Chapter 13 - Skin Care Products Flashcards
AHA’s
Acids derived from plants (mostly fruit) that are often used to exfoliate the skin; mild acids: glycol, lactic, malice, and tartaric acid. AHAs exfoliate by loosening the bonds between dead corneum cells and dissolve the intercellular matrix. Acids also stimulate cell renewal.
Alcohol
Antiseptic and solvent used in perfumes, lotions, and astringents. SD alcohol is a special denatured ethyl alcohol.
Algae
Derived from minerals and phytohormones; remineralizes and revitalizes the skin.
Allantoin
An anti-inflammatory compound isolated from the herb comfrey; it is used in creams, hand lotion, hair lotion. aftershave, and other skin-smoothing cosmetics for its ability to heal wounds and skin ulcers and to stimulate the growth of healthy tissues.
Aloe Vera
Most popular botanical used in cosmetic formulations; emollient and film-forming gum resin with hydrating, softening, healing, antimicrobial, and anti-inflammatory properties.
Alpha Lipoic Acid
A natural molecule found in every cell in the body; it is a powerful antioxidant and is soluble in oil and water.
Alum
Compound made of aluminum, potassium, or ammonium sulfate with strong astringent action.
Ampoules
Small, sealed vials containing a single application of highly concentrated extracts in a water or oil base.
Anhydrous
Describes products that do not contain any water.
Aromatherapy
Therapeutic use of plant aromas and essential oils for beauty and health treatment purposes; involves the use of highly concentrated, nonoily, and volatile essential oils to induce such reactions as relaxation and invigoration, or to simply create a pleasant fragrance during a service.
Astringents
Liquids that help remove excess oil from the skin.
Azulene
Derived from the chamomile plant and characterized by its deep blue color; has anti-inflammatory and soothing properties.
Benzyl Peroxide
Drying ingredient with antibacterial properties commonly used for blemishes and acne.
Beta-glucans
Ingredients used in anti aging cosmetics to help reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles by stimulating the formation of collagen.
BHAs
Exfoliating organic acid; salicylic acid; milder than AHAs. BHAs dissolve oil and are beneficial for oily skin.
Binders
Substances such as glycerin that bind, or hold, products together.
Botanicals
Ingredients derived from plants
Calendula
Anti-inflammatory plant extract
Carbomers
Ingredients used to thicken creams; frequently used in gel products.
Carrot
Rich in Vitamin A, commonly derived from seeds and as an oil; also used as product colorant.
Certified Colors
Inorganic color agents also known as metal salts; listed on ingredient labels as D&C (drug & cosmetic)
Chamomile
Plant extract with calming and sooting properties.
Chelating Agent
Chemical agent that dissolves dead skin cells and the intercellular matrix, or “glue,” that holds them together (desmosomes).
Clay Masks
Oil-absorbing cleansing masks that draw impurities to the surface of the skin as they dry and tighten.