Phytocosmetology
Sisley describes phytocosmetology as applying natural plant extracts to beauty products. Scientific studies, carried out as much on the plants as on the cutaneous system, reveal an immediate and perfect assimilation of the botanical products, tolerance and maximal effectiveness on the skin. Products contain active ingredients of plant extracts and essentials oils, and are designed to maximise the beneficial properties of every plant extract: to hydrate, reinforce, re-mineralise and embellish the skin, resulting in a visibly improved appearance, the brand's website states. The brand was created in 1976.
Decleor claims to use the most active of extracts from aromatic plants, or essential oils, for skin care. The brand's AromaEssence line is an aromatherapy line, which combines several essential oils to obtain precision of the desired activity. The brand stresses that phytocosmetics should not be confused with aromatherapy - the former is the use of extracts taken from the whole or part of the plant, the latter is the use of essences (which concentrates certain active ingredients up to 100 times) of an aromatic plant. Established 30 years ago.
Dr.Hauschka takes what it calls a holistic approach to its business from its products to treatment methods and business practices. Formulations are based 'on an understanding of the way skin works and its relationship with overall health'. Plant and mineral ingredients are chosen based on the individual effect and the way it interacts with other ingredients. Dr.Hauschka was established 35 years ago.
Aesop was established in 1987 as a producer of botanical-based solutions. The brand shies away from certain practices of other brands. Co-founder Dennis Paphitis on the brand's website says: 'We do not subscribe to claims of anti-ageing, promises of youth and distorted ideas of beauty. Our aim is to assist you with product choices by offering accurate and scientifically validated information illustrating the tangible benefits that botanical ingredients can deliver to your skin and hair.' The company openly admits to using synthetic ingredients which the brand believes have proven to be scientifically validated and with a track record in efficacy and safety.
Jurlique was founded in 1983 by a (then) husband and wife team who combined their professional expertise of scientist and naturopath, and horticulturalist to create 'a natural, plant-based skin-care alternative using a unique and innovative combination of age-old therapies', the brand's website says. An organic herb farm was established early on so the creators could control the quality of ingredients and the farm still produces much of the herbs and plants used in the products today.
Aveda was founded by environmentalist Horst Rechelbacher in 1978. The company's philosophy is based on creating hair and skin-care products from what nature provides, and through a sustainable use of natural resources. Many of its natural ingredients are sourced from indigenous and traditional communities across continents from South America, Africa, Europe and Australia. According to the brand, its Hair Colour line contains up to 99 per cent naturally derived formulas which, it says, in addition to using nature's resources, results in longer-lasting colour.