AMVital Ingredient Glossary | Natural Skincare Ingredients A-Z

AMVital Ingredient Glossary

Complete A-Z guide to the natural, effective ingredients in our turmeric skincare formulas. Learn what each ingredient does, where it comes from, and how it benefits your skin.

Natural skincare ingredients used in AMVital products

📋 Quick Summary

AMVital uses natural, science-backed ingredients in all formulas. Key ingredients include turmeric extract (brightening, anti-inflammatory), kojic acid (dark spot fading), vitamin C (antioxidant, collagen boost), niacinamide (pore minimizing, oil control), hyaluronic acid (hydration, plumping), and complementary botanicals like aloe vera, green tea, and licorice root. All ingredients are transparently listed with benefits explained. No harsh sulfates, parabens, or synthetic dyes. Cruelty-free, vegan-friendly formulations. This glossary covers 12+ core ingredients with sourcing details, skin benefits, and product applications.

🎬 Watch: Understanding Your Skincare Ingredients

Not sure what curcumin does or why kojic acid fades dark spots? Watch this visual guide to AMVital's key ingredients, see how they work together in formulations, and learn which ingredients target your specific skin concerns.

At AMVital, transparency isn't just a buzzword—it's the foundation of everything we create. You deserve to know exactly what you're putting on your skin, where those ingredients come from, and how they work to improve your complexion. That's why we built this comprehensive ingredient glossary: to empower you with knowledge about every natural active, botanical extract, and science-backed compound in our turmeric-powered skincare line.

Every AMVital formula starts with our hero ingredient: turmeric extract, standardized for curcumin content to ensure consistent brightening and anti-inflammatory benefits. We then enhance turmeric's power with carefully selected complementary ingredients—proven actives like kojic acid, vitamin C, and niacinamide, plus nourishing botanicals like aloe vera, green tea extract, and shea butter. These ingredients aren't randomly chosen; each one serves a specific purpose and works synergistically with others to deliver visible results.

This glossary explains what each ingredient is, its origin (natural source or scientific process), concentration ranges we use, specific skin benefits, and which AMVital products contain it. Whether you're curious about turmeric's anti-inflammatory properties, wondering how kojic acid fades dark spots, or trying to understand why we pair vitamin C with vitamin E, you'll find clear, jargon-free answers here.

Our Ingredient Philosophy

AMVital formulations follow three guiding principles:

1. Natural First, Science-Backed Always
We prioritize natural ingredients with proven efficacy. Every ingredient must have scientific research supporting its benefits—tradition alone isn't enough.

2. Synergy Over Single Ingredients
We combine ingredients that enhance each other's effectiveness. Turmeric + kojic acid brightens better than either alone. Vitamin C + vitamin E provides stronger antioxidant protection.

3. Transparency in Every Formula
We list all ingredients in descending order by concentration. No "proprietary blends" hiding what's really inside. No misleading marketing terms masking cheap fillers.

What You Won't Find in AMVital Products

❌ We Never Use:

  • Harsh sulfates: No SLS (sodium lauryl sulfate) or SLES—we use gentle, naturally-derived cleansing agents
  • Parabens: No methylparaben, propylparaben, or other controversial preservatives
  • Synthetic dyes: No artificial coloring—our products' golden hue comes from real turmeric
  • Artificial fragrances: We use essential oils or leave products unscented—no "fragrance" hiding allergens
  • Mineral oil or petrolatum: These petroleum derivatives clog pores—we use plant-based oils instead
  • Phthalates: No endocrine-disrupting compounds
  • Formaldehyde donors: No questionable preservatives that release formaldehyde

Ingredient Categories in This Glossary

We've organized ingredients into functional categories to help you understand their roles:

  • Brightening Actives: Turmeric extract, kojic acid, vitamin C, licorice root extract
  • Hydrating Agents: Hyaluronic acid, glycerin, aloe vera
  • Skin Barrier Support: Niacinamide, shea butter, jojoba oil
  • Antioxidant Protection: Vitamin C, vitamin E, green tea extract
  • Anti-Inflammatory Botanicals: Turmeric, aloe vera, licorice root, green tea

🔬 Turmeric Science: Why Ingredient Transparency Matters

Curcumin concentration determines effectiveness: Not all turmeric products are created equal. Raw turmeric powder contains only 2-5% curcumin, while AMVital uses concentrated turmeric extract standardized to contain significantly higher curcumin levels. This standardization is why our products deliver consistent brightening results—you're getting therapeutic concentrations of the active compound, not just trace amounts from ground turmeric root.

