Candelilla wax – the vegan alternative to beeswax, is derived from the small shrub native to Northern Mexico.  Its leaves are boiled to obtain the wax, to provide the glossy and lubricating properties.  ILA + AVA uses candelilla wax in the ‘enrich lip balm’.  Its incredible properties give the lips a subtle dewy gloss, while plumping and keeping them soft and lubricated for longer.  Lips don’t become dependent like with other lip balms.

‘calendula officinalis’

Rich in beta-carotene, this beautiful golden orange flower is known for its anti-inflammatory and healing properties.  As a stimulant, softener and freshner this flower is used for soothing and softening all skin types, as well as for inflammations, rashes, eczema, chapping and psoriasis.  The use of extracts made from this plant assist the stimulation and formation of new tissue, while giving the skin a natural soothing summer glow.  ILA + AVA uses an organic Australian oil extract in organic cold pressed sunflower oil, found in the ‘glow body oil’.  * organic calendula infused in organic cold pressed sunflower oil, ** Australian

(see roman chamomile)

‘magnolia champaca’ (formerly known as michelia champaca)This incredible flower produces an amazing fragrant oil offering a sensual rich floral with slightly fruity scent.  It is a natural remedy for tension, stress, vertigo and headaches and is considered to be a powerful aphrodisiac.  Champaca promotes relaxation and happiness.  Considered to be one of the best natural remedies for depression, this flowers oil is one of the highest priced oils in the world and can be found in the 'botanical perfume oil' and the 'cleanse and smooth radiance body polish'. 

‘salvia sclarea’

Considered a tonic for the mind, body and soul, this essential oil has a multitude of positive properties.  A perennial herb with grey velvety heart shaped leaves, with violet pink pale blue flowers, it is native to the Mediterranean region, although is now cultivated in various regions around the world.  In skin care the addition of clary sage oil assists in toning the skin due to its mild astringent properties, regulates sebum production and assisting in reducing inflammation linked to acne breakouts, while its natural anti-microbial qualities assist the whole formulations.  Its herby fresh scent can balance mind and spirit.  ILA + AVA uses a Bulgarian sourced clary sage oil found in the ‘glow body oil’ + ‘botanical perfume oil’.

This clay is sourced from France.  French pink clay has been highly regarded for a long time as an excellent natural product for balancing stressed and sensitive skin.  With its mild nature it helps improve overall skin texture with skin firming properties.  Although Australian sourced pink clay is currently very popular, unfortunately due to its rapid use ILA + AVA has been informed that the clay mine is alarmingly already empty, highlighting the need for more protection of Australian resources to keep these natural treasures sustainable for futures to come.  The pink clay used by ILA + AVA is used in combination with the other clay products in the ‘radiance face polish’ to provide a wider range of skin benefits.

There are many varying types and colours of clays found in all corners of the world. Each clay colour offers different skin nutrient healing properties, and pertain to different skin types and skin conditions. Below are the clays that are found in the ILA + AVA range, chosen for their benefits not just on their own but when used in conjunction with our formulations.

From Australia, this clay is great for gently exfoliating, cleansing and toning the skin. It strengthens the connective tissues, stimulates blood circulation and draws out toxins, while nourishing, feeding and hydrating skin. It doesn’t leave skin feeling dry or tight. Found in the ILA + AVA ‘radiance face polish’ + 'soften and soothe radiance body polish'.

This Australian sourced clay contains several essential minerals (magnesium, sodium, calcium, potassium, iron and others). In combination these allow the beige clay to have its amazing detoxifying properties, assisting blood and lymph circulation. Eliminating toxins from the skin, clean, fresh, hydrated and energized skin is noticed. This clay is found in the ILA + AVA ‘radiance face polish’ and the 'soften and soothe radiance body polish'.

‘syzygium aromaticum’

This very spicy, warm and woody essential oil contains powerful antioxidant properties. Commonly used in foods, clove oil is produced from the flower bud and plants stem or leaves via steam distillation. ILA + AVA uses clove oil sourced from Indonesia in the ‘refresh deo balm’ for its potent anti-inflammatory, antiviral, antifungal and antibacterial properties. * organic used

‘cocos nucifera’

There was the big coconut oil hype which saw us using it for everything and anything not that long ago. After much reviewing, testing and research ILA + AVA decided there are several other plant derived oils which are much more beneficial and therapeutic for skin health. Coconut oil tends to sit on the skin surface and doesn’t penetrate as well as other oils, and as a result can block pores and disrupt the natural oil balance of the skin. As such coconut oil is only used by ILA + AVA for its antibacterial (mainly due to the lauric acid content) and antifungal properties for the ILA + AVA ‘refresh deo balm’, 'salt scrub + soak’, and in the ‘enrich lip balm’ for its high fatty oil properties. * organic used

‘cupressus sempervirens’

Derived from the branches of its tall evergreen tree, cypress oil is steam distilled. With an endless list of healing properties, its clean fresh aroma promotes vitality and energy. Topical use not only invigorates the senses but helps the body remove excess water and salt to promote healthier fluid metabolism, while it stimulates circulation by gently invigorating blood flow. It is used topically to treat cellulite, varicose veins, while its energizing and refreshingly clean aroma stimulates the emotions assisting in times of transition. ILA + AVA uses a beautiful cypress oil from France, in the ‘refresh deo balm’ and the ‘salt scrub + soak'.

