Skincare Terminology

100% Natural - refers to product(s) that are made entirely from natural ingredients or materials, without any artificial or synthetic substances.  When used as an ingredient in natural skin care, 100% Natural also infers that the ingredient is used in a way in which is NOT fundamentally altered in any way.  This can apply to a wide range of products, creams, balms, cosmetics, soaps, serums, and more.  For a product to really be considered 100% natural, the product must not contain any artificial colors, flavors, preservatives, artificial additives, or chemicals.

Animal Testing is the use of non humans in experiments that seek to control the variables that affect the behavior of the product being studied.  Commonly rats, mice and rabbits are used by cosmetic companies for quality control to pass standards set out by certain jurisdictions to bring products to market. 

All procedures, even those classified as “mild,” have the potential to cause the animals being used in the study physical as well as psychological distress and suffering. Often the procedures can cause a great deal of suffering. Most animals are killed at the end of an experiment, but some may be reused in subsequent experiments.

Beauty is known as aesthetic pleasure that possesses certain qualities that include shape, color and form.

It is difficult to quantify or understand beauty because it has both objective and subjective aspects: it can be viewed as a property of things but also depends on the emotional response of the observers. Due to its subjective side, beauty is also "in the eye of the beholder". What one person may find to be beautiful maybe different than another. Conceptions of beauty aim to represent what is important to all beautiful things; pleasing and esthetic observations.

Blemishes are a mark on the skin, sometimes known as a skin condition that occurs from the overproduction of oil in the skin. Blemishes can be caused by a number of factors; viruses, infections, genetics, sun exposure, clogged pores, poor diet, hormonal changes or medications. Blemishes can often be treated with ointment or Vitamin E oil to help reduce the dark pigment caused by the blemish. 

It is important to not scratch, pick or squeeze a skin blemish to prevent scarring.  A skin blemish can last up to 2 weeks but often resolve themselves without any residual effect within 2-3 days.

Caprylyl glycol is derived from caprylic acid and is used in cosmetic products as moisturizing and preserving agents.

It is an alcohol that can be plant based mainly from palm and coconut oils. The caprylyl glycol in your skin care products often come from plants, but in some instances can also be chemically produced. In either case, it’s a humectant (magnet attracting water), so you’ll usually commonly it in moisturizers, masks, and other products designed to hydrate your skin.

Although it is an alcohol, Caprylyl glycol comes from a fatty acid, so it’s not the kind of alcohol that can dry out your skin.

CC Cream is a cosmetic product with a creamy formulation that is lighter than foundation and has a higher water concentrate. 

The acronym CC stands for Color Corrector or Complexion Corrector.  CC Cream is used to assist in skin color correction and to even out skin tones. 
It is an effective 2-in-1 skin care product that delivers results similar to a color correcting concealer mixed with a light foundation.

CC Cream is water based and provides a level of hydration for the skin.  It works effectively as a primer as well as an every day minimalist make up base.

Certified Cruelty Free defines a brand that does not conduct any testing on animals at any stage of production.

In 1988, United Kingdom banned all testing on animals. Subsequently many other countries followed their lead and disallowed testing on animals.  

In order for a company to deem themselves certified cruelty free they must ensure they follow strict guidelines set out by their local Government Cosmetic Guidelines, Leaping Bunny, PETA or Cruelty Free Organization. These are the current top internationally recognized Cruelty Free organizations that provide certifications to guarantee that a company and its products are truly Cruelty Free at all levels of production.

Cetearyl alcohol is a fatty alcohol that is used in cosmetics to help thicken the consistency and assist in the smooth application of cream.

Cetearyl alcohol is NOT a harmful or toxic liquid bad for your skin.  It is very different from other alcohols such as ethanol which has many potential harms and risk factors. Cetearyl alcohol assists in preventing creams from separating into oils and liquids; also known as an emulsifier. The Cetearyl alcohol works to maintain the integrity of the formulation to provide optimum results.

Cetyl Palmitate is a white waxy solid that is made directly from fatty acid esters and alcohol. 

It is primarily used in cosmetics as a thickening agent and it also provides conditioning and hydration for the skin.  It is a chemical compound that is made up of cetyl alcohol and palmitic acid.

