An ingredient such as a vitamin or essential fatty acid with inherent properties that provide a specific benefit.

Extracted from the leaves of the aloe vera plant, this mucus-like gel is a good source of fatty acids, polysaccharides, salicylic acid, saponins, vitamins, minerals and amino acids. With a long history of medical uses, the gel is antibacterial, antiseptic, emollient, healing, moisturizing and soothing. Aloe vera is used in various types of hair products with remarkable results for both the hair and scalp.

Amino Acids are fundamental to the human body and are the building blocks of proteins. They have excellent cleansing properties when chemically united with fatty acid or fatty alcohol and are beneficial to the scalp, as they are known to moisturize by enhancing water retention.

This mild polymer is a new generation resin that offers flexible styling with a weightless and natural feel.

Commonly referred to as “the oil for everything”, this evergreen perennial is calming, balancing, deeply relaxing and restorative to both mind and body. One of the most-gentle essential oils, it is suitable for children and the ultra-sensitive skin. Chamomile Extract has anti-inflammatory, anti-itching, cleansing, conditioning, healing and moisturizing properties. It strengthens and revitalizes the hair and also aids in the treatment of scalp issues.

Antioxidants neutralize and prevent the formation of free radicals, which can cause oxidation. Sun, smoke and pollution cause oxidative deterioration and are impossible to avoid. Though hair is not compromised of living cells, its keratin-based structures are still susceptible to oxidative damage. This damage leads to split ends, broken hairs, rough cuticles, frizz, tangling, lack of luster, diminished curl retention and loss of color (natural or artificial). Natural antioxidants can be found in plants and fruits and have been found to have protective effects in a manner similar to sunscreens, maintaining the health and integrity of the hair.

Often referred to as nature’s most complete food, bee pollen has been prescribed to heal an array of health ailments since ancient times. Full of vitamins A, B, C, D and E, this natural agent provides well-balanced health benefits and is a great alternative to petroleum-based ingredients. Its anti-oxidant properties enable it to fight free radicals that can cause damage to skin and hair.

This organic alcohol is found in many fruits and teas. It is used in a wide variety of personal care products, including those made for baby as a safe, low toxicity preservative. Benzyl alcohol is approved for use in NSF organic formulas.

This plant derived pure essential oil is a component of our custom blended fragrance.

Similar to an amino acid, this nitrogenous compound is derived from the roots of sugar beets. It is believed to strengthen hair making it less prone to breakage. Betaine is used in hair products because of its “silk effect” which are the result of its unique water binding and cell membrane protective properties.

An extract of plants and / or herbs dissolved with water, oil or alcohol.

Derived from the African karate tree, shea butter has moisturizing and healing properties. It is naturally rich in vitamins A, E and F as well as a number of other minerals and essential fatty acids known to soothe, balance and hydrate. This intense moisturizer revitalizes dull / dry skin and scalp and promotes skin renewal to increase circulation and aid in hair growth.

Derived from the liquid produced from the leaves of the Camellia Sinensis plant, green tea is a rich source of anti-oxidants such as vitamins C and E. Valued for its stimulating, anti-inflammatory and anti-oxidant properties, green tea is believed to tone and protect the scalp when used in hair products. It is also thought to stimulate hair growth and prevent split ends.

Also known as vegetable oils, carrier oils are extracted from nuts, kernels, and seeds. They are used to dilute essential oils, which are very concentrated and cannot be applied to the skin directly because they can cause irritation. Examples of common carrier oils include sweet almond, apricot kernel, avocado, grape seed, olive and wheat germ.

Derived from coconut oil and glycerin, this ingredient is used in hair products for its superb conditioning properties. It also used as a thickening agent and improves the spreadability of a product.

A term used for a series of ingredients made from acrylic acid used for thickening, stabilizing (pH), and emulsifying.

This fatty alcohol is derived from coconut and palm kernel oil and is not an “alcohol” such as ethyl or rubbing alcohol. Used as an emulsifier and emollient, it is known to moisturize and smooth hair.

