticle, improving tensile strength and defending against breakage in high-porosity and textured hair. On the skin, it replenishes essential amino acids, defends against UV-induced damage, and restores the skin's natural vitality and repair capabilities from within.

Hydrolyzed Keratin Protein: Keratin is the structural protein that makes up hair, wool, nails, and feathers. Hydrolyzed keratin is produced by breaking this protein down into smaller peptides through enzymatic hydrolysis, reducing its molecular size so it can penetrate the hair shaft rather than simply sit on the surface. Once absorbed, these peptides fill in microscopic gaps and weakened areas along the cuticle and cortex, restoring structural integrity, improving elasticity, reducing frizz, and increasing manageability. In Halik's Harry Deodorizing and Detangling Spray, it works specifically to improve coat strength and manageability between baths.

Hydrolyzed Oat Protein: Derived from whole oats (avena sativa) and broken down through hydrolysis into peptides small enough to penetrate the hair shaft and bind to damaged areas along the cuticle. Once bonded, hydrolyzed oat protein rebuilds tensile strength and resilience from within, smooths the hair's surface, and reduces the porosity that leads to frizz and breakage. It also contributes a softness and improved manageability that holds through styling. In Halik's Liyah Hair Texturizing Cream and Payson Dog Shampoo, it functions as a key structural conditioning agent that works from the inside out. Gluten-free and plant-derived.

Hydrolyzed Quinoa Protein: Derived from quinoa (chenopodium quinoa), an ancient grain cultivated for thousands of years in the high-altitude Andes of South America. Quinoa is among the few plant sources that provide all nine essential amino acids, and its hydrolyzed form brings that complete amino acid profile directly to the hair shaft. The hydrolysis process reduces protein molecules to a size small enough to penetrate the cuticle, where they fill micro-gaps, rebuild structural resilience, and improve the hair's ability to retain moisture. The result is hair with improved strength, body, smoothness, and a natural reflective quality that holds from wash to wash. Gluten-free, sustainably sourced, and recognized as clean by Sephora and Credo standards.

Hydrolyzed Rice Protein: Known for its frizz-smoothing and strand-strengthening properties, it works along the hair cuticle to create a refined, reflective surface that softens texture and builds resilience against daily styling and environmental damage. On pet coats, it bonds directly to the hair shaft to repair from the inside out, add strength, reduce breakage, and impart a smooth, lustrous finish.

Jojoba Oil: Technically not an oil but a liquid wax ester, pressed from the seeds of the jojoba shrub (simmondsia chinensis), a drought-resistant evergreen native to the arid Sonoran Desert of the American Southwest. What makes jojoba exceptional, in both skin and hair care, is its structural resemblance to the skin's own sebum. Because both sebum and jojoba are wax esters, they are inherently compatible, allowing jojoba to absorb readily without clogging pores, regulate oil balance, and form a lightweight, protective barrier that locks in moisture without heaviness. It is also exceptionally stable, resistant to oxidation, and rich in tocopherols and phytosterols. In hair care, it smooths the cuticle, adds shine, and supports scalp health. A foundational carrier for Halik's skin and hair botanicals.

Kukui Nut Oil: Rich in oleic and linoleic fatty acids, it absorbs rapidly into deeper skin and calloused layers without heaviness. It calms persistent dryness, soothes inflammatory conditions like eczema and psoriasis, combats signs of aging, and works to improve overall skin tone, suppleness, and resilience over time.

Lanolin: Structurally akin to the skin's own natural oils, it forms a bio-compatible emollient layer over the lips to seal in moisture, accelerate the healing of cracked and chapped skin, and keep the delicate lip barrier soft and resilient. For hair styling, it forms a bio-compatible barrier around the hair shaft that seals in moisture, shields against environmental stressors, and keeps styled hair pliable, protected, and comfortable without heaviness.

Lavender: Calming in scent and powerful in function, it brings genuine antimicrobial properties to neutralize odor at the source while leaving a light botanical freshness. It also soothes skin irritation, reduces inflammation, and gently repels insects on even the most reactive skin.