Cetyl Palmitate is safe to use in skincare and actually is good for your skin as it has moisturizing properties.

Chafing is a common skin problem that is caused by the rubbing or friction with an irritant fabric or an adjacent skin surface. 

In severe cases of chafing, it can cause burning, swelling and inflammation of the affected areas.  Chafing is common among athletes in any sport or activity that occurs when sweat is created and the fabric is rubbing against the skin in the affected area(s). 

Ways to prevent chafing are to wear moisture-wicking fabric, apply cream or ointment to affected area(s) prior to activity and to trim body hair (if applicable) in the affected area(s).

Chemicals are substances that have been artificially prepared. 

They can be found in solid, liquid or gaseous states. 

There are chemicals in everything that we use both in and out of our bodies.  Some chemicals are synthetic, harmful and toxic and others are safe and naturally derived from the human body, plants or animals.  Chemicals are typically used to enhance the product's formulation. 

Toxic chemicals should be avoided however, naturally derived chemicals are safe to use both topically and internally depending on the directions of use.

Citric acid is an organic compound that is naturally found in citrus fruits.

It acts as a natural preservative, and antioxidant that also provides a very fragrant natural citrus like scent. 

It is a sharp crystalline acid naturally found in the juice of lemons and other many citrus fruits such as limes, grapefruits, pomelo and oranges.  It can also be manufactured by fermenting sugar.  Citric acid is often used for flavoring and also as a setting agent.

Citric Acid is used in skincare as it helps exfoliate dead skin cells as well as fight the ill effects of inflammation and aging.  Citric acid is also known to help lighten dark spots and assist with hyper pigmentation.

Clean Skincare is to be free from dirt and toxins refers to a level of transparency regarding what ingredients the products do and do not contain. 

Clean skincare is a movement that commenced in Southern California in the 1990's and its initiative was to rid products of controversial or toxic ingredients.  This movement has skincare companies trying to minimize the number of ingredients in each product and simplify the list for consumers.

Health and wellness are at the forefront of the clean skincare initiative alongside clean eating.

Coco-Caprylate/Caprate is a natural emollient used to soften and condition the skin. 

Although it is naturally derived, it is manufactured by mixing the esters from the reaction of coconut alcohol and caprylic acid blended together. 

Coco-Caprylate/Caprate are often used in sunscreens, facial creams, make-up, antiperspirants, shampoos and conditioners.

Coconut oil is an edible oil extracted from the kernel or mature meat of a coconut. 

It is a white solid fat that has the ability to melt at room temperature. 

It provides moisturizing properties to skin and a smooth finish to cream formulations.  Coconut oil is used in cooking, skincare, cosmetic, healthcare and more.  It is high in healthy saturated fats and can help boost fat burning.  Coconut oil is also known to raise the good HDL cholesterol in your blood which is linked to reduced heart disease risk. Coconut oil is often used in skincare as it rich in hydrating oils and very easy to apply and soak into the skin.

Collagen is known as the main structural protein found in skin and other connective tissues. It makes up 80% of the of the organ known as skin.

Collagen is essential in giving the skin its elasticity and longevity.  It also makes the skin look fuller, plumper, smoother and more youthful.  Collagen is often used topically in skincare to help moisturize the skin and provide a more youthful glow. 

Collagen can also be injected into the skin to create a fuller and more plump response in the effort to achieve a more supple and youthful appearance.  Collagen tends to be safer to inject than other synthetic ingredients as it is naturally made from the body in the middle layer of the skins dermis.

Cosmetic Procedure is a treatment intended to improve or restore one's appearance. 

It is often considered plastic surgery whereby ones appearance is manipulated in such a manner to achieve a desired outcome.  The types of procedures can range from non invasive such as eyebrow tinting to fully invasive such as tummy tuck or facial augmentation.  Cosmetic procedures should be conducted by a certified trained professional. 

Typically one chooses to embark on a cosmetic procedure to improve how they feel and interact with the outside world.  Sometimes cosmetic procedures are required to help the person function better i/e nasal surgery that can help improve the appearance and also function of the nose.
 

Cosmetics are a preparation used to enhance a person's natural beauty, function or appearance. 

Cosmetics are either naturally derived or chemical compounds. 

