The OUMERE Ingredient Restricted List
The Restricted List
Skincare is a subtractive discipline. We believe that removing inflammatory agents is the single most effective "anti-aging" step one can take. Below are the ingredients we exclude from every formulation, and the biological rationale for their removal.
I. Primary Exclusions
Essential Oils
ProhibitedVolatile organic compounds (like Lavender, Peppermint, Citrus) are cytotoxic to skin cells in vitro. They accelerate cell death and induce neurogenic inflammation.
Fragrance / Parfum
ProhibitedWhether synthetic or natural, fragrance serves no biological function. It is the leading cause of contact dermatitis and silently degrades the lipid barrier over time.
Drying Alcohols
ProhibitedSD Alcohol, Denatured Alcohol, and Isopropyl Alcohol strip the acid mantle and denature keratin proteins, leading to apoptosis (cell death).
Heavy Silicones
ProhibitedIngredients like Dimethicone create a plastic-like film that traps bacteria, sweat, and heat. They offer no nutritional value to the skin, only a false sensory feel of "slip."
Physical Scrubs
ProhibitedSeeds, shells, and beads cause microscopic lacerations in the epidermis. This chronic injury triggers an inflammatory cascade that accelerates aging.
Witch Hazel
ProhibitedWhile touted as "natural," the high tannin content constricts blood vessels and dehydrates the tissue, often leading to rebound oil production.
II. Biological Rationale
Why "Natural" Isn't Always Safe (The Cytotoxicity of Oils)
A common misconception in the "clean beauty" industry is that plant extracts are inherently benign. Biologically, this is false. Many essential oils (particularly Lavender, Tea Tree, and Citrus oils) contain volatile compounds that are cytotoxic—meaning they kill cells upon contact.
Research indicates that at concentrations as low as 0.25%, certain essential oils can induce apoptosis (programmed cell death) in fibroblasts, the cells responsible for collagen production. OUMERE formulations rely on extracts and fixed oils (which have had the volatile components removed) to ensure safety.
The Problem with "Squeaky Clean" (Alkalinity vs. Acid Mantle)
The skin's barrier function relies on an acidic pH (approx. 4.5–5.5). Traditional foaming cleansers and bar soaps often have an alkaline pH (8.0–10.0). This shift disrupts the acid mantle, killing beneficial microbiome flora and allowing pathogens (like P. acnes) to thrive.
OUMERE excludes harsh sulfates (SLS/SLES) and soap bases, opting instead for amphoteric surfactants and oils that maintain physiological pH.
Why We Avoid "The Jar" (Oxidation & Hygiene)
We restrict the use of jar packaging for any active formulation. Repeated finger dipping introduces bacteria, necessitating high levels of preservatives. Furthermore, exposing antioxidants (like Vitamin C or SOD) to air causes rapid oxidation, rendering the product useless within weeks.
OUMERE packaging is strictly air-restricted (pumps, droppers) to preserve potency without aggressive preservatives.