Mayan Dew Hydrating Essence LA BELLE LUNE - Vitamin serum

Tepezcohuite Extract: The secret ingredient in Maya Dew is known in Mexico as tepezcohuite (pronounced te-pez-co-wheete) and was nicknamed "skin tree" by the ancient Mayans for its amazing healing properties. La Belle Lune produces its own tepezcohuite extract in-house and combines it with organic vanilla beans and organic plant-based glycerin. Native to southern Mexico and South America, the bark and root of the tree have been used for centuries to promote skin health. Key components of its chemical composition are flavonoids (antioxidants), lipids (promote moisture barrier/cellular hydration), tannins (anti-inflammatory/astringent), and polyphenols/micronutrients (zinc, magnesium, and iron), all of which play a role in epidermal repair and protection and inhibit collagen degradation. The nutrients in Tepezcohuite help maintain the skin's natural hyaluronic acid production and its ability to retain moisture.

Prickly Pear Extract: (also known as Nopal cactus) is derived from the Oputina cactus species and is native to the deserts of Mexico. Prickly pear cacti are rich in vitamins and minerals such as vitamin A, vitamin C, calcium, and potassium, and also contain tannins (anti-inflammatory), betanin (a phytochemical that protects the plant by acting as an antioxidant), and flavonoids (also antioxidants). This incredible cactus survives even in the driest climates and is a genius at retaining moisture/water within its cells. La Belle Lune has carefully curated Mayan Dew to capitalize on the amazing properties of the prickly pear cactus.

Yucca Extract: Native to the deserts of the Americas, the yucca is another plant that has adapted to harsh environments, utilizing its ability to retain water in its cells for survival. It is rich in vitamins A, B, and C, minerals (iron, copper, manganese, and phosphorus), amino acids (protection against free radicals), and saponins (carbohydrates/sugars in plants that have soothing properties and stimulate the natural synthesis of hyaluronic acid). These nutrients support moisture retention and give Mayan Dew a naturally soothing and softening property.

Agave Extract: Another desert beauty in Mayan Dew is the organic agave ferment filtrate. Native to Mexico, the agave plant was revered by the Aztecs and Mayans and, like the prickly pear and yucca, has cleverly evolved by developing a unique water-storage system and the ability to stabilize its cell membranes against environmental stressors. Valuable nutrients in agave include calcium, vitamins A, B1, B2, C, D, and K, and saponins (a group of carbohydrates that stimulate the natural synthesis of hyaluronic acid). Agave is also known for its nectar, and this natural sugar content (fructose and glucose) also gives this plant its moisturizing properties. Sugars are hygroscopic and can draw moisture close to the skin. When combined with the other extracts in Mayan Dew, it creates a wonderful synergistic blend of moisturizing botanicals.

Hibiscus Extract: Known for its nutrient-rich composition, hibiscus has a reputation for promoting healthy-looking skin. Its origins are thought to lie in the Pacific Islands and Asia. Antioxidants, vitamin C, and alpha hydroxy acids (a water-soluble acid) are three of the most well-known and valued components of hibiscus. Vitamin C is essential for collagen production in cells, AHAs promote a gentle, delicate process of skin renewal, and antioxidants such as flavonoids help fight free radical damage. Hibiscus is the perfect replenishing extract in Mayan Dew, promoting a smoother, more radiant complexion.


Sodium Hyaluronate: This vegan hyaluronic acid (INCI name Sodium Hyaluronate) is approved by the Soil Association and also Cosmos-certified. It is produced by the production of enzymes from a bacterial biofermentation process. Hyaluronic acid is famous for its ability to bind up to 600 times its own weight in water, increasing skin's hydration levels and reducing moisture loss. Due to its soothing properties, it can also reduce inflammation, soften, and plump dry skin.