This ingredient exhibits its function depending on the intended nature of the final product and can be used as a thickener, emulsifier or surfactant. While sometimes associated with 1,4-dioxane, our products have been verified as dioxane free.

This vegetable derived conditioning agent is used to prevent static and buildup in the hair, resulting in improved softness and manageability.

This naturally occurring agent can be found in the cell wall of plants and is used in hair products as a modified cellulose polymer for emollient, thickening and emulsifying.

Extracted from anti-oxidant rich citrus fruits, this alpha hydroxyl acid is used in cosmetics as a natural preservative and pH adjuster. It also acts as a mild acidic preservative and gentle exfoliant for skin.

This plant derived pure essential oil is a component of our custom blended fragrance.

Extracted from the peel of the grapefruit, this essential oil has antiseptic properties and relieves congested, oily skin and scalp.

Extracted from the peel of sweet the Valencia Orange, this essential oil is high in vitamin C and pectinic acid and helps smooth the cuticle of the hair to lock in nutrients and enhance shine.

Derived from coconut oil, this ingredient is one of the most commonly used natural surfactants in the personal care industry. It is a high-foaming, ultra-mild cleanser making it ideal for products that must be gentle such as those intended for infants or users with sensitive skin.

Ingredients used to give hair silkiness, softness and shine.

This plant derived pure essential oil is a component of our custom blended fragrance.

Cucumbers are high in silica, sulfur and vitamin A and are excellent in promoting hair growth and preventing hair loss. This mildly astringent yet soothing ingredient aids in the removal of dead skin cells.

This surfactant is obtained from 100% renewable vegetable origin (corn and coconut sugars). It is biodegradable, non-toxic, non-irritating and will not clog pores. Known for being extremely mild and effective, this non-ionic cleanser creates and excellent lather, rinses quickly, and offers a natural alternative to harsh surfactants. Decyl glucoside is used in a wide variety of personal care products, including products for babies and individuals with sensitive skin.

This natural preservative is used for its antibacterial and antifungal properties and is approved for use in NSF organic formulas.

The most widely used silicone polymer, dimethicone is derived from silica and considered to be safe, non-toxic, and non-flamable. It is used in hair products to improve wet-combability, shine and for its anti-static properties. It is often used in products intended for lice as an active ingredient.

Produced by the fermentation of starch or other carbohydrate sources, this ingredient is used as a solvent for extracts and various ingredients. It has a refreshing, astringent effect that promotes clarity in skin care products. It is also used medicinally as a topical antiseptic, astringent and anti-bacterial.

This general term is applied to various skin conditioning agents that help maintain the smooth, soft, pliable appearance of the skin. While the terms emollient and moisturizer are often used interchangeable, the two functions are different but often occur at the same time.

This type of agent is used to assist in the production of an emulsion. Emulsifiers enable oils to be dispersed throughout a water base to form a product that does not separate.

This is a stable system in which two liquids that would not normally mix together (oil and water, for example) are held in suspension by a small amount of an emulsifier.

Essential fatty acids are fatty acids that the body needs but can’t produce on its own. Helpful for blood circulation and cell growth, they are important for hair follicles because they aid in skin and hair growth. Essential fatty acids are crucial for maintaining hydrated hair and controlling frizz. A deficiency can cause dry, scaly or flaky skin, dandruff, brittle hair, and / or eczema and may also lead to hair loss.

A synergy of different ingredients with high moisturizing capabilities. The gradual release of these ingredients enhances product performance and keeps hair healthy and moisturized longer.

Infused into a formula for the purpose of providing a scent. Our custom blended fragrance is phthalate free and fully transparent, as we disclose every component per E.U. requirements (much stricter than the U.S.) to ensure our customers are confident in the safety of our products.

These highly-reactive atoms or molecules can cause cellular damage, impairing the immune system and leading to degenerative diseases.

This plant derived pure essential oil is a component of our custom blended fragrance.

This natural, corn-derived ingredient is used as a humectant and hair-conditioning agent.