Has many benefits like most clays, however ILA + AVA uses kaolin clay for its absorbant properties and its pure white colour in the ‘refresh deo balm’.

'pelargonium graveolens'

Traditionally used by the Egyptians for its skin beautifying properties, geranium essential oil is now commonly used to reduce inflammation, alleviate anxiety, treat acne and balance hormones.  Applied topically it promotes healthy glowing skin and hair, while its sweet floral aroma uplifts the mood, promotes emotional wellness and lessens fatigue.  ILA + AVA uses an African grown geranium oil, found in the ‘nourish face cream’, ‘glow body oil’ and ‘botanical perfume oil’.  * organic used

With its beautiful delicate scent it is great in skincare. It is also perfect for varying skin types, balancing the skin and acting as a humectant to draw moisture to wonderfully hydrate. Extremely uplifting and balancing for the emotional body too. ILA + AVA uses an organic preservative free geranium hydrosol in the ‘hydrate toner mist’. * organic used

‘camellia sinensis’

With its high antioxidant content, this leaf extract minimises cellular stress to improve skin complexion. This is due to its strict harvesting times and production processes differing from other teas which involve a withering and oxidation process. Most of the polyphenols found in green tea are known as ‘catechins’. These are natural antioxidants which are renowned for their anti-inflammatory and anticancer agents. Antioxidants are considered our most powerful weapon in the anti-aging battle. These fight signs of premature aging, wrinkles, sun damage and encourage cellular healing. Although traditionally originating from China, its production and manufacture is now throughout Asia and other countries. ILA + AVA uses an organic Australian green tea extract with natural preservatives, found in the ‘hydrate toner mist’, ‘nourish face cream’ and ‘salt scrub + soak’. ** organic + Australian used

‘citrus paradisi’

Also known as citrus seed extract, this is a liquid extract derived from the seeds, white membranes and pulp of grapefruit. Added as a natural preservative, we use this pure product in our emulsions to make creams in the ILA + AVA product range.

‘macadamia ternifolia’

The ultimate oil for skin care, the macadamia is native to Australia. Unlike other oils, this doesn’t clog pores while still providing rich healing, anti-aging and anti-inflammatory benefits. Due to its phenolic compounds, macadamia oil also has anti-bacterial and antifungal properties. Regarded as a drier oil due to its strong penetrative attributes, it sinks into the skin well without feeling greasy. High in monounsaturated fatty acids, including omega 9, its strong moisturizing, softening and regenerating qualities are matched with its anti-inflammatory benefits. ILA + AVA uses an organic Australian macadamia oil in the ‘restore night oil’, ‘salt scrub + soak’, ‘glow body oil’ and ‘refresh deo balm’. ** organic Australian used

‘althaea officinalis’

Considered a natural skin care wonder, marshmallow root is a botanical used in both medicine and skincare. Containing a high percentage of mucilage (viscous or gelatinous solution from plant) it provides intense hydrating, softening and balancing properties. Marshmallow root hydrates the skin while improving its function of retaining moisture. ILA + AVA utilizes these amazing qualities in an organic powder form in the ‘radiance face polish’. * organic used

Magnesium chloride (much higher grade than Epsom salts), is a macro-mineral meaning the body needs high amounts of it. Its very important and plays a huge role in many of the bodys’ functions. Transdermal (through the skin) supplementation is much easier absorbed than taken orally with no digestive upset. Found in the 'salt scrub + soak', 'magneium foot soak' and 'magnesium oil'.

Magnesium chloride in the sea water is reacted with lime (calcium oxide) to form the Mg2+ and OH- ions, which precipitate into magnesium hydroxide salt. With many internal uses as an antacid and laxative. Importantly it is used as an odour neutraliser in the ILA + AVA ‘refresh deo balm’. * highest pharmeceutical grade used

Found naturally in fruits such as apples, this pure alpha hydroxy fruit acid powder is used as a natural skin rejuvenator. Used in ILA + AVA ‘'radinace body polish soften and soothe' and the 'radiance body polish cleanse and smooth' .