They are used for personal care, skin care or make up applications.  They can also be used to conceal blemishes or even out skin tones.  They can also be used to enhance ones natural features and highlight certain areas of the face or body.  Cosmetics can also be used to cleanse the skin and also create fragrance for the body.

Cruelty Free is when a product is manufactured or developed and does not allow testing on animals. At no point in the manufacturing of a product is an animal used or harmed to test the product for any reason.

This includes bans on animal testing for ingredients, formulations and finished products. 

In order to be truly Cruelty Free there cannot be any testing on animals at any point during the manufacturing process.  There are standards in which companies need to abide by set out by certified organizations such as PETA, Leaping Bunny etc.  When these standards are met then the company can be awarded with a certificate stating they are truly Cruelty Free.  

Dermis is the inner layer of the two main layers of skin. 

The dermis layer of skin has connective tissue, blood vessels, oil and sweat glands in it. 

Its main function is to transmit signals to the brain about how something feels. 

The dermis is full of blood vessels and nerve endings. The blood vessels located in the dermis help to remove toxins and supply the epidermis (outer layer) with blood.  The dermis works as a protector from toxins that have bypassed the epidermis.

Eczema is an inflammatory condition that causes itching, dryness and flaking of the outer layer of skin.  

This skin condition can cause rough, scaly and blister like patches which can be very painful. 

Eczema can be treated with topical creams that assist in reducing the symptoms and minimizing the inflammatory response. 

The inflammatory condition reduces the skins ability to lock in moisture and therefore causes dry, rough and itchy patches. 

Shea butter, colloidal oatmeal, coconut oil and sunflower oil are common natural relief remedies for symptoms of eczema.

Educator is a person or thing that teaches others. It is mainly involved with planning or directing the course of learning on a particular subject(s).

An educator is one that is trained and skilled in teaching and imparts their knowledge unto others. 

Another important aspect of the educators role is to support and assist their students through their learning process.  An educator by definition does not require a degree but rather be a learned expert in their field of study and capable of imparting information and guidance to those they are educating.

Elements are an essential or characteristic part of something.  They are tiny particles that make up matter. 

Elements are homogeneous in nature which means they are the same kind or very similar.  Elements cannot be broken down into other substances. 

Elements in skincare can be viewed as individual ingredients or also the stages of skincare.  For example; Vitamin C as a single ingredient can be viewed as an element or alternatively a cleanser, toner and moisturizer can also be examples of elements of your skincare regime.

Emulsifier also known as an emulgent acts as a barrier in skin care to prevent the separation of oil and liquids. 

The emulsifying agent also assists in the finished product to have a good finished appearance. 

Emulsifiers can be naturally derived or synthetically formulated. Emulsifiers adds texture and thickness to the product. 

Without the addition of an emulsifier the product would not be stabilized.

Epidermis is the outer layer of the two main layers of skin.  It serves to protect your body from harm. 

The epidermis also helps in hydration.  It traps water into the skin and keeps it healthy and hydrated.  New skins cells develop at the bottom of the epidermis and make way to the top as older skin cells are shed away. 

The epidermis also contains melanin which works to indicate the color or pigment of the skin.

FDA also known as the Food and Drugs Act which was founded in 1906 is responsible for protecting the public health by regulating practices pertaining to food, drug, cosmetic and other biological products. 

It serves as a governing body to ensure that safe practices are in place and followed for the manufacturing of all goods that people and animals ingest or use topically. 

The FDA set out key performance measures that manufactures must follow in order to be lawfully sold to the public.

Fragrance Free means to not contain perfumes or artificial scents. 

There is a difference between Fragrance Free and Unscented products.  While Fragrance Free products do not contain any ingredients that provide scent to the product, Unscented Products do not have a specific scent to them but can include ingredients that may contain scent. 

Fragrance Free is particularly important for people that may have allergies or sensitivities to certain scents.  These sensitivities may cause rashes, sneezing, watery eyes, coughing and throat irritations.
 

Gluten Free - the absence of proteins typically found in barley, wheat or rye products that can cause allergic reactions or sensitivities. 

Gluten Free has become very popular not just in food products but also in cosmetics and skincare. 

Gluten allergies or intolerances can be both internal and external.  Ingestion can cause nausea, bloating, gas and vomiting whereas a topical allergy to gluten can cause hives, rashes.  The most severe type of allergy to gluten is known as an anaphylactic response which is a closing of the airway, which untreated can lead to death.