Ingredient interactions affect stability: Curcumin is notoriously unstable—it degrades rapidly when exposed to light, heat, or certain pH levels. We formulate with complementary antioxidants like vitamin E and stabilized vitamin C derivatives to protect curcumin's potency from manufacturing through your final application. This is why knowing ingredient interactions matters: effective formulation isn't just about adding beneficial ingredients, it's about combining them properly to maintain their effectiveness.

Natural doesn't always mean safe: While AMVital prioritizes natural ingredients, we acknowledge that "natural" alone doesn't guarantee safety or effectiveness. Poison ivy is natural. Essential oils can cause allergic reactions. That's why we combine traditional botanical wisdom with modern safety testing and concentration limits. Every ingredient undergoes stability testing, patch testing, and efficacy validation before appearing in our formulas—natural sources enhanced by scientific rigor for the best of both worlds.

Complete Ingredient Directory

Click any ingredient below to learn its benefits, sourcing, and which AMVital products contain it.

Aloe Vera

Nature's soothing healer for calm, hydrated skin

📋 Quick Facts

Scientific name: Aloe barbadensis miller
Source: Succulent plant gel from aloe leaves
Key compounds: Polysaccharides, enzymes, vitamins A/C/E, minerals
Best for: All skin types, especially sensitive or irritated skin

What It Is

Aloe vera is a succulent plant extract used for thousands of years in skincare and traditional medicine across multiple cultures (Egyptian, Greek, Chinese, Ayurvedic). The clear gel inside aloe leaves contains over 75 active compounds including vitamins, minerals, enzymes, amino acids, and polysaccharides. We use pharmaceutical-grade aloe vera gel that's cold-pressed to preserve the plant's natural benefits and standardized for consistent polysaccharide content.

How It Benefits Your Skin

  • Soothes irritation: Natural anti-inflammatory compounds (polysaccharides, enzymes) calm redness, burning sensations, and reactive skin
  • Lightweight hydration: Provides water-based moisture that absorbs quickly without leaving greasy residue—perfect for oily or acne-prone skin
  • Accelerates healing: Contains gibberellins and auxins that speed healing of minor cuts, burns, and post-acne damage while supporting skin barrier repair
  • Antioxidant delivery: Vitamins C and E protect against free radical damage from UV exposure and pollution
  • Improves product absorption: Aloe's gel texture helps other active ingredients penetrate more effectively

Found In These Products

Turmeric Toner, Turmeric Face Cream, Turmeric Serum

AMVital Formulation Note

We pair aloe vera with turmeric in several formulas to create a powerful anti-inflammatory duo. Both ingredients calm irritation through different mechanisms—aloe soothes surface inflammation while curcumin addresses deeper inflammatory pathways—resulting in faster, more complete redness reduction than either ingredient alone.

Glycerin

A moisture magnet that keeps skin soft and supple

📋 Quick Facts

Scientific name: Glycerol
Source: Plant-derived from coconut, soy, or palm oil
Classification: Humectant (moisture-attracting compound)
Best for: All skin types, especially dry or dehydrated skin

What It Is

Glycerin is a natural humectant found in all fats and oils. While it can be derived from animal sources, AMVital uses only plant-derived vegetable glycerin from sustainable coconut or soy sources. Humectants work by attracting water molecules like magnets—glycerin pulls moisture from the air and from deeper skin layers (dermis) to the surface (epidermis), maintaining optimal hydration throughout the day.

How It Benefits Your Skin

  • Attracts and retains moisture: Draws water into skin and helps retain hydration for 8+ hours after application
  • Strengthens skin barrier: Supports production of natural moisturizing factors (NMFs) that maintain barrier integrity
  • Improves skin texture: Regular use leads to visibly smoother, softer skin with improved elasticity
  • Non-comedogenic: Won't clog pores—suitable for oily, acne-prone, and sensitive skin
  • Enhances penetration: Helps other active ingredients like vitamin C and niacinamide penetrate more effectively

Found In These Products

Turmeric Soap, Turmeric Cleanser, Turmeric Toner, Turmeric Cream

Concentration & Safety

We use glycerin at 3-10% concentration depending on product format. At these levels, it provides excellent hydration without feeling sticky. Glycerin is one of the safest, most well-tolerated skincare ingredients with virtually no risk of irritation or allergic reaction.