This rich humectant, emollient and lubricant is naturally extracted from vegetable oils. It has been used in cosmetics for thousands of years and is non-irritating, soothing and can be used on the most sensitive skin. Synthetic glycerin, also known as propylene glycol, is highly irritating to the skin and scalp and should be avoided.

Derived from guar gum, this natural ingredient is used in hair products for its excellent thickening and conditioning properties. It improves combability and gives hair a smooth texture and shiny appearance.

Cold pressed from sunflower seeds, this oil is rich in antioxidants and supplies more vitamin E than any other vegetable oil. It is naturally high polyphenols and vitamins A, D, F and lecithin as well as the essential fatty acid Omega 9. It is believed to help with cell regeneration and often used in products formulated for mature or damaged skin.

1.) A confident and stylish youngster who gives to their neighbor and cares for our planet, 2.) luxe line of specialized hair products made just for tot locks with gentle ingredients.

Humectants are materials used in products to moisturize / preserve the water content of the skin.

To supply with ample fluid or water.

A term used to describe a formula designed to reduce or minimize the possibility of an allergic response by containing few or no potentially irritating ingredients. Hot Tot’s formulas have been extensively tested by third-party labs to verify that our products did not trigger allergic reactions in study participants.

Herbal remedy made by steeping the plant material in water.

Keratin is a highly durable protein that provides structure to several types of living tissues including hair, skin and nails. Healthy hair contains approximately 90% keratin (the remaining 10% is natural moisture). Keratin is responsible for hair’s strength and resistance; it protects hair, minimizing damages caused by brushing and overuse of accessories such as barrettes or elastic bands.

Derived from the flowers of the lavender plant, this oil is used for its antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, antiseptic and cleansing properties. A recent study involving alopecia patients showed that application of lavender oil increased hair growth. It is also useful in treating oily skin and scalp and acts as an insect and lice repellent.

Considered extremely nourishing, linoleic acid is an excellent emollient, known for its ability to soften and re-condition the scalp and skin. This light oil penetrates easily and is used in a variety of personal care products.

This plant derived pure essential oil is a component of our custom blended fragrance.

This plant derived pure essential oil is a component of our custom blended fragrance.

Extracted from New Zealand, this highly sustainable material grows up to 19 inches every day! Sea kelp is a versatile ingredient and is rich in vitamins, minerals and fatty acid. It is a great source of silica for healthy hair adding body and increased sheen.

Expressed from the husks of rice kernels, rice oil is an excellent source of vitamins B, E, fatty acids and antioxidant nutrients. It is ultra-gentle, making it perfect for eye creams, baby products and light facial and products for the most sensitive of skin. Rice extract nourishes hair and prevents dehydration, sealing dry ends to protect against breakage. Rice proteins increase hair’s elasticity and density while adding natural volume.

Changes to cell makeup that results in cell death.

Also known as Vitamin B, Panthenol is a deep penetrating moisturizer that stimulates cellular proliferation and promotes normal keratinization. It improves hair texture by coating and sealing the follicle making the hair appear soft, shiny and full of body.

Ingredients used to ensure that a product is not too acidic or alkaline, as such could be irritating to eyes and / or skin.

Polymers can be found in nature or synthesized in a lab and are present in most hair products. They perform a variety of different functions and make products perform as desired. Polymers are often the source of hold in formulas created to enhance style and are also used for conditioning and smoothing purposes.

One of the most common groups of substances found in plants, polyphenolic compounds have anti-cariogenic and antioxidant properties.

These sugar-derived polymers have healing, soothing and skin protecting qualities that can reduce irritation.

This gentle, water soluble, and non-irritating ingredient is often derived from fruits and berries and is used as a surfactant and/or emulsifying agent. It is often used in cosmetics to solubilize essential oils into water-based products, and is also found in lotions, creams, hair loss treatments and skin cleansers. While this ingredient is often associated with 1,4-dioxane, our products have been verified as dioxane free.

This gentle, water soluble, and non-irritating ingredient is often derived from fruits and berries and is used as a surfactant and/or emulsifying agent. It is often used in cosmetics to solubilize essential oils into water-based products, and is also found in lotions, creams, hair loss treatments and skin cleansers. While this ingredient is often associated with 1,4-dioxane, our products have been verified as dioxane free.

