Skincare Jargon: Your A to Z Guide
When it comes to skincare, navigating through the vast array of products, treatments, and techniques can be overwhelming. Understanding the skincare jargon associated with skincare is essential in making an effective skincare regime. From common ingredients to specialized treatments, this article presents an A to Z glossary of skin care terminologies that will empower you to take better care of your skin.
A
Antioxidants: Antioxidants are substances that protect the skin from damage caused by free radicals. Role of Antioxidants in Skincare helps prevent premature aging and protect against environmental stressors.
Acne: Acne is a common skin condition characterized by the formation of pimples, blackheads, whiteheads, and inflammation. It is caused by excess oil production, clogged pores, bacteria, and hormonal factors.
Allantoin: A soothing and moisturizing ingredient that promotes skin healing and cell regeneration.
Alpha Hydroxy Acid (AHA): A group of exfoliating acids, such as glycolic and lactic acid, that remove dead skin cells, improve texture, and enhance skin radiance.
Alpha Lipoic Acid: An antioxidant that helps protect against free radicals, reduces inflammation, and enhances the effectiveness of other antioxidants.
Alpha-Tocopherol: Also known as Vitamin E, it is a potent antioxidant that nourishes and protects the skin from damage caused by environmental stressors.
Amino Acids: Building blocks of proteins that support skin's structure and function, promoting a healthy complexion and aiding in skin repair.
Arbutin: A skin-brightening ingredient that helps reduce the appearance of dark spots and hyperpigmentation by inhibiting melanin production.
Ascorbic Acid: Also known as Vitamin C, it brightens the skin, boosts collagen production, and protects against environmental damage.
Avobenzone: A sunscreen ingredient that absorbs UVA rays to protect the skin from sun damage and premature aging.
Avocado Oil: A nourishing oil rich in essential fatty acids, vitamins, and antioxidants that moisturizes and soothes the skin.
Azelaic Acid: An ingredient that helps control acne, reduces inflammation, and brightens the skin by gently exfoliating and evening out skin tone.
B
Biotin: Biotin in skin care products, also known as Vitamin B7, is a water-soluble vitamin that plays a crucial role in maintaining healthy skin, hair, and nails. It is the primary ingredient in Perfectil. It supports the growth and strength of these structures, improves their overall appearance, and helps prevent conditions like brittle nails and hair loss. Biotin can be found in various foods, and supplementation is sometimes used to address deficiencies.
Barrier Function: The barrier function refers to the skin's protective outer layer that prevents moisture loss and shields against environmental aggressors. A healthy barrier function is crucial for maintaining hydrated and resilient skin.
Bakuchiol: A natural alternative to retinol that offers similar benefits, such as reducing fine lines and improving skin texture, without the potential for irritation.
Benzophenone: A common sunscreen ingredient that absorbs UVB rays, protecting the skin from sunburn and damage.
Benzoyl Peroxide: An ingredient used to treat acne by reducing bacteria, unclogging pores, and reducing inflammation.
Beta Hydroxy Acid (BHA): An exfoliating ingredient, such as salicylic acid, that penetrates pores, removes dead skin cells, and treats acne-prone skin.
C
Collagen: Collagen is a protein that provides structural support to the skin. It helps maintain firmness, elasticity, and a youthful appearance. Collagen production declines with age, leading to wrinkles and sagging skin.
Comedogenic: Comedogenic refers to ingredients or products that have a tendency to clog pores and promote the formation of blackheads and acne. Non-comedogenic products are less likely to cause pore blockages.
Caffeine: A stimulant and antioxidant that constricts blood vessels, reducing puffiness and improving the appearance of dark circles.
Camellia Sinensis Leaf Extract: Derived from green tea leaves, it has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties that protect the skin and soothe irritation.
Ceramides: Lipids naturally found in the skin that help maintain the moisture barrier, improve hydration, and protect against environmental damage.
Colloidal Oatmeal: Finely ground oats that soothe and calm irritated skin, providing relief from itching and inflammation.
