Clean Beauty Glossary
Glossary of Beauty Terms, Ingredients and other things

The outer layers of the skin.

Remove hair from below the skin's surface

Fragrant oil extracted from plant or herb.

any fatty acid required by the body in manufacturing prostaglandins, found in such foods as oily fish and nuts. EFAs are a part of the lipid layer, and help maintain the suppleness and elasticity of skin. These fats have long been known to be necessary for the body's functioning, their deficiency results in the skin losing moisture and leading to hardening and drying. Only recently, however, has their role in skincare become clearly understood. Essential Fatty Acids along with Ceramides, Oxidants, Alpha Hydroxy Acids and Vitamin A & E work together to ensure that the skin is nourished from deep within. They are now an important constituent of products for intensive skincare.

a class of volatile oils obtained from plants, possessing the odor and other characteristic properties of the plant from which they are extracted, used chiefly in the manufacture of perfumes, flavors, and pharmaceuticals.

Estheticians are trained in the cosmetic treatment of the skin. A person with special training in administering facials, aromatherapy, skin care, makeup, etc; also aesthetician

Synthetic preservative used in non-protein based products.

A mild astringent with antiseptic properties.

Used as an astringent and helpful for reducing skin irritation. Also beneficial for dehydrated skin.

To scale off layers of skin.

Medium hold hairspray used on a finished style to maintain its shape and hold.

Lightweight styling product that provides body, volume, and style memory. Especially effective for hair that is fine, curly, or wavy.

A pore in the skin which the root of hair grows.

Firmest hold hairspray used to maintian style of hard to hold hair.

The same as glycolic acid (reduces build up of excess dead skin cells).

A mild astringent with antiseptic properties; promotes healing.

A powerful Antioxidant that has detoxifying qualities. Originally from Asia, ginkgo biloba is known for its great revitalizing, stimulating, and firming qualities. Found to improve circulation by helping to increase healthy blood flow to skin. Known for its anti-aging properties that give a healthier, rosy, younger looking skin.

Considered to be a tonic. Believed to be nourishing due to its vitamin and hormone content. It is taken orally and is also felt to have energy boosting capabilities.

Used in moisturizers due to its water binding capabilities. An effective natural moisturizer at low concentrations; glycerin is a humectant, and at higher concentrations attracts moisture from the environment. Commonly used in skin creams, lotions, skin cleansers. Helps condition the skin.

Reduces build up of excess dead skin cells.

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

Herb used as a mild antiseptic

It has moisturizing and nourishing properties due to its high linoleic acid content.

Horse Chestnut Extract (HCE) and its primary active constituent, escin, exert several beneficial effects on the circulatory system. HCE helps reduce fluid accumulation in the tissues. It has been shown to reduce leg circumference and volume in individuals with excessive fluid accumulation in these tissues. HCE also helps protect blood vessels from damaging free radicals.

An ingredient in skin or hair products that draws moisture from the air to moisturize.

An acid that occurs naturally in the skin, helps retain the skin's natural moisture.

To add moisture to the skin

A bleaching agent used in skin preparations.

Darkening of the skin, commonly produced by ultraviolet radiation, which provokes melanocytes in the skin.

Below the surface of the skin.

An agent that stimulates either innate or acquired immunity.

An agent that acts to suppress the body's natural immune response.

A conditioner with light to intense conditioning properties that restores a healthy look and protects against further damage.

A substance that consistently and predictably produces an adverse response (such as reddening, swelling, itching, burning, or blistering) in virtually all of the population. Irritants are not to be confused with allergens.

Essential oil extracted from plants and used in perfumes. A sensuous and romantic fragrance that is prized by lovers for its intoxicating and aphrodisiac properties. Jasmine has been known to relieve melancholy. The Jasmine plant comes from India though it initially originated in China. It is cultivated from ancient times for its fragrant flowers.Interestingly the Jasmine plant belongs to the olive family.

A tonic, emollient and moisturizer. Treats dry skin, wrinkles and stretch marks. Jojoba Oil is very similar to the natural oil our skin produces. Usually, it is pressed but can be solvent extracted. Jojoba Oil is naturally moisturizing, healing, and beneficial for all skin types; it is an excellent scalp treatment. The best claim to fame for Jojoba Oil is that it has been accepted as a substitute for sperm whale oil, formerly often used in the manufacture of cosmetics (the U.S. Government banned whaling in the early 1970's)!

A fragrance considered a mild skin stimulant.