Malunggay (Moringa) Seed Oil: Pressed from the seeds of the moringa tree, it is dense with amino acids, vitamins, and a high oleic acid content that allows it to penetrate coarser, denser hair strands deeply to replenish softness and vitality from within while supporting a nourished, balanced scalp.

Mango Butter: Extracted from the kernel of the mango fruit, it is naturally emollient and rich in vitamins A, C, and E. It melts into the lips and skin with a creamy, cushioning, skin-softening weight that soothes inflammation, repairs compromised texture, and provides a gentle layer of protection against UV exposure and environmental dryness.

Meadowfoam Seed Oil: An exceptional moisture-binding oil that closely mirrors the hair's own lipid structure, forming a lightweight protective layer around each strand to lock in hydration, defend against humidity or dryness, and shield against environmental stressors without leaving residue.

Neem Extract: A powerful multifunctional botanical with antibacterial, antifungal, and anti-inflammatory properties that soothes irritated skin, addresses the underlying causes of itching and inflammation, and provides residual protection while naturally repelling fleas, ticks, and mites.

Niacinamide: The bioavailable, cosmetically active form of vitamin B3, naturally derived from nicotinic acid found in brewer's yeast and plant-based cereal grains. One of the most extensively studied active ingredients in modern formulation, niacinamide supports the skin from multiple angles simultaneously: it stimulates the synthesis of ceramides and fatty acids within the skin barrier, helping to reduce moisture loss and strengthen the skin's natural defenses; it visibly brightens uneven tone and supports a more luminous complexion over time; and it helps calm the appearance of redness and irritation. It is water-soluble, highly bioavailable from topical application, and exceptionally well-tolerated across all skin types, including sensitive and reactive skin. In hair care, niacinamide supports keratin integrity, contributing to improved texture and resilience. Recognized as safe for cosmetic use by the Cosmetic Ingredient Review (CIR) Expert Panel, with decades of clinical and consumer use supporting its efficacy and tolerability.

Oatmeal Extract: Derived from whole oats (avena sativa), oatmeal extract concentrates the same skin-calming actives found in colloidal oatmeal, including avenanthramides, beta-glucan, and a spectrum of polysaccharides, into a form suited for leave-on and rinse-off formulas. Extensively studied for its ability to reduce inflammation, calm itch, and reinforce the skin's natural moisture barrier, oat extract is one of the few botanicals with FDA recognition as a skin protectant. In Halik's pet care formulas, it soothes reactive or sensitive skin at the base of the coat between baths, maintaining comfort and moisture levels without the need for a full wash. Gluten-free.

Panthenol: The bioavailable, cosmetically active precursor to vitamin B5 (pantothenic acid), found naturally across the plant kingdom and present in all living cells. When applied topically, panthenol penetrates both skin and hair with ease, converting to pantothenic acid upon absorption. On the skin, it functions as a humectant, drawing and retaining moisture, and supports barrier repair and the natural cell renewal process. In hair care, it penetrates the cortex of the hair shaft to attract and hold moisture, improve elasticity, reduce breakage, and impart a healthy, light-reflecting sheen. It is also well-studied for its soothing properties on reactive or irritated scalp skin. Recognized as safe for cosmetic use by the FDA and the Cosmetic Ingredient Review (CIR) Expert Panel.

Papaya Leaf Oil: Extracted from the leaves of the carica papaya plant, which grows throughout the tropics and holds a long history of botanical use across Southeast Asia, including the Philippines. Papaya leaf oil is a concentrated source of papain, a natural enzyme, alongside antioxidants and essential fatty acids that together support accelerated cell turnover, a more luminous and even complexion, and the gradual softening of fine lines, sun damage, and post-blemish marks. The leaf-derived form offers a particularly concentrated enzyme profile, making it a meaningful complement to the brightening and renewing work of papaya seed oil in Halik's Sampaguita Anti-Aging Face Oil.

