NourishUs Naturals Blog

Meet bromelain! A natural exfoliant found in pineapple and used extensively throughout skincare. Bromelain is a complex of protein-metabolizing enzymes found in the fruits and stems of pineapples (think about that tingle on your tongue after eating a lot of pineapple). Bromelain’s quality of breaking down proteins makes it fabulous when it comes to sloughing off dead skin cells, providing an amazing effect on skin smoothing and brightening. Usage 0.2-1%, water soluble. Add in to any premade stock for a boost, create a powder-based mask or exfoliating serum. Check out our Spring + Summer exfoliating enzyme mask recipe below! Make sure to patch test exfoliants before trying on the face, as they can irritate or sensitize sensitive skin. Recipe Idea You can have fun with this ingredient and add in other things from your kitchen! This is a single-use idea: Strawberry and Honey Passive Exfoliant – Face Mask 1/2 cup fresh strawberries 2 tbsp honey 1/2 tsp Bromelain How you do it:Combine all ingredients in a small food processor, and blend until smooth. Add a generous layer to clean face, and allow to sit for 15 minutes. Rinse clean with warm water. *Please note we have not challenge tested this recipe, and we do NOT sell ingredients for anything other than topical use.

As private label manufacturers, we believe it’s our responsibility to provide customers with guidance on label application protocols. This document outlines the standards employed at NourishUs Naturals to consistently achieve precise label placement on your packaging. Showcasing your Brand Your labels have to do a lot of work to stand out on a shelf crowded full of products. Obviously your logo must maintain a prominent place on your label, but consider, too, how to display the bigger story—let your label express your vision. Does your product contain organic content? Is your product based on an ingredient like olive oil, lavender or honey? Are you a local merchant selling in local stores? Those marketing messages will need to shine through. We highly recommend working with a professional designer with experience designing for the natural and sustainable market. What to Include On Your Label The US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) requires specific information on cosmetic labels. You can find a complete guide to these requirements on their website. There you will also find a guide to help you understand what the law requires. Briefly, US law requires labels to: State “manufactured for (client’s name)” and must include your phone number and street address so your customers may easily identify and contact the distributor. Ingredients must be declared in descending order of predominance. Ingredients present at a concentration not exceeding 1% may be listed in any order after the listing of the ingredients present at more than 1% in descending order of dominance. Color additives of any concentration may be listed in any order after the listing of the ingredients, which are not color additives. If you are importing to another country be sure to familiarize yourself with that country’s labeling regulations. They can vary dramatically from country to country. The actual weight of the product, both in standard and metric (with metric first, so as to comply with EU requirements). Warning statements needed or as required by law. For example, these are needed for bubble baths or products that contain AHA. The US Government Publishing Office provides guidelines here. Cosmetics Europe provides EU guidelines here. Universal Product Code (UPC) Many consumer fulfillment houses, like Fulfillment by Amazon, and larger retail stores require a Universal Product Code that they can scan as part of their inventory management process. You can learn more at GS1 US. You can keep up to date on Fulfillment by Amazon requirements here. Best Practices for Consistent Labels: We recommend a poly material, as opposed to paper, with a permanent adhesive and a resistant UV coating. Paper labels tear easily and are more susceptible to staining from oils and fingerprints during transportation, storage and on your retail shelf. Make sure clear or frosted labels have an opaque liner, such as craft paper so the machine will see the eye mark. UV-coat or varnish your labels to prevent scuffing of the labels in transport and handling. Your labels will look nicer longer, too, when your consumer is using your product with wet hands or in a wet environment like the shower. Uncoated labels will be damaged by Essential Oils. Get samples of your label material to try with your product before committing to the production run. Embrace your label company. Tell them how your final product will be used, the ingredients in it and the market you’re going to. They will help you find the best label for your brand and your product packaging. Creating FDA Compliant Labels: As we mentioned above, the FDA* standardizes cosmetic labeling laws under the authority of both