Green Tea Extract

Antioxidant-rich protection from environmental stressors

📋 Quick Facts

Scientific name: Camellia sinensis leaf extract
Source: Leaves of the green tea plant
Key compounds: EGCG (epigallocatechin gallate), polyphenols, catechins
Best for: All skin types, especially aging, sun-damaged, or acne-prone skin

What It Is

Green tea extract comes from the Camellia sinensis plant—the same plant that produces black, white, and oolong teas. Green tea is minimally processed (not oxidized), which preserves its exceptionally high concentration of polyphenols, especially EGCG (epigallocatechin gallate). These compounds provide powerful antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antimicrobial benefits. We use concentrated green tea extract standardized to contain at least 50% polyphenols and 30% EGCG for maximum potency.

How It Benefits Your Skin

  • Powerful antioxidant protection: Neutralizes free radicals that cause premature aging, wrinkles, and sun damage
  • Reduces inflammation: Calms reactive, sensitive, and acne-prone skin by suppressing inflammatory pathways
  • UV damage protection: Helps protect against UV-induced DNA damage and reduces sunburn (not a substitute for SPF!)
  • Collagen preservation: Protects existing collagen from degradation while supporting new collagen production
  • Sebum regulation: Helps control excess oil production in acne-prone or oily skin

Found In These Products

Turmeric Serum, Turmeric Cream

AMVital Formulation Note

Green tea extract works synergistically with turmeric—both are potent antioxidants that protect skin from different angles. Turmeric neutralizes reactive oxygen species (ROS) while green tea polyphenols neutralize reactive nitrogen species (RNS), providing more comprehensive protection than either antioxidant alone.

Hyaluronic Acid

The ultimate hydrator for plump, dewy skin

📋 Quick Facts

Also known as: Sodium hyaluronate (salt form)
Source: Naturally occurs in body; skincare form is biofermented
Key property: Holds up to 1,000x its weight in water
Best for: All skin types, especially dry, dehydrated, or aging skin

What It Is

Hyaluronic acid (HA) is a naturally occurring glycosaminoglycan found throughout the body—nearly half of it resides in the skin. This remarkable molecule can hold up to 1,000 times its weight in water, making it one of the most effective hydrating ingredients in skincare. As we age, natural HA production declines, contributing to dryness, fine lines, and loss of volume. We use multiple molecular weights of hyaluronic acid (low, medium, high) to hydrate different depths of skin simultaneously—low MW penetrates deeply while high MW hydrates the surface.

How It Benefits Your Skin

  • Multi-layer hydration: Different molecular weights deliver moisture to multiple skin depths for comprehensive hydration
  • Visible plumping: Immediate water-binding creates visibly fuller, plumper skin within minutes of application
  • Reduces fine lines: Hydration smooths out dehydration lines and makes deeper wrinkles less noticeable
  • Supports elasticity: Well-hydrated skin is more supple, resilient, and able to bounce back from expressions
  • Enhances other ingredients: HA's moisture creates an optimal environment for other actives like vitamin C and niacinamide to work

Found In These Products

Turmeric Serum, Turmeric Cream, Turmeric Toner

Application Tips

Apply hyaluronic acid products to damp skin—HA needs water to be effective. If applied to completely dry skin, it can actually pull moisture from deeper layers, causing temporary dehydration. Always follow with a moisturizer to seal in the hydration HA attracts.

Jojoba Oil

Lightweight moisture that balances without clogging

📋 Quick Facts

Scientific name: Simmondsia chinensis seed oil
Source: Seeds of jojoba plant (native to southwestern US)
Actually: A liquid wax ester, not technically an oil
Best for: All skin types, especially oily, acne-prone, or combination skin

What It Is

Jojoba oil is actually a liquid wax ester extracted from jojoba plant seeds, native to the southwestern United States and Mexico. Its molecular structure (long-chain wax esters) closely resembles human sebum, making it uniquely compatible with skin. This similarity means jojoba doesn't just add moisture—it helps regulate skin's natural oil production by "tricking" skin into producing less excess sebum when jojoba is present.