Many skincare products especially shampoos use gluten as it works to trap in moisture and assist in hydration.  

Glycerin also known as glycerol is a non-toxic clear and colorless syrupy liquid that is used as a moisturizing agent. It is clear, non toxic and odorless.

It is a natural compound derived from either animal fats or vegetable oils.  It acts as a moisturizing agent by pulling water into the outer layer of the skin. 

Glycerin is used in soaps, shampoos, conditioners and cleansers.  It can also be added to some food products as a type of sugar alcohol.

Hemp Seed Oil is an oil obtained by expressing hemp seeds.  It is a fatty oil and is specifically used as a carrier oil.  It is used to help combat dry and flaky skin. 

Hemp Seed Oil is also known as Cannabis Sativa Oil however it does not contain any psychoactive THC or CBD the way that other Cannabis products do.  It is completely safe for consumption in products and to use topically on the skin. 

It assists in moisturizing and nourishing the skin and is found in many skincare products.  Hemp Seed Oil is also beneficial for digestion as it is a good source of both soluble and insoluble fiber.

Homogeneous is composed of part or elements that are all of the same kind. 

It refers to a process that involves substances in the same state i.e liquid, gas, solid.   

Homogenous refers to multiple things that are alike. 

Hyaluronic Acid our bodies naturally produce which helps lubricate our tissues. 

It also plays a role in wound healing, bone strength and many other bodily functions. 

Hyaluronic Acid is commonly used in skincare as it draws moisture from the air and draws it to your face similar to a sponge soaking up water.  This helps keep the skin moist all day.

Hydrate used in skincare is to supply ample fluid or moisture in order to soften and nourish the skin. The act of moisturizing the skin through water permeation of the skins dermis can be referred to as hydration.

Skincare products add a host of ingredients to help promote hydration of the skin.  Drinking plenty of water can also assist in hydration of the cells, tissue and layers of skin which is vital to overall health. 

Inflammation is the body’s immune systems response to an irritant. 

This can be caused by internal or external aggressors.  Inflammation is typically localized and can become red, hot, swollen and painful. 

Inflammation is an important part of your body's healing process.  It is the body's natural mechanism for fighting foreign antibodies, injury, virus, bacteria or infection. 

Inflammation can be treated both internally and externally depending on the source of the inflammation.

ISO is the International Organization for Standardization which regulates standards of practice for companies across the world. 

For the Cosmetic Industry ISO 22716 sets out guidelines for good manufacturing practices to ensure product safety. 

It is a non governmental organization that develops and publishes standards that companies must adhere to. 

The ISO comprises over 160 countries and ensures they all follow the same set of universal guidelines for product manufacturing.

Jojoba oil is the liquid produced in the seed of the Simmondsia Chinensis plant which is a shrub native to southern Arizona, California and northwestern Mexico. 

Jojoba Oil is used to prevent skin discomfort and irritation caused from eczema and psoriasis.  It is also a good carrier oil and can be safely used in any type of skincare product.  It has virtually no color or scent to it making it a perfect ingredient for natural skincare products.

Leaping Bunny Certified is a universal certification process that indicates the absence of animal testing on all aspects of manufacturing. 

It is a worldwide campaign that works tirelessly to end animal testing.

The Leaping Bunny organization awards Leaping Bunny Certification to companies that manufacture products following the Leaping Bunny standards that strictly do not prohibit testing on animals at any stage of manufacturing or processing. 

This guarantee also includes the absence of animal testing of ingredients, suppliers and any other individuals involved in the processing chain for a product.

Luxurious is characterized by opulence or rich abundance to the senses that provides great pleasure and quality. 

Luxurious products are synonymous with greater quality, opulent and more abundance.  A luxurious product is highly sought after by many as it represents a level of success or achievement and a perceived value of that item or experience. 

Typically luxurious products indicate a level of quality that is superior to other competition. 

With respect to cosmetics luxuriousness can be equated to creamier, richer, fuller and overall provide a richer experience.

Microbiomes are a collection of microbes such as bacteria, viruses and fungi all congregated in one place. 

