Our Ingredients

What goes in...

Every ingredient in every Ohmaia product has been chosen deliberately. Here is what each one is, what it does, and why it is here.

How to read this page

This page lists every ingredient used across the Ohmaia Scent Free range, grouped by category. Each one explains what it is, what it does in the formulation, and why we chose it.

Where an ingredient is certified organic, that is noted. Where we are still gathering information, we say so rather than leave something blank that should not be.

No fragrance. No essential oils. No masking agents. No ingredients we cannot account for. Nothing is ever added for fragrance. Occasionally, a raw ingredient may carry a very faint natural aroma of its own, which is simply part of what that ingredient is, not something added to create a scent. That is the standard every entry on this page is held to.

Category 01 — Oils & Butters

The oils and butters in our products are the heart of the formulation. Each one was chosen for its specific fatty acid profile, its skin compatibility, and its ability to nourish without contributing fragrance. All of our oils are certified organic, cold pressed where possible, GMO free, non-irradiated, preservative free, vegan and petrochemical free.

Prunus Armeniaca Kernel Oil (Apricot Kernel Oil) — Certified Organic, Vegan, Cold Pressed

What it is: A lightweight plant oil cold pressed from the seeds of the apricot fruit. Clear and pale yellow in colour with a smooth texture that absorbs into the skin over time.

What it does: Deeply nourishes and hydrates the skin without leaving a greasy feel. Rich in oleic acid which helps maintain moisture and softness, and linoleic acid which supports a firm, smooth and even skin appearance. Also contains vitamins A and E which support the skin's natural barrier and protect against environmental stress. Suitable for all skin types including sensitive, dry and mature skin.

Why we chose it: It absorbs beautifully, delivers real nourishment without heaviness, and is exceptionally well tolerated by sensitive skin. It is one of the most gentle and effective carrier oils available and a natural fit for everything Ohmaia stands for.

Extraction method: Cold pressed. Plant part: Seeds. Country of origin: Australia. Certified organic: Yes — ACO. GMO free: Yes. Vegan: Yes. Petrochemical free: Yes.

Adansonia Digitata Seed Oil (Baobab Oil) — Certified Organic, Vegan, Cold Pressed

What it is: A golden yellow oil cold pressed and gently filtered from the seeds of the Baobab tree, native to Eastern and Western Africa. The Baobab tree is one of the longest living trees on earth, reaching heights of up to 30 metres with trunk diameters of up to 11 metres. The fruit pulp alone is believed to contain six times more vitamin C than an orange.

What it does: Deeply hydrates and nourishes the skin without clogging pores. Rich in vitamins A, D and E and essential omega fatty acids including oleic acid (omega 9) and linoleic acid (omega 6), which work together to strengthen and protect the skin's natural barrier, improve texture and tone, and protect against environmental stressors. Vitamin A supports healthy skin cell growth, vitamin D helps maintain elasticity, and vitamin E is a powerful antioxidant. Particularly beneficial for dry, mature or environmentally stressed skin.

Why we chose it: Baobab oil delivers exceptional nourishment while absorbing quickly and cleanly. It is one of the most nutrient rich oils available and aligns completely with what Ohmaia stands for. It also comes from a supplier whose values we deeply respect.

Extraction method: Cold pressed and gently filtered. Plant part: Seeds. Sourcing: Our Baobab oil comes from a supplier committed to sustainability since 2016. They support annual tree planting, train farmers in sustainable harvesting practices, and work predominantly with women in rural Zimbabwe, where women make up a significant part of the workforce involved in fruit and nut harvesting. Country of origin: Zimbabwe. Certified organic: Yes — ACO & COSMOS. GMO free: Yes. Vegan: Yes. Petrochemical free: Yes.

Camellia Oleifera Seed Oil (Camellia Oil) — Certified Organic, Vegan, Cold Pressed

What it is: A lightweight, clear pale yellow oil cold pressed from the seeds of the Camellia oleifera plant, native to China. Camellia oil has a long history of use in East Asian beauty traditions, prized for centuries for its ability to deeply nourish and protect the skin. Our Camellia oil is refined to ensure a completely neutral aroma, making it suitable for the most fragrance sensitive skin.