‘chamaemelum nobile’

Not just a pretty flower, chamomile boasts numerous health benefits. ILA + AVA uses a high quality essential oil for its calming scent and soothing properties. Used to fight anxiety and depression, reduce insomnia, boost skin health, support digestive health, promote heart health, alleviate PMS symptoms, act as a natural allergy reliever and help relieve arthritic pain, chamomile is a wonderous plant. It is used in numerous of our formulations as a calmative to promote happy and healthy vibes. ILA + AVA uses an Australian sourced roman chamomile oil, which can be found in the ‘glow body oil’, ‘nourish face cream’, ‘restore night oil’, 'resotre face oil' and ‘botanical perfume oil’. ^ Australian used

‘rosa canina’

Another skin wonder, rosehip oil is pressed from the seed of the wild rose bush, found in the southern andes. It can also be extracted from another rose bush which grows in many regions of the world. ILA + AVA uses rosehip oil from the rosa rubiginosa variety grown in Chile. This oil is rich in essential fatty acids and renowned for its antioxidant properties, anti-aging benefits and strong effects on healing scars, wounds, reversing sun damage and pigmentation, wrinkles and brown skin spots. Containing linoleic and linoleic EFA’s (essential fatty acids), it is packed with naturally occurring vitamin A and E. These assist in promoting a youthful complexion and supple, replenished skin. Considered as a more astringent oil it is slightly drier leaving no greasy residue but still providing all the benefits of a botanical oil. ILA + AVA uses high quality organic rose hip oil in the ‘nourish face cream’, ‘glow body oil’, ‘restore night oil’ and 'restore face oil' * organic used

‘rosa damascena’

Also known as ‘rose water’ the beautifully scented floral water has been used traditionally in sacred ceremonies and has long been regarded as a skin care essential. Steam distilled from fresh or dried rose petals, rose hydrosol is nourishing and moisturizing for all skin types. It helps restore skin radiance and youthfulness and is rich in vitamin C to boost collagen and prevent premature aging. ILA + AVA uses an organic and preservative free rose hydrosol in the ‘hydrate toner mist’ where in combination with geranium hydrosol and high quality plant extracts its toning qualities are also utilized. *organic used

‘rosmarinus officinalis’

Prevents the oxidation of essential fatty acids in oils. It is an excellent regenerative oil for mature, dry and wrinkle prone skin. Its lipolytic effects make it useful when treating acne and oily skin. Used extensively since ancient times for numerous purposes with many medicinal health boosting properties, it was also used frequently in ceremonies. Its invigorating smell is a favourite in oil burners mixed with sweet orange and is a powerful oil to assist in transitioning through troubling times or seeking clarity. In skincare it is great for dermatological issues. ILA + AVA uses rosemary oil to help tone and remove dryness, while giving skin a healthy, even glow and for its amazing scent. It is found in the ‘salt scrub + soak’, ‘botanical perfume oil’, ‘restore night oil’ and 'restore face oil'. * organic used

‘salvia officinalis’

With its anti-oxidant, anti-inflammatory, anti-microbial, antiseptic and astringent properties it is an incredible plant. Also beneficial as a skin toner and purifier due to its astringent nature, tightening and gently drying the tissues to assist with preventing and treating wrinkles. It is non-irritating and non-sensitising, good for acne, dandruff, dermatitis and eczema. With a pleasant, refreshing, light herbaceous woody scent, it emits a strong spicy, clarifying scent, with cleansing properties, to calm and soothe the skin and the senses. ILA + AVA uses sage oil in the 'resfresh deo balm', 'radiance body polish cleanse and smooth' and the 'mineral foot soak'.

‘prunis amygdalus dulcis’

With its gentle cleansing properties and high amounts of vitamins, minerals and monounsaturated fatty acids, sweet almond helps improve skin complexion. Considered a deep skin cleanser, its light texture can easily penetrate the skin, softening and dislodging dirt and debris accumulated on the fine hair follicles and in the skin pores. Also high in vitamin A, using almond oil can prevent blackheads and acne. Originally only native to Mediterranean climates, the almond plant has since been introduced in other parts of the world. ILA + AVA uses an organic sweet almond oil, found in the ‘nourish face cream’, ‘glow body oil’, ‘enrich lip balm’, ‘botanical perfume oil’ and ‘restore night oil’. ^ Australian used

‘citrus sinensis’

The essential oil from the sweet orange is antiseptic and anti-inflammatory by nature. It is known to increase the ability to absorb vitamin C, promote blood flow and collagen production, balance the skins oil production and has skin brightening effects. Its fresh zesty scent is great for mood lifting and refreshing the senses. ILA + AVA uses an Australian made and sourced sweet orange essential oil, found in the ‘mineral foot soak' and ‘botanical perfume oil’. ^ Australian used

‘rosmarinus officinalis’

Prevents the oxidation of essential fatty acids in oils. It is an excellent regenerative oil for mature, dry and wrinkle prone skin. Its lipolytic effects make it useful when treating acne and oily skin. Used extensively since ancient times for numerous purposes with many medicinal health boosting properties, it was also used frequently in ceremonies. Its invigorating smell is a favourite in oil burners mixed with sweet orange and is a powerful oil to assist in transitioning through troubling times or seeking clarity. In skincare it is great for dermatological issues. ILA + AVA uses rosemary oil to help tone and remove dryness, while giving skin a healthy, even glow and for its amazing scent. It is found in the ‘salt scrub + soak’, ‘botanical perfume oil’, ‘restore night oil’ and 'restore face oil'. * organic used