The human body has Microbiomes in the GI Tract, mammary glands, uterus, seminal fluid, ovarian follicles, lungs, saliva, oral cavity, biliary tract, conjunctiva and the skin. 

These Microbiomes assist in protecting their host from harmful toxins.  The Microbiome that resides in the skin assists in keeping the skin healthy and protected against external elements that may be harmful to the human body.  Ultimately they assist our bodies to resist pathogens, boost our immune systems and assist in food digestion and energy production.  

Moisture Barrier also known as the Stratum Corneum is the outer layer of skin that ensures the skin remains hydrated by trapping and holding in water. 

The moisture barrier is an example of the microbiome of the human skin. 

The moisture barrier helps to nourish and protect the skin as well as assist in its elasticity. 

Maintaining adequate hydration in the skin will help prolong the quality of the appearance and function of the skin.

Moisturizes in relation to skincare is when a substance is used topically to add or restore moisture to the skin. 

This is typically achieved with a cream that reduces dryness by providing hydration back into the skins' dermis. 

Creams or emollients that have nourishing oils act to rehydrate and moisturizes the skin. 

Creams also assist the skin in trapping moisture into the skin for longer lasting hydration.

Natural existing in nature which is not made or caused by humankind. 

Natural also refers to without the presence of chemicals or chemically engineered particles.  Natural is something that happens or occurs without manipulation. 

Natural Skincare are products that are derived from natural sources without chemical or synthetic additives.

Non GMO stands for Genetically Modified Organisms which is when the organisms have been altered by process to change the constitution of the ingredient. 

Non GMO refers to when the product has been produced WITHOUT any genetic engineering. 

When Non GMO is used in cosmetics it refers to products that have ingredients derived from plants, animals or other organisms that have not had their genetic material artificially altered in any way.

Organic refers to “anti chemical” in its approach and process for anything from skincare to food. 

Organic ingredients are grown without the use of synthetic ingredients, chemicals or pesticides. In order for a product to be considered organic it needs to be compromised of at least 95% synthetic free ingredients.  Organic can be typically associated with a healthier more natural version of a product.

Organic has also become a trend in more than just food and skincare; it has also branched out into bed linens, clothing, fabrics, towels and many others.

Palmitic Acid is a naturally occurring fatty acids found in both plants and animals. Palmitic Acid is the most common saturated fatty acid found in the human body.  

It is used in skincare as both an emollient and moisturizer.  It can also act as a cleanser and enhance the texture of the product. 

Palmitic Acid is naturally found in ingredients such as beeswax, palm oil, soybean oil, dairy products and meats.

Paraben Free is the absence of the harmful group of compounds used as preservatives in cosmetics, pharmaceuticals and food. 

Parabens can disrupt hormones in the body, affect birth outcomes, increase the risk of cancer and also cause skin irritations. 

Therefore it is important to seek out products that do not contain these harmful toxins.  Any product depicted as Paraben Free means they do not contain these harmful agents.  The most commonly used parabens are methyl and ethyl parabens.  These are widely used to preserve formulations that particularly contain oil and water.

Patchouli Oil is the oil expressed from the Lamiaceae family (commonly known as Mint).  It is a bushy perennial herb and is native to island region of Southeast Asia. 

It has a distinct odour and is described as citrus and outdoor scent mixed. 

It can be used in skincare products, in a carrier oil or on its own.  Patchouli Oil is very moisturizing as is especially beneficial to people that suffer with eczema and psoriasis.  Patchouli Oil is also known to help reduce fine lines, wrinkles, skin irritations and blemishes.

PETA stands for People for Ethical Treatment of Animals.  It is the largest nonprofit animals rights organization in the world.  They fight for animals rights and protect their best interests. 

PETA is specifically involved in the four main areas that animals can be treated cruelly or suffer for long periods of time.  These four main areas are; laboratories, factory farms, clothing trades and the entertainment industry. 

PETA is the voice of animals and stage many types of demonstrations and disruptions to bring awareness to the people about unnecessary animal cruelty. 

Phenoxyethanol is a colourless oily liquid in the glycol family. 

With respect to skincare it is used to add moisture to cosmetic formulations. 

It has a natural component of chicory and green tea. It is a commonly used preservative ingredient that replaces the use of harmful parabens.  Although it is synthetically made in a laboratory it is derived of plant extracts and used to prolong the life of a product. 