D
Dermis: The dermis is the middle layer of the skin, located beneath the epidermis. It contains blood vessels, hair follicles, sweat glands, and connective tissues.
Dry Skin: Dry skin lacks moisture and often feels tight, rough, and flaky. It can be caused by factors such as genetics, environmental conditions, and age.
Diethanolamine (DEA): An ingredient used in skincare products as an emulsifier or pH adjuster, although it has been associated with potential skin irritations.
Dimethicone: A silicone-based ingredient that acts as a barrier on the skin, locking in moisture and smoothing the skin's surface.
E
Exfoliation: Exfoliation is the process of removing dead skin cells from the surface of the skin. It helps unclog pores, improve skin texture, and promote cell turnover, revealing a fresh and radiant complexion.
Eczema: Eczema, or atopic dermatitis, is a chronic skin condition characterized by dry, itchy, and inflamed patches of skin. It is often triggered by environmental factors, allergies, or genetics.
Ethyl Alcohol: A type of alcohol that is often used as a solvent in skincare products, but it can be drying and irritating to some individuals.
F
Ferulic Acid: An antioxidant that enhances the stability and efficacy of other antioxidants, such as Vitamin C and E, and protects against free radicals and UV damage.
Formaldehyde: A preservative used in some skincare products, although its use is controversial due to its potential skin sensitizing and irritating effects.
Fragrance: Added to skincare products for a pleasant scent, but it can be a potential allergen or irritant for some individuals.
Free Radicals: Free radicals are unstable molecules that can damage skin cells and accelerate aging. They are generated by factors like sun exposure, pollution, and stress. Antioxidants help neutralize free radicals.
G
Glycerin: A humectant that attracts and retains moisture, keeping the skin hydrated and supple.
Glycolic Acid: An AHA that exfoliates the skin, improves texture, reduces hyperpigmentation, and stimulates collagen production.
Glycyrrhiza Glabra: Also known as licorice extract, it has skin-soothing properties and helps reduce redness and inflammation.
Green Tea Extract: Green tea extract is derived from the leaves of the Camellia sinensis plant. It contains antioxidants and anti-inflammatory properties, making it beneficial for soothing and protecting the skin.
H
Hyaluronic Acid: Hyaluronic acid is a naturally occurring substance in the skin that helps maintain hydration and plumpness. It attracts and retains moisture, reducing the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.
Hyperpigmentation: Hyperpigmentation refers to patches or spots of darkened skin caused by an overproduction of melanin. It can be triggered by sun exposure, hormonal changes, acne, or skin injuries.
Hydroquinone: A skin-lightening ingredient that inhibits melanin production, reducing the appearance of dark spots and hyperpigmentation.
I
Intense Pulsed Light: Intense Pulsed Light (IPL) is a non-invasive treatment that uses high-intensity pulses of light to target various skin concerns, such as sunspots, acne scars, and facial redness.
Inflammation: Inflammation is the body's response to injury or irritation, resulting in redness, swelling, and discomfort. Chronic inflammation can lead to skin damage and accelerated aging.
J
Jojoba Oil: Jojoba oil is a plant-derived oil that closely resembles the skin's natural sebum. It helps moisturize, soothe, and balance the skin, making it suitable for all skin types.
Jujube Extract: Jujube extract is derived from the fruit of the jujube tree. It has antioxidant properties and helps calm and nourish the skin.
K
Keratin: Keratin is a fibrous protein that forms the outer layer of the skin, hair, and nails. It provides strength and protection to these structures.
Kojic Acid: Kojic acid is a natural skin-lightening ingredient derived from certain fungi. It helps reduce the appearance of dark spots and hyperpigmentation by inhibiting melanin production.
L
Lactic Acid: Lactic acid is an AHA derived from milk. It exfoliates the skin, improves skin tone and texture, and enhances the penetration of other skincare ingredients.
Lipids: Lipids are fatty substances that help maintain the skin's moisture barrier and prevent dehydration. They include ceramides, cholesterol, and fatty acids.
