Search Results for: Vitamin C

Definition Guide for skin and hair care terms. A beauty dictionary of hair and skin ingredients with meaningful results. Updated regularly.

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I

Green Clay Mask

Illite

Illite is Green Clay. It soaks up excess oils, purifies, and balances the pH of the skin.

Illite can be drying and should not be overused, even on very oily skin.

Intense Pulsed Light (IPL)

Intense Pulsed Light, commonly referred to as IPL, is a treatment from a device or machine that emits wavelengths of light. It can remove hair, acne, discoloration, wrinkles, and spider veins. Generally not considered as effective as laser treatments, but IPL devices are available for at-home use.

Indian Gooseberry or Amla fruit

Indian Gooseberry

Indian Gooseberry is another name for Amla fruit. It is useful for skin and hair. It is high in Vitamin C to increase collagen and fades scars. Amla is nutrient-rich and restorative. Indian Gooseberry is a non-greasy oil to help grow long, silky and shiny hair. Indian Gooseberry makes hair soft, silky, and pliable. It nourishes both hair and scalp, promotes hair growth and to prevent grey hair and stops hair fall.

Iron

Iron is necessary for the growth and repair of cells that stimulate hair growth. A lack of iron can lead to hair loss, dullness and breakage. Many women are iron deficient.

Iodine

Iodine deficiency prevents hair follicles from regenerating. Iodine also fights infections that can occur around hair follicles, damaging hair growth. Finally, Iodine helps regulate the thyroid. When the thyroid lacks iodine, hair becomes dry and rough, prematurely gray, losses volume and can even fall out, leading to bald spots.

Iris, Iris florentina extract

In skincare formulations Iris is called Iris Florentina extract and orris root. Iris is used in anti-ageing products for its’ natural isoflavones to stimulate the skin and limit the breakdown of structural proteins. Research on Iris benefits is limited.

Isoflavone

Isoflavone a class of chemical compounds found in plants. They may have similar effects to estrogen and potent antioxidant properties.

Definition Guide for skin and hair care terms. Glossary of natural ingredients with meaningful results. Updated regularly.

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H

Haematococcus Pluvalis Extract

Haematococcus Pluvalis Extract is a freshwater species of algae. [1] It is a natural source of Astaxanthin.

Hair Texture

Hair texture is classified by hair diameter and strength. Generally, the hair is considered as fine, medium and coarse. Each hair texture has different moisture and protein level needs. Hair texture defines how hair should be cared for, and what oils and ingredients to use to keep hair in the best condition.

Hair Texture, Fine

Fine hair is the narrowest diameter. It is not thin hair, but it is delicate and prone to breakage. Often baby soft and silky, most conditioning products are too heavy for fine hair and make the hair appear flat. Hair coloring can make fine hair brittle. Light oils such as apricot benefit fine hair.

Hair Texture, Medium

Medium texture hair is the most common. It is more resilient than fine hair but does not appear as silky. It can be straight or wavy. Medium hair requires a balance of nourishment and hydration.

Hair Texture,  Coarse

Coarse texture hair is strong and thick. It can tolerate a fair amount of heat and processing. It has a wide diameter which gives it more surface to lose moisture. Because of this, coarse hair is not naturally dry but often becomes dry. It requires consistent hydration with moisturizing shampoos and humectant conditioners and styling products.

Helianthus Annuus Seed Oil is Sunflower

Hard water

Hard water contains minerals and heavy metals that can cause hair cuticle damage. It can also turn hair color brassy and impair the impact of hair treatments. These damaging minerals can be removed through a shower water filter or hard water clarifying shampoos or treatments.

Helianthus Annuus Seed Oil

Helianthus Annuus Seed Oil is Sunflower Oil. Sunflower Seed Oil is hydrating, nourishing and an excellent “supporting” oil base. It retains moisture in the skin and is also rich in vitamin E. Sunflower oil retains moisture in brittle hair, thereby reducing hair breakage. Read How to use Sunflower Oil for Hair and Skin.

Hemp Seeds

Hemp Seed Oil

Hemp Seed Oil is high in Omega-3, 6 and 9 fatty acids. It is also high in Vitamins A, E, and D. Hemp Seed Oil comes from the seeds of the Cannabis sativa plant. Hemp Seed Oil doesn’t contain the same compounds as the plant but has the nutrients and fatty acids. It reduces acne, prevents hair breakage, and hydrates the scalp. NOT the same as CBD.

Henna

Henna strengthens brittle hair cuticles and reduces breakage. It also can loosen a natural curl. Henna works most efficiently when combined with extracts like Amla and Shikakai.

Hesperidin

Hesperidin is a plant flavonoid from citrus fruits like sweet orange and lemon. [2] It has been shown to help reduce the appearance of skin discoloration and it inhibits future overproduction of melanin. [3] It is collagen and fibroblast protective and reduces the appearance of sun damage [4]. This antioxidant anti-inflammatory soothes the skin. [5] Sweet Orange is high in Hesperidin.

