INGREDIENT GLOSSARY

The skin's lipid matrix is a naturally produced blend of lipids made from 50% CERAMIDES, 25% CHOLESTEROL, and 25% FATTY ACIDS. The precise balance of these lipids is VITAL - if they become disproportional, your skin barrier becomes compromised. The lipid matrix we formulate into our serums is made from plant-based ingredients, and matches the skin's proportions exactly. THIS is what REBUILDS, STRENGTHENS and MAINTAINS a STRONG and HEALTHY barrier.

Ceramides are CRUCIAL for RESTORING the skin barrier. Think of them as the "mortar" holding your skin cell "bricks" together-creating a STRONG shield that locks IN water and keeps OUT harmful aggressors. The skin naturally produces ceramides, and they make up  50% of your skin barrier.  Without them, we would not have our STRONG skin structure.

 Unfortunately, as we age, as early as our 20s, our natural ceramide production starts to decline. This leads to a weak, sometimes compromised skin barrier. This causes dehydration and skin that is vulnerable to environmental stressors. By topically applying ceramides, we can REINFORCE the barrier to prevent water loss, boosting hydration, and improving resilience.

The CHOLESTEROL we use in our QUENCHER serums is plant-based, making it a PHYTOSTEROL. It plays a VITAL role in the skin's lipid matrix, making up 25% of the "mortar" holding your skin cell "bricks" together. Working hand in hand with ceramides and fatty acids, cholesterol helps to RESTORE a compromised barrier.

Just as ceramide production slows with age, so does cholesterol. This loss is even more profound for those taking cholesterol-lowering statins, which can directly affect the structure and integrity of the skin's barrier.

By replenishing the skin with plant-based cholesterol, you can RESTORE your barrier health, boost protection, and support a healthier complexion.

The final 25% of the skin's lipid matrix is FATTY ACIDS. The ESSENTIAL FATTY ACIDS, OMEGA-6 & OMEGA-3 are at the CORE of our skincare line. These lightweight lipids are called ESSENTIAL because our skin does not produce them; we must get them from our diet or topical application.

OMEGA-6, Linoleic Acid, is particularly important for a STRONG and HEALTHY skin barrier for two reasons:

CERAMIDE PRODUCTION: Ceramides, vital components of the skin barrier, require this fatty acid in order to form properly. When the skin is deficient in OMEGA-6, then it uses Omega-9, Oleic Acid as a substitute. Unfortunately, this results in an unbalanced, compromised barrier, leading to dryness, irritation, and increased sensitivity.

LIPID MATRIX SUPPORT: OMEGA-6 is an integral part of the skin's lipid matrix. This matrix is what keeps the barrier STRONG.

The other ESSENTIAL FATTY ACID, OMEGA-3. alpha-Linolenic Acid is renowned for its POTENT anti-inflammatory properties. OMEGA-3 helps CALM excessive inflammatory responses in the skin, an important factor in REBUILDING and MAINTAINING a HEALTHY skin barrier.

OMEGA-5, PUNICIC ACID

This FATTY ACID offers a multitude of benefits, best known for its POWERFUL anti-inflammatory properties. It helps CALM and SOOTHE redness and irritation. It also contains antioxidant properties, neutralizing free radicals before they can cause damage. Research also shows that OMEGA-5 can stimulate collagen and elastin synthesis, support skin cell regeneration, and strengthen the skin barrier. 

OMEGA-7, PALMITOLEIC ACID

A natural component of our skin's sebum, this FATTY ACID plays an important role in MAINTAINING barrier function. Research shows it can improve elasticity, reduce the appearance of lines, modulate the skin's inflammatory responses, and promote collagen regeneration.

OMEGA-9, OLEIC ACID

This FATTY ACID functions as a lightweight emollient, enhancing the STRENGTH of a healthy, well-functioning barrier. Once the skin barrier is restored, this fatty acid helps to MAINTAIN it by locking in hydration and supporting long-term moisture. 

These are the naturally occurring compounds found in plant oils. When applied topically, these bioactive nutrients deliver their benefits directly to the skin. They work through multiple mechanisms to STRENGTHEN and RESTORE a healthy skin barrier. Research supports their role in playing a critical role in REBUILDING and MAINTAINING the skin barrier. Together, they provide antioxidant protection, soothe inflammation, combat microbial imbalance, and ensure the skin remains healthy.

