"Witch hazel
It is extracted from the bark and leaves of the North American plant Hamamelis Virginiana. It is widely used as an astringent and skin freshener."

L-Lactic Acid is an Alpha-hydroxy acid, which can be found in several kinds of fruit, like tomatoes and dairy products, like yoghurt. L-Lactic Acid is a natural stereo-isomer which also exists in the human body. Has a peeling effect, when used in higher concentrations. Stimulates the production of new cells in the epidermis. When compared to other alpha-hydroxy acids, L-Lactic Acid shows the best results in the treatment of hyperpigmentation of the skin (for instance glycolic acid is much less successful). L-Lactate derivatives (L-Lactic Acid) belong to the few natural substances, which - in higher concentrations - are known to counteract the production of the enzyme Tyrosinase itself. Tyrosinase happens to be the enzym which stimulates pigmentation of the skin, so by disabling that enzyme, the first step towards pigment production is simply ‘nipped in the bud’. Furthermore, L-Lactic Acid is responsible for the biosynthesis of ceramides in the skin, in a stereoselective way. High amounts of ceramides in the epidermis support the lipid barrier, which prevents dehydration of the skin. Curiously enough, the stimulation of the ceramide-biosynthesis only occurs on account of the natural stereoisomer L-Lactic Acid.