What exactly do we put in our products to make them so special?
Well, actually, it’s probably easier to tell you what we don’t use.
We insist that none of them contain synthetic fragrances, artificial colours or animal-derived nasties – just 100% natural organic goodness. And we should know, since every formulation is freshly hand made by us here at the Ruby Red workshop.
We’re proud that our beauty products have some of the shortest ingredient lists ever – and because our quality control is so strict, we’re really excited about what we do put in. So (drum roll please) here’s a selection of what you can look forward to finding in our bath soaks and shea butters.
Our shea butter
The Karite (meaning ‘life’) Tree is one of Mother Nature’s cooler creations. When turned into a smooth, luxurious butter its anti oxidant-packed fruit has been renowned for centuries as a great all-round skin moisturiser and rejuvenator. So, it’s natural that we’ve put it right at the heart of the Ruby Red body care range.
In Africa, the harvesting and processing of shea (rhymes with ‘tea’) butter is a role reserved strictly for women, who benefit exclusively from the trade, which is why it’s locally known as ‘women’s gold’.
To retain its full natural goodness (and to keep the women’s trade sparkling) we make sure our shea butter is ethically sourced direct from a community in Ghana and is kept completely chemical free. So far we’ve found it’s been a hit with everyone from city workers wanting a superior moisturiser to chefs looking for a chemical-free way to cleanse their hands. Who will be next to discover this magical tree’s benefits? We’re working on getting some builders to try it – so watch this space!
Our organic essential oils
Whether they work to soothe, smooth or set the skin tingling, pure organic essential oils are the secret ingredients in our unique formulations.
- Eucalyptus Oil – A powerful and stimulating oil that’s a favourite for natural cough and cold remedies, it also provides real relief for muscle tension.
- Lavender Oil – With a whole host of health applications under its belt this relaxing oil helps to soothe away stress, restore balance and encourage sweet dreams.
- lemongrass oil – A refreshing, earthy lemon fragrance which provides an intense radiant energy to revitilise and uplift
- Lemon Peel Oil – Versatile and revitalising, this oil has been used for centuries to brighten skin and strengthen brittle nails. Can cause dermal irritation.
- Palmarosa Oil – A gorgeous floral-rosy aroma with soothing and strengthening properties that can actively boost skin regeneration.
- Patchouli Oil – The most romantic of natural oils has a strong, sensual scent which can put you in the mood for meditation (among other things!) and prevents dry skin.
- Petit Grain Oil – A mysterious and alluring fragrance which calms and revitalises at the same time.
- Rosemary Oil – A powerfully refreshing fragrance, it makes for a great sport rub, aids concentration and may combat tiredness too. Do not use while pregnant.
- Rose Geranium – An uplifting floral fragrance with balancing qualities for the mind that suits all skin types.
- Sweet Orange Oil – A naturally sweet scent encourages relaxation, which makes it a real favourite for blissful bathing.
- Ylang Ylang Oil – A relaxing aroma helps ease away tension and promote a uniquely euphoric experience. Not surprisingly, in Indonesia the flowers are traditionally spread on wedding night beds.
- Sodium Bicarbonate (known to your Mum as baking soda) works to soften hard water and when mixed with the Citric Acid naturally found in fruit, creates a gentle fizz.
- Organic New Zealand Forest Honey Pooh Bear’s favourite pick-me-up is traditionally used in many cultures to hydrate and cleanse the skin.
Caring for Ruby Red
Because our products are so pure, they need looking after in the big bad world of your bathroom. Keeping them away from heat and direct sunlight helps them stay in tip top condition.