Statement on Animal Testing

Dr. Hauschka Skin Care and Make-up are manufactured at WALA Heilmittel GmbH. WALA Heilmittel’s experience of using natural substances to provide natural care through the biodynamic cultivation of medicinal plants extends back to 1935. The responsible and sustainable development of our products is something that has been at the core of Dr. Hauschka Cosmetics ever since the beginning, back in 1967. Today we are proud to continue to carry this philosophy forward.

Naturally, this means that no animal tests have ever been carried out either by or on behalf of Dr. Hauschka since our founding in 1967.

While Dr. Hauschka has always foregone animal testing, the EU Cosmetics Regulation represented a decisive step forward for animal welfare in the entire cosmetics industry: As a result, tests on animals for cosmetic products and the raw materials required to create them have been completely banned in the EU since 11 March 2013. This is a legally binding ban, i.e. all cosmetics manufacturers within the EU must comply with this legislation.

To produce Dr. Hauschka’s natural cosmetics, we rely on traditional raw materials of natural origin and the highest quality – raw materials which are also often used in the food industry. There is sufficient evidence to support the tolerability and effectiveness of the various plant extracts, oils or waxes we use. Furthermore, we also commission independent institutes to perform dermatological testing of new cosmetic products on human volunteers prior to launch. These confirm the high tolerability of our products.

As a manufacturer of high-quality certified natural cosmetics, WALA Heilmittel GmbH is particularly committed to ethical responsibility. Within the scope of the biodynamic cultivation of medicinal plants and our controlled organic Demeter farming, we treat animals and our planet in a humane, sustainable and responsible manner.

Specialist pharmaceutical information from WALA Heilmittel GmbH

Peta Confirmation

Hand harvesting in WALA/Dr. Hauschka biodynamic medicinal plant gardens

Dr. Hauschka Quality

• Truly natural and organic skin care and make-up, certified to NATRUE and/or BDIH standards
• Free from chemical/synthetic fragrances, dyes and preservatives
• Free from mineral oils, parabens, silicone and PEG
• Dermatologically tested for sensitive skin
• Wherever possible, all raw materials come from controlled organic or biodynamic (Demeter certified) cultivation and are recovered under fair conditions
• We don’t test on animals, we test on happy to help out human volunteers

 

Thanks for reading our blog. xx

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Black Tea – Beautiful Eyes

An interview with Marie Calas, Head of Skin Care Development at Dr. Hauschka

As Head of Skin Care Development, you work on many different formulations. Nurturing, nourishing plant extracts are always part of these. In the case of the Eyeshadows, you have opted for black tea. Why tea?

A cooled black teabag is a tried-and-tested home remedy for tired or irritated eyes. Tea contains tannins, which, when used in a compress, are refreshing and reduce puffiness. We want our make-up to have the same effect. However, instead of placing damp tea bags on our customer’s eyes, we integrate the plant’s nurturing properties into our formulations.

How do you transform tea into Eyeshadow?

It is actually a rather complicated process. First, we create an aqueous extract made from organic tea leaves and mix it with extracts of witch hazel and anthyllis. These nurturing plant extracts are common in our skin care products, but as liquids. To integrate them into a product that comes in powder form, the essences are sprayed onto a natural mineral and air dried. This gives us a fine powder that embodies the strengths of the three plants. This process, which gives structure to a liquid, ultimately transfers the same benefits as a cup of black tea: it gives us clarity and restores order.

When is colour added to a formulation?

The powdered extracts of tea, anthyllis and witch hazel come together with other ingredients such as silk powder and silica to form the basis of all our Eyeshadows. The colours are created by various minerals, such as iron oxide or mica. These pigments range from soft notes of rose and peach through an entire palette of earthy shades, to a vibrant lilac and dark anthracite.

Karim Sattar, Dr. Hauschka International Make-up Artist

How do you create a new Eyeshadow?

