A
ANTI-AGEING SERUM
A skincare product designed to reduce signs of ageing, such as fine lines and wrinkles. Some great ingredients to look for in anti-ageing serums include retinoids, peptides, vitamin C, and hyaluronic acid.
D
DRY SHAMPOO
Dry shampoo contains oil-absorbing ingredients that help soak up excess oil that comes from the scalp and hair. Washing hair too frequently can strip the natural oils from the scalp, causing too much oil production. Dry shampoo allows for a freshly shampooed look without having to wash the hair. Look for a dry shampoo that has natural ingredients and is a non-aerosol mist for the healthiest ingredients.
G
GLYCOLIC ACID
A type of alpha hydroxy acid (AHA) commonly used in skincare products. Its exfoliating factors help to diminish fine lines, clogged pores and blackheads. Glycolic acid stimulates collagen production which benefits skin structure and elasticity.
J
JADE ROLLER
A small roller made of jade stone is attached to a handle. Its facial massage benefits consist of lymphatic drainage, reduction of inflammation, stimulation of blood circulation and creation of a brighter complexion. They have been used in beauty routines since the 7th Century in Ancient China.
M
MICRODERMABRASION
Microdermabrasion is an exfoliating skincare treatment that removes dead skin cells, excess oil, dirt, and other irritants. This facial treatment is performed at many spas, dermatology clinics, or by an aesthetician.
P
PRIMER
Applied to the skin before makeup to create a smooth and even base. This helps to mattify or illuminate your skin, depending on the look you’re going for. Some primers contain SPF that can add an extra layer of skin protection under your makeup.
S
SPF
Sun protection factor (SPF) measures how well a sunscreen protects the skin from UV rays. Most SPF products range from 15 to 50+. Using an SPF of at least 30 will block out 97% of UVB rays. No sunscreen can 100% guarantee skin protection.
V
VITAMIN C
Vitamin C is antioxidant-rich and has a key role in protecting the skin from damage caused by free radicals. It also promotes collagen protection and protection against skin damage. Vitamin C is used in a variety of skincare products such as cleansers, serums, oils, and moisturisers.
Y
YEARLY SKIN CHECK-UP
Also known as annual skin exams, they’re performed by dermatologists to evaluate skin health. It’s important to follow through with these yearly check-ups to ensure there are no concerns in terms of your skin health, and if there are, follow the proper protocol. These check-ups can help towards detecting signs of early skin cancer or diagnose and treat skin conditions.
B
BB CREAM
A cosmetic product that has both makeup and skincare aspects. It helps to even out skin tones using light coverage. Multiple products have sun protection, moisturising, and anti-ageing properties.
E
EMOLLIENT
A moisturising and softening remedy found in many skincare products such as lotions, creams, ointments, and balms. Commonly found emollients are coconut oil, mineral oil, shea butter, cocoa butter and waxes.
H
HYALURONIC ACID
A naturally occurring substance that the body produces. It’s a hydrating agent that preserves and retains moisture, with anti-ageing benefits that help improve skin texture and firmness.
K
K-BEAUTY
K-Beauty refers to skincare and beauty products and routines that originated in South Korea. Its unique formulas and ingredients, along with the multi-step routines, have had a significant impact on the global beauty industry.
N
NIACINAMIDE SERUM
A skincare product that contains a high concentration of niacinamide or vitamin B3. It can benefit oily or acne-prone skin by regulating sebum production. Minimises the appearance of large power, fine lines, and uneven skin tone.
Q
Q10 (Coenzyme Q10)
A naturally occurring antioxidant that is very potent in our bodies. It helps to neutralise free radicals that have caused damage to the skin cells. Coenzyme Q10 is involved with cellular energy production, which supports the overall vitality of the skin. It is used in lotions, creams, and serums. Typically combined with vitamin C.
T
TONER
A liquid product that is used to balance out the skin’s pH level after cleansing. Toners help with hydration, minimising pores, and prepping the skin for other products. Toners can have a variety of ingredients so it is important to look out for those that will have non-irritating ingredients to your skin.
W
WITCH HAZEL TONER
A substance extracted from a witch hazel plant, used for skincare benefits. It contains astringent properties that help to tighten and tone the skin. For red and inflamed skin, witch hazel can be used to soothe the irritated spots. It can relieve irritation from acne, eczema, razor burn and sunburn.
Z
ZINC OXIDE
Zinc oxide is a mineral compound commonly found in UV protection formulas. However, it also benefits acne, odour, and inflammation in or on the skin. One of its great qualities is locking water in and keeping the skin moisturised. Zinc can be found in many forms such as sprays, creams or powders.
C
CERAMIDES
Ceramides are a type of fatty acid called lipids, lying in the outermost layer of the skin. By protecting the skin’s barrier, they lock in moisture and prevent dryness, as well as protect against environmental irritants. Appling moisturiser and pairing it with hyaluronic acid will help replenish the ceramides.
F
FINISHING POWDER
A cosmetic product that’s applied after foundation and concealer to the areas that typically tend to become oily or crease. The powder is lightweight and tends to be translucent.
I
ILLUMINATOR
Beauty products designed to add your preferred amount of glow to the skin, creating a radiant look. Typically applied to the cheekbones, brow bone, bridge of the nose, and cupid’s bow to add a level of highlight and dimension.
L
LIPIDS
A chemical molecule that plays a crucial role in skin health and is often included in skincare products due to its hydrating and moisturisation qualities. Using a lipid-rich moisturiser in your skincare routine will help nourish and protect the skin.
O
ORGANIC SKINCARE
Refers to skincare products that are made with organically sourced ingredients. These products can be much more gentle and less harsh on the skin. The organic ingredients contain properties that provide nourishment to the skin. Osea, True Botanicals, 100% Pure and Cocokind are a few examples of organic skincare brands.
R
RETINOL
A type of vitamin A found in many skincare products, commonly used to support anti-ageing, and treat acne. The anti-ageing benefits come from its ability to increase the rate at which new cells form, helping to minimise the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines. It regulates oil production and unclogs pores preventing breakouts. It’s important to note that retinol can heighten skin’s sensitivity to the sun, increasing the risk of sun damage.
U
UNDER-EYE CREAM
A skincare product that is designed to be used on delicate and fragile skin under the eyes. Many ingredients in under-eye cream have plumping qualities creating the appearance of brighter under-eyes.
X
X-FOLIATE!
Exfoliation removes dead skin cells from the surface of the skin. This creates a smoother and brighter complexion. There are two main methods of exfoliation. One is physical exfoliants that physically scrub off dead skin cells. This can consist of facial scrubs, brushes, or exfoliating devices. Chemical exfoliants use acids and enzymes to help decrease the bonds between dead skin cells.
