Argireline, a synthetic peptide that has several different wrinkle-fighting and anti-aging effects. It's so effective, in fact, that dermatologists say it's the closest thing to Botox you can get. According to the manufacturer, Argireline is rich in antioxidants, which act as anti-aging agents in the body. The key active ingredient used in the formula are listed on the product page but without full details regarding their individual properties. It is to be used at least once a day and applied in an upward, sweeping motion for full benefits.
Under the top layer of our skin (known as the epidermis) is another layer called the dermis. This is where the collagen matrix is which supports the above epidermis. Collagen and elastin fibers deteriorate with age. As the skin loses the elasticity parts of the top layer of skin (epidermis) begins to collapse which in turn causes fine lines and wrinkles.
INCI: acetyl hexapeptide-3 (aka acetyl hexapeptide-8) (85%) blended with (15%) of our Rooibos Extract
Suggested Usage Rate: Anywhere up to 10%
Some might choose to go higher than this. This is up to the discretion of the formulator.
MAIN BENEFITS: prevents the muscle movement that leads to wrinkles. Argireline also promotes collagen production and optimizes the function of collagen, which both fight fine lines and improve moisture levels in the skin.
WHO SHOULD USE IT: anyone looking to smooth out wrinkles caused by repeated muscle movement in areas such as the forehead and around the eyes. It’s also a good pick for anyone with dry skin as it actually helps allocate moisture to the area of application.
For a (1) ounce (30 grams) 10% strength you will add 3.5 grams of the Illumination Blend to 26.5 grams of your base. For a (1) ounce (30 grams) 15% strength you will add 5.3 grams of the Illumination Blend to 24.7 grams of your base. For a (1) ounce (30 grams) 20% strength you will add 7.0 grams of the Illumination Blend to 23.0 grams of your base. NOTE: these amounts are NOT exact but rounded to the easiest calculations. For exact proportions, you will need a gram scale with .001 readability / accuracy.
Shelf Life and Storage Information for Products and Ingredients
Finished Products generally don't need to be refrigerated as they are preserved, but you can refrigerate them to extend their shelf life. The shelf life for most products is 9-12 months. Vitamin C Serum(s) and VitaResurface products should always be refrigerated to extend their shelf life.
Sample Sizes do have a shorter shelf life (generally 3-6 months) and items in jars can dry up quicker than this if the lid is not tightened well enough (except our Vitamin C Serums - use within 90 days).
Please keep your products out of high humidity, heat, and direct light, and keep them in a dark cabinet when possible.
Exfoliating Acid products have a shelf life of 9-12 months. The only things we don't suggest refrigerating are the Mandelic Acid Serums or the Salicylic Acid Serums as those can crystallize in the refrigerator. If this happens you can set the product into a hot water bath to see if the crystals will dissolve.
Additional Items Requiring Refrigeration and/or Kept in the Dark
Hydrosols - remove 1 ounce of hydrosol and add it into a separate, sterilized spray bottle and spritzer. Keep the larger bottle in the refrigerator. Carrier Oils - generally you can refrigerate all carrier oils although some of the very rich oils will solidify. This is fine. All you have to do is take it out, warm it up at room temperature and it should liquefy. If not, setting the bottle in a hot water bath and occasionally shaking the bottle will hopefully turn into a liquid. ^There are some oils that have a super long shelf life like Coconut Cream and Jojoba Oil. Refrigeration is not necessary, but it surely won't hurt. Essential Oils - essential oils are best stored in a cool dark place. Co2 Extracts - these should always be refrigerated. Butters - we suggest refrigerating our "skincare' butters. You can take out what you need and keep the rest in the fridge. Clays - keep in a dry, dark place. Shelf life is at least 2 years. Herbs - all herbs (whole or ground) should be kept in a dark, cool and dry location. Herbal (liquid) Extracts - these are created using alcohol. The alcohol pulls the constituents from each herb. Root, Trunk, Leaves, and Flowers. Extracts have a shelf life of 3-5 years. They can be kept in the refrigerator (or a dark DRY place) Other Various Raw Ingredients - i.e. Sodium PCA, Honeyquat, Oat Beta Glucan, etc. will all have a different shelf life.