How It Benefits Your Skin

  • Mimics natural sebum: Molecular similarity to sebum allows it to regulate and balance oil production naturally
  • Non-comedogenic moisture: Provides hydration without clogging pores or causing breakouts—safe for acne-prone skin
  • Vitamin-rich nourishment: High in vitamins E and B-complex for antioxidant protection and skin nourishment
  • Controls breakouts: Signals skin to produce less excess oil, reducing oiliness and preventing clogged pores
  • Barrier support: Strengthens skin's protective barrier without feeling heavy or greasy

Found In These Products

Turmeric Face Oil, Turmeric Body Scrub

Why It Works for Oily Skin

Counterintuitively, adding oil (jojoba) to oily skin can reduce oiliness. When skin detects sufficient surface lipids (from jojoba), it receives signals to slow sebum production. This self-regulating effect makes jojoba one of the best ingredients for balancing combination and oily skin types.

Kojic Acid

Natural brightening power for an even, radiant complexion

📋 Quick Facts

Chemical formula: C₆H₆O₄
Source: Fermentation byproduct from fungi (sake production)
Mechanism: Tyrosinase inhibitor (blocks melanin production)
Best for: Hyperpigmentation, dark spots, melasma, uneven tone

What It Is

Kojic acid is a natural compound produced by various fungi species, particularly Aspergillus oryzae. It forms during the fermentation of rice in sake (Japanese rice wine) production, where it was first discovered. Kojic acid works by blocking tyrosinase, the enzyme responsible for melanin production in skin. This tyrosinase-inhibiting mechanism makes kojic acid highly effective at addressing dark spots, hyperpigmentation, and uneven skin tone. We use pharmaceutical-grade kojic acid at optimal concentrations (1-2%) that ensure both safety and visible results.

How It Benefits Your Skin

  • Fades dark spots: Visibly lightens hyperpigmentation, age spots, and post-acne marks over 6-8 weeks of consistent use
  • Prevents new pigmentation: Blocks melanin production to prevent new dark spots from forming
  • Evens overall tone: Creates more uniform complexion for a luminous, radiant appearance
  • Antioxidant benefits: Provides additional free radical protection against environmental damage
  • Enhances other brighteners: Works synergistically with vitamin C and turmeric for amplified brightening

Found In These Products

Turmeric Kojic Acid Soap, Kojic Acid Cleansing Pads

Usage & Safety

Kojic acid is safe at concentrations up to 4%, though we use 1-2% for optimal balance of efficacy and gentleness. Some people experience mild sensitivity—always patch test first. Kojic acid increases sun sensitivity, so daily SPF 30+ is mandatory when using products containing this ingredient. Results appear gradually over 6-8 weeks with consistent use.

AMVital Formulation Note

We combine kojic acid with turmeric extract to create a dual-action brightening system. Kojic acid blocks melanin production (preventing new pigmentation) while turmeric's curcumin helps fade existing pigmentation and reduces inflammation that triggers pigmentation. This two-pronged approach addresses hyperpigmentation from multiple pathways for faster, more complete results.

Licorice Root Extract

Gentle brightening with powerful soothing properties

📋 Quick Facts

Scientific name: Glycyrrhiza glabra root extract
Source: Root of the licorice plant
Key compound: Glabridin (brightening agent)
Best for: Sensitive skin, redness, dark spots, oily/acne-prone skin

What It Is

Licorice root extract comes from Glycyrrhiza glabra, a plant used in traditional medicine for over 4,000 years across Egyptian, Chinese, and Greek cultures. The active compound glabridin blocks melanin production while simultaneously reducing inflammation—a unique dual benefit. Unlike some brightening ingredients that can irritate, licorice root is exceptionally gentle, making it ideal for sensitive skin. We source licorice extract standardized to contain at least 40% glabridin for consistent brightening results.

