Emollients – these are found in moisturisers and help to protect the skin by reinforcing the moisture barrier in the lower layers of the skin.
Elastin – these are the fibres in the underlying skin layers, rather like collagen, which help give it strength and elasticity.
Humectants – often found in moisturisers, they attract moisture from the air to help keep the skin hydrated.
Hypo-allergenic – products which are fragrance free and contain the minimum of colouring agents and no known irritants.
Mattifyers – ingredients such as witch hazel or corn starch that soak up oil on the skin.
Non-comedogenics – ingredients shown to be less likely to block pores.
Oil of Evening Primrose – comes from the plant’s seeds. Helps the skin to retain moisture.
PH balanced – the ph scale measures the acidity or alkalinity of a solution with 7 meaning that it is neutral. Healthy skin has a slightly acidic reading so ph balanced skin care products are also slightly acidic to maintain the neutral optimum level.
Retinols – another word for products made from vitamin A, some of which are used to treat acne.
S.P.F. – these initials stand for sun protection factor. The most important ingredient in any skincare product, they screen out harmful and aging ultraviolet rays.
Vitamin E – often found in moisturisers because it can help combat dryness and the signs of aging. It helps to heal scars and burns.
Water soluble – cleansers are described as water-soluble when they contain oils to dissolve grime and makeup from your skin which can be easily rinsed away with water.