A-Z

Alpha Hydroxy Acid (AHA) — the family name for a group of naturally occurring acids often referred to as “fruit acids.”  AHAs are used in cosmetics as moisturizers, emollients, and exfoliants. They are also employed to treat such conditions as photodamage, hyperpigmentation, eczema, and ichthyosis. Their activity and associated benefits are dependent on the type of AHA used, the concentration employed, and the pH of the formula. The benefits attributed to AHAs include a reduction of fine lines and superficial wrinkles, a lightening of surface pigmentation, and softer, suppler skin with improved hydration. These noted benefits are a result of...

Allantoin — a botanical extract derived from comfrey root, considered an effective moisturizing ingredient when used in skincare.  Known as a keratolytic, allantoin can increase the water content of cells while also aiding in the process of desquamation of the outer layers of skin.  Gentle and non-irritating, increases skin smoothness, aids in wound healing and promotes cell proliferation and longevity.

Active ingredients — ingredients with “treatment” value. When placed on the skin, they performs a therapeutic or beneficial function, such as neutralizing free radicals, exfoliating, normalizing (making skin healthier), healing, hydrating, thickening and soothing, etc. The three top proven active ingredients in anti-aging skincare are CE Ferulic, Glycolic acid and Retinoic Acid. Following those are peptides, growth factors, hyaluronic acid, niacinamide….the list is long for ingredients and their manufacturers competing to make it to the top.

Acid —refers to the pH level of a substance, ranging from 0 for the most acidic to 6.9 for the least acidic. Acids are used in cosmetic formulations for a variety of reasons: to neutralize substances that otherwise would be too alkaline for the skin; as active principles that perform a specific function based on their own particular properties (e.g., hyaluronic acid, essential fatty acids); and as exfoliating and peeling agents (e.g., alpha hydroxy acids). Only those acid ingredients with a very low pH will be irritating to the skin because the skin itself is acidic.