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 (AHAs): 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

Definitions of Words Related to Cosmetics

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.