A natural emollient, protects and nourishes skin.

is an off- white or ivory-colored fat extracted from the nut of the African shea tree (Vitellaria paradoxa).[1] Shea butter is a triglyceride (fat) derived mainly from stearic acid and oleic acid. It is widely used in cosmetics as a moisturizer, salve or lotion. Shea butter is edible and is used in food preparation in Africa.[2] Occasionally, the chocolate industry uses shea butter mixed with other oils as a substitute for cocoa butter, although the taste is noticeably different. Traditional uses of shea butter include: treatments for dry skin, blemishes, skin discoloration, scars and wrinkles, a relaxer for stiff muscles, as an aid for pain from swelling and arthritis, even as a sun screen. What makes shea butter so great for the skin is its high content of non-saponifiable fatty acids (comprised mostly of stearic and oleic acids.) These fatty acids are indispensable for moisturizing and retaining the elasticity of the skin. By making up for lipid (fat) deficiency in the epidermal cells, shea butter provides the skin with all the essential elements it needs for its good balance. Shea butter contains up to 11% of unsaponifiables, making it a superior super fatting material for soap making. Smooth on face, hands, and body, the gentle qualities of shea butter are used by the cosmetics and soap industries in such products as shampoos, creams, and balsam for the hair, and soaps and other cleaning products for the skin. Karite butter's healing, emollient, anti-oxidant, soothing, moisturizing and re-generative properties make it an essential ingredient of numerous products.

A thick scar.

A surface protective agent with film-forming and moisturizing action.

Skin-lightening agent.

A component of the skin's natural moisturizing factor.

An emollient with moisturizing properties and an emulsifier with high water absorbing capabilities.

Treats acne, also calms allergic skin

A microscopic artificial sac composed of fatty substances and used in experimental research of the cell. They act as a delivery system. Most useful for being able to transfer and deliver active ingredients to the application site of cosmetics. The liposome wall is very similar, physiologically, to the material of cell membranes. When cosmetics containing liposomes are applied to the skin, for example, the liposomes are deposited onto the skin and begin to merge with the cellular membranes. In the process, the liposomes release their payload of active materials into the cells. As a consequence, not only is delivery of the actives very specific--directly into the intended cells--but the delivery takes place over a longer period of time. Liposomes are typically manufactured from various fatty substances that are used to encapsulate, or to create a sphere around, cosmetic materials.

The study of prolonging life with diet or other ingested substances.

A glycolic acid derived from apples.

An anti-inflammatory substance that helps prevent age lines and reduce eye

An intense nourishing conditioner that repairs hair from the inside out.

A non-shiny surface that absorbs light.

The black pigment found in hair or skin.

A type of skin cancer characterized by a black or dark brown pigmented tumor.

Synthetic preservative used in non-protein based products.

Wax used in stick cosmetics such as lipstick, blush and eyeliner.

An emollient cream used to hydrate skin.

Versatile styling product that adds volume and shine to fine and curly hair and can be applied to wet or dry hair.

The use of plant extracts and herbs have their origins in ancient times, with the earliest records originating from China and Egypt. Their therapeutic properties are becoming more known. Cosmetics contain many plant extracts, herbs, flowers, fruits and seed oleates into their ingredients, allowing for a gentler, more organic approach to beauty. Natural botanicals have the ability to detoxify, hydrate, strengthen, stimulate, relax and balance the skin and hair.

A type of therapy that depends on natural forces rather than surgery or medicine to treat disease.

Also called non-occlusive. Refers to products that do not cause skin breakouts because they do not plug the pores of the skin.

Para-aminobenzoic acid. Found in the vitamin B complex. Used as an ingredient in some sunscreen products.

A grouping of colors by family of tones or specific function.

Also known as vitamin B5, acts as a penetrating moisturizer.

A beeswax substitute derived from petroleum.

The passion fruit is the edible fruit of the passion flower. The name resulted after early Spanish missionaries saw the passion flower during Lent and Easter. They named it in honor of the passion of Christ. The fruit is small and round, the size of a large egg, with red, yellow, or purple-brown skin, yellow flesh and many small black edible seeds. The pulp has an intense aromatic flavor, while the texture is jelly-like and watery. It is a good source of vitamins A and C, and potassium and commonly used in hair and skin products.

Used in creams, it softens and soothes skin. Forms a film to prevent moisture loss.

Percentage of hydrogen. Used to measure acidity in cosmetic preparations

Skin damage incurred through sun exposure.

A condition in which the application or ingestion of certain chemicals or foods can cause skin problems, such as rash, hyperpigmentation and swelling, when the skin is exposed to sunlight.

Cosmetics which are made from plants.

Gelling agent, thickener typically used in cosmetics such as lipstick and blush

A thick styling product that creates long-lasting, sculpted looks.

Small opening of the sweat glands of the skin.

Solvent used to dilute.

Synthetic preservative used in non-protein based products.

A chronic disease of the skin consisting of itchy, dry, red patches, usually affecting the scalp or arms and legs. It may be treated with OTC or prescription medications.

Substance formed from the secretions of plants.

In mild solutions, used as an antiseptic and as a soothing preparation for itchy skin.

Derived from vitamin A, it is used in the treatment of acne.

A vitamin A acid. The main ingredient in Retin-A and Renova. These products are used to treat fine wrinkles and acne.

A skin condition characterized by inflammed, red, oily, acne-prone areas.

Extract of various species of wild roses, rich in vitamin C.

A general effect attributed to this herb is the promotion of wound healing. Has stimulating, rejuvenating and antiseptic properties.

Stimulates the renewal of healthier skin.

A general effect attributed to this herb is the promotion of wound healing. Has stimulating, rejuvenating and antiseptic properties.

An antiseptic that helps dissolve the top layers of the skin.