Papaya Seed Oil: Cold-pressed from the seeds of the carica papaya fruit, a tropical botanical with deep roots in Filipino botanical culture and traditional healing practices across Southeast Asia. Papaya seed oil is rich in papain enzymes, oleic acid, and antioxidants that promote a more luminous, even-toned complexion by gently encouraging cell renewal and reducing the visible appearance of fine lines, surface dullness, and sun damage. Its texture is light and fast-absorbing, working quietly and steadily to build a clarity that deepens with consistent use. In the Sampaguita Anti-Aging Face Oil, it works in concert with papaya leaf oil and sacred frankincense to support the skin's natural renewal cycle.Contains the enzyme papain, which helps gently dissolve dead skin cells for a brighter, smoother complexion.

Passion Fruit (Maracuja) Seed Oil: Abundant in antioxidants and essential fatty acids (including linoleic and oleic acids), it defends the lips against sun damage and environmental aggressors while actively calming inflammation and supporting the skin's natural repair process.

Peppermint Oil: Features a sharp, cooling scent that disorients insects by overwhelming their olfactory navigation to act as a powerful natural deterrent, while simultaneously soothing, refreshing, and reducing inflammation on the skin with a clean, cooling sensation on contact.

Pumpkin Seed Oil: Concentrated in zinc and phytosterols, it targets the root cause of hair loss by inhibiting the enzyme responsible for follicle shrinkage, helping to promote visibly thicker, fuller hair and improved density at the scalp over time.

Rosemary Oil: A botanical prized for its circulatory benefits that increases blood flow to the scalp to ensure hair follicles receive necessary oxygen and nutrients. Its natural anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and antifungal properties soothe scalp irritation, stimulate healthy circulation for faster healing of skin, support overall scalp wellness, and maintain a clean environment where healthy growth can take root.

Sampaguita (Jasminum Sambac) Oil: Extracted from the Philippines' national flower, it carries a signature jasmine-like scent and is rich in antioxidants and anti-inflammatories. It works to boost skin elasticity, calm redness, and reduce the visible appearance of fine lines and wrinkles to bring out suppleness and a quiet radiance.

Shea Butter: Abundant in vitamins A, E, and F, and a broad spectrum of essential fatty acids, it forms a protective emollient layer over the lips and skin that locks in deep, sustained hydration, reinforces the skin barrier, shields against the elements, and reduces the appearance of stretch marks and scarring. For coarser hair types, it acts as an effective natural conditioner to soften, seal the cuticle, and deliver lasting moisture.

Squalane (Sugarcane-Derived): Identical in structure to the skin's own natural lipids, this featherlight squalane absorbs instantly without residue or heaviness to replenish the skin's moisture barrier, support collagen production, and neutralize free radicals responsible for premature aging. For hair care, it mirrors the hair's natural lipids to seal the cuticle, reduce moisture loss, and restore softness without heaviness or buildup.

Sweet Potato Extract: Rich in beta-carotene, vitamins A and C, and natural antioxidants, it nourishes the skin beneath a pet's coat, supports healthy skin cell turnover, provides a layer of antioxidant protection against daily environmental stressors, and contributes to a visibly shinier, softer coat.

Vitamin E: A powerful antioxidant that protects the skin from environmental stressors and helps support long-term skin health.

Witch Hazel: A natural astringent base that tones and tightens the skin while reducing surface inflammation, helping active botanicals disperse evenly and absorbing quickly with no residue for a clean, comfortable, dry finish.

Functional Ingredients

BTMS-50 (Behentrimonium Methosulfate, Cetyl Alcohol, Butylene Glycol) | Conditioning Emulsifier: A plant-derived conditioning agent and emulsifier sourced from rapeseed (colza) oil. In Halik's conditioners, BTMS-50 serves a dual purpose: it binds the water and oil phases of a formula into a stable, creamy emulsion, and simultaneously delivers conditioning benefits to the hair shaft. Its positively charged nature allows it to bond to negatively charged strands, providing slip, detangling, and softness without the heavy buildup associated with older conditioning agents. COSMOS-approved and free of ethoxylated ingredients.

