AN A TO Z OF BEAUTY

ANTIOXIDANT An overarching category of substances that protects the skin against oxidative damage caused by the production of free radicals and environmental aggressors. Beauty products with antioxidant ingredients can relieve inflammation, help with firming, scarring, wrinkles and sun damage. The most common antioxidants are vitamins, retinol, coenzymes and niacinamide.

BIOTIN A water-soluble vitamin B (known as vitamin B7) that converts nutrients into energy that the body needs. It maintains the function of the nervous system as well as promotes healthy nails, skin and hair.

COLLAGEN The most prevalent protein found in the human body. It’s what holds bones, muscles, skin and tendons together. In skincare, it plays a major role in maintaining skin elasticity and hydration. Over time, the body’s ability to produce collagen reduces, so it’s crucial to intake through digestible supplements or through topical application.

DERMAPLANING A treatment that uses a scalpel to gently remove fine facial hair and exfoliate dead skin cells. This is especially beneficial for those with dry skin, as it brightens up the skin and offers a smooth foundation application without using harsh exfoliators.

ENZYME A biological protein molecule that acts as a catalyst to enhance the speed of chemical reactions within cells.

FERULIC ACID One of the most powerful antiageing antioxidants that protects against radical damage, reduces fine lines and pigment concentration. Should be used with caution, as it may cause irritation to sensitive skin.

GLOSSING The hair treatment that revitalises dull hair and smooths away flyaways. As its name suggests, the result is a glossy head of hair.

HYDRATION The single answer to almost, if not, all skin concerns. Proper hydration maintains the skin’s elasticity, plumps out fine lines, brightens complexions and keeps acne at bay.

INTENSE PULSED LIGHT (IPL)

Intense pulsed light technology sends flashes of light into different layers of the skin to target different concerns. It’s powerful enough to lift and firm, lighten spots and even remove unwanted hair.

JOJOBA Harvested for its oil, the Jojoba nut has incredible healing properties and beauty benefits. It’s moisturising, antibacterial and antioxidant and works on hair just as well as on the skin.

KERATIN One of the most common structural proteins found in hair, nails and the outer layer of skin. Mostly found in hair products, it lines the inner and outer surface of hair strands so locks are full and glossy.

LIGHT EMITTING DIODE (LED) THERAPY

Applied directly on the skin to emit different wavelengths of light to target different skin conditions. Commonly used at professional spas, but now some innovative brands have come up with consumer versions that are safe to use at home.

MICROBLADING A form of semi-permanent bespoke make-up, usually for the eyebrows. Uses 12 to 15 needles to create fine strokes that mimic actual hairs and lasts for 12 to 18 months.

NIACINAMIDE A form of the essential nutrient vitamin B3, it helps to promote healthy skin, kidneys and the brain. Applied topically, treats acne and eczema.

OILS A byproduct of the body, natural oils used together with external oils used together can trap in moisture and keep out toxins for the skin, hair and nails.

PH Maintaining the skin’s ph levels (slightly acidic at 4 to 6) naturally fights harmful microbes. Toners and essences are the best regulators to achieve healthy skin ph.

QUERCETIN From tackling inflammation to plumping wrinkles, Quercetin skincare can do it all. Quercetin is a plant flavonal that’s found in many fruits and vegetables, such as red grapes and kale. Its antioxidant functions and restorative effect make it a popular ingredient in skin care.

RETINOL If you see Retinol as an active ingredient in your beauty product, then you’re in good hands. Retinol, also known as vitamin A1-alcohol, is medically proven to speed up the skin’s cell cycle. It comes in different strengths and concentrations; overuse can lead to redness and peeling, so use with caution.

SPF Sun protection factor (SPF) measures protection from UVB, a UV light that will cause sunburn and, in worst-case scenarios, skin cancer. The higher the SPF, the longer and more UVB rays you’re protected from. To calculate the period of time you’re protected for, multiply the minutes you typically get burned by the SPF. For example if you usually get sunburn after 15 minutes, and the sunscreen is SPF 50, that means you’re technically protected for 750 minutes.

THERMAGE It’s a non-invasive radionfrequency (RF) treatment that’s ideal for anyone who’s experiencing collagen depletion and loose skin. The frequency penetrates the skin and stimulates collagen formation, resulting in tighter skin and a more toned appearance. Celebrities such as Gwyneth Paltrow and Jenifer Aniston swear by it, because it’s non surgical and results can last up to three years.

UV Ultraviolet (UV) rays emitted from the sun can damage the skin and should be avoided at all costs. There are three types of UV. First, there’s UVA, which can penetrate deep into the skin and speed up the ageing process; the second one is UVB, which can damage the skin’s DNA and lead to sunburn or even skin cancer. The last one is UVC, which is harmful to the human body and has become a staple method of sterilisation.

VEGAN Vegan beauty products are formulated from ingredients derived from plants instead of animals, or by-products like beeswax or lanolin (the grease from sheep’s wool). There’s a common misconception that vegan formulas are less effective than nonvegan ones, but they’re actually a better alternative especially for sensitive or acne-prone skin.

WATER-FREE According to trend forecasting agency Mintel, water-free beauty will become a global trend by 2025. As beauty brands start to reduce their water footprint and shift towards more sustainable options, we’re expecting to see new formulas infused with botanical water and nourishing oils instead of H20. Removing water from beauty products also reduces the need for preservatives and parabens.

XEROSIS The medical term for dryness of the skin, which could lead to bacterial infection if left untreated. Common symptoms of xerosis include rough, scaly or fine cracks on the skin.

YOGA FACIALS Yoga facials have become popular in the US and are loved by celebrities, because they can give saggy skin and furrowed brows a lift without surgery. Facial exercise can wake up face muscles to lift up the skin and increase blood circulation to achieve a healthy glow and prevent premature skin.

ZINC OXIDE An essential mineral for human body, zinc oxide is widely used in broad-spectrum sunscreens to block out the harmful UVA ad UVB rays. It’s preferable to chemical sunscreen ingredients such as Oxybenzone or Octinoxate, which can lead to allergies and cause damage to coral reefs.