For more information, read about 

CAROTENOIDS, PHENOLS, PHOSPHOLIPIDS, PHYTOSTEROLS, TERPENOID, TOCOPHEROLS, FERULIC ACID and GAMMA-ORYZANOL in the following sections.

These are highly pigmented nutrients known for their antioxidant properties. They are also celebrated for their rejuvenating effects. 

ANTIOXIDANT POWER: Carotenoids neutralize both reactive oxygen species, and reactive nitrogen species, two classes of unstable molecules that contribute to oxidative stress and aging.

CELLULAR PROTECTION: They influence signaling pathways that regulate the body's natural stress and inflammation responses, helping maintain skin balance.

VISIBLE BENEFITS: Clinical studies have found that carotenoids reduce the appearance of wrinkles, sun spots and improve elasticity-leading to a smoother texture and a more radiant complexion.

These nutrients are a diverse group of plant compounds with multiple PROTECTIVE properties:

ANTIOXIDANT: Phenols neutralize free radicals by donating hydrogen atoms from their hydroxyl groups and stimulating the body's own antioxidant enzymes.

ANTI-INFLAMMATORY: They suppress inflammatory signaling pathways, reducing redness, swelling and irritation.

ANTIMICROBIAL: Phenols also provide antibacterial and anti-fungal activities, making them especially beneficial for skin with a compromised barrier.

These are skin-identical molecules. naturally produced in sebum, which is an integral part of the skin's barrier. 

HYDRATION: With hygroscopic properties, these nutrients attract water, keeping the skin hydrated.

BARRIER RESTORATION: They form lamellar (layered) structures that mimic the architecture of the skin barrier. This structural similarity helps stabilize and repair compromised skin. 

These bioactive compounds are the plant's version of human cholesterol. They provide dual benefits ...

ANTIOXIDANT ACTIVITY: Phytosterols directly neutralize reactive oxygen species-unstable molecules that damage skin cells and accelerate aging. They also stimulate the activity of antioxidant enzymes, which is vital for protecting cells from oxidative stress.

ANTI-INFLAMMATORY: These nutrients reduce the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines, molecules that trigger redness, irritation, and tissue damage. Additionally, they limit the infiltration of inflammatory cells, which helps accelerate wound healing and tissue recovery.

The primary terpenoid found in our serums is SQUALENE, a skin-identical lipid that is part of our natural sebum production. Unfortunately, as we hit our 30s, our production of this lipid starts to decline. As a vital part of our skin barrier protection, we need topical application. *Our squalene is plant-based.

BARRIER RESTORATION: Squalene replenishes natural lipids, keeping the skin barrier flexible, resilient and able to retain water.

ANTIOXIDANT DEFENSE: It effectively scavenges free radicals and inhibits the formation of reactive oxygen species, shielding the skin from environmental stressors and premature aging.

ANTI-INFLAMMATORY: Research shows that squalene can inhibit pro-inflammatory molecules, helping to reduce redness, blotchiness, and irritation.

Because squalene is biologically familiar to the skin, it integrates seamlessly into the skin, enhancing both protection and repair.

Collectively known as vitamin E, these compounds are naturally present in ALL plant oils to varying degrees. FREE RADICAL PROTECTION: They neutralize reactive oxygen species generated by UV radiation and pollution, preventing oxidative damage to skin cells.

SOOTHING and ANTI-INFLAMMATORY: Tocopherols CALM irritation, REDUCE inflammatory responses, and support skin recovery after stress or injury.

WOUND HEALING SUPPORT: Research shows vitamin E accelerates tissue repair by reducing inflammation, improving microbial balance, and protecting skin from further oxidative stress.

These esters are naturally occurring lipids that form part of our sebum. They are also abundant in the Jojoba Oil we use in our serums. Even though Jojoba is known as an oil, it is actually a wax and closely mimics the skin's own waxy esters. 

WATER RETENTION: They form a lightweight and breathable film on the skin's surface, locking in hydration and preventing water loss.

SKIN RECOGNITION: Because they are structurally similar to the skin's own sebum, the skin readily absorbs them, allowing them to rebalance sebum production.

BARRIER REPAIR: By stabilizing hydration and lipid levels, waxy esters help restore strength to a compromised barrier, leaving skin protected and resilient.