What it does: Deeply hydrates and nourishes the skin while absorbing quickly without leaving a greasy residue. Rich in oleic acid which helps maintain moisture and softness, and linoleic acid which supports a firm, even and smooth skin appearance. Its antioxidant content helps protect the skin from environmental stressors and free radical damage. Gentle enough for sensitive and combination skin and suitable for all skin types.

Why we chose it: It is one of the most elegant and skin compatible oils available. It delivers real moisture and protection without heaviness, making it a natural fit for the lightweight, effective formulations Ohmaia is built on. The plant itself is also notably resilient, thriving in varying conditions with minimal pesticide use, which supports more sustainable agriculture. Its flowers bloom in autumn and winter, providing nectar for bees when most other plants have stopped flowering, a small but meaningful detail.

Extraction method: Cold pressed. Plant part: Seeds. Country of origin: China. Certified organic: Yes — ACO & COSMOS. GMO free: Yes. Vegan: Yes. Petrochemical free: Yes.

Cocos Nucifera Oil (Coconut Oil) — Certified Organic, Vegan

What it is: A plant based oil extracted from the flesh of the coconut. Widely used in skincare and haircare for centuries across tropical regions of the world. This version has a neutral aroma, making it ideal for fragrance free formulations where no added scent of any kind is wanted.

What it does: Deeply moisturises and softens the skin and hair. Rich in lauric acid which is known for its moisturising and skin conditioning properties. Absorbs well leaving skin feeling soft and smooth without heaviness.

Why we chose it: Its neutral aroma makes it a natural fit for Ohmaia, it delivers excellent moisturisation without contributing any scent to the formulation. It is gentle, well tolerated, and suitable for all skin types.

Plant part: Coconut flesh. Country of origin: Indonesia. Certified organic: Yes — ACO & COSMOS. GMO free: Yes. Vegan: Yes. Petrochemical free: Yes.

Simmondsia Chinensis Seed Oil (Jojoba Oil) — Certified Organic, Vegan, Cold Pressed

What it is: A clear golden liquid cold pressed from the seeds of the Simmondsia chinensis bush, native to arid desert environments of the Americas. Technically a liquid wax rather than an oil, jojoba's molecular structure closely resembles the skin's own natural sebum, making it uniquely compatible with the skin. The seeds contain up to 60% oil and the plants thrive in dry desert conditions with minimal water.

What it does: Absorbs quickly without leaving a greasy residue, delivering lightweight hydration and softness. Rich in eicosenoic acid which supports skin conditioning, and oleic acid which helps maintain moisture. Its similarity to the skin's own sebum means it is exceptionally well tolerated across all skin types, including oily and sensitive skin. It also helps to balance oil production rather than add to it.

Why we chose it: Jojoba is one of the most universally compatible and skin friendly oils available. It absorbs beautifully, does not clog pores, and works across every skin type. It is exactly the kind of gentle, considered ingredient Ohmaia is built on.

Extraction method: Cold pressed. Plant part: Seeds. Country of origin: Argentina and Peru. Certified organic: Yes — ACO. GMO free: Yes. Vegan: Yes. Petrochemical free: Yes.

Sclerocarya Birrea Seed Oil (Marula Oil) — Certified Organic, Vegan, Cold Pressed

What it is: A clear pale golden oil cold pressed and gently filtered from the seeds of the Marula tree, native to sub-Saharan Africa. The Marula tree holds deep cultural significance across Africa and is sometimes called the Elephant Tree due to its association with elephants, who are known to seek out and eat the fruit in the wild. The seeds yield around 41% oil, making them a remarkably rich source.

What it does: Deeply nourishes, hydrates and protects the skin without leaving a greasy residue. Rich in oleic acid (omega 9) which supports moisture retention and skin softness, linoleic acid (omega 6) which helps maintain the skin barrier, and palmitic acid which forms a protective layer on the skin surface, making it particularly beneficial for dry skin. Its antioxidant content, including vitamin E and phenolic compounds, helps neutralise free radicals and support skin elasticity. Lightweight, non-comedogenic and suitable for all skin types including oily and combination skin.