the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act (FD&C Act) and the Fair Packaging and Labeling Act (FPLA). Please note that we always recommend that an attorney who is familiar with FDA rules performs a review of your labels, but we will try and guide you on the basics. For a more intensive understanding, please visit the FDA’s website here. *If a product will be exported then it must also follow international regulations. Typical Issues While Creating Compliant Labels Let’s start out with some items that we find to be missing or listed incorrectly almost every time we review a customer’s labels, and then we will continue. First is identifying the manufacturer or distributor AND how to reach them. This is often missing and absolutely required on the cosmetic label. The second item we often find missing is the actual weight of the cosmetic in both standard and metric. The department of weights and measures requires these to be displayed on the label. One example is 2 oz (56.7 g) or 2 fl oz (59.14 ml). The net quantity of contents declaration must accurately reveal the quantity of cosmetic in the container in terms of weight, volume, measure, numerical count, or combinations of count and weight, volume or measure. Unless there is a firmly established, general consumer usage or trade custom to the contrary in your locale, the statement must be in terms of fluid measure if the cosmetic is liquid and in terms of weight if the cosmetic is solid, semi-solid, viscous, or a mixture of solid and liquid. Not only must the ingredients be identified by a standardized name, but labels also require a mandated type size. Ingredients must be listed as 1/16″ OR 1/32″ (Labeling surface, less than 12 sq. in), while the contents must be listed as 1/16″ (PDP less than 5 sq. in.) OR 1/8″ (PDP 5-25 sq. in.) OR 3/16″ (PDP 25-100 sq. in.) and the warning statements must be listed as 1/16” Required Warnings for Compliant Labels When selling your product online or in your marketing materials, you must ALWAYS state the intended use of the product. With that said, there are some warnings that the FDA requires to be listed exactly as they are written in the 21 CFR 740 (please refer to the link from earlier). Please note any claims you make must always be reviewed by your attorney on an annual basis. The reason for this is that “plant-based” and “clean beauty”, to name a few, which were so popular years ago, are now being attacked for truth in labeling. An example of one is Feminine Deodorant Sprays. A feminine deodorant spray which, for the purpose of this regulation, is defined as “any spray deodorant product whose labeling represents or suggests that the product is for use in the female genital area or for use all over the body” must bear the caution stated below. The regulation further states that the use of the word “hygiene” or “hygienic” or similar words renders any such product misbranded. Caution–For external use only. Spray at least 8 inches from skin. Do not apply to broken, irritated, or itching skin. Persistent, unusual odor or discharge may indicate conditions for which a physician should be consulted. Discontinue use immediately if rash, irritation, or discomfort develops. The other warning is for Foaming Detergent Bath Products. A foaming detergent bath product–also known as bubble bath product–is, for the purpose of this regulation, defined as “any product intended to be added to a bath for the purpose of producing foam that contains a surface-active agent serving as a detergent or foaming ingredient.” The caution stated below is required on the label of any foaming detergent bath product which is not clearly labeled as intended for use exclusively by adults. The following are two examples of label statements identifying a product as intended for use exclusively by adults: “Keep out of reach of children” and “For adult use only.” If the bubble bath product is intended for use by children, the phrase “Keep out of reach of children” may be expanded to further read “except under adult supervision.” The regulation further requires that the label “Shall bear adequate directions for safe use” of the product. Caution–Use only as directed. Excessive use or prolonged exposure may cause irritation to skin and urinary tract. Discontinue use if rash, redness or itching occurs. Consult your physician if irritation persists. Keep out of reach of children. Questions for Your Filling House Labeling Compatibility Just to name a few: Love your look – work with your designer to make the label you want Correct information including manufacturer contact info and INCI, and weight. Label size and material UV Coating UPC Code if needed Label and packaging compatibility check Send them to the fill house of your choice or get to hand labeling! Ask your filling house what type of label setup they require before you print your labels. As an example, does their labeling equipment require a central 3” core, should the Label Direction number be “Unwind Direction 4,” with 1/8” separation.

Coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10) is an antioxidant, fat-soluble vitamin-like substance found in every cell of the body. In fact, without this potent antioxidant, cells are unable to function properly. This antioxidant is found in cells of plants, bacteria, animals, and people, and is used to make energy needed for growth and healthy function. CoQ10 is found in highest concentrations in the kidneys, heart, and pancreas. CoQ10 – Critical for Youthful Looking Skin In addition to its vital function within cells, CoQ10, when applied topically, can also help skin appear more youthful. Generally, after the age of thirty optimum levels of CoQ10 in the skin begin to decline. CoQ10 is not only critical to the cells ability to produce energy, it’s also critical to the production of collagen and elastin. Collagen is important because it makes skin appear firm and smooth, while elastin gives your skin the appearance of flexibility and elasticity. The loss of collagen and elastin can cause your skin to appear wrinkled and sagging. Product Spotlight: CoQ10 Hydrating Cream-to-Gel We’re excited to let you know about our #1 CoQ10 powered product, our innovative CoQ10 Hydrating Cream-to-Gel. A few things make this unusual, so let’s go through the ingredient deck and cover its unique texture and features. This Cream-to-Gel is the kind of product that will stand out in your brand, and we hope you’ll order a sample to experience its amazing feel and benefits. Ingredients With only 12 ingredients, this cream packs a punch. The star ingredient is Coenzyme Q10, also known as CoQ10: one of the most powerful antioxidants. CoQ10 works in conjunction with Vitamin E for superior antioxidant action with visible results. Liposomes work in conjunction and help to retain water, contributing to greater moisturization without the greasy feel you might experience other creams. Sal Butter, a wonderful butter extracted from the seeds of the Indian Shorea Robusta tree, has similar skin properties as cocoa butter with amazing softening benefits. Lactic acid, a wonderful AHA, acts to to exfoliate while also functioning as a biome-loving probiotic and hydrating ingredient. It helps to leave skin soft and looking bright and youthful. Astaxanthin is a carotenoid (think Beta-Carotene) that is typically found in red and pink animals such as lobsters, prawns, salmon, and more. It is a remarkable antioxidant. Ours is derived from vegan sources. Part of the soft golden color of the cream is derived from Sea Buckthorn Berry Oil, a rich orange antioxidant high in fatty acids that leaves skin feeling luxuriously moisturized. It is one of our favorites and is a star ingredient in our popular and high-end Rejuvenating Skin Oil. Feel & Benefits of the CoQ10 Hydrating Cream-to-Gel Now it’s time to explain the name. This is a thick cream—even turning its jar upside down the product doesn’t budge. However, once you take a small dollop and start rubbing it on your skin, you’ll be amazed at its instant light feel. Instead of the thick cream you might have expected, it turns almost watery and gel-like, covering a good amount of surface area with decent slip and easy, light absorption. How to Use It This cream really does stand out upon use, and your customers will be amazed at how hydrated, nourished, and light their skin feels. This feature also helps this cream (and gel) do double duty: it works great as a day cream or a night cream. Some staff here at NourishUs Naturals use it as a day cream, some as a body cream, and some as a makeup primer with a high boost of antioxidants. These antioxidants also make it a great urban “Pollution Defense” cream for city-focused markets. Summary We’d love to hear your feedback on this new cream-to-gel once you’ve had a chance to try it! We always appreciate reading reviews and seeing which ingredients you’re most excited about. Where Else to Find CoQ10 CoQ10 is an important ingredient in both Ultimate Serum and Supreme Serum from NourishUs Naturals. The best of the best – NourishUs Naturals' Ultimate Facial Serum is our most advanced weapon against time – a must-have in everyone’s serious skincare line. The delightfully delicate scent of rose leads the experience, as the light and comforting, velvety-soft organic aloe-based serum glides over the skin, leaving it feeling hydrated and nourished. Featuring super-tonifying DMAE, skin loving oils and moisturizing glycerin, with clarifying alpha hydroxy acids, moisture-boosting hyaluronic acid, supportive CoQ10, pro-vitamin B5, B3 and more! This serum truly is the ultimate in skin care serums! NourishUs Naturals' Supreme Facial Serum is our answer to your request for the Ultimate Serum, but minus the propylene glycol. True to its name, this serum has it all and then some (but of course no PG!). This superb, rejuvenating elixir will amaze and delight both you and your customers, as it helps to tone, hydrate, soften and revitalize, targeting all those ravages of time beautifully. In a base of delicate rose distillate and organic aloe, featuring super-tonifying DMAE, skin-loving oils and moisturizing glycerin, with clarifying alpha hydroxy acids and moisture-boosting hyaluronic acid and CoQ10 – this serum reigns Supreme – it is a must have in everyone’s serious skin care line.