Plant Based Skincare refers to products whose ingredients are made from plants. 

These ingredients range from essential oils to plant extracts.  Plant Based Skincare never includes products made from animal products. 

The totality of ingredients used in Plant Based Skincare are specifically derived from plant origin.

Pores are small openings into the skin/dermis in which oil and sweat reach the surface of the skin from the corresponding glands below. 

A clogging of these pores can lead to the development of blackheads. 

In the human body we have 2 different types of pores; oil and sweat.  Oil pores are connected to the oil glands and sweat pores are connected to sweat glands. 

Oil pores also known as hair follicles is where acne can arise when the gland becomes clogged.  Pores require maintenance to remove the debris that builds up in them. 

Regular facials or pore extractions help to keep the skin clean and free of blemishes.

Psoriasis is a chronic skin disease that causes a rash or irritation with itchy, scaly patches most commonly found on the body. 

Psoriasis can be painful and disrupt sleep.  Psoriasis is commonly triggered by infections, cuts, burns or certain medications. 

Treatments are available to assist with the symptoms.  Topical creams can also be used to help alleviate the inflammatory symptoms.

Recycle refers to the act of converting waste into reusable material. 

The process is to breakdown waste material and then convert into new useable products. 

Recycling is good for the environment as it helps to eliminate the amount of waste we create and dump into landfills. 

Material most commonly recycled are glass, plastics, paper and aluminum.  Plastic bags and electronics can also be recycled.  Most products have a logo on it to identify if its recyclable.

Restore is to bring something back into its original state. 

When we refer to the health of skin, restore would be to bring skin back to a healthy, moisturized and well balanced state.  Restoring of skin can be done by utilizing moisturizing products that rehydrate the skin back to its natural state. 

When hydrating products are used on the skin the outer layer of the skin (dermis) traps in the moisture and helps to keep the skin moist and healthy.

Retinol is a form of Vitamin A that is often added to creams and serums to help slow down the aging process and provide nourishment to the skin. 

Retinol is a yellowish substance that is found in egg yolks, green and yellow vegetables and fish liver oil.   

Retinol can provide aging support, acne relief and overall skin rejuvenation.

Rosacea is a skin condition that causes redness and blushing of the skin.  It is also known to cause painful blisters and sores on the nose and around the eyes. 

It is a chronic autoimmune condition that is not contagious.  The redness caused by Rosacea is due to enlarged blood vessels close to the skin. 

People that suffer from Rosacea can go into periods of remission whereby they do not have any symptoms.  The condition can flare up by a change in neurovascular or immune system factors. 

A range of topical and oral medications may be prescribed to help settle down the flare up and its painful symptoms.

Seborrheic Dermatitis is a chronic skin condition that mainly affects your scalp and face. 

It causes the skin to become inflamed, hot and painful to touch.  It is not contagious and can be easily treated by topical and oral antibiotics.  When the area affected is the scalp it often causes dry and flaking similar to dandruff.  Dandruff shampoos can helpful if the case is not severe. 

Seborrheic Dermatitis can often go away on its own without treatment.

Skin is the body’s largest organ made of water, fat, protein and minerals. 

It is comprised of mainly 2 layers; dermis and epidermis.  Skin has main functions; protection, mechanical impact, fluids, thermal regulation, sensation and radiation. 

Skin is the body's greatest protection mechanism as it is the first line of defense against the external environment. 

The skins mechanical impact acts as a physical barrier to withstand and pressure or external forces. 

Skin helps our bodies retain necessary bodily fluids and moisture as well as prevent our bodies from absorbing harmful external fluids. 

If our bodies did not have skin the ultraviolet rays from the sun would be detrimental to our bodies internal tissues and organs. 

The fatty subcutaneous layer of skin helps to regulate body temperature by preventing heat loss. 

Skin provides sensation to our bodies by detecting the difference between hot, cold, pressure, contact and pain.

Skinimalism is the action taken by an individual to minimize the amount of skincare products used on a daily basis. 

Overall it is best described as fewer products with higher payoff.  Skinimalism also refers to the "less is more" philosophy. 

Creating natural glowing, healthy and dewy looks with fewer products has been heavily on trend since 2021.