Why we chose it: Marula oil delivers exceptional nourishment while absorbing quickly and cleanly. It is one of Africa's most celebrated skincare oils and a genuinely powerful addition to our face oil. It also comes from the same supplier as our Baobab oil, a supplier whose commitment to sustainability, ethical sourcing, and the women of rural Zimbabwe we deeply respect.

Extraction method: Cold pressed and gently filtered. Plant part: Seeds. Sourcing: Our Marula oil comes from the same supplier as our Baobab oil, committed to sustainability since 2016. They support annual tree planting, train farmers in sustainable harvesting practices, and work predominantly with women in rural Zimbabwe. Country of origin: Zimbabwe. Certified organic: Yes — ACO & COSMOS. GMO free: Yes. Vegan: Yes. Petrochemical free: Yes.

Cucurbita Pepo Seed Oil (Pumpkin Seed Oil) — Certified Organic, Vegan, Cold Pressed

What it is: A nutrient rich oil cold pressed from the seeds of the pumpkin plant, native to North America. Known for its distinctive deep greenish colour and exceptionally rich composition of fatty acids, vitamins and antioxidants.

What it does: Rich in linoleic acid and oleic acid, along with notable levels of vitamin E, carotenoids, phytosterols, and minerals including zinc, magnesium and potassium. Together these help deeply hydrate the skin, support the skin's natural barrier, reduce moisture loss, soothe inflammation and protect against environmental stressors. Its anti-inflammatory properties help calm and soothe the skin, making it suitable for dry, sensitive and mature skin types.

Why we chose it: Pumpkin seed oil brings exceptional nourishment to our face oil. Its rich fatty acid profile works in harmony with the other oils in our formulation to support barrier health and deliver lasting hydration without heaviness.

Extraction method: Cold pressed. Plant part: Seeds. Certified organic: Yes — ACO & COSMOS. GMO free: Yes. Vegan: Yes. Petrochemical free: Yes.

Mangifera Indica Seed Butter (Mango Butter) — Certified Organic, Vegan

What it is: A rich, creamy butter derived from the seeds of the mango fruit, native to tropical regions of South Asia and Southeast Asia. Semi-solid at room temperature, it melts gently on contact with the skin.

What it does: Deeply moisturises and nourishes the skin, forming a protective barrier that locks in hydration and shields against environmental stressors. Rich in oleic acid, stearic acid and essential fatty acids, along with vitamins A, C and E and antioxidants. Vitamin A supports healthy skin cell renewal, vitamin E protects against free radical damage, and vitamin C supports collagen production and elasticity. Non-comedogenic and suitable for all skin types including sensitive, dry and mature skin.

Why we chose it: Mango butter brings a richness and depth of nourishment to our moisturiser that lighter oils alone cannot achieve. It is deeply caring for the skin without being heavy, and its vitamin and antioxidant profile makes it a genuinely functional ingredient, not just a texture agent.

Plant part: Seeds. Certified organic: Yes — ACO & COSMOS. GMO free: Yes. Vegan: Yes. Petrochemical free: Yes.

Category 02 — Emulsifiers & Emollients

Emulsifiers are what allow oil and water to coexist in a stable, consistent formulation. Without them, any product containing both would simply separate. Every emulsifier in our range is plant derived.

Cetearyl Alcohol — Vegan, Plant Derived

What it is: Despite the name, this is not a drying alcohol. Cetearyl Alcohol is a fatty alcohol, a completely different category of ingredient derived from plant based sources including sustainable palm, wheat and corn. It is widely used in skincare as both an emulsifier and emollient.

What it does: Helps stabilise and thicken emulsions, giving creams and moisturisers their smooth, consistent texture. It also has a softening effect on the skin and contributes to the way a product feels on application. It is well tolerated by most skin types including sensitive skin.

Why we chose it: It is one of the most reliable and well researched emulsifying and thickening agents available, with a plant based origin and a gentle, non-irritating profile. It does the job it needs to do without compromise.

Origin: Plant based, sustainable palm, wheat and corn. Certified organic: No. Vegan: Yes. Petrochemical free: Yes.