We developers let ourselves be inspired – ideally by nature itself. We look at the world around us as well as at our inner landscapes. You could say that it is an act of creative visualisation in colourful dialogue with everyday life. We try to translate this dialogue into skin care formulations. Once we have created initial product samples, we involve other colleagues from the Marketing and Skin Care Consultation departments, as well as our International Make-up Artist, Karim Sattar. Karim tests the new Eyeshadows on various skin tones and gives us specific suggestions for the final formulation: perhaps a little more mica, maybe a little less coverage, or possibly a stronger hint of red. It is important that the new shade not only has the perfect composition but can also be perfectly combined with other Dr. Hauschka products.

Black Tea
This tea is not only popular as a stimulating drink, though; it is also a sought-after cosmetic ingredient.

Tea gardens cover the hillsides in southeast China like lush green carpets. Here, in Hunan Province, tea is cultivated and harvested for Dr. Hauschka Skin Care. This peninsula is home to the organic Qingshan tea farm, which is renowned for a classic black tea with a mild flavour and a reddish-brown colour in the cup. This tea is not only popular as a stimulating drink, though; it is also a sought-after cosmetic ingredient. The dried tea leaves contain caffeine and valuable tannins with soothing, decongesting and toning properties. These properties are especially beneficial for the sensitive area around the eyes, which is why extracts of black tea enrich the entire Dr. Hauschka make-up range including Mascara, Eyeliners and Eyeshadows in all shades.

Silk Powder & Black Tea

Dr. Hauschka Quality

• Truly natural and organic skin care and make-up, certified to NATRUE and/or BDIH standards
• Free from chemical/synthetic fragrances, dyes and preservatives
• Free from mineral oils, parabens, silicone and PEG
• Dermatologically tested for sensitive skin
• Wherever possible, all raw materials come from controlled organic or biodynamic (Demeter certified) cultivation and are recovered under fair conditions
• We don’t test on animals, we test on happy to help out human volunteers

 

Thanks for reading our blog. xx

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NEW limited edition Make-up – Spectacular Comeback

Spectacular Comeback*

Your favourites from our Limited Editions

Complete joy rediscovered.
There you are again, familiar yet new.
I have missed you.
After all, you know how to bring out the best in me.

• The softly sweeping Kajal Eyeliner 08 Taupe, flattering in a softer than black look
• Perfect shades for everyday or night time too, Eyeshadow Trio in shimmer pearl, shimmer rose and matte brown
• The flawlessly radiant complexion thanks to Balancing Teint Powder
• The delicate, refreshing pink tones of Rouge Powder Duo, our favourite blusher
• And nourishing Lipstick Novum 08 Maple Glow which includes Argan Oil for luscious lips

*While stocks last.

Create Your Step by Step Spectacular Comeback Look!
with our International Make-Up Artist, Karim Sattar

1
After applying Dr. Hauschka Foundation, for a flawless complexion, use our Powder Brush to apply Balancing Teint Powder with circular movements from the forehead across the temples and cheeks to the chin.

2
Generously apply Kajal Eyeliner 08 Taupe along the entire upper lash line. Smudge with the applicator and blend upwards across the crease to the eyebrow. Also emphasise the lower lash line.

3
Apply Eyeshadow shade 03 to the upper and lower outer corners of the eye over the smudged Eyeliner, blending it inwards.

4
Apply Eyeshadow shade 02 from the inner corner of the eye to the middle of the moveable lid and the lower lash line.

5
Use Eyeshadow shade 01 to highlight the area beneath the eyebrows.

6
Apply the darker Rouge Powder Duo shade below the cheekbone, sweeping it forwards with Rouge Brush. Apply the lighter shade to the highest point of the cheeks.