Soothe is the action to relieve, alleviate or provide comfort to the skin when irritated, dry or inflamed. 

A healthy barrier is important for normal skin function.  If your skin is not healthy it starts to show signs of inflammation and irritation. 

In order to relieve the skin from any type of discomfort or undesired appearance the skins barrier needs to return to its healthy state.  This can be done by soothing the skin.  Typically to soothe the skin it requires moisture to be restored, calming properties from ingredients such as aloe, essential oils and Shea butter help to rehydrate and soothe the skin.

Squalane is a moisturizing ingredient that is naturally found in humans.

Squalane is an oily substance and is often used in cosmetics to enhance the moisturizing and hydrating qualities of the product.

Squalane is also known to help prevent skin and hair from drying out. 

Sucrose Stearate is a mixture of sugar sucrose and a natural substance known as stearic acid.  

Sucrose Stearate is a powdery substance that is naturally derived and is completely biodegradable. 

It is a skin emollient used to provide moisture in cosmetics and skincare. It is quite an important ingredient as it helps to soften the skin. 

Sulfate Free is when a product does not contain sulfates which are bi products from salts of sulfuric acid. 

Sulfates have been known to cause irritation to skin and eyes. 

Sulfates are known as surfactants which attract water and oil.  They are used in cosmetic products such as cleansers and shampoos as they create foam and provide a squeaky clean feel. 

The most common sulfates used in cosmetics are SLS (Sodium Laurel Sulfate) and SLES (Sodium Lareth Sulfate) both of which can be harmful to skin and eyes. 

Due to their potential risks many companies and consumers have strayed away from sulfates and have gravitated towards Sulfate Free products.  

Sustainable Packaging is environmentally friendly packaging that is intentionally created to minimize the environmental footprint. 

Packaging can be sustainable in many different ways; 100% recycled materials, reusable packaging, plant based packaging, choosing production processes that keep a carbon footprint in mind and many others. 

The number one mission in sustainable packaging is to create as little harm as possible to the earth. 

Sustainable Packaging extends far beyond the materials themselves but it is also the social and environmental way the company sets out their philosophies and mandates that can determine whether a company is sustainable or not.

Tea Tree Oil also known as Malaleuca Oil is an essential oil that derives from the leaves of the Malaleuca Alternifolia plant native to Australia. 

It provides antifungal, antiviral, antibacterial and anti inflammatory healing properties.

It is used in a wide array of cosmetic and skincare products. It has a very earthy natural scent to it and can easily be added to a carrier oil for direct skin application. 

Triheptanoin is a natural compound used to assist in skin conditioning.

It is made from a blend of glycerin and heptanoic acid and provides moisture and hydration to the skin.

Triheptanoin is derived from Palm, Coconut and Castor plants. It's properties also help to reduce moisture loss by creating a non greasy oil like barrier. 

Vanity is known as excessive pride regarding one's appearance, ability or achievements.

Vanity can be viewed as a positive or negative attribute depending on who it is used.

Vanity when used in a positive manner can assist with a persons confidence and beliefs in oneself.

When Vanity is used negatively people can suffer from narcissistic tendencies and inflated confidence. 

Vitamin E Oil is an antioxidant rich oil used in moisturizers to help visibly improve fine lines and wrinkles in the skin. 

Vitamin E Oil also assists in reducing inflammation and irritated skin by providing a high level of moisture into the skin to prevent flaking dry skin. 

It can be used topically by applying it directly to the affected areas or by using a moisturizing cream that has Vitamin E Oil in it.  Both methods are very effective in reducing dry, irritated skin. 

Wish-Cycling is the act of recycling an item hoping that it can be reused but not knowing whether it is actually recyclable.

Recycling intentions are good however when an item is incorrectly recycled it actually causes more harm than good.

It's is a costly error to both the environment and recycling companies.

Examples of recyclable items are all types of glass, plastic containers marked with recyclable indicator, cardboard, aluminum and metal objects. 

Xantham Gum is a substance produced by bacterial fermentation used as a thickening agent in cosmetics - especially those marked Gluten Free.  

Xantham Gum is a powdery substance that is formulated by fermenting a carbohydrate such as sugar.  It is considered a soluble fibre and polysaccharide.