The Skincare Glossary
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The Skincare Glossary

Here’s a simple list of some important terminology in the skincare space to help make things a little easier to navigate. From antioxidants and exfoliation to cell turnover and free radicals, we're here to help.

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Here’s a simple list of some important terminology in the skinsphere to help make things a little easier to navigate.  

ANTIOXIDANTS
An ingredient that helps to protect the skin from potential damage caused by free radicals and environmental aggressors like UV and pollution. Think Vitamin C + E. 

AHAs
Alpha Hydroxy Acids are a type of organic acid that can be used to chemically exfoliate the skin; breaking down dead skin cells to support skin renewal and reveal fresh, healthy skin. 

ACTIVE INGREDIENTS
Natural ingredients that have been scientifically proven to change the structure of your skin at a cellular level. They work hard to repair, rejuvenate, hydrate, protect and nourish the skin.

BAKUCHIOL
An anti-ageing powerhouse, widely regarded as the first natural alternative to Retinol (Vitamin A) and clinically proven to be as effective, yet with a better skin tolerance. Ideal for pregnant and breastfeeding mamas.

CERAMIDES
Lipids (fats) found naturally in the skin. They hold together the cells of your skin’s outer layer to form a protective barrier from external stressors. 



CELL TURNOVER
Refers to the natural process and speed of shedding of dead skin cells and the later replacement with younger healthy cells. We can support this process with our skincare products.

COLLAGEN 
Collagen is a structural protein. It functions like glue holding the body together and ensuring strength and elasticity of skin, bones, muscles, tendons, hair, ligaments and cartilage.

CLEAN SKINCARE
A term used to describe products or ingredients that are non-toxic and better for the environment. Learn more about our non-negotiables

COSMECEUTICAL 

Often backed by science, a cosmeceutical product (a combo of the words cosmetic and pharmaceutical) contains a high level of active ingredients (vitamins, antioxidants), has been formulated to target specific concerns and offers real results. 

EMOLLIENT
Ingredients that moisturise the skin, and help it to soften and smooth. Natural examples include lipids, fatty acids and shea butter to name a few. 

EXFOLIATION 
The process of removing dead skin cells, allowing new skin cells to appear. There are two types of exfoliation. Physical, using rough granules to physically scrub the skin and chemical, using natural acids to clear the dead skin away. 

FREE RADICALS 
Unstable molecules within the body that damage skin cells and contribute to roughness, sagging, wrinkling of the skin. Free radicals come from the sun, cigarette smoke, pollution and other environmental factors.

HUMECTANT
Ingredients that can attract and bind water to the skin to enhance overall hydration. Think Hyaluronic Acid and Aloe Vera. 



HYPER-PIGMENTATION
Darker patches of skin, often occurring when the skin produces excess melanin. Some causes include acne scarring, sun damage and hormonal fluctuations.

NIACINAMIDE 
An active form of Vitamin B3 used within skincare to strengthen and protect the outer layers of the skin. A powerhouse, multifunctional ingredient offering a range of skin benefits. 

OMEGAS
Valuable for your diet and skin, these skin loving fatty acids can help to even skin tone and texture, whilst strengthening the skin barrier. 

PROBIOTICS 
Microorganisms found within the body. When used in skincare products they can help balance the skin’s microbiome (barrier), aid skin recovery and support healthy skin function.

SKIN BARRIER
The outermost layer of your skin is the epidermis, your skin barrier is your body’s first line of defence. Often described as functioning like a brick wall with skin cells bound together by mortar-like lipids, which are essentially your natural oils and fats.

SEBUM
Natural oils that are released from the glands in your skin. 

SKIN CYCLING
A rotational skincare routine where you cycle through your products, with active days (think chemical exfoliation and treatments) and repair days (nourishing, calming ingredients or products).

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