Cetearyl Glucoside — Vegan, Plant Derived

What it is: A naturally derived emulsifier made by combining cetearyl alcohol with glucose, a plant sugar. It belongs to the glucoside family of emulsifiers, which are widely regarded as among the gentlest and cleanest available. It is non-ionic, meaning it carries no electrical charge, which makes it highly compatible with a broad range of other ingredients including acids, vitamins and salts.

What it does: Works together with Cetearyl Alcohol to help oil and water blend into a stable, smooth emulsion. Without emulsifiers like this, oil and water based ingredients would simply separate. This pairing creates the creamy, consistent texture of our moisturiser and ensures the formulation remains stable over time.

Why we chose it: Sugar based glucoside emulsifiers are considered some of the cleanest options in modern skincare formulation. They are gentle, plant derived and effective. This one in particular has a broad tolerance for other active ingredients, which made it a natural fit for our formulation.

Origin: Plant based, sustainable palm, wheat and corn. Certified organic: No. Vegan: Yes. Petrochemical free: Yes.

Cetearyl Olivate (Olive Derived Emulsifier) — Vegan, Olive Oil Derived

What it is: A naturally derived emulsifier made from upcycled olive oil fatty acids combined with cetearyl alcohol. It is part of a two component emulsifying system and comes from olive oil, one of the most celebrated and well studied plant oils in the world. It is PEG free and non-ionic.

What it does: Works together with Sorbitan Olivate to create a stable, smooth emulsion. This pairing generates what is known as a liquid crystal structure in the formulation, which closely mimics the structure of healthy skin and helps support the skin barrier, improve hydration and aid in the gentle absorption of other ingredients. It is also considered microbiome friendly, meaning it works in harmony with the skin's natural ecosystem rather than against it.

Why we chose it: This is one of the most respected and well researched emulsifying systems in natural skincare. Its olive oil origin, its skin compatibility, and its ability to support rather than disrupt the skin barrier made it an easy and considered choice for Ohmaia.

Origin: Upcycled olive oil fatty acids, contains palm derived components. Certified organic: No. Vegan: Yes. Petrochemical free: Yes.

Sorbitan Olivate (Olive Derived Emulsifier) — Vegan, Olive Oil Derived

What it is: A naturally derived emulsifier made from olive oil fatty acids and sorbitol, a sugar alcohol found in many plants and fruits. Like Cetearyl Olivate it is PEG free and non-ionic, and the two work as a paired system.

What it does: Works alongside Cetearyl Olivate to create a liquid crystal emulsion structure that is biocompatible with skin. Together they support the skin barrier, promote hydration and create the smooth, elegant texture of our moisturiser. The system is flexible, effective and respected for its skin friendliness across a wide range of formulations.

Why we chose it: The fact that it comes from olive oil, a plant with thousands of years of history in skincare, spoke for itself.

Origin: Upcycled olive oil fatty acids, contains palm derived components. Certified organic: No. Vegan: Yes. Petrochemical free: Yes.

Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride (MCT Oil) — Certified Organic, Vegan

What it is: A lightweight, clear oil derived from coconut or palm kernel sources. It is made by combining glycerin with specific medium chain fatty acids, resulting in a highly stable and versatile emollient with a very mild profile.

What it does: Provides lightweight moisture and helps prevent moisture loss in the skin. It acts as a natural solvent and carrier within the formulation, helping other ingredients perform well and absorb easily. It leaves a clean, non-greasy finish on the skin.

Why we chose it: Its lightweight texture and high stability make it a natural fit for our cleanser formulation. It contributes to the silky, melting feel of the product without heaviness.

Origin: Coconut or palm kernel, sustainable palm sourcing required. Certified organic: No. Vegan: Yes. Petrochemical free: Yes.

Sucrose Laurate (Sugar Based Emulsifier) — Vegan, Plant Derived

What it is: A naturally derived emulsifier made by combining sucrose, a plant sugar, with lauric acid, a fatty acid found in coconut and palm kernel oils. It is part of the sugar ester family of ingredients, which are widely considered among the gentlest emulsifying agents available.

