At ishga, water is not simply a base ingredient - like our Hebridean seaweed, it's a core ingredient in our organic skincare. We never use tap water, instead, our products are made using locally sourced Hebridean spring water and seawater. Both are filtered for purity, with nothing added and nothing removed, allowing nature to deliver its maximum potential to the skin.
Pure Hebridean seawater
Our seawater is collected from the east coast of the Isle of Lewis, from waters awarded the highest quality classification by the Scottish Environmental Protection Agency. These pure, clean waters of the Outer Hebrides are unpolluted and naturally rich in essential minerals that closely resemble those found in the skin.
Benefits of seawater
Some of the key minerals contained in seawater and how they benefit the skin:
- Magnesium: Reduces skin inflammation, supports cellular repair and boosts hydration.
- Calcium: Helps to promote cell renewal and strengthens the skin barrier.
- Zinc: Reduces skin irritation and helps to manage sebum (oil) levels.
- Sodium: Naturally cleanses the skin by removing toxins and unclogging pores.
Healing well spring water
Our Hebridean spring water is sourced from a healing well hidden among the hills of the Isle of Lewis. Used throughout the ages by island communities, the spring sits on a bed of natural blue clay and has long been associated with healing and therapeutic properties.
What is blue clay spring water?
The spring water is sourced from natural spring in the ground, the water flowing through layers of mineral-rich blue clay. As the water moves through the earth, it absorbs essential minerals and trace elements, while the clay gently purifies and enhances its properties.
Benefits of spring water
The healing well spring water contains potent minerals that make it an ideal ingredient in skincare. Key minerals include:
- Potassium: Helps to regulate moisture levels, improving hydration and preventing and reducing dryness.
- Orthosilicic acid (silica): Supports collagen production and skin elasticity, helping skin to maintain a firmer, smoother appearance.
- Magnesium: Reduces skin inflammation, supports cellular repair and boosts hydration.
- Calcium: Helps to promote cell renewal and strengthens the skin barrier.
Sustainably sourced
Just as we sustainably hand-harvest our Hebridean seaweed, we collect only the amount of spring water and seawater needed for production each week, nothing is wasted. Most ishga products contain a blend of both fresh seawater and spring water. In some formulations, only one is used - chosen intentionally to support the product’s purpose and performance.
The healing power of nature in every drop
By combining mineral-rich seawater, healing spring water and our unique Hebridean seaweed extract, we can create organic skincare that supports healthy, glowing skin. Rooted in the healing power of the ocean, our water-based formulations reflect our commitment to natural, sustainable, results-driven skincare, for all skin types.