Argireline is a wonderful, newer ingredient in skincare, ideal for maturing skin and diminishing the appearance of wrinkles. Argireline is the brand name of Acetyl Hexapeptide-8, a molecule formed principally of 6 amino acids (which in a row are called a peptide). It is synthetically produced in a lab, but there are no indications of any degree of toxicity and it is one of our favorite compounds for maturing skin. How it Works It’s taken the skincare market by storm, and for good reason. It is related to Botulinum Toxin, more commonly known as botox, and it acts in a similar but less dramatic fashion. It’s aiming for relaxation rather than paralysis. Daily use can reduce the appearance of wrinkles over the course of a month, so we are excited to use it. How to Use Argireline Argireline is a clear liquid that is water soluble and should be added as a final step in your cosmetic product. That means that for many products including it in the final water phase is suitable—for emulsions add it once the mix is complete.It has a recommended concentration of 2-10%, and clearly makes a great addition to any age-focused skincare line. We prefer using it in concentrations of 5-10% for maximum benefit. It is specifically recommended for the first wrinkles that appear, so aiming your new product at female millennials facing their first wrinkles may be a smart move. Serums and face lotions are easy entrance points. Argireline Retinol Eye Gel The delicate skin around the eyes needs extra attention as we age to keep us looking our best. This eye gel harnesses the power of Argirlene Pepetides, Retinol (Vitamin A), and Niacinamide (Vitamin B3) to keep the eye area looking youthful and smooth!Equipment You’ll Need: Scale or measuring cups and spoons Stick Blender Hot Plate or Stove top Difficulty Level: EasyApproximate yield: 1 Pound (16 0z) Ingredients: 1 ¾ Cup Cucumber Distillate or Deionized water 1 Peppermint tea bag 3 Tbsp Argireline Peptide Solution NP 3/4 Tsp Retinol (Vitamin A Palmitate) 1/4 Tsp Niacinamide (Vitamin B3) 1/8 Tsp Potassium Sorbate Powder (Preservative) 1 1/2 Tbsp Hyaluronic Acid Powder (Humectant/gelling agent) 1 3/4 Tsp Phenoxyethanol (Preservative) 1/2 Tsp Tetrasodium Glutamate Diacetate (Preservative) Instructions: Pour cucumber distillate or Deionized water into stove top safe pot or beaker and add 1 peppermint tea bag. Other tea will work fine, however, be aware that the gel will be the same color as the tea you make. Heat to 150F and let steep for 10 minutes. Remove tea bag and add all remaining ingredients EXCEPT for the hyaluronic acid. Mix well. Take your stick blender and slowly sprinkle the hyaluronic acid into the cucumber water mixture. As you sprinkle, the gel will begin to form. Test the pH of your eye gel. It should be between 4.5 – 5.5. Please see our video on how to test pH if you need further instruction on how to measure and adjust pH. It is expected that this gel will have a higher pH so you can use citric acid to adjust the pH down to 4.5 -5.5. Suggested Packaging: 1oz jarUsage:Apply gently around the eye area 1-2 times daily. Follow with oil or heavy moisturizer. *Please note that this formula has not been challenge tested for preservation efficacy. If you use this formula for market sales, it is up to you to ensure the safety of the product.

Turmeric is a rich golden root used as a distinctive and delicious seasoning, and also in skincare to help improve the appearance of problem skin. Turmeric is a rhizomatous herbaceous perennial plant of the ginger family, Zingiberaceae and is native to Southeast Asia. It’s no surprise that this ingredient has been used for centuries to improve the appearance of skin, however, the science behind why this root is so effective has only recently been explored. Turmeric is Curcumin Turmeric Plant Curcumin is the powerhouse in turmeric responsible for the antioxidant properties of this golden root. Aqueous and ethanol extracts of turmeric, corresponding to its use in cooking and topical application, show significant antioxidant abilities. When we talk about the benefits of turmeric, we are really talking about its powerhouse: curcumin. Curcumin is used in skincare to help calm and soothe problem skin, and to help skin appear blemish-free. While we are unable to list all of the benefits in this blog due to FDA regulations, there is now an abundance of research supporting the amazing properties of turmeric, specifically, its key constituent curcumin, in skincare. How is Turmeric used in skincare formulations? Turmeric Flower Turmeric is usually sold as a powder making it easy to use in skincare formulations. We sell Turmeric C02, which can be added to lotions, cremes, scrubs. Turmeric will impart a lovely golden color; the challenge is finding the right balance of effectiveness without using so much as to stain the skin.If you’ve ever used turmeric in your kitchen, you’re probably well aware that it will stain anything it comes into contact with including fingers. So unless a yellow/orange glow is what you are trying to achieve, you will want to carefully experiment with the right balance. If you want to try using a premade product with turmeric, try our Turmeric and Neem Scrub. It’s the Goldilocks of body scrubs! It’s not too oily, and not too dry – it’s Just Right! The clean and inviting scent of grapefruit blends beautifully with the inherent scent of turmeric and neem to enliven the skin and spirit. Certified Organic Turmeric, Certified Organic Neem (both beloved Ayurvedic favorites), and Certified Organic Mustard Seed bring warm, purifying radiance and balance to oily, stressed skin needs. This scrub offers a truly unique and refining experience. (We don’t recommend using this as a facial exfoliant because the salt grains can be hard on delicate facial skin). DIY Ideas Infuse ground turmeric in Organic Hemp Seed Oil for a lovely face and body oil Combine equal parts honey, ground turmeric and plain yogurt for soothing facial masque Customize a current product with turmeric Co2 Our Turmeric-Powered Ingredients/Products Turmeric & Neem Scrub Bulk Arctic Blue Cooling Gel

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