This gentle, water soluble, and non-irritating ingredient is often derived from fruits and berries and is used as a surfactant and/or emulsifying agent. It is often used in cosmetics to solubilize essential oils into water-based products, and is also found in lotions, creams, hair loss treatments and skin cleansers. While this ingredient is often associated with 1,4-dioxane, our products have been verified as dioxane free.

This innovative polymer also serves as a hair-conditioning agent while providing thermal protection and flexible yet durable hold.

Widely used as a food preservative, this safe and natural paraben-alternative is derived from Sorbic Acid (found in the berries of the mountain ash tree). It is approved for use in NSF organic formulas.

Used as a conditioner, thickener and / or emollient, this water-soluble ingredient is used in hair products because of its ability to moisturize, sheen-enhancement and static reducer. While this ingredient is often associated with 1,4-dioxane, our products have been verified as dioxane free.

A material added to prolong shelf life and prevent bacteria, yeast, and / or mold from growing.

Obtained from the dried kernel of the Almond tree, this oil is rich in proteins, vitamins and essential fatty acids. It nourishes weak /dry hair and enhances shine and luster.

An ingredient intended to provide medium-control hold.

This highly effective moisturizer contains naturally occurring carbohydrates similar to the structure of the skin’s stratum corneum. Often used as an emollient, Saccharide Isomerate’s long-lasting moisture binders make it effective for dry air under low relative humidity.

A naturally occurring mineral that can be combined with a variety of natural elements to form a polymer; dimethicone is one such example.

Obtained from the liquid wax in the seed of a desert plant, this essential oil closely resembles the skin’s natural sebum. Jojoba seed oil has antibacterial properties and is beneficial for those with dry scalp and dandruff. It strengthens and hydrates hair from within, making it a useful yet versatile ingredient.

This preservative is used in most food production and is derived from benzoic acid, which occurs naturally in ripe fruit.

A term used to describe a large group of ingredients, including water, added to a product for the purpose of dissolving other ingredients without altering the chemical makeup of such ingredients.

Naturally derived from vegetable fats, this solid waxy substance acts as an emulsifier and thickener for lotions and creams.

This natural fatty alcohol is found in plant cells and does not behave like ethanol or propanol alcohol, as it is not at all drying. To the contrary, it conditions and softens the hair and improves manageability.

Derived from a fatty acid found in plants, this ingredient is used for its anti-static properties. It also increases luster and has excellent detangling capabilities.

An ingredient added to create lather (bubbles), cleanse and condition.

This ingredient is an effective antioxidant. Used for its intensive hair conditioning abilities, it softens strands and soothes and protects the scalp.

Used as a pH balancing agent, tromethamine is considered a low hazard ingredient by the Cosmetics Database and EWG.

Protection from UVA and UVB rays.

See Cetyl Alcohol

This expressed oil of vegetable origin consists primarily of triglycerides of fatty acids. Generally is used as a carrier oil, vegetable oil is hypoallergenic making it ideal for those with sensitive, dry and itchy scalps.

Extracted from grape seeds, this antioxidant rich oil is noted for its moisturizing, regenerative and restructuring benefits. High in linoleic acid and rich in polypheonols, grape seed oil also treats split ends.

With strong antioxidant properties, its action combined with carotenoids and melanin create a mixture with strong antioxidant and anti-free radical properties.

Researchers have found vitamin D to be essential in preventing hair loss and stimulating new growth.

A group of eight fat-soluble compounds that include both tocopherols and tocotrienols. It is a fat-soluble antioxidant that stops the production of reactive oxygen species formed when fat undergoes oxidation.

Discovered in 1951, vitamin F is know for its restructuring action and is one of the youngest vitamins. It is a mixture of omega-3, omega-6 and arachidonic acids.

Used as a solvent in cosmetics, water is stripped of contaminants such as metals, carbonates, bicarbonates and other free radicals that may interfere with chemical reactions in the products and in the body.