The quality of a cosmetic product depends largely on the quality of its ingredients and its preparation.

Raw materials

All components come from certified suppliers in Spain, France, Germany and England. Aranela requires an analysis certificate made at source which ensures microbiological quality. Almost all the raw materials used are non-comedogenic. In some cases, combined products and working methods are used so that this type of problem is not created.

Preservatives

Preservation of oil-based products is achieved with natural vitamin E (tocopherol). This prevents oxidation of vegetable oils. Water-based products contain natural substances to prevent microorganisms surviving in the product.

Development of new products

For each new product tolerance tests are performed among professionals and volunteers. A strict challenge test is also conducted to ensure that the product will not be corrupted by microorganisms throughout its life. This challenge test demonstrates the efficiency of preservatives. The final product is artificially contaminated with microorganisms. The reduction of microbial populations via isolation is then measured, until total elimination of germs takes place within 28 days.

Quality control

Quality control is performed at the end of process, from a representative sample of the manufactured batch. This is conducted by our own quality control department. Samples are also sent to independent certified ISO 9001 laboratories, where products are subject to application and efficiency tests to confirm the results obtained. Revision takes place for all Karicia products of the physicochemical and microbiological parameters specified by European Community law, the Spanish law in force as well as the recommendations issued by the Ministry of Health.

Shelf-life

Karicia cosmetic products are stable up to 4 years after their manufacture date.

Storage conditions

Creams are the most heat sensitive product. In normal summer conditions, the products will reach the end of the season in good condition. However, care should be taken to keep them away from heat sources (for example, do not leave them in direct sunlight for several days, do not expose them to steam from the shower, store them in a cabinet).

Karicia cosmetics do use:

Pure raw materials: plants, algae, first-pressed vegetable oils, essential oils and clays.
Phytoactives, basic ingredients for our products and manufactured by us. Removed by soaking in a solvent (such as water, alcohol or vegetable oil) during a lunar cycle so as not to lose their medicinal or cosmetic properties, or alter their balance.
Essential waters (floral waters), a by-product obtained during the distillation of essential oils.
Natural emulsifiers: soy lecithin, sugar esters, and some olive oil derivatives.
Natural preservatives: Natural vitamin E (tocopherol).
Pure essential oils to scent products (perfume).

Karicia cosmetics do not use:

Parabens (synthetic preservatives)
Chemical/synthetic perfumes
Chemical dyes
Synthetic emulsifiers such as oil/petroleum derivatives or mineral oils (paraffinum liquidum)
Silicones
PEG (polyethylene glycol)