A-Z Skincare Glossary

May 09, 2017

A-Z Skincare Glossary

A

* Acai - A Brazilian fruit that is high in nutrients and antioxidants - used in treatments to slow the signs of aging.

* Acetic Acid - used for it's astringent properties and removing excess oil.

*Actives - These are the key ingredients in your skincare products. These main ingredients deliver your skincare solutions - such as hydration, soothing or firming.

* Alcohol - Fatty Alcohols are non-irritating and beneficial for your skin. Skincare ingredients include cetyl, stearyl, and cetearyl alcohol.

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* Algae - full of proteins, amino acids and minerals. Algaes are antioxidants,protect against sun damage (red algae)can help stimulate collagen and even-out skin tone.

* Allantoin - An extract of the comfrey plant which can help, soothe and alleviate irritated skin. A key ingredient in anti-acne products.

* Almond Oil - full of antioxidants, high in vitamins E, A, D and B, contains protein, essential minerals and healthy fats as well. It is also rich in oleic and linoleic acids.

* Aloe Vera - An emollient resin that softens and hydrates, aloe vera is one of the most widely recognized ingredients in skin care. In addition to its moisturizing effects it is used to help heal skin injuries, minor cuts, rashes, and burns. It has an immediate soothing effect when applied topically.

* Alpha Hydroxy Acids (AHAs) - Act as an exfolient. Naturally occurring acids include lactic acid, malic acid, citric acid, pyruvic acid and the most-known - glycolic acid. AHAs can remove and loosen cells from the surface of the skin causing it to look smoother and less wrinkled. AHAs also help the surface layers of the skin retain moisture.

* Alpha-Lipoic Acid - a primary antioxidant which acts as an exfoliator for brightening the skin. It's used in skincare for reducing the signs of aging. It also enhances the benefits of vitamin A and C and is great for rehydration.

* Ampoule - an ampoule ( a word you'll often find in Korean products) is like a super-serum with higher concentrations of active ingredients. Used when needed for specific skin issues or applied topically to problematic areas.

*Antioxidant - An antioxidant is a chemical compound that protects cells against the effects of free radicals (molecules produced when the body breaks down food or is exposed to pollutants such as tobacco smoke or radiation). Antioxidants also help to protect your skin from the damaging effects of the sun. Antioxidants help protect your skin from the inside out by guarding your cells from damage. The most common antioxidants are Vitamins A,C and E, beta carotene, selenium and lycopene.

* Arbutin - a natural skin-lightening agent composed of glycerine and hydroquinone. It is extracted from bearberry plants.

* Argan Oil - Argan oil contains large amounts of omega-6 and omega-9 unsaturated fatty acids and is also a rich source of vitamin E and antioxidants. It slows down skin and hair ageing processes. Reduces fine lines, brightens any pigmentations and deeply moisturises. Argan oil protects from harmful sun radiation, environmental pollution, free radicals and other harmful external factors.

* Arginine - An amino acid that has antioxidant properties and can be helpful for soothing skin.

*Ascorbic Acid -Naturally occurring vitamin C found in fruits and green vegetables. It is needed for normal metabolism, repairing tissue, and healing wounds. It is frequently used as an antioxidant on the skin to prevent damage from free radicals, in addition to being used as a preservative.