What it does: Helps oil and water blend together smoothly in the formulation. In our cleanser it contributes to that characteristic transformation from balm to milky cleanse when water is added. It is mild, skin compatible and well tolerated by sensitive skin.

Why we chose it: Sugar based emulsifiers are among the cleanest and most gentle options available. They are biodegradable, derived from natural sources, and kind to the skin. This aligns completely with what Ohmaia stands for.

Origin: Plant derived, sugar and coconut or palm kernel, sustainable palm sourcing required. Certified organic: No. Vegan: Yes. Petrochemical free: Yes.

Sucrose Stearate (Sugar Based Emulsifier) — Vegan, Plant Derived

What it is: A naturally derived emulsifier made by combining sucrose with stearic acid, a fatty acid found in vegetable fats. Like Sucrose Laurate it belongs to the sugar ester family of emulsifying ingredients.

What it does: Works alongside Sucrose Laurate to create a stable, well blended formulation. Together they support the cleanser's unique texture and its ability to transform on contact with water. Sucrose Stearate also contributes a gentle conditioning effect on the skin.

Why we chose it: The same reason as Sucrose Laurate, sugar esters are gentle, naturally derived, biodegradable and among the cleanest emulsifying options available. Every component of our cleanser was chosen with that in mind.

Origin: Plant derived, sugar and vegetable fats, sustainable palm sourcing required. Certified organic: No. Vegan: Yes. Petrochemical free: Yes.

"Every ingredient in our products was chosen deliberately. If it is on our label, it is here because it belongs here." — Maya, Founder of Ohmaia Scent Free

Category 03 — Preservatives

Most skincare products require preservation. Without it, bacteria, yeast and mould can grow. We do not hide our preservatives or dress them up. We chose the cleanest options available, with low to no scent profiles, so they never compromise the fragrance free promise our products are built on. We tell you exactly what they are and why they are here.

Sodium Levulinate and Sodium Anisate (Natural Preservative System) — Vegan, Plant Derived, COSMOS Approved

What it is: A plant based preservative system made up of two components working together. Sodium Levulinate is derived from levulinic acid, a compound found naturally in many plants. Sodium Anisate is derived from anise, a flowering plant. Together they form a broad spectrum preservative system approved for use in certified organic formulations by OFC, COSMOS and Ecocert.

What it does: Protects the product against bacteria, yeast and mould, keeping it safe and stable throughout its shelf life. As a water based product, the moisturiser requires effective preservation to remain safe to use. This system was chosen specifically because it is plant derived and carries organic certification approval, making it one of the cleaner preservation options available.

Why we chose it: We wanted a preservative that aligned with our ingredient values, plant based, low aroma, and approved for use in certified organic formulations. This system ticks all of those boxes. Preservatives in water based products are not something to hide. They are something to get right.

Origin: Plant based. Certified organic: No, but approved for use in certified organic formulations. Vegan: Yes. Petrochemical free: Yes.

Glyceryl Caprylate and Glyceryl Undecylenate (Natural Preservative System) — Vegan, Plant Derived

What it is: A plant based preservative system derived from mixed vegetable oils. Both components are glyceryl esters, meaning they are formed by combining glycerin with naturally occurring fatty acids. This system carries a very mild odour and no colour, making it a natural fit for fragrance free formulations.

What it does: Provides broad spectrum protection against bacteria, yeast and mould, keeping the product safe and stable throughout its shelf life. Glyceryl Caprylate also has mild antibacterial properties and a gentle emollient action, contributing to the feel of the product on the skin. This system is an allowable input into organic formulations.

Why we chose it: We chose this preservative system because it is plant derived, low aroma, and appropriate for use in organic formulations. It aligns with our commitment to choosing the cleanest available options at every level of the formulation, not just the hero ingredients.

Origin: Plant based, mixed vegetable oils. Certified organic: No, but an allowable input in organic formulations. Vegan: Yes. Petrochemical free: Yes.

Potassium Sorbate — Vegan, Food Grade

What it is: A food grade preservative based on sorbic acid, which occurs naturally in berries. It is widely used in both the food and skincare industries and has a long, well understood safety history.