Cetearyl Alcohol | Emollient, Emulsion Stabilizer, Thickener: Despite its name, cetearyl alcohol is not a drying alcohol. It is a fatty alcohol, a waxy solid derived from vegetable sources, most commonly coconut or palm oil, that softens, thickens, and stabilizes emulsions. In creams and conditioners, it contributes to a rich, creamy texture while leaving a smooth, non-greasy feel on the skin and hair. It also supports the protective function of the skin barrier, helping to reduce moisture loss.

Cetyl Alcohol | Emollient, Thickener, Emulsion Stabilizer: A mild, waxy fatty alcohol most commonly derived from coconut or palm kernel oil. Cetyl alcohol functions as a thickener and stabilizer in emulsions, helping to build the body and texture of creams, conditioners, and lotions. It also acts as an emollient, softening the feel of the formula on skin and hair without heaviness. Like cetearyl alcohol, it is a fatty alcohol and does not behave like conventional drying alcohols.

Cocamidopropyl Betaine | Mild Surfactant, Foam Booster: A gentle, amphoteric surfactant derived from coconut oil. Cocamidopropyl betaine works alongside primary surfactants to enhance lather, improve foam quality, and condition the hair during the cleansing process. Its amphoteric nature, meaning it carries both positive and negative charges, makes it exceptionally mild and compatible with sensitive scalps. It also helps to stabilize the overall surfactant system and contribute to a smooth, creamy rinse feel.

Coco-Caprylate/Caprate | Lightweight Emollient, Skin-Feel Modifier: A featherlight emollient ester derived from coconut oil fatty acids. Coco-caprylate/caprate absorbs rapidly into skin and hair without leaving any greasy residue, making it an ideal carrier and texture modifier in serums, oils, and leave-on formulas. It mimics the sensory elegance of silicones without synthetic compromise, leaving a silky, weightless finish that allows other botanicals in the formula to be absorbed efficiently.

Coco-Glucoside | Mild Surfactant, Cleanser: A gentle, biodegradable surfactant made from glucose (derived from corn or other plant starches) and fatty alcohols from coconut oil. Coco-glucoside cleanses effectively while maintaining a mild skin-compatibility profile, making it well-suited for sensitive skin and scalp formulas. It is commonly used alongside other surfactants to improve lather and mildness, and is recognized as a naturally derived ingredient by ECOCERT and COSMOS certification standards.

Decyl Glucoside + Sodium Lauroyl Lactylate | Mild Surfactant Blend, Cleanser: A surfactant pairing that combines decyl glucoside, a plant-derived cleanser made from glucose and coconut-derived fatty alcohols, with sodium lauroyl lactylate, a gentle conditioning surfactant derived from lactic acid and lauric acid. Together, they form a mild, effective cleansing system with good foam generation and skin compatibility. The sodium lauroyl lactylate component also contributes a soft, conditioning feel during the rinse, making it a considerate choice for formulas designed with sensitive or reactive skin in mind.

Geogard 221 (Dehydroacetic Acid, Benzyl Alcohol, Water) | Broad-Spectrum Preservative: An ECOCERT and COSMOS-approved preservative system comprised of two active components: dehydroacetic acid, an organic acid, and benzyl alcohol. Together, they provide broad-spectrum protection against bacteria, yeast, and mold, keeping water-based formulas microbiologically stable throughout their shelf life. Geogard 221 is free of parabens and formaldehyde-releasing agents, and is recognized by major global cosmetic regulatory authorities.

Glyceryl Oleate | Emollient, Emulsifier, Skin Conditioner: A naturally derived ester of glycerin and oleic acid, the primary fatty acid found in olive oil. Glyceryl oleate functions as a mild emulsifier, helping to keep oil and water phases blended, and as a skin-conditioning emollient that leaves a soft, smooth feel. It also supports the skin's natural moisture barrier and contributes to the overall skin compatibility of a formula.

