CO₂ Extraction
What is CO₂ Extraction
This specialized extraction method uses carbon dioxide (CO₂), a naturally occurring gas found in the air around us. When placed under pressure, it enters a unique state where it behaves like both a liquid and a gas.
• As a gas → it diffuses efficiently through plant material
• As a liquid → it dissolves oil-soluble compounds
Because this process works at low temperatures and leaves no solvent residues, many of the plant’s more delicate compounds are better preserved.
The result is an extract that more closely reflects the plant’s natural composition.
As pressure is released, CO₂ returns to a gas, leaving no residual solvent in the finished extract.
Temperature and pressure can also be adjusted to selectively extract specific fractions with precision.
Why This Matters in Skin, Hair, and Formulation
Your skin and hair respond to what’s actually in the plant.
CO₂ extraction allows us to work with a broader range of its natural compounds. This includes the oils, vitamins, and nutrient-rich components your skin recognizes and uses.
At Serenity Falls, extraction is part of formulation. We choose extracts based on what they carry, and how that shows up on your skin and hair.
We evaluate:
• The chemical profile produced by the extraction
• Whether that profile aligns with the purpose of the formula
• The stability and repeatability of the preparation
This allows us to keep formulas simple and plant-based while still offering depth and richness. When the extraction is complete and stable, the formula does not need to be overloaded.
Can I try this process at home?
No. CO₂ extraction cannot be safely done at home. The process requires specialized equipment, controlled pressure systems, and trained scientists.
Serenity Falls works directly with a professional extraction facility where this process takes place.
Raw plant materials arrive from farms and fields where they are responsibly grown and ethically sourced. Each batch is tested to ensure it is free from contaminants before undergoing CO₂ extraction and analytical assessment to confirm the presence of key plant compounds.
The extracts are then sent directly to our home, where they arrive in the formulator’s hands - yours truly- and are handcrafted into the products you receive.
From the field, to the extraction lab, to my hands, and nothing in between.