Lanolin: A natural ingredient derived from sheep's wool that moisturizes and protects the skin, often used in lip balms and creams.
Lycopene: A powerful antioxidant found in tomatoes and other red fruits that helps protect the skin from UV damage and promotes a healthy complexion.
M
Microneedling: Microneedling, also known as collagen induction therapy, involves creating microscopic punctures in the skin using tiny needles. It stimulates collagen production, improves skin texture, and reduces the appearance of scars and wrinkles.
Melanin: Melanin is the pigment responsible for the color of the skin, hair, and eyes. It helps protect the skin from UV damage but can also lead to hyperpigmentation when produced excessively.
Manuka Honey: A type of honey with antimicrobial and healing properties that soothes and moisturizes the skin.
Methylpropanediol: A solvent commonly used in skincare products to improve the absorption of other ingredients.
Mineral Water: Water sourced from natural springs or mineral-rich environments that can provide additional minerals and nutrients to the skin.
N
Niacinamide: Niacinamide, also known as Vitamin B3, is a versatile ingredient that offers multiple benefits for the skin. It helps regulate oil production, minimizes pore appearance, evens out skin tone, and strengthens the skin barrier.
Non-ABCD Ingredients: Non-ABCD ingredients refer to substances that are free from parabens, sulfates, phthalates, and artificial fragrances. Many people choose non-ABCD products for a more natural and skin-friendly approach.
O
Omega Fatty Acids: Omega fatty acids, such as Omega-3 and Omega-6, are essential for maintaining healthy skin. They help improve moisture retention, reduce inflammation, and promote overall skin health.
Oil Cleansing: Oil cleansing is a method that uses oils, such as jojoba or coconut oil, to remove makeup, dirt, and impurities from the skin. It helps balance oil production and maintain hydration.
P
Peptides: Peptides are chains of amino acids that serve as building blocks for proteins like collagen and elastin. They help improve skin elasticity, reduce wrinkles, and promote a youthful complexion.
Probiotics: Probiotics are beneficial bacteria that help support a healthy skin microbiome. They can help strengthen the skin barrier, soothe inflammation, and promote overall skin health.
Pantothenic Acid: Also known as Vitamin B5, it promotes skin healing, enhances barrier function, and helps retain moisture.
Parabens: Preservatives commonly used in skincare products to prevent bacterial growth, but they have been associated with potential skin sensitivities in some individuals.
Petrolatum: A occlusive ingredient that forms a protective barrier on the skin, preventing moisture loss and enhancing skin hydration.
Phthalates: Chemical compounds used in some skincare products as solvents or fragrances, although their use is controversial due to potential health risks.
Q
Q10 (Coenzyme Q10): Coenzyme Q10 is an antioxidant naturally produced by the body. It helps protect the skin from free radicals, reduces the signs of aging, and supports cellular energy production.
Quercetin: Quercetin is a flavonoid antioxidant found in various fruits, vegetables, and herbs. It has anti-inflammatory properties and helps protect the skin against environmental damage.
R
Retinol: Retinol is a form of Vitamin A that stimulates collagen production, reduces the appearance of wrinkles, and improves skin texture. It is often used in anti-aging products.
Retinoids: Vitamin A derivatives, such as retinol and retinoic acid, that stimulate collagen production, reduce wrinkles, and improve skin texture.
Rosehip Oil:
Rosehip oil is derived from the seeds of the wild rose bush. It is rich in antioxidants, vitamins, and fatty acids, making it beneficial for hydrating, brightening, and improving the skin's texture.
Rhamnose: A naturally derived sugar that has anti-aging properties and helps improve skin firmness and elasticity.
Rosmarinus Officinalis: Also known as rosemary extract, it has antioxidant and antimicrobial properties and helps soothe inflammation and protect against free radicals.
S
Salicylic Acid: A BHA that penetrates pores, exfoliates the skin, and helps treat acne and blemishes.