How It Benefits Your Skin

  • Gentle brightening: Fades hyperpigmentation and dark spots without irritation—safe for sensitive skin
  • Anti-inflammatory power: Reduces redness, inflammation, and reactive skin conditions like rosacea
  • Antioxidant protection: Shields skin from free radical damage and environmental stressors
  • Oil control: Helps regulate sebum production and minimize breakouts in oily/acne-prone skin
  • UV protection: Provides mild sun protection (not a substitute for SPF) by absorbing UV radiation

Found In These Products

Turmeric Serum, Turmeric Toner

Why It's Ideal for Sensitive Skin

Licorice root extract is one of the few brightening ingredients gentle enough for sensitive, reactive, or rosacea-prone skin. While ingredients like kojic acid or vitamin C can sometimes cause irritation, licorice root actually soothes inflammation while brightening—making it perfect for those who can't tolerate stronger actives.

Niacinamide

The multi-tasking vitamin for clearer, stronger skin

📋 Quick Facts

Also known as: Vitamin B3, nicotinamide
Source: Water-soluble B vitamin
Versatility: Addresses 10+ skin concerns simultaneously
Best for: All skin types, especially oily, acne-prone, aging, or sensitive

What It Is

Niacinamide, also known as vitamin B3 or nicotinamide, is a water-soluble vitamin essential for over 400 enzymatic reactions in the body. It's involved in DNA repair, energy production, and cell communication—all critical for healthy skin function. Niacinamide is one of the most researched, well-tolerated, and versatile skincare ingredients available. It's highly stable, works well with other ingredients (no conflicts!), and benefits virtually every skin type and concern.

How It Benefits Your Skin

  • Minimizes pores: Reduces appearance of enlarged pores and refines overall skin texture
  • Regulates sebum: Balances oil production to reduce excess oiliness and prevent breakouts
  • Strengthens barrier: Increases ceramide production for improved moisture retention and resilience
  • Reduces inflammation: Calms redness, irritation, and acne-related inflammation
  • Brightens tone: Fades hyperpigmentation and prevents melanin transfer for more even complexion
  • Anti-aging effects: Reduces fine lines, improves elasticity, and stimulates collagen production

Found In These Products

Turmeric Serum, Turmeric Cream

Concentration & Results

We use niacinamide at 3-5% concentration—the sweet spot supported by research for optimal benefits without irritation. Results appear gradually: oil control and redness reduction within 2-4 weeks, pore minimizing and texture improvement in 4-8 weeks, brightening and anti-aging effects in 8-12 weeks.

AMVital Formulation Note

Niacinamide pairs beautifully with turmeric because both ingredients address inflammation and brightening from complementary angles. Turmeric provides immediate anti-inflammatory relief while niacinamide works on cellular level to strengthen skin's natural defenses. Together, they create clearer, calmer, more resilient skin than either ingredient alone.

Shea Butter

Rich nourishment from Africa's healing tree

📋 Quick Facts

Scientific name: Vitellaria paradoxa (Butyrospermum parkii)
Source: Nuts of African shea tree ("Tree of Life")
Key compounds: Fatty acids, vitamins A/E, triterpenes
Best for: Dry, rough, eczema-prone, or mature skin

What It Is

Shea butter is extracted from nuts of the African shea tree (Vitellaria paradoxa), called the "Tree of Life" in many West African communities where it's been used for centuries. This creamy, nutrient-rich butter contains stearic acid, oleic acid, and linoleic acid (fatty acids), plus vitamins A and E, and natural anti-inflammatory compounds called triterpenes. We source fair-trade, unrefined shea butter that preserves its full spectrum of benefits—refined shea butter loses many beneficial compounds during processing.

How It Benefits Your Skin

  • Deep, lasting moisture: Rich fatty acid content provides intensive hydration for dry, rough, or flaky skin
  • Barrier repair: Supports and strengthens skin's protective barrier against environmental stress
  • Anti-inflammatory action: Natural triterpenes reduce inflammation and promote healing
  • Vitamin delivery: Vitamins A and E provide antioxidant protection and support skin renewal
  • Improves elasticity: Fatty acids help maintain skin's suppleness and reduce appearance of fine lines

Found In These Products

Turmeric Soap, Turmeric Cream, Turmeric Body Scrub

Sourcing & Sustainability

AMVital sources fair-trade shea butter from women's cooperatives in West Africa, supporting sustainable livelihoods and traditional harvesting methods. Unrefined shea butter has a natural, slightly nutty scent and creamy beige color—signs that beneficial compounds remain intact.