Guar Hydroxypropyltrimonium Chloride | Conditioning Agent, Detangler: A modified form of guar gum, a natural polysaccharide derived from the guar bean, that has been adapted for cosmetic use. Its positive charge allows it to bond readily to hair and skin, providing superior conditioning, slip, and detangling in both shampoos and conditioners. Unlike heavier silicone-based conditioning agents, it does not coat the strand artificially but works with the hair's natural structure to improve manageability and reduce static and friction during combing. It is also gentle enough for use in pet grooming formulas.

Hydroxypropyl Starch Phosphate | Viscosity Modifier, Texture Enhancer: A modified vegetable starch derived from corn or other plant sources, processed to create a smooth, gel-like consistency in cosmetic formulas. Hydroxypropyl starch phosphate functions primarily as a texture enhancer and stabilizer, giving products a more refined, application-friendly feel without synthetic polymers. It is gluten-free, naturally derived, and recognized as safe for use in cosmetics by the Cosmetic Ingredient Review (CIR).

Lauryl Glucoside | Mild Surfactant, Cleanser: A plant-derived, biodegradable surfactant made from glucose (from corn or other plant starches) and lauryl alcohol derived from coconut or palm kernel oil. One of the gentlest cleansing agents available, lauryl glucoside is widely used in formulas designed for sensitive skin and scalp, contributing to lather and cleansing efficacy while maintaining a mild, non-stripping profile. It is ECOCERT and COSMOS recognized.

Montanov 68 (Cetearyl Alcohol, Cetearyl Glucoside) | Natural Emulsifier: A non-ionic, oil-in-water emulsifier derived entirely from vegetable origin raw materials, consisting of cetearyl alcohol and cetearyl glucoside, a sugar-derived ester. Montanov 68 is notable for its ability to form liquid crystal structures within emulsions, which mimic the organization of the skin's own lipid barrier and support sustained moisture delivery. ECOCERT and COSMOS approved, it creates rich, stable creams with a nourishing, non-greasy texture.

Olivem 1000 (Cetearyl Olivate, Sorbitan Olivate) | Biomimetic Emulsifier: A PEG-free, self-emulsifying ingredient derived from the fatty acids of olive oil. Olivem 1000 is COSMOS-validated and notable for its biomimetic properties: its fatty acid composition closely resembles the natural lipid structure of the skin surface, allowing it to form liquid crystal emulsions that support barrier function and enhance the delivery of active ingredients. Clinically studied for its ability to improve skin hydration and reduce irritation, it is one of the most skin-compatible emulsifiers available in natural formulation.

Phenoxyethanol | Preservative: A broad-spectrum preservative used at low concentrations to protect cosmetic formulas from bacterial and fungal contamination. Phenoxyethanol can be derived from naturally occurring phenol compounds or produced synthetically, and is one of the most widely accepted preservatives in both conventional and natural cosmetics. It is approved for use by regulatory bodies globally, including the FDA and the EU Cosmetics Regulation, and is considered safe at the concentrations used in personal care products. Halik uses it to ensure product safety and shelf stability without the use of parabens.

Polyglyceryl-4 Oleate | Emulsifier, Skin Conditioner: A plant-derived, PEG-free emulsifier made from the esterification of polyglycerol and oleic acid, the primary fatty acid in olive oil. Polyglyceryl-4 oleate stabilizes oil-in-water emulsions and contributes a skin-conditioning, emollient quality to the formula. It is mild and biodegradable, frequently used in natural and certified organic cosmetics, and is compatible with sensitive skin formulations.

Propanediol | Humectant, Solvent, Preservative Booster: A bio-based glycol produced through the fermentation of renewable corn sugar. Propanediol functions as a humectant, drawing moisture into the skin; a solvent, helping to dissolve and stabilize other active ingredients; and a preservative booster, enhancing the efficacy of the formula's preservation system. It is a plant-derived, non-petroleum alternative to conventional synthetic glycols, with excellent skin tolerability and a lightweight, non-sticky feel. Fully biodegradable and recognized by ECOCERT.

