Ingredient

Chlorophyllin

CI75810

Chlorophyllin brings a calming, leafy-green colour to Lush products. With its strong antimicrobial properties, it makes an effective deodorant and is also prized in skincare to help calm and prevent acne.

The word ‘photosynthesis’ takes us back to biology class, doesn't it? It’s a process developed by plants and algae to absorb sunlight and transform it into energy (which is quite essential for living and growing). This ingenious system happens through the action of chlorophyll, the pigment that also makes them green.

The chlorophyllin that Lush purchase is derived from the natural chlorophyll of GMO-free alfalfa grass. Chlorophyll molecules have a magnesium atom at their core and are oil-soluble. To make chlorophyllin, this atom is replaced by copper, which stabilises its green colour and makes it water-soluble. 

Since this semi-synthetic was invented, it's been widely used as a food colouring, but has also been heavily studied for many other potential applications. Its potent antioxidant and antimicrobial properties have been shown to accelerate wound healing, and the compound is now under scrutiny to help treat some forms of cancer and repair sun-damaged skin. It is also thought to promote hair growth, although this has yet to be tested and proven.