Turmeric Extract

Nature's golden root for radiant, healthy skin

📋 Quick Facts

Scientific name: Curcuma longa rhizome extract
Source: Root of turmeric plant (ginger family)
Key compound: Curcumin (3-5% in raw turmeric, concentrated in extracts)
Best for: All skin types, especially hyperpigmentation, inflammation, aging

What It Is

Turmeric extract comes from the rhizome (root) of Curcuma longa, a plant in the ginger family that's been used for over 4,000 years in Ayurvedic medicine. The active compound curcumin provides powerful anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and brightening benefits. Raw turmeric powder contains only 2-5% curcumin, but we use concentrated turmeric extract standardized to contain significantly higher curcumin levels (typically 95% curcuminoids) for consistent, effective results in every formula. This standardization is what separates effective products from those with trace amounts.

How It Benefits Your Skin

  • Reduces inflammation: Curcumin inhibits inflammatory pathways (NF-κB, COX-2) to calm irritated, reactive skin conditions
  • Brightens complexion: Inhibits melanin production and helps fade existing hyperpigmentation and dark spots
  • Antioxidant protection: Neutralizes free radicals that cause premature aging, wrinkles, and environmental damage
  • Supports healing: Accelerates wound healing and helps reduce appearance of scars and post-acne marks
  • Antimicrobial properties: Helps control acne-causing bacteria for clearer skin

Found In These Products

Every AMVital product contains turmeric—it's our hero ingredient: Turmeric Soap, Turmeric Serum, Turmeric Cream, Turmeric Toner, and all other formulations.

Results Timeline

Turmeric results appear gradually with consistent use: immediate anti-inflammatory relief (redness reduction within hours), early texture improvement in 2-3 weeks, visible brightening in 6-8 weeks, optimal results in 12+ weeks. Patience and consistency are key—curcumin works gradually to create lasting change.

AMVital Formulation Note

Turmeric is the hero ingredient in our entire line. Every product we create showcases turmeric's transformative benefits while supporting it with complementary natural actives for maximum results. We never compromise on curcumin concentration—every formula contains therapeutic levels proven effective in research.

Vitamin C

Brightening antioxidant power for glowing skin

📋 Quick Facts

Chemical name: L-ascorbic acid (and derivatives)
Forms used: Sodium ascorbyl phosphate, magnesium ascorbyl phosphate
Function: Antioxidant, brightening agent, collagen booster
Best for: All skin types, especially dull, aging, or sun-damaged skin

What It Is

Vitamin C (L-ascorbic acid) is one of the most researched and validated ingredients in skincare. This water-soluble vitamin is essential for collagen synthesis—without adequate vitamin C, the body cannot produce collagen. It also provides powerful antioxidant protection and brightening benefits. Pure L-ascorbic acid is highly effective but notoriously unstable (degrades rapidly with light, air, heat). We use stabilized vitamin C derivatives like sodium ascorbyl phosphate and magnesium ascorbyl phosphate that maintain potency and deliver consistent brightening results without irritation.

How It Benefits Your Skin

  • Brightens complexion: Inhibits melanin production and fades hyperpigmentation for more even, radiant tone
  • Boosts collagen: Essential cofactor in collagen synthesis—improves firmness and reduces fine lines
  • Antioxidant protection: Neutralizes free radicals from UV exposure, pollution, and oxidative stress
  • Enhances radiance: Creates healthy, glowing appearance by improving skin texture and tone
  • UV damage mitigation: Helps reduce UV-induced damage (not a substitute for SPF!)

Found In These Products

Turmeric Serum, Turmeric Clay Mask, Turmeric Kojic Acid Soap

Why We Use Stabilized Forms

Pure L-ascorbic acid degrades quickly, turns products orange/brown, and can irritate skin at effective concentrations (15-20%). Stabilized derivatives like sodium ascorbyl phosphate (SAP) convert to active vitamin C in skin, remain stable in formulas, work at lower pH (gentler), and provide similar benefits without irritation. This makes vitamin C accessible to sensitive skin types who can't tolerate pure ascorbic acid.