Sodium Lauryl Sulfoacetate | Mild Surfactant, Cleanser: A mild, plant-derived surfactant made from lauryl alcohol, typically sourced from coconut or palm kernel oil, and sulfoacetic acid. Despite its name, sodium lauryl sulfoacetate is not the same as sodium lauryl sulfate, and is significantly gentler on the skin and scalp. It produces a rich lather and cleansing action while remaining well-tolerated by sensitive skin. Its larger molecular size means it does not penetrate the skin barrier in the same way as smaller sulfate molecules.

Sodium Methyl Oleoyl Taurate | Mild Surfactant, Cleanser: A mild anionic surfactant derived from coconut oil fatty acids. It belongs to the taurate class of surfactants, which are known for their soap-like mildness, excellent performance in both hard and soft water, and strong compatibility with sensitive skin. Sodium methyl oleoyl taurate cleanses effectively without stripping the scalp's natural moisture balance, and contributes to stable, uniform lather. Biodegradable and used in sulfate-free shampoo systems.

Sodium Phytate | Chelating Agent, Antioxidant Stabilizer: Derived from phytic acid, a naturally occurring compound found in plant seeds, sodium phytate functions as a chelator in cosmetic formulas. It binds trace metal ions that can otherwise accelerate oxidation and degrade the formula over time. By sequestering these metals, sodium phytate helps to extend the stability and shelf life of a product while reducing the potential for irritation that heavy metal contamination can cause. It is considered a naturally derived, biodegradable alternative to synthetic chelating agents.

Sodium Stearate | Emulsifier, Thickener, Structurant: The sodium salt of stearic acid, a long-chain fatty acid found naturally in plant oils such as coconut and palm. Sodium stearate is produced through saponification, the same fundamental process that creates soap, by reacting stearic acid with sodium hydroxide. In cosmetic formulas, it serves as an emulsifier and stabilizer, helping to bind and maintain the consistency of creams and lotions, and as a structurant that gives solid or semi-solid products their shape and body. At the concentrations used in leave-on and rinse-off formulas, it is considered safe and non-toxic by the Cosmetic Ingredient Review (CIR) Expert Panel. Halik sources plant-derived stearic acid to align with its commitment to botanical formulation.

Sorbitan Oleate Decylglucoside Crosspolymer | Mild Emulsifier, Surfactant: A plant-derived, PEG-free emulsifier and surfactant formed from three naturally occurring components: decyl glucoside, sourced from corn and coconut sugars; sorbitan oleate, derived from sorbitol and oleic acid from olive or other vegetable oils; and a linking process that creates a stable crosspolymer structure. It functions as a gentle emulsifier, dispersing oils and botanical extracts evenly throughout water-based formulas, and contributes mild cleansing and foaming properties. ECOCERT recognized, compatible with sensitive skin, and used in Halik's pet care formulas and Buggin' Out insect repellent.

TriStat ECO (Benzyl Alcohol, Glyceryl Caprylate, Glyceryl Undecylenate) | Broad-Spectrum Preservative: A COSMOS and ECOCERT-approved preservative system based on naturally derived and nature-identical ingredients. TriStat ECO combines benzyl alcohol with two glyceryl monoesters, glyceryl caprylate and glyceryl undecylenate, sourced from plant-derived fatty acids. The synergistic combination provides broad-spectrum protection against bacteria, yeast, and mold across a wide pH range, while also contributing mild emolliency and skin-feel enhancement. It is free of parabens, formaldehyde-releasing agents, and synthetic fragrance, and is permitted in certified natural and organic cosmetics. Listed as "Clean at Sephora" and aligned with Credo Clean Standards.

Xanthan Gum | Thickener, Stabilizer: A naturally derived polysaccharide produced through the fermentation of plant sugars by the Xanthomonas campestris bacterium. In cosmetic formulas, xanthan gum functions as a thickener and stabilizer, increasing viscosity and helping to prevent the separation of emulsions over time. It imparts a smooth, gel-like texture to creams, lotions, and serums, and is compatible with a wide range of skin types. Biodegradable and widely recognized across natural and organic certification frameworks.