What it does: Offers protection against gram positive and gram negative bacteria, yeast and mould. Gram positive and gram negative refer to two different types of bacteria classified by their cell wall structure, together they represent the full range of harmful bacteria that can contaminate a product. This preservative is particularly effective in water based formulations.

Why it is in our products: This ingredient is present as part of the Aloe Vera Juice we currently use. As we transition to an organic Aloe Vera source we will be reviewing this alongside our chemist.

Origin: Based on sorbic acid which occurs naturally in berries. Certified organic: No. Vegan: Yes.

Sodium Benzoate — Vegan, Food Grade

What it is: A widely used preservative in both cosmetics and food grade applications, known for its water solubility and stability across a range of temperatures.

What it does: Offers protection against yeast, mould and bacteria, helping to keep water based products safe and stable throughout their shelf life. It works alongside other preservatives in the formulation to provide broad spectrum coverage.

Why it is in our products: This ingredient is present as part of the Aloe Vera Juice we currently use, rather than as a standalone addition chosen by us. As we transition to an organic Aloe Vera source we will be reviewing this alongside our chemist with our ingredient values firmly in mind.

Certified organic: No. Vegan: Yes.

Category 04 — Actives, Humectants & Base

The remaining ingredients in our formulations, the humectant that draws moisture to the skin, the antioxidant that protects the formula, the acids that keep pH in balance, the botanical that soothes, and the water that carries it all.

Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Juice (Aloe Vera) — Vegan, Organic Transition

What it is: A soothing liquid derived from the leaves of the Aloe Vera plant, one of the most widely used and well loved botanical ingredients in skincare. Known for centuries across many cultures for its healing and calming properties.

What it does: Hydrates, soothes and calms the skin. Rich in vitamins including B complex, folic acid, vitamin C and beta-carotene, a precursor to vitamin A. Gentle enough for sensitive and reactive skin and known for its ability to support skin recovery and comfort.

Why we chose it: Aloe Vera is one of nature's most effective and gentle skin soothers, and a natural fit for formulations designed with sensitive skin in mind.

Plant part: Leaves. Certified organic: Not currently, transitioning to a certified organic source as soon as supply becomes available. GMO free: Yes. Vegan: Yes. Petrochemical free: Yes.

Glycerin — Certified Organic, Vegan, Palm Free

What it is: A naturally derived, colourless liquid with a slightly sweet character. Our Glycerin is certified organic and derived from organically farmed flaxseeds. It is a byproduct of the soap making process, where glycerin naturally separates from the fatty acids in the whole oil. It is palm free, water soluble and one of the most well established and widely trusted ingredients in skincare.

What it does: Acts as a humectant, meaning it draws moisture to the skin and helps lock it in. It also plays a role in the stability of water based formulations by reducing the level of free water in the product, which helps support the preservation strategy. Gentle, effective and suitable for all skin types including sensitive skin.

Why we chose it: Glycerin is one of those ingredients that does exactly what it is supposed to do without compromise. The fact that ours is certified organic, palm free and derived from flaxseed made it a choice we feel completely confident in.

Origin: Organically farmed flaxseeds, palm free. Certified organic: Yes — ACO & COSMOS. GMO free: Yes. Vegan: Yes. Petrochemical free: Yes.

Tocopherol (Natural Vitamin E) — Vegan, Antioxidant

What it is: A naturally derived, fat soluble antioxidant compound derived from refined vegetable oil distillates, primarily soybean. Our grade contains a minimum of 87% D-alpha-Tocopherol, the form of Vitamin E that occurs naturally in plants and is recognised by the body as biologically active. Unlike synthetic Vitamin E, which contains a mixture of active and inactive forms, the natural form is exclusively active, making it more effective at the concentration used.

What it does: Works on two levels. On the skin it helps support the skin's natural barrier, contributes to moisture retention, and offers some protection against environmental stressors. Within the formulation it acts as an antioxidant, slowing the oxidation of the oils and butters in the product and helping to extend shelf life naturally. It is used at a low concentration in our formulations, within the range where it is effective without risk of irritation.