7
For a soft finish to the lips, pucker them and dab on Lipstick Novum 08 Maple Glow.

Click on play for Video

Dr. Hauschka Quality

• Truly natural and organic cosmetics, certified to NATRUE and/or BDIH standards
• Free from chemical/synthetic fragrances, dyes and preservatives
• Free from mineral oils, parabens, silicone and PEG
• Dermatologically tested for sensitive skin
• Wherever possible, all raw materials come from controlled organic or biodynamic (Demeter certified) cultivation and are recovered under fair conditions
• We don’t test on animals, we test on happy to help out human volunteers

 

Thanks for reading our blog. xx

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The Rhythm Of The Night – Interview

When the skin flows with the rhythm of the night
Annette Greco, Head of Galenic Development, on night-time with Dr. Hauschka Skin Care

You deal with the formulation of new products and the rhythm of our skin. Are the differences between day and night really so noticeable different?

“Yes, they are. The idea that we’re active during the day and completely shut down at night falls short. There is more of a switchover: whereas during the day our bodies are open to the environment, absorbing impressions and nourishment, the night is used to process all that we took in. We form memories and regenerate, grow and gain strength. In fact, it is precisely because our consciousness takes a time-out that we are tremendously active at night and can lay the foundation for yet another day. That’s why it’s so important that we live both polarities. There is no day without night. Even when we can extend the daylight at will and effortlessly overcome time zones, the rhythm of life still affects us. If we go against it, it can make us ill. When we flow along with it, we lay the foundation for health, presence and beauty.”

What does this mean for your work?

“We want to develop formulations that respect this rhythm. Formulations that provide total support for full vibrancy. Ones which protect and nourish during the day and support the body’s reconstructive process at night.”

What challenges did you face while developing the Night Serum?

“We use water based, liquid products for the night care range. When it came to the Night Serum as well as for our Regenerating Serum, we sought formulations which imparted the aspect of living water, but at the same time offered a consistency familiar to our customers. We therefore came up with a serum that is neither liquid nor solid. This consistency can also be found in our bodies, for example in our blood or lymphatic system.”

Why, in contrast to other skin care brands, does Dr. Hauschka recommend using oil-free night care instead of a rich night cream?

“Because it better enables us to support the natural processes. During the day the emphasis is on substances – nutrition is the major factor. Therefore, during the day, your skin can use the protection and nourishment offered by your skin care products. At night, on the other hand, your skin needs something different: support for the natural processes rather than more substances. At night, our skin care products take a step back from offering additional substances and instead help to stimulate the natural processes. It’s a bit like parenting where we can’t always just provide for and look after the child. At certain times we also need to indicate: you can do it, I know your strength. But I’m always here if you need me.”

How can people successfully start using or switch to oil-free Dr. Hauschka night care?

“The switch starts with your attitude. If you’ve always generally been the type to rely a lot on your skin care products, you might get the feeling that you’re giving your skin too little. In fact, it’s the complete opposite! You’re giving your skin more care and respect while also demanding more of it. And this will sometimes show, for example by your skin tightening slightly. This reaction can be interpreted as a good sign: your skin is waking up, stirring and beginning an active process, which had before slipped somewhat from its responsibilities. Interestingly, your skin will tend to be taut in the evening, whereas in the mornings, after a reconstructive night phase, it will be at peace with itself and the world.”

Can I somehow help the transition phase?

“Definitely. With 30 nights (a skin cell cycle is 28-30 days) Ampoule treatment, instead of Toner, you can offer your skin additional supportive stimuli and in the early evenings a mask can help to usher in the transition from day to night. The mask should, however, be removed before going to sleep to leave the rest to the oil-free night care. The final step of the day is the careful application of the Night Serum or Regenerating Serum. Give your skin a little undivided attention and let the day go.”

Our biodynamic medicinal plant gardens

Dr. Hauschka Quality

• Truly natural and organic cosmetics, certified to NATRUE and/or BDIH standards
• Free from chemical/synthetic fragrances, dyes and preservatives
• Free from mineral oils, parabens, silicone and PEGs
• Dermatologically tested for sensitive skin
• Wherever possible, all raw materials come from controlled organic or biodynamic (Demeter certified) cultivation and are recovered under fair conditions
• We don’t test on animals, we test on happy to help out human volunteers

 

Thanks for reading our blog. xx

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Anthyllis

Our ingredients

Each and every one of the ingredients in our products contributes to their overall effect. Careful thought goes into the selection and sourcing of the raw materials as well as the way in which the individual ingredients are combined to form complete Dr. Hauschka products. We also adhere to the highest quality standards.

This blog tells you more about our key ingredient, Anthyllis, aka Woundwort, where it comes from, why we use it and what functions it performs in our products.

Plant profile

In its first year of growth, anthyllis forms a lush green rosette of leaves at ground level. Only in the second year do flower stems then grow from these, reaching heights of up to 90 cm and becoming densely covered in flowers. Stand by a field of anthyllis on a warm day and you’ll hear the hum of insects as bees and butterflies visit the nectar-rich flowers.

Each anthyllis head is made up of multiple long petals, surrounded by a green crown of leaves. Unlike other species in the plant kingdom, the individual flowers never open up fully; instead, they form a cup in which nectar can collect.

The chalk-loving plant is found on fallow fields and meadows, by the wayside and on sunny slopes, but never where the soil is over-fertilised.

Facial Toner ingredients

In Facial Toner, anthyllis fortifies the skin together with a witch hazel extract, which supports the rhythmic processes. After cleansing, Facial Toner activates the skin’s flexible and vibrant barrier function to create a fresh, radiant complexion. It prepares the skin for daytime or nighttime skin care.

Why is anthyllis used as an ingredient in Dr. Hauschka products?

Anthyllis looks different depending on its location. In other words, it knows how to adapt. It can grow wildly and exuberantly, but also in a controlled, structured manner. As an ingredient in Dr. Hauschka Skin Care products, it uses these properties to unfurl delicate, regulating abilities, flexibly adapting to all skin conditions. It addresses the skin as an organ with all of its functions and helps it to establish boundaries without become rigid. Skin that’s fortified gives us an adaptable barrier. Anthyllis provides the stimuli needed to guide any skin condition to a balanced, healthy condition, to revive it and to harmonise.

Origin, cultivation and processing

The anthyllis used in Dr. Hauschka Skin Care products is mainly sourced from our biodynamically cultivated Demeter Sonnenhof Farm in Bad Boll, Germany. Straight after harvest, Dr. Hauschka/WALA employees process the blossoming plants, using a special rhythmic WALA procedure to obtain an essence from them. The extract is obtained using a cool mixture of water and alcohol. A rhythmic WALA procedure is also used to obtain an oil extract from dried anthyllis. This is mixed with warm apricot kernel oil at a temperature of 37°C (human body temperature) and further processed. The different ways of handling the plant highlight its diverse properties. Both extracts are used in many Dr. Hauschka Skin Care formulations.

Anthyllis belongs to the faboideae family, a subfamily of the fabaceae (pea) family. It first originated from Southern Europe but is today found almost all over Europe as well as in Western Asia, North Africa and America.

The scientific name anthyllis vulneraria is derived from the plant’s usage and appearance; anthos > petal, ioulas > beard, volnus > wound. Combined, these terms indicate that this is a hairy flowering plant that can be used to treat wounds.

This medicinal plant was mentioned by the Greek doctor Dioskurides using the name anthyllis back in the 1st century A.D. In the Middle Ages, anthyllis was mentioned in herb books as a plant that helped to heal wounds.

The caterpillars from Germany;s smallest butterfly feed on anthyllis. Wild bees appreciate anthyllis as a source of nectar.

Dr. Hauschka Quality

• Truly natural and organic cosmetics, certified to NATRUE and/or BDIH standards
• Free from chemical/synthetic fragrances, dyes and preservatives
• Free from mineral oils, parabens, silicone and PEG
• Dermatologically tested for sensitive skin
• Wherever possible, all raw materials come from controlled organic or biodynamic (Demeter certified) cultivation and are recovered under fair conditions
• We don’t test on animals, we test on happy to help out human volunteers

 

Thanks for reading our blog. xx

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