Silica: A mineral that absorbs excess oil and mattifies the skin, providing a smooth and shine-free finish.
Sodium Benzoate: A preservative used in skincare products to prevent bacterial growth and extend shelf life.
Sodium Lauryl Sulfate: A surfactant commonly used in cleansers and body washes to create lather, although it can be drying and irritating for some individuals.
Squalene: A naturally occurring lipid in the skin that helps moisturize and protect against moisture loss.
Sulfur: An ingredient used in acne treatments for its antimicrobial properties and ability to reduce excess oil production.
SPF: Sun Protection Factor (SPF) measures the level of protection a sunscreen provides against UVB rays, which cause sunburn. It is essential for preventing sun damage and reducing the risk of skin cancer.
Sebum: Sebum is an oily substance produced by the sebaceous glands in the skin. It helps moisturize and protect the skin but can contribute to acne when produced excessively.
T
Tretinoin: Tretinoin is a prescription-strength retinoid that is used to treat acne and reduce the signs of aging. It promotes cell turnover, unclogs pores, and improves skin texture.
Toners: Toners are watery solutions used after cleansing to balance the skin's pH, remove any remaining impurities, and prepare the skin for further skincare product absorption.
Titanium Dioxide: A mineral sunscreen ingredient that provides broad-spectrum protection against both UVA and UVB rays.
U
UVA and UVB: UVA and UVB are two types of ultraviolet rays emitted by the sun. UVA rays contribute to premature aging and UVB rays cause sunburn. Both types of rays can damage the skin and increase the risk of skin cancer.
UV Index: The UV Index measures the intensity of ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun. It helps individuals determine the level of sun protection needed to avoid sunburn and skin damage.
V
Vitamin C: Vitamin C is a powerful antioxidant that helps brighten the skin, even out skin tone, and promote collagen production. It also protects the skin from free radicals and UV damage.
Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs): Volatile Organic Compounds are chemical compounds that can be found in certain skincare and cosmetic products. They can cause skin irritation and contribute to air pollution.
W
Water: Essential for hydrating and maintaining the health and function of the skin cells, ensuring proper moisture balance.
Witch Hazel: Witch hazel is a natural astringent derived from the bark and leaves of the witch hazel plant. It helps tighten the skin, reduce inflammation, and soothe various skin conditions.
Wrinkles: Wrinkles are fine lines or creases that develop on the skin's surface as a result of aging, sun damage, and a decrease in collagen and elastin production.
X
Xenobiotics refer to foreign substances that come into contact with the skin, such as environmental pollutants, toxins, or synthetic chemicals. They can cause skin irritation, allergies, and other adverse reactions.
Xerosis is a medical term for abnormally dry skin. It is often characterized by rough, scaly patches and itching. Proper moisturization and hydration are crucial for managing xerosis.
Y
Youthful Glow:
Youthful glow refers to the radiant, healthy-looking complexion associated with youthful skin. It is often achieved through a combination of proper skincare, a balanced diet, and a healthy lifestyle.
Yeast Extract:
Yeast extract is derived from Saccharomyces cerevisiae, a type of fungus. It has soothing and hydrating properties, making it beneficial for calming and nourishing the skin.
Z
Zinc oxide is a mineral sunscreen ingredient that provides broad-spectrum protection against both UVA and UVB rays. It is gentle on the skin and suitable for sensitive skin types.
Zeaxanthin is a carotenoid antioxidant found in fruits and vegetables. It helps protect the skin from UV damage, supports collagen production, and promotes skin elasticity.
Conclusion:
Having a basic understanding of skincare jargons empower you to make informed decisions about your skincare routine. From antioxidants to zinc oxide, this A to Z glossary of skin care terms equips you with knowledge to choose products and treatments that address your specific skin concerns. Remember to consult with a dermatologist or skin care professional for personalized advice and recommendations based on your skin type and needs before building an effective skincare regime. Prioritize your skin's health and embrace the journey towards a radiant and glowing complexion.
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