 GAMMA-ORYZANOL is a MAJOR phytonutrient found in Rice Bran Oil, it is a POWERFUL antioxidant that PROTECTS skin from free radical damage. It also provides photoprotective benefits, helping to defend against UV-induced damage.

FERULIC ACID

This phenolic compound is also found in Rice Bran Oil, it delivers POTENT antioxidant activity by neutralizing free radicals, PLUS, it has activity that helps to lighten "dark spots" that have already formed on the skin. Its anti-inflammatory properties help soothe the skin, while supporting skin barrier repair and overall barrier function.

Vitamin B5 PANTHENOL

This vitamin is a GENTLE humectant that gives the skin an INSTANT hydration boost by attracting and binding water to the skin. This deep hydration strengthens the skin barrier, leaving it more resilient and supple.

Research also shows that PANTHENOL:

Provides ANTI-INFLAMMATORY benefits, supports SKIN REGENERATION, and improves ELASTICITY.

Vitamin B3 NIACINAMIDE

This vitamin is one of the HERO ingredients we use in our serums-and for good reason. Its  primary benefit is supporting the NATURAL production of ceramides, which are essential for RESTORING and MAINTAINING the skin barrier. But, this POWERHOUSE goes far beyond that:

DEFENDS AGAINST PREMATURE AGING by stimulating collagen production. FADES hyperpigmentation, SOOTHES irritation, BALANCES oil production, and diminishes the look of pores.

This skin-identical ingredient supports the skin's NATURAL renewal process of shedding dead cells by GENTLY accelerating cell turnover. Research also shows that it can help boost your skin's own hyaluronic acid production, helping to keep skin hydrated. 

However, the reason we chose to add NAG to our QUENCHER +PLUS+ serum is for its ability to fade hyperpigmentation and lighten dark spots. Clinical studies show that using 2% NAG can fade these areas in as little as 4 weeks. Even better, when combined with NIACINAMIDE, the results are amplified. Niacinamide works by inhibiting the transfer of melanin, while NAG helps reduce existing pigmentation. Together, they deliver BRIGHTER, more even-toned skin.

we've formulated THE QUENCHER +PLUS+ serum with the exact clinically studied combination of 2% NAG and 4% Niacinamide-and the results speak for themselves. 

In addition to the lipid matrix and skin cell "bricks", the skin's Natural Moisture Factor is another important component to the skin's barrier function. Made up of AMINO ACIDS, salts, and sugars, it works to attract and bind water to the skin, which helps RESTORE hydration to the skin. Unfortunately, our NMF production slows with age, however, studies show that topical application of ingredients that can mimic the NMF can effectively restore and improve skin barrier function. For more information on the AMINO ACIDS we use in our QUENCHER *NIGHT*, see the following section.

As key components of the skin's Natural Moisture Factor, AMINO ACIDS help RESTORE HYDRATION while contributing to ANTIOXIDANT defense, help support a balanced pH, and help to encourage cell turnover.

ARGININE: helps to stimulate microcirculation to enhance blood flow. This ensures the skin is optimally supplied with oxygen and essential nutrients.

GLYCINE: as the most abundant amino acid found in collagen, it plays a key role in supporting collagen synthesis. Research also shows that glycine accelerates barrier recovery by activating receptors, strengthening the skin's natural defense and repair. 

SERINE: is a crucial amino acid for ceramide synthesis, a process vital to REINFORCING the skin's barrier.

HISTIDINE: is a potent scavenger of hydroxyl radicals, helping to defend against premature aging. Additionally, this amino acid helps support the skin's pH regulation which can reduce redness and irritation.

ISOLEUCINE: this amino acid is known to stimulate the production of antimicrobial peptides-key components of the skin's innate immune defense. By strengthening this natural barrier, isoleucine helps protect against microbial imbalance and supports healthy skin.

 This ingredient is obtained from the seaweed of Caulerpa lentillifera,  which looks like little green balls that resemble caviar. It is rich in beta-glucan, a polysaccharide, which helps the skin attract and bind water, RESTORING hydration.

Research also shows this plant-powered ingredient can: Increase elasticity by promoting the regeneration of skin cells, reduce inflammation by inhibiting pro-inflammatory cytokines, and contains active components that protect skin cells from free radicals and UV radiation damage.

SODIUM PAC/PCA

This is the salt form of Pyrrolidone Carboxylic Acid (PCA). and is a gentle, skin-identical humectant. Naturally present in our Natural Moisture Factor, it excels at drawing and binding water. 

Unlike stronger humectants, Sodium PCA is gentle, yet effective-able to retain moisture even in low-humidity environments, such as your home or office. Reinforcing the skin barrier helps prevent water loss, improves resilience, and enhances skin elasticity and texture.

SODIUM LACTATE

This is another skin-identical humectant found in our NMF. It not only hydrates by attracting and binding water, but also acts as a pH regulator, helping to keep skin at its optimal balance. This process reduces irritation and sensitivity while supporting a healthier complexion. Additionally, Sodium Lactate is known to promote ceramide synthesis and encourage cell turnover, two essential processes for a healthy skin barrier function.

CASTOR OIL 

This oil has the unique ability to penetrate the outside layers of the skin and reach deep into the pores, helping lift away dirt, makeup and impurities. Its naturally thick texture allows it to bind to buildup effectively, delivering a thorough, yet gentle cleanse that leaves skin feeling refreshed and purified without a dry, tight feel.

KUKUI NUT OIL

This lightweight oil helps balance the richness of the castor oil, creating a smoother cleansing blend. On its own, Kukui Nut Oil effectively dissolves dirt, makeup, and impurities, while maintaining a gentle touch that supports a thorough yet comfortable cleanse.

 This ingredient acts as an emollient and helps disperse oils when mixed with water. It allows oil, dirt, makeup, and impurities to rinse away easily, without leaving a greasy residue on the skin. Suitable for ALL skin types, it is also safe for the eye area. 

*Note on safety: The inclusion of "Myreth-10" indicates this ingredient is ethoxylated, meaning it has been treated with ethylene oxide during production. This process can sometimes leave behind traces of 1,4-dioxane, a by-product classified as a low-level carcinogen. However, the manufacturer we source from specifically REMOVES ANY 1,4 dioxane. After production, the ingredient is sent to a third-party lab for verification to ensure it meets EPA safety standards and is FREE FROM 1,4 dioxane. 

ROSEMARY OLEORESIN

ROE is a natural extract of the leaves of the rosemary plant. We use it in ALL of our oil-based products to retard oxidation of the natural oils used in our formulas. In other words, it helps extend the shelf life of our products NATURALLY. ELDERBERRY FRUIT EXTRACT 

This ingredient works alongside the ROSEMARY OLEORESIN to help stabilize the oils in our "lipid support serums", keeping them from oxidizing

 and extending the shelf life of our products. SUNFLOWER SEED OIL/VANILLA FRUIT EXTRACT

These two ingredients are fused together to give a light, NATURAL scent to our oil-based products. At curbaAGE skincare, we DO NOT use ANY fragrance or essential oils in ANY of our products. Fragrances and essential oils are known to have a damaging effect on your skin barrier.

Coconut water is naturally rich in humectants, electrolytes, and amino acids that help draw water into the skin for INSTANT hydration. As a source of potassium and other essential minerals, it supports balance and helps prevent dehydration, leaving skin refreshed and replenished.

This extract is prized for its NATURAL cooling effects, making it especially REFRESHING during moments of heat or HOT FLASHES. Naturally containing menthol, it delivers an INSTANT cooling sensation while also helping to calm the skin. Its soothing action reduces redness and discomfort associated with heat, leaving the skin feeling balanced and refreshed.

THE QUENCHER

Water, Niacinamide, Panthenol, *Propanediol, *Pentylene Glycol,   *Ceramide NP, *Ceramide AP, *Ceramide EOP, *Cholesterol, *Phytosphingosine, Sodium Lauroyl Lactylate, Sodium Benzoate, Sodium Phytate, Xanthan Gum, Carbomer,

Ammonium Acryloydimethyltaurate VP/Coploymer, Dimethicone, Phenoxyethanol, Ethylhexylglycerin, Citric Acid.

*PLANT-BASED.

THE QUENCHER +PLUS+

Water, Niacinamide, N Acetyl Glucosamine, *Propanediol, *Pentylene Glycol, Panthenol, *Ceramide AP, *Ceramide NP, *Ceramide EOP, *Cholesterol, * Phytosphingosine, Sodium Lauroyl Lactylate, Sodium Benzoate, Sodium Phytate, Xanthan Gum, Carbomer, Ammonium Acryloydimethyltaurate VP/Copolymer, Dimethicone, Phenoxyethanol, Ethylhexylglycerin, Citric Acid.

*PLANT-BASED.

THE QUENCHER *NIGHT*

Water, Niacinamide, *Propanediol, *Pentylene Glycol, Ammonium Acryloydimethyltaurate, VP/Copolymer, Sodium PCA, Sodium Lactate, Proline, Arginine, Glycine, Alanine, Serine, Valine, Threonine, Isoleucine, Histidine, Phenylalaline, Sodium Benzoate, Sodium Phytate, Phenoxyethanol, Ethylhexylglycerin, Dimethicone, Citric Acid.

*PLANT-BASED.

 THE BALANCER

 Jojoba Oil, Passionfruit Oil, Raspberry Seed Oil, Cranberry Seed Oil, Squalane,  Capric/Caprylic Triglycerides, Sunflower Seed Oil, Ceramide NP, Soybean Extract, Elderberry Fruit Extract, Vanilla Fruit Extract, Rosemary Oleoresin.

THE BALANCER +PLUS+

Rice Bran Oil, Jojoba Oil, Passionfruit Oil, Raspberry Seed Oil, Cranberry Seed Oil, Squalane, Capric/Caprylic Triglycerides, Sunflower Seed Oil, Ceramide NP, Soybean Extract, COQ10, Elderberry Fruit Extract, Vanilla Fruit Extract, Rosemary Oleoresin.

THE BALANCER *NIGHT*

Jojoba Oil, Passionfruit Oil, Raspberry Seed Oil, Cranberry Seed Oil, Sqalane, Capric/Caprylic Triglycerides, Caulerpa Lentillifera Oil, , Sunflower Seed Oil, Ceramide NP, Soybean Extract, Elderberry Fruit Extract, Vanilla Fruit extract,  Rosemary Oleoresin.

 THE BUILDER

Jojoba Oil, Raspberry Seed Oil, Cranberry Seed Oil, Squalane, Capric/Caprylic Triglycerides, Pomegranate Seed Oil,  Sea Buckthorn Berry Oil, Sunflower Seed Oil, Ceramide NP, Soybean Extract, Elderberry Fruit Extract, Vanilla Fruit Extract, Rosemary Oleoresin.

THE BUILDER +PLUS+

Rice Bran Oil, Jojoba Oil, Raspberry Seed Oil, Cranberry Seed Oil, Squalane, Capric/Caprylic Triglycerides, Pomegranate Seed Oil, Sea Buckthorn Berry Oil, Sunflower Seed Oil, Ceramide NP, Soybean Extract, COQ10, Elderberry Fruit Extract, Vanilla Fruit Extract, Rosemary Oleoresin.

THE BUILDER *NIGHT*

Jojoba Oil, Raspberry Seed Oil, Cranberry Seed Oil, Macadamia Oil, Pomegranate Seed Oil,  Macadamia Oil,  Squalane, Capric/Caprylic Triglycerides, Caulerpa Lentillfera, Sunflower Seed Oil, Ceramide NP, Elderberry Fruit Extract, Vanilla Fruit Extract, Rosemary Oleoresin.

THE KEEPER

Jojoba Oil, Marula Oil, Macadamia Oil, Baobab Oil, Cranberry Seed Oil, Pomegranate Seed Oil, Sqalane, Capric/Caprylic Triglycerides, Sunflower Seed Oil, Ceramide NP, Soybean Extract, Elderberry Fruit Extract, Vanilla Bean Extract, Rosemary Oleoresin.

THE KEEPER +PLUS+

Rice Bran Oil, Jojoba Oil, Marula Oil, Macadamia Oil, Baobab Oil, Sqalane, Capric/Caprylic Triglycerides, Pomegranate Seed Oil, Sea Buckthorn Oil, Sunflower Seed Oil, Ceramide NP,  Soybean Extract, COQ10, Elderberry Fruit Extract, Vanilla Fruit Extract, Rosemary Oleoresin.

THE KEEPER *NIGHT*

Jojoba Oil, Marula Oil, Macadamia Oil, Baobab Oil, Pomegranate seed Oil, Squalane, Capric/Caprylic triglycerides, Caulerpa Lentillifera, Sunflower Seed Oil, Ceramide NP, Soybean Extract, Elderberry Fruit Extract, Vanilla Fruit Extract, Rosemary Oleoresin.