Naturally Clear Scrub (6 oz) by Metabolic Maintenance

Description: This facial scrub contains niacinamide, aloe vera, a mild cleanser, apricot kernel oil, and powdered walnut shells. Exfoliating facial skin has been shown to increase blood circulation, break down surface toxins, and encourage the production of new skin cells. The ingredients of the Facial Scrub work together to cleanse, moisturize, and exfoliate facial skin.

Uses:

Niacinamide, also known as nicotinamide or 3-pyridinecarboxamide, is the physiologically active form of niacin or vitamin B3. There is clinical evidence that niacinamide is an anti-acne active as it reduces the production of sebum (the pore-clogging, oily substance secreted by the skin), making it effective in alleviating symptoms of mild to moderate acne [1]. It is also an up-regulator of epidermal sphingolipid synthesis, an up-regulator of markers of epidermal differentiation and dermal proliferation, as well as a moderator of photodamage repair [1]. Cosmetically, topical niacinamide has been shown to help reduce yellowing, wrinkling, redness, blotchiness, and hyperpigmentation in facial skin [2]. Topical niacinamide also provides potent anti-inflammatory activity. Skin cell studies suggest niacinamide may stimulate collagen production (a benefit associated with anti-aging effects) and facilitate wound healing [1].

The humectant Na-PCA, or sodium pyrrolidone carboxylic acid, is an amino acid moisturizer naturally occurring in the stratum corneum of human skin [3]. Younger skin contains more Na-PCA than aging skin [3]. Na-PCA is added to Naturally Clear^® products to help the skin retain moisture, prevent dryness and flaking, and give skin a youthful glow.

Aloe vera is a popular ingredient in skin care products because of its well-known skin soothing, anti-fungal, and anti-inflammatory properties [4]. In fact, records from Greece, Egypt, India, Mexico, Japan and China show that medicinal plants of the aloe genus have been used for over 2000 years to soothe many symptoms of skin disease [4,5]. Studies have shown topical aloe vera to be effective in healing minor skin infections, making scarring less likely [5]. It contains six antiseptic agents: Lupeol, salicylic acid, urea nitrogen, cinnamonic acid, phenols and sulfur, all of which have an inhibitory effect on fungi, bacteria and viruses [5]. Aloe vera has been demonstrated to protect skin from reactions to and damage caused by radiation (due to UV/sun exposure as well as therapeutic radiation) [5,6]. Giberellin, a component of aloe vera, also acts as a growth hormone, stimulating the growth of new cells [7]. Aloe vera also improves skin’s hydration and elasticity while providing a refreshing sensation.

Apricot kernel oil, Prunus armeniaca L., has naturally occurring antimicrobial, antibacterial, and antioxidant properties and has been well-researched as a skin conditioning agent that is emollient, non-greasy and ideal for dry, tired or mature skin [8, 9].

Walnut shell powder is an all natural exfoliant made from ground walnut husks. This exfoliant is hypoallergenic and gentle, as massage will aid in the removal of dead skins cells without scratching or damaging healthy skin tissue [10, 11].

Source Materials: Niacinamide: chemical synthesis. Potassium cocoyl glycinate and potassium cocoate: mild cleanser derived from glycine and coconut oil. Walnut shell powder: Juglans regia ground shells. Cetyl

alcohol: vegetable oils.  Sucrose cocoate: sugar beets and coconut oil. Apricot kernel oil: cold-pressed from dried apricot seeds. Citric acid: fermentation of glucose.  Aloe vera: Aloe barbadensis inner leaf fillet juice. Sodium PCA: derived from the amino acid proline.  Beta carotene: synthetic.

Allergens:  This formula contains walnut shell powder and coconut. Free from: wheat (gluten), eggs, milk, soybeans, shellfish, fish, and peanuts. All ingredients are vegan.  Never tested on animals.

Recommendations: Gently massage wet face with Naturally Clear^® Facial Scrub. Rinse well and pat dry. For best results, follow with Naturally Clear^® Topical Spray or Naturally Clear^® Restoring Serum.

*This product is not intended to diagnose, treat or cure any illness or disease. The content and recommendations contained on this website have not been reviewed by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and are solely the opinion of the authors. Content contained on this website is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Never increase, reduce or discontinue any medication or treatment without first consulting your doctor.