Glycerin is a humectant produced from naturally found triglycerides from plant and animal sources. Ours is always from plant sources! Humectants are hygroscopic molecules meaning that they increase the water content on the stratum corneum, the most outer layer of the skin, from the deeper layers of the skin and from the outside environment. Through this process, it boosts water absorption and retention by forming hydrogen bonds with water molecules. Its moisturizing and hydrating abilities make glycerin a superstar ingredient for skincare.

Vitamin B3, also known as niacinamide or nicotinamide, is another superstar ingredient used for a variety of skincare concerns. For our Cloud Eye Gels, we love it for its anti-aging and skin barrier strengthening abilities. It promotes the production of ceramides, free fatty acids, cholesterol - the vital components of the skin barrier necessary for healthy, hydrated skin. To be exact, they prevent transepidermal water loss (TEWL), which is the process in which water diffuses and evaporates from our skin cells into the atmosphere. Niacinamide also visibly reduces the visible signs of aging and improves skin elasticity (better skin elasticity = less wrinkles) by boosting collagen and other essential skin protein production. When combined with vitamin C (magnesium ascorbyl phosphate) and also vitamin E, this powerhouse trio addresses a plethora of skincare concerns such as fine lines, wrinkles, skin suppleness, dullness, and uneven skin tone.

Highly moisturizing and skin-penetrating squalane oil, derived from plant or animal sources, is rich in skin-replenishing fatty acids and antioxidants. Again, QT is always cruelty and vegan, so we always opt for the plant-sourced ingredients. It is non-irritating, non-allergenic, non-comedogenic (won’t clog your pores), and is incredibly similar in composition to your skin’s natural sebum. To prevent skin dehydration, sebum is released at the skin’s surface and creates a waterproof layer. Along with cloudberry seed oil and grape seed oil, this trio forms an impermeable barrier over the skin and prevents TEWL - locking in moisture needed for healthy barrier function. Because of this process, it provides long lasting moisture to the skin, making it an ideal ingredient for many uses. Often times, occlusive ingredients like vegetable oils are combined with humectant ingredients like glycerin to provide immediate and long lasting hydration and moisturization (hydration = attracting water, moisturization = locking in it). Occlusive ingredients tend to have a heavy feeling; however, we chose lightweight but highly moisturizing oils for a non-greasy, conditioned skin feel. Cloudberry seed oil is also rich in essential fatty acids, phytosterols and antioxidants.

Sodium hyaluronate, the salt form of hyaluronic acid, is a hygroscopic molecule that can bind over 1000 times its weight in water. Our sodium hyaluronate blend is based upon hydrated spheres that can penetrate the upper layers of the skin and absorb hydration deep into the skin. This results in smoothing out of wrinkles and increasing elastic skin surface while providing long lasting hydration.

Acetyl Tetrapeptide-5 and Dipeptide-2 are both synthetic peptides that have anti-inflammation, soothing, and hydrating properties. For our Cloud Eye Gels, these peptides help reduce fluid retention under the eyes. Acetyl Tetrapeptide-5 also has been proven to help fight against a process called glycation, which interrupts the production of collagen and elastin and helps keep the skin supple, firm, and smooth.

Magnesium ascorbyl phosphate is a stable and effective form of vitamin C and a potent antioxidant. It has been shown to protect skin from oxidative damages and environmental stressors from pollution and UV exposure. These oxidative damages come from compounds called free radicals. Because they contain unpaired electrons and are therefore unstable, it becomes reactive and seeks electrons from other skin components, leaving them damaged. Antioxidants like vitamin C and E help neutralize free radicals by donating their electrons therefore stopping this process. No free radicals = brighter, firmer, younger, and even-looking skin.

Tocopherol, also known as vitamin E, is a fat-soluble antioxidant naturally occuring in the skin. For skincare products, it is usually derived from wheat germ or vegetable oils. Like vitamin C, it helps defend the skin against free radicals and environmental factors. When combined with other antioxidants like vitamin C, it creates a synergistic effect - meaning they can enhance each other's benefits to the skin.