Hippophae Rhamnoides Oil

Hippophae Rhamnoides Oil is sea buckthorn. Sea Buckthorn oil is extracted from small orange berries. It benefits hair, scalp and skin. Sea Buckthorn Oil is like a who’s who of nutrients including vitamins A, B1, B2, C, D, E, K, and P; carotenoids; flavonoids; amino acids; phenols; folic acid; organic acids; 20 mineral elements, and essential fatty acids. It uniquely contains all four omegas: omega-3, omega-6, omega-7, and omega-9. It feeds hair and nourishes the scalp.[6]

Hippophae Rhamnoides, AKA Sea Buckthorn berries

Hibiscus

Hibiscus

Hibiscus naturally firms skin. It also contains Vitamin C to treat acne, scars, and eczema. It is called the Botox plant because it retains the skin’s elasticity, making it look younger for longer, and treats fine lines.

Honey

Honey is a natural antibacterial and moisturizing humectant. Raw honey is a gentle spot acne treatment and anti-aging antioxidant. Honey is a pore clarifier and a moisturizer. Honey diluted with a fatty oil is a hair and scalp moisturizing masque.

Raw honey is a versatile natural skin care ingredient

Honeysuckle

Honeysuckle

Honeysuckle Flower Extract (Lonicera Caprifolium) and Lonicera Japonica (Japanese Honeysuckle) Leaf Extract are anti-inflammatories suitable for highly sensitive skin.

Holy Grail Product HG

A Holy Grail product, often denoted as an “HG”, is a phrase used to describe the products that are considered a “must-have” product for skin and hair care.

A product that meaningfully reversed a skin or hair or other problem, without which a beauty goal would not be achieved.

Horsetail

Horsetail Plant Extract

Horsetail Plant Extract is used in skincare and occasionally hair conditioners because it has has antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and anti-aging properties. It reduces redness and soothes skin. Horsetail makes for more flexible skin, especially in connective skin layers and tissue. Horsetail adds strength to connective skin layers to keep the skin structure as pliable yet taut. Horsetail also lightens discoloration, particularly the dark shadow area of wrinkles.

Humectant

Humectant ingredients slow down the loss of moisture from a product during use to keep hair and skin hydrated for longer periods of time.

Hyaluronic Acid

Hyaluronic Acid makes skin instantly dewy and soft.

Hyaluronic Acid retains moisture and increases the effectiveness of other ingredients. Hyaluronic acid holds its’ weight in moisturizer, plumping the skin, making fine wrinkles and mild sagging disappear temporarily. It also drives active ingredients to deep skin layers for better results. Read more about Hyaluronic Acid and how to use it here.

Hydrogenated Castor Oil

Hydrogenated Castor Oil is made from castor bean oil with added hydrogen. This make it a semi-solid waxy form that is firm but spreadable. It is a stable and safe ingredient that delivers the benefits of castor oil including moisture retention. Castor Oil thickens acts as a humectant for frizzy hair.

Hydrolyzed Collagen

Collagen is the scaffolding of skin. We lose it as we age. Less collagen means more sagging. Hydrolyzed Collagen is broken down into smaller pieces to penetrate the skin.

Hydrolyzed Rice Protein

Hydrolyzed Rice protein is a secret hair weapon because it contains Inositol.

Inositol repairs hair breakage and damage. It penetrates deeply into the hair and helps repair the broken hair bonds.

Hydrolyzed Rice protein also contains Antioxidants, Vitamin B6, Vitamin E, and amino acids.^[7]

 

Hydrolysed Keratin

Hydrolysed Keratin is used for hair that has sustained cuticle damage. Hair cuticle damage can lead to keratin loss. Hydrolysed Keratin-containing hair care products can temporarily fill in hair-cuticle gaps.

Hydrolysed Silk

Hydrolysed Silk Proteins are found in some shampoos and conditioners that make the hair feel stronger and appear shiny. Hydrolyzed Silk works for stressed, depleted hair by reducing hair breakage by building protein bonds in the hair to make it strong and shiny again. It is Hydrolyzed, or broken down in water, from pure silk fibers into silk amino acids which are small enough to penetrate the hair follicle and scalp.

Hydroquinone

Hydroquinone is used for the reduction of pigment in dark spots. While highly effective, but somewhat harsh. Results can be more uneven and unpredictable compared to in-office lasers or kojic acid products.

Hyperpigmentation

Hyperpigmentation excessive pigmentation typically seen as dark spots or brown mottling in an area. Often the result of sun damage or medications. Often responds well to Vitamin C serum and retinol treatment

Hypodermis

The fatty layer of skin, fat, and collagen cells.

Hypoallergenic

A product less likely to cause an allergic reaction based on avoidance or limited use of a known set of common allergen-causing ingredients.

References

1. Davinelli S, Nielsen ME, Scapagnini G. Astaxanthin in Skin Health, Repair, and Disease: A Comprehensive Review. Nutrients. 2018 Apr 22;10(4):522. doi: 10.3390/nu10040522. PMID: 29690549; PMCID: PMC5946307.
2. Garg A, Garg S, Zaneveld L, Singla A. Chemistry and pharmacology of the Citrus bioflavonoid hesperidin. Phytother Res. 2001;15(8):655-669
3. Zhu W, Gao J. The use of botanical extracts as topical skin-lightening agents for the improvement of skin pigmentation disorders. J Investig Dermatol Symp Proc. 2008;13(1):20-24.
4. Proteggente A, Basu-Modak S, Kuhnle G, et al. Hesperetin glucuronide, a photoprotective agent arising from flavonoid metabolism in human skin fