Sophyto FAQS

Where did the name SOPHYTO come from?

Sophtyo pronounced [SO-FY'-TO] is taken from the word 'phyto' because the brand specializes in phytotherapy. When they asked a focus group of a word that best described their experience with the products, they voted for using 'So'... so healthy, so effective, so eco-conscious. So, the word 'so' was fused with 'phyto' and there you have Sophyto.

What makes Sophtyo different to other existing premium or professional use lines?

Sophtyo is healthier for the body and the environment as each and every ingredient is screened to ensure it offers no negative health or environmental implications. If any ingredient does not meet these criteria, the Soil Association would not allow Sophtyo's products to carry the SA logo.

Why did Sophtyo choose to make a skincare line to Soil Association (SA) standards?

Besides the fact the Soil Association has the most robust standards globally for organic health and beauty care, when you look back to the Soil Association's beginnings, its founders also had great vision. The Soil Association's work then and now is a true testament to their commitment to the planet and the health of its inhabitants (animals and humans alike). It's not just about organic food and farming, it really is much more than that.

What makes Sophtyo different to other skincare lines approved by Soil Association (SA)?

There are a lot of excellent companies licensed by SA for health and beauty care. However, Sophtyo is unique because they are the first to have achieved such high organic percentages in a premium range. Sophtyo is the first eco-premium company licensed by SA. They produced a professional and results driven range that underwent a two year trial in Californian spas while also being put to the test by a renowned LA makeup artist on some very famous faces.

Does Sophyto's Environmentally Responsible Production Policies (ERP) have anything to do with Soil Association?

No they don't. ERP is exclusive to Sophtyo and exemplifies their commitment to go beyond what is required. For example, the Soil Association does not impose upon its licensee's to compost all their waste, while Sophyto is working towards this requirement. Simply put, Sophtyo's ERP policies consist of practical solutions to lessen ecological impact from their production. Eco-efficient systems are implemented by simply utilizing fewer resources that create less waste and pollution. For example, waste generated in their UK facilities consist mainly of biodegradable material that is taken to their recycling facility. It is here that composting takes place within enclosed 'clamps' and oxygen levels and temperature can be monitored and managed to ensure wastes are sanitized and odors contained. All material is composted to meet BSI PAS 100 specification.

Does Sophtyo contain any petrochemicals or parabens?

Sophtyo does not contain any petrochemicals or parabens. Soil Association standards simply would not license any product that contained these types of ingredients. For consumer safety all products have to fulfill the 2005 requirements of the European Pharmacopoeia for the adequate preservation of topical substances. In the absence of petrochemicals and parabens, Sophtyo utilizes multifunctional ingredients to control bacteria and fungus. They are approved and licensed by Soil Association for use in organic cosmetic products and offer a three-year shelf life unopened.

What kind of scent does Sophtyo have?

Sophtyo does not purposely add fragrance in the form of essential oils unless there is a specific requirement for their inclusion other than fragrance. However, most products possess a light, natural aroma like apple, pineapple or cucumber.

How long will Sophtyo products last?

All Sophtyo products have a tested durability shelf life of 36 months (starting from the day of manufacture). After opening the product, Sophtyo recommends keeping them no more than three months in order to best benefit from the naturally high bioactivity, which can decrease over time.

Who can use the line?

Sophtyo products are suitable for both men and women of all skin types. The multi-tasking formulas can address a variety of skin issues in both young and mature skin because each formula contains potent antioxidant ingredients along with literally hundreds of complex vitamins, minerals and plant chemicals.

Does Sophtyo offer anti-aging products?

All their formulas contain anti-aging ingredients. Sophyto's method of working with complete, whole nutrients from organic foods and botanicals offer beneficial results in efficacy for a multitude of issues, including aging. These formulas contain hundreds of complex vitamins, minerals and plant chemicals that have been scientifically proven to be more potent than just one element. A product is only as good as the quality of its ingredients, so the high level of bioactivity incorporated in Sophtyo formulas offer maximum nutrition for delivering essential key nutrients in maintaining the health of the skin.

Why is 'organic' not included Sophtyo's product names?

By virtue of having an average of 95% active organic ingredients in the formulas, Sophtyo could easily use the word organic in many of the product names. However, the range is not just about organic. Sophtyo's goal is to help educate consumers to not just accept a company's word that their range is organic or natural. Instead they want to encourage people to look for certifying symbols and license numbers on packaging and understand what types of ingredients are being used. For example Sophtyo packaging carries the Soil Association symbol, which means they're licensed for that particular product. Their SA license number allows a customer to verify with the Soil Association that they are indeed licensed. Then they display the ERP symbol and organic manufacturing license number. What does all of this add up to? Claims that have been audited and endorsed are more authentic and dependable than just using the word 'organic' or 'natural'.

Are these products hypo-allergenic?

Hypo-allergenic does not mean non allergenic but rather it means the most common skin allergens have been removed from the product. Sophtyo has taken all necessary steps to ensure ingredients containing known allergens haven't been used. They also don't use many essential oils in the majority of the formulas because certain essential oils can contain allergens. All of the ingredients are listed on product packaging so one can easily avoid ingredients that may cause irritation. Sophtyo recommends a patch test just under the chin or the inside the arm before trying any new product. Instructions on how to test the product are located on the brochure inside each box.

Is Sophtyo easy to use?

The range epitomizes effortless beauty and you can mix, match and layer to adapt to your skin's needs at any time. Synergized whole food nutrients help support the function of each other, allowing for successful combination therapy. Each formula is packed with anti-aging, bioactive nutrients that reduce the need for a different product for each part of your face. This also ensures the care of your skin is kept to a simple and minimal routine.

Does Sophtyo offer an eye product?

The skin around the eyes is about seven times thinner than the rest of your face, which means you need a lighter formulation that contains non-irritating ingredients. The High Potency Concentrates and Polyphenol Skin Drops are oil free, lightweight and although used on the face, neck and d?collet?, are absolutely perfect for using around the delicate eye area too.

Are water-free products better for your skin?

Sophtyo recommends using Super Bioactive on a cleansing pad for removing cleansers and masks in place of water if you are in an area where water quality is not that great. For example, hard water is high in calcium and will stiffen skin's own oil and transform it to a waxy state. This leaves skin dry, which can contribute to inflammation and itchiness.

Does Sophtyo target discoloration?

Treating discoloration is a specialized field. Deeply pigmented skin often requires a dermatologist who can assess the health of the skin first then make necessary recommendations. As such, Sophyto does not offer products that specifically target pigmentation issues focusing more on luminosity than discoloration. Sometimes when skin appears dull and sallow it may be due to a number of factors, including health issues. Sophyto suggests contacting your doctor if you're not feeling well and your skin color is 'off'.

How much product is in each monodose application?

There is 5ml of product in each monodose. If skin is deficient in either water or oil it will initially take in more product. However, over time as skin corrects itself it will use less. Sophtyo also recommends using these products on the neck, d?collet?, hands and around the outer area of the ear.

Why is pH important?

Besides looking for high quality, healthy ingredients, the pH value of any skincare product is important information to know. Normal human skin pH value is somewhere between 4.5 and 6, which means it is slightly acidic and this is the range Sophtyo stays within. Acidity for human skin is good because it kills the bad bacteria and allows the 'friendly flora' on the surface to function. However, as we age, the surface of our skin starts to climb from being acidic to more alkaline. In this range our skin is unable to protect itself and starts to weaken. Likewise, those who suffer from acne need to ensure their products have a pH of 5.5 or less, as bacteria that acne thrives upon is minimally present at this number. Skin that is alkaline does not function in a healthy state, which is why it is imperative to look for the right pH in your products. Make sure a product is not higher than 5.5 to be on the safe side. If a manufacturer is not displaying their pH on the product, then you should try to check first before buying.