No BS Skincare: Derma e

In a world driven by marketing, it’s rare when a product is as good as the label promises. But, Derma e has been delivering for years, long before paraben was a dirty word and green energy was worthy of absolving people of their guilt. The California-based company has been in the skincare business for more than two decades, making vegetarian, pH-balanced products that are free of parabens, SLS/sulfates and mineral oil, and are cruelty-free. Manufactured in wind-powered facilities, the products do not have lanolin or genetically modified organisms (GMO) either and are sold in recyclable packaging.

One of their best products is part of the Very Clear line. The scrub is made with anti-bacterial tea tree, willow bark, a natural source of salicylic acid, lavender, chamomile and rosewood to control sebum. It is a gentle yet effective scrub that cleans and exfoliates with a creamy consistency that is just course enough.

While the fruit-based lines are great too, it’s the blend of natural and chemical anti-aging elements that make some creams truly alluring. The Deep Wrinkles line is blend of the man-made anti-wrinkle chemical Matrixyl, a peptide Argireline, and a plant-based extract, Pcynogenol, made from the bark of the maritime pine tree. Pycnogenol, is, according to the manufacturer, a natural mix of bioflavonoids, organic acids and procyanidins, a polyphenol  similar to those found in wine. Pycnogenol reportedly serves as an antioxidant, an anti-inflammatory, it binds to collagen and elastin, and it helps spur the production of endothelial nitric oxide, which helps to dilate blood vessels.

If all of that seems like it is for more mature skin than yours, opt for the Deep Hydration line with Hyaluronic Acid. For special skin issues, such as flaking or itchy dry skin, the Psorzema formula has a blend of vitamins A and E; bearberry (uva ursi), which has astringent properties; burdock, which has been used for acne and eczema; and neem, a multi-purpose plant-based element often used in India.

No matter your ailment, derma e has options for nearly ever skin type and they are reasonably priced. Most eye creams are about $20 and most lotions and cream range from $20-40. Available at many health food stores and over 5,000 locations, click here to find a location near you. For a complete list of deram e products, click here.