Cosmetics: Definitions of Words Related to Cosmetics

Here is a list of Definitions of Words Related to Cosmetics, Skin Care and Skin Care Ingredients.

It is by no means exhaustive but it is a great place to start for the individual interested in obtaining the definition of words common to cosmetics and skin care.

Acne: an inflammatory condition of the sebaceous glands which is identified and characterized by comedones and pimples, commonly on the face, back, and chest

Age Spot: A light brown patch on the skin that usually occurs with age or overexposure to the sun in light skin people; Also known as a liver spot (why I don't know)

Alpha hydroxy acids (AHA's): Used in chemical peels to erase fine lines and give the skin a smoother appearance; Glycolic acid and Lactic Acid are the 2 most common

Antiseptic: Capable of preventing infection by inhibiting the growth of microorganisms

Benzoyl peroxide: Topical antibacterial agent used to treat acne. Found in more over the counter and prescription 

Blackhead: A plug of keratin and sebum within a hair follicle that is blackened at the surface of the skin; Caused by excess oils accumulated in the sebaceous glands

Botanical: Related to a plant like nature

Botox: A trademark for a preparation of botulinum, a toxin used to treat strabismus and smooth facial wrinkles.

Chemical Peel: A procedure used to reduce/remove skin blemishes or wrinkles by applying a gentle acid that produces a mild superficial burn

Collagen: A protein found in bone, cartilage, skin, and other connective tissue.  Helps to strengthen skin and improve skin elasticity

Comedogenic: Aggravates existing acne or produces acne

Comedo (Comedones is plural): Commonly known as blackheads and whiteheads.  They are formed when dirt is trapped inside of hair follicles

Cosmeceutical: A cosmetic product that has medicinal properties such as an Antiwrinkle Cream

Dermis: The sensitive connective tissue layer of the skin located below the epidermis

Eczema: An acute inflammation of the skin causing the skin to become red, itchy and the outbreak of lesions that may be crusty and filled with fluid.

Emollient: An agent that softens or soothes the skin

Epidermis: The protective outer layer of the skin.

Esthetic: Pertaining to beauty (also spelled aesthetic)

Exfoliate: To remove a layer of skin (It's important to exfoliate with a skin care product that refines the skin at least once a week to remove dead skin cells)

Glycolic Peel: Used to help peel or exfoliate the skin, making it appear more youthful.

Keratin: A non-water soluble protein located in the upper layer of the skin, hair, and nails.

Hyaluronic Acid: An acid that occurs naturally in the skin and helps to retain moisture; A lubricating and protecting agen

Lactic Acid: A chemical compound found in sour milk, fruit and produced in the muscles during exercise

Melanin: A naturally occurring dark pigment found in skin, hair, fur, and feathers.

Phytochemical: A plant derived chemical that is not necessarily nutrient essential but may have certain health benefits 

Pigment: Any substance that produces color and is present in plant or animal tissues

Rosacea: A chronic dermatitis of the face caused by dilation of capillaries. It produces redness of the face and acnelike pimples

Salicylic acid: A white crystalline substance used to treat skin conditions and as a preservative to make aspirin, dyes or perfumes

Scar: A mark left on the skin after a healed wound, burn or condition such as acne.

Sebaceous gland: A gland that secretes sebum usually into a hair follicle and lubricates the hair and skin

Sebum:  The oily secretion of the sabaceous glands

Shea Butter: A whitish or yellowish fat obtained from the seeds of the shea tree. It's used to make soap, lip butter and candles.

SPF (Sun Protection Factor): The degree to which a sunscreen protects the skin from ultraviolet rays

Sodium Laurel (or Laureth) Sulfate: A very harmful ingredient (a detergent and surfactant) found in most personal care products (ex: toothpaste, soap, shampoo)

Surfactant:  A wetting agent allowing easier spreading of a liquid

Whitehead: A small white or yellowish cystlike mass below the surface of the skin due to the blockage of a sebaceous gland.

*Use this Definition of Words list to help you employ an educated and healthy Skin Care Regimen.  The use of natural skin care products in addition to this Definition of Words related to Skin Care will help you.