Best Practices

Use vitamin C in morning to maximize antioxidant protection during daytime exposure. Always follow with SPF—vitamin C enhances sunscreen effectiveness. Pair with vitamin E (we do this in our formulas) for synergistic antioxidant boost. Results appear in 6-8 weeks with consistent use.

Vitamin E

Protective nourishment for resilient, healthy skin

📋 Quick Facts

Chemical name: Tocopherol (and tocopheryl acetate)
Source: Fat-soluble vitamin from plant oils
Function: Antioxidant, moisturizer, barrier support
Best for: All skin types, especially dry, mature, or sun-damaged skin

What It Is

Vitamin E (tocopherol) is a fat-soluble antioxidant naturally found in skin where it protects cell membranes from oxidative damage. It also supports the skin's natural barrier function and helps maintain moisture. There are multiple forms of vitamin E (alpha, beta, gamma, delta tocopherol), but alpha-tocopherol is most biologically active. We use natural vitamin E derived from plant oils (sunflower, soybean, wheat germ) which offers superior benefits compared to synthetic dl-alpha-tocopherol.

How It Benefits Your Skin

  • Free radical protection: Shields skin from UV damage, pollution, and oxidative stress that cause aging
  • Supports healing: Accelerates wound healing and reduces appearance of scars and blemishes
  • Moisture retention: Helps skin retain water for softer, smoother texture
  • Synergy with vitamin C: Regenerates oxidized vitamin C, amplifying antioxidant protection when paired
  • Anti-inflammatory: Reduces inflammation and soothes irritated or sun-damaged skin

Found In These Products

Turmeric Face Oil, Turmeric Cream, Turmeric Serum

AMVital Formulation Note

We include vitamin E in turmeric formulas to enhance curcumin's antioxidant benefits and improve formulation stability. Vitamin E protects curcumin from oxidative degradation, ensuring you receive full potency from first use to last drop. This complementary pairing also provides broader antioxidant protection than either ingredient alone.

Ingredient Pairing Guide: What Works Together

Understanding ingredient synergies helps you build more effective routines. Here are powerful combinations in AMVital products:

Brightening Powerhouses

Pairing Why It Works Found In
Turmeric + Kojic Acid Dual mechanism: Kojic blocks new melanin, turmeric fades existing pigmentation Turmeric Kojic Soap
Vitamin C + Turmeric Both inhibit melanin through different pathways; amplified brightening Turmeric Serum
Niacinamide + Turmeric Niacinamide prevents melanin transfer; turmeric blocks production Turmeric Cream
Licorice Root + Turmeric Gentle brightening duo safe for sensitive skin; reduces inflammation Turmeric Toner

Antioxidant Shields

Pairing Why It Works Found In
Vitamin C + Vitamin E Vitamin E regenerates oxidized vitamin C; synergistic protection Turmeric Serum
Turmeric + Green Tea Complementary antioxidants: ROS + RNS neutralization Turmeric Cream
Turmeric + Vitamin E Vitamin E protects curcumin stability; enhanced potency Turmeric Face Oil

Hydration Boosters

Pairing Why It Works Found In
Hyaluronic Acid + Glycerin Multi-layer hydration: HA attracts water, glycerin retains it Turmeric Toner
Aloe Vera + Turmeric Lightweight hydration with anti-inflammatory boost Turmeric Cream
Shea Butter + Jojoba Oil Rich nourishment (shea) + lightweight balance (jojoba) Turmeric Body Scrub

Frequently Asked Questions About Ingredients

Why does turmeric concentration matter?

Raw turmeric powder contains only 2-5% curcumin (the active compound), while AMVital uses concentrated turmeric extract standardized to 95% curcuminoids. This 20-40x concentration difference is why our products deliver consistent brightening results while homemade turmeric masks often disappoint. Therapeutic curcumin levels (what research validates) require concentrated extracts—trace amounts from ground turmeric aren't sufficient for visible skin benefits. This standardization also prevents yellow staining since we're using purified curcumin compounds, not the full spectrum of turmeric pigments.

Are natural ingredients always better than synthetic?

