daily for one week (Elmore 2003). Long-term effects of exposure to aluminum salt in facial masks
and creams are as yet unknown. Keep this in mind when buying clay masks based on salts of
aluminum. There are many wonderful aluminum-free clays that have healing potential. Natural muds,
such as volcanic fango mud and marine muds from the Dead Sea, are naturally rich in thermal water
and minerals. They are used in spa procedures at balneological resorts.
Birch (Betula pendula)
Birch extract has traditionally been used to promote hair growth. Birch bark is rich in anti-
inflammatory tannins and saponins, while the leaves contain betulorentic acid, which has anti-
inflammatory and anti-HIV activity. Birch extract is used in shampoos, conditioners, and body
treatments for cellulite. You can prepare a birch leaf infusion at home to rinse your hair after
shampooing.
Caffeine
This plant alkaloid is found in coffee, tea, maté, and guarana. Known for its ability to dilate blood
vessels and purge water from the body, caffeine is widely used in cellulite treatments and eye creams
that may reduce puffiness. Recent studies found that caffeine can help protect you from skin cancer. In
2008, scientists of the State University of New Jersey found that topical application of caffeine
inhibited the development of sunlight-induced skin cancer in animals, especially when combined with
the consumption of green tea or caffeine. Even after intensive UV irradiation for several months,
caffeine significantly reduced the formation of skin cancer and slowed cell mutations (Con-ney et al.
2008). Now, that’s a good reason to keep the java flowing!
Calendula (Calendula officinalis)
This plant, also known as marigold, is a traditional herbal remedy praised for its antibacterial and
anti-inflammatory properties. Calendula extract is rich in beta-carotene, stearin, triterpinoids,
flavonoids, and coumarin, as well as microelements. For this reason, calendula is frequently used in
soothing and calming preparations, such as baby baths and creams, and after-sun products.
Camphor
This alkaloid, derived from the leaves of the camphor plant (Cin-namomum camphora), is
believed to have an antimicrobial action, which justifies its cosmetic use in topical acne treatments.
In large quantities, camphor is poisonous when ingested and can cause seizures, confusion, and mood
disorders (Agarwal, Malhotra 2008). According to current regulations, camphor can be used in
concentrations of up to 11 percent in cosmetic products.
Carrot (Daucus carota)
Carrot seed oil contains plant antioxidant carotenoids, particularly carotene and luteolin, as well
as vitamin E. When applied topically in cosmetic products, carrot seed essential oil has shown to
improve sebum production in dry skin, while the antioxidant properties of carotene help it protect
skin from UV-induced damage.