An oral, plant-derived preparation used for its antifungal properties.

As a finishing product, serums provide high gloss and frizz control. Serums contain vegetable glycerin which help bind moisture to hair and/or silicones which help protect hair against the damaging effects of heat styling.

Alleviates dry skin and improves elasticitiy. See Karite Butter above.

A Japanese method of massage that uses acupressure.

A light oil spray that enhances sheen in dry, dull looking hair. Works best on medium and coarse hair textures as a finishing product after styling.

Sun Protection Factor. A higher SPF means more protection from the sun.

Versatile styling product with a range of hold factors (from flexible to strong) - can be "cocktailed" with other products to customize the look/effect for your hair type.

Any substance applied to the skin which screens or protects it from the sun.

A physical sunscreen or a barrier against the sun's ultraviolet rays. Available in creams or ointments.

Sunflower seeds are expressed to produce this light oil which is high in linoleic acid, Vitamins A, B complex, D, and E, as well as calcium, zinc, potassium, iron, and phosphorus. Externally, it is used for bruises, dermatitis, and ulcers. It is a clear, slightly amber-colored liquid. Sunflower Seed Acid is a mixture of fatty acids derived from sunflower seed oil.

A naturally occurring enzyme that can protect the skin from free radicals, which can cause skin damage.

Active agent which allows oil to mix with water

A type of glycolic acid (fruit acid) derived from apples. Use to treat the skin to improve its texture and tone.

A natural preservative with antiseptic and germicidal properties used in soaps, shampoos, and skin-care products.

Liquid combination of hair spray and gel used on wet or dry hair to add weight and holding power for quick styling with fingers.

Botanical properties are antiseptic, tonic, antibacterial and deodorizing. Often used in toothpaste, mouthwashes, perfumes and soap.

A non-chemical, common agent used in sunscreen products that works by physically blocking the sun. It may be used alone or in combination with other agents.

Vitamin E, used as an antioxidant in cosmetics.

A scented liquid used as a light perfume; cologne.

Product used after cleansing to help return skin to its natural pH. Removes any remaining trace of dirt or debris.

A derivative of vitamin A.

In make-up terms, refers to cool or warm tones of the skin.

Ultraviolet light, type A. These are rays of light from the sun which are not visible but can cause damage to the skin.

Ultraviolet light, type B. These are rays of light from the sun which are not visible but can cause damage to the skin

Swollen and dilated veins, usually visible on the legs.

A fat soluble vitamin. A lack of vitamin A can cause skin to become dry and hardened. Helps maintain smooth, soft disease-free skin; helps protect the mucous membranes of the mouth, nose, throat lungs, which helps reduce our susceptibility to infections; protects against air pollutants and contaminants; helps improve eye sight and counteracts night-blindness; aids in bone and teeth formation; improves skin elasticity, moisture content and suppleness; and helps reverse the signs of photo-aging.

Participates in the release of energy from carbohydrates, fats & protein, aids in the utilization of vitamins; improves the body's resistance to stress; helps in cell building & the development of the central nervous system; helps the adrenal glands, fights infections by building antibodies. In cosmetic and personal care products Panthenol acts as a lubricant on the skin surface, which gives the skin a soft and smooth appearance. Panthenol and Pantothenic Acid also enhance the appearance and feel of hair by increasing hair body, suppleness, or sheen, or by improving the texture of hair that has been damaged physically or by chemical treatment.

A water soluble vitamin. A preservative and antioxidant used in cosmetic creams. Vitamin C is essential for healthy teeth, gums and bones. Externally it is required for the synthesis of collagen, the intercellular cement which holds tissues together. It is also one of the major antioxidant nutrients. It prevents the conversion of nitrates (from tobacco smoke, smog, bacon, lunchmeats) into cancer-causing substances. Vitamin C has also been shown to help slow the production of hyperpigmentation or age spots while providing some UV protection.

A fat soluble vitamin. Necessary for bone and tooth structure. Formed in the skin on exposure to sunlight.

An antioxidant often used in deodorants and hair grooming aids. Vitamin E is a major anti-oxidant nutrient that retards cellular aging due to oxidation; supplies oxygen to the blood which is then carried to the heart and other organs; giving energy and reducing fatique. It also aids in bringing nourishment to cells; strengthens the capillary walls prevents the red blood cells from destructive poisons; prevents dissolves blood clots; has also been used by doctors in helping prevent sterility, muscular dystrophy, calcium deposits in blood walls and heart conditions.

Thick styling product available in solid or spray form that repels humidity and controls frizz. Creates lasting hold even on curly or coarse strand and provides enhanced shine.

Promotes renewal of normal new skin cells. Used in cosmetics because of its large vitamin E content. This oil has a nutty aroma and is extracted by pressing or solvent extraction from the wheat "germ." It is a valuable source of Vitamin E, a natural antioxidant, and is more resistant to light and heat than vegetable oils. It helps relieve dermatitis symptoms, promotes skin cell formation, and improves blood circulation. Wheatgerm Oil is used to prevent and reduce scarring and speeds up healing of cuts and wounds.

Used to protect, soothe and heal the skin. Also provides good sun protection.