Wild Berry Blend Extract No. 4: Nature's Elixir for Radiant Skin
Unleash the power of nature with Wild Berry Blend Extract No. 4, a premium and highly concentrated cosmetic ingredient meticulously crafted in Ukraine. This unique propylene glycol-based blend, ranging in color from yellow-greenish-brown to dark yellow-brown, is a treasure trove of beneficial compounds including sugars, organic acids, tannins, vitamins, and minerals. Enriched with potent extracts from lingonberry, blackberry, wild strawberry, cranberry, raspberry, and blueberry, this versatile liquid extract is your secret weapon for creating soothing, hydrating, and nourishing skincare formulations. Its excellent solubility in water and propylene glycol makes it an effortless addition to a wide range of cosmetic products.
Description and Key Features
Wild Berry Blend Extract No. 4 is a testament to the rich bounty of nature, capturing the essence of a diverse selection of wild berries. Each berry contributes its unique spectrum of active ingredients:
- Lingonberry: Known for its high antioxidant content and skin-brightening properties.
- Blackberry: Rich in vitamins and antioxidants, beneficial for skin regeneration and anti-aging.
- Wild Strawberry: A natural source of Vitamin C and salicylic acid, promoting a healthy complexion.
- Cranberry: Packed with antioxidants, helps protect the skin from environmental damage.
- Raspberry: Offers anti-inflammatory benefits and supports skin barrier function.
- Blueberry: A powerhouse of antioxidants, aids in protecting against free radical damage and promoting youthful skin.
The extract's composition also includes St. John's wort (grass), mother-and-stepmother (grass), thyme (grass), nettle (grass), and birch (kidney) (as per INCI listing), further enhancing its soothing, healing, and revitalizing properties. Its convenient liquid form and complete solubility ensure easy integration into various cosmetic bases, while the recommended dosage of 5-10% allows for effective and targeted formulation.
Versatile Applications and Usage Areas in Cosmetics
Wild Berry Blend Extract No. 4 is incredibly adaptable, making it an invaluable asset for formulators aiming to develop gentle, effective, and naturally-inspired cosmetic products. Its benefits extend across a wide spectrum of applications:
- Skincare for Delicate Skin:
- Soothing Creams and Lotions: The blend's calming properties make it ideal for formulations targeting sensitive, irritated, or compromised skin. It helps reduce redness and discomfort.
- After-Sun Products: Its anti-inflammatory and soothing effects can provide relief to sun-exposed skin.
- Hydrating and Nourishing Face Care:
- Moisturizers and Serums: The sugars and vitamins contribute to excellent hydration, making it a perfect addition to creams, lotions, and serums designed to replenish and maintain skin moisture.
- Night Creams and Treatments: Its rich nutrient profile supports skin regeneration and nourishment during the night.
- Eye Area Cosmetics:
- Eye Creams and Gels: The gentle nature and antioxidant properties make it suitable for delicate skin around the eyes, helping to reduce puffiness and dark circles while providing hydration.
- Oral Hygiene Products:
- Mouthwashes: Its natural anti-inflammatory and antiseptic properties can contribute to a healthier oral microbiome and help soothe gums.
- Toothpastes: Can be incorporated into natural toothpastes for its beneficial plant compounds, contributing to oral health.
- Intimate Hygiene Products:
- Gentle Cleansers and Washes: The soothing and mild nature of the extract makes it appropriate for intimate hygiene products, helping to maintain balance and prevent irritation.
- Hair Care:
- Scalp Treatments: The soothing and antioxidant properties can be beneficial in scalp treatments designed to calm irritation or support hair health.
- Hair Rinses: Can be used in hair rinses for added shine and scalp conditioning.
- Bath and Body Care:
- Body Washes and Bath Gels: Enhances the soothing and hydrating properties of cleansing products, leaving skin feeling soft and refreshed.
- Body Lotions and Butters: Adds a nourishing boost and a subtle natural aroma to body care products.
The broad utility of Wild Berry Blend Extract No. 4 allows formulators to create comprehensive product lines that cater to diverse consumer needs, from daily hydration to targeted soothing and protection. Its natural origin and rich composition align perfectly with the growing demand for clean beauty and botanical ingredients.
Cosmetic Recipe: "Berry Bliss" Soothing Facial Cream
Create a calming and hydrating facial cream that harnesses the power of wild berries to soothe and nourish delicate skin.
Ingredient
|
Percentage (%)
|
Function
|
Phase A (Water Phase)
|
|
|
Distilled Water
|
Up to 100%
|
Base of the cream
|
Glycerin
|
3-5%
|
Humectant, draws moisture to skin
|
Phase B (Oil Phase)
|
|
|
Sweet Almond Oil
|
5-7%
|
Emollient, nourishing
|
Shea Butter
|
3-5%
|
Moisturizing, skin-protecting
|
Emulsifying Wax NF (e.g., Polawax)
|
4-6%
|
Creates stable emulsion
|
Cetyl Alcohol
|
1-2%
|
Thickener, emulsion stabilizer
|
Phase C (Cool Down Phase)
|
|
|
Wild Berry Blend Extract No. 4
|
5-8%
|
Soothing, hydrating, antioxidant
|
Vitamin E (Tocopherol)
|
0.5%
|
Antioxidant
|
Allantoin
|
0.2-0.5%
|
Soothing, skin conditioning
|
Preservative (e.g., Geogard 221)
|
0.5-1%
|
Protects against microbial growth
|
Instructions for Preparation:
- Sanitization: Thoroughly sanitize all your equipment (beakers, stirring rods, containers) using isopropyl alcohol or a sanitizing solution.
- Phase A: In a heat-safe beaker, combine distilled water and glycerin. Heat to 70-75°C (158-167°F) in a double boiler or microwave.
- Phase B: In a separate heat-safe beaker, combine sweet almond oil, shea butter, emulsifying wax NF, and cetyl alcohol. Heat to 70-75°C (158-167°F) until all ingredients are fully melted and combined.
- Emulsification: Slowly pour Phase B into Phase A while continuously stirring with a stick blender or whisk. Continue blending/whisking until the emulsion thickens and cools down to around 40-45°C (104-113°F).
- Phase C (Cool Down): Once the emulsion has cooled sufficiently, add Wild Berry Blend Extract No. 4, Vitamin E, Allantoin, and your chosen preservative. Stir thoroughly to ensure all ingredients are evenly incorporated.
- Final Check & Transfer: Perform a final consistency check. If desired, adjust the pH if necessary (typically for skin care products, a pH between 5.0-5.5 is optimal). Pour the finished cream into a clean, sanitized jar or airless pump bottle.
Recommendations for Use:
- Dosage: The recommended dosage for Wild Berry Blend Extract No. 4 is 5-10% in cosmetic formulations. For this facial cream, 5-8% provides a good balance of active benefits without affecting the cream's texture significantly. Always start with a lower concentration and adjust based on your specific formulation and desired effects.
- Solubility: Ensure thorough mixing, as the extract is highly soluble in water and propylene glycol, ensuring even dispersion throughout your product.
- pH Stability: While the extract itself is stable, always check the final pH of your cosmetic product after incorporating all ingredients. Some extracts can slightly affect pH, and maintaining the skin's natural pH is crucial for product efficacy and skin health.
- Storage: Store the extract in its original container in a cool, dark place, away from direct sunlight and heat, to preserve its active ingredients and extend its shelf life.
- Compatibility: Perform small-batch tests to ensure compatibility with other ingredients in your unique formulation, especially if using novel ingredients.
- Appearance: The extract's natural color may slightly influence the final color of your product. This is a natural characteristic and often desirable for natural-themed cosmetics.