Why we chose it: We wanted a naturally derived antioxidant that would do an important job both in the product and on the skin, without introducing any fragrance risk. Natural Vitamin E fits that requirement perfectly. It is free from fragrance, essential oils and synthetic additives, and it complements the plant based oils and butters in our formulations rather than working against them.

Origin: Soybean and vegetable oil distillates, non-animal based. Certified organic: No. Vegan: Yes. Petrochemical free: Yes.

Lactic Acid — Vegan, AHA, Non-GMO

What it is: A naturally derived alpha hydroxy acid (AHA) produced through the fermentation of maize starch. It is a clear liquid that is water soluble and well tolerated in cosmetic formulations. Lactic acid occurs naturally in the body and is one of the most skin compatible of all the AHAs, making it a well established and widely used ingredient in skincare.

What it does: Works in two ways within our formulations. As an active ingredient it gently encourages the shedding of dead skin cells, helping to improve texture and promote a more even, luminous complexion over time. It also supports the skin's natural moisture factor, drawing water into the skin and helping to maintain hydration. As a formulation tool it is used to adjust and stabilise the pH of the product, which is important for both skin compatibility and the effectiveness of the preservation system.

Why we chose it: Lactic acid is one of those ingredients that earns its place for more than one reason. It is gentle enough for sensitive skin, it supports hydration as well as exfoliation, and it helps keep our formulations at the right pH to work safely and effectively. The fact that it is naturally derived through fermentation, non-GMO, petrochemical free and COSMOS approved made it a straightforward choice for Ohmaia.

Origin: Maize starch, natural fermentation. Country of manufacture: China. Certified organic: No. GMO free: Yes. Vegan: Yes. Petrochemical free: Yes.

Citric Acid — Vegan, AHA, Non-GMO

What it is: A naturally occurring acid found in many fruits and vegetables, and most concentrated in citrus fruits. Our Citric Acid is produced through the fermentation of corn and is supplied as a fine white crystalline powder. It is one of the most widely used and well understood ingredients in cosmetic formulation, with a long history of safe use across a broad range of products.

What it does: In our formulations Citric Acid serves a precise and important purpose, adjusting and stabilising pH. Getting the pH right is not a minor detail. It affects how well active ingredients perform, how comfortable a product feels on the skin, and how effectively the preservative system functions. Citric Acid also belongs to the alpha hydroxy acid (AHA) family and contributes gently to skin texture and tone at appropriate concentrations, helping to encourage the natural renewal of the skin's surface.

Why we chose it: We needed a reliable, naturally derived pH adjuster that would do its job without adding any fragrance risk to our formulations. Citric Acid is exactly that. It is derived from a plant source, free from petrochemicals and GMO material, and it works in harmony with the other ingredients in our products to keep everything functioning as it should.

Origin: Corn, natural fermentation. Country of manufacture: China. Certified organic: No. GMO free: Yes. Vegan: Yes. Petrochemical free: Yes.

Aqua (Distilled Water) — Vegan, Purified

What it is: Pure water that has been purified through distillation to remove minerals, trace contaminants and impurities. What remains is water in its cleanest form, with nothing added and nothing left behind that could interfere with a formulation.

What it does: Water is the foundation of every water based skincare product we make. It is the medium that carries all the other ingredients, allows them to blend, and delivers them to the skin. It also hydrates directly on contact, making it one of the most skin beneficial components in any moisturising formulation.

Why we chose it: Using purified water is not optional in professional skincare, it is essential. Tap water and mineral water contain calcium, magnesium, sodium and other dissolved minerals that can interfere with emulsifiers, destabilise a formulation and provide microbes with the conditions they need to grow. Distilled water eliminates those risks, giving our formulations the clean, neutral base they need to perform consistently and safely.

Origin: Australia. Certified organic: No. GMO free: Yes. Vegan: Yes. Petrochemical free: Yes.

Nothing hidden.

This page will be updated as our formulations evolve, as we transition to new sources, and as we learn more. We will always tell you exactly what is in our products and why.

Maya
Founder, Ohmaia Scent Free · Queensland, Australia

Fragrance Free...finally.