Not necessarily. While AMVital prioritizes natural ingredients, we acknowledge that "natural" doesn't automatically mean safer or more effective. Poison ivy is natural. Many essential oils cause allergic reactions. Conversely, some synthetic ingredients (like stabilized vitamin C derivatives or pharmaceutical-grade hyaluronic acid) are gentler and more effective than natural alternatives. Our philosophy: prioritize natural sources when they're scientifically validated and properly processed, but don't reject synthetic ingredients that improve safety, stability, or efficacy. The best skincare combines traditional botanical wisdom with modern scientific rigor—natural sources enhanced by scientific formulation for optimal results.

Can I use multiple AMVital products together?

Absolutely! AMVital products are designed to work together in complete routines. Our ingredients have no conflicts—you can safely layer Turmeric Cleanser + Turmeric Toner + Turmeric Serum + Turmeric Cream without worrying about interactions. General layering order: thinnest to thickest consistency (cleanser → toner → serum → cream). The complementary ingredients across products amplify benefits—for example, using both kojic acid soap and vitamin C serum creates dual-action brightening that's more effective than either product alone. Start with 2-3 products and expand your routine as needed.

Do AMVital products contain preservatives?

Yes, any water-containing skincare product requires preservatives to prevent bacterial, fungal, and mold growth that would make products unsafe. However, we use only gentle, well-tolerated preservatives like phenoxyethanol, ethylhexylglycerin, and potassium sorbate—never parabens or formaldehyde donors. These preservatives are thoroughly researched, deemed safe by cosmetic regulatory bodies worldwide, and used at minimum effective concentrations. Without preservatives, products would become contaminated within days, creating serious health risks. "Preservative-free" is only safe for anhydrous (no water) products like pure oils. Our approach: use proven-safe preservatives at lowest necessary levels to protect your safety without compromising ingredient integrity.

Are AMVital products vegan and cruelty-free?

Yes, all AMVital products are vegan-friendly (contain no animal-derived ingredients) and cruelty-free (never tested on animals at any stage of production). We use plant-derived alternatives: vegetable glycerin instead of animal glycerin, plant-based squalane instead of shark-derived squalene, biofermented hyaluronic acid instead of rooster-comb extraction. Our suppliers confirm cruelty-free sourcing, and we don't sell in countries requiring mandatory animal testing. However, we're not certified by organizations like Leaping Bunny or PETA (certification fees are cost-prohibitive for small brands), but we meet all their standards. Our commitment: effective skincare that never harms animals, using sustainable plant sources wherever possible.

How do I know which products contain specific ingredients?

Each ingredient entry in this glossary includes a "Found In These Products" section listing which AMVital products contain that ingredient. Alternatively, visit any product page on our website—full ingredient lists appear in product descriptions in descending order by concentration (INCI naming convention). For personalized recommendations based on specific ingredients you're seeking or avoiding, email support@amvital.com with your concerns and we'll recommend suitable products. You can also use the search function on our Turmeric Skincare Hub to find products by ingredient or concern.

The Bottom Line

AMVital's ingredient glossary provides complete transparency about every natural active, botanical extract, and science-backed compound in our turmeric skincare formulas. Key ingredients include concentrated turmeric extract (standardized for curcumin), kojic acid (melanin inhibitor), vitamin C (antioxidant and collagen booster), niacinamide (multi-tasking vitamin B3), hyaluronic acid (hydration), and complementary botanicals like aloe vera, green tea, licorice root, shea butter, and jojoba oil. We prioritize natural ingredients with scientific validation, formulate for ingredient synergy (combinations more effective than single actives), and maintain complete transparency with full ingredient lists on every product. We never use harsh sulfates, parabens, synthetic dyes, artificial fragrances, mineral oil, phthalates, or formaldehyde donors. All products are vegan-friendly and cruelty-free. Understanding ingredients empowers informed skincare choices—use this glossary to learn what's in your products, how ingredients work together, and which formulations best address your specific concerns. For personalized recommendations, contact support@amvital.com or explore our bestselling collection.

✨ Here's to your golden glow! ✨

Ready to Experience These Ingredients? ✨

Now that you understand the science behind AMVital's natural ingredients, discover how they work together in our complete turmeric skincare collection. Every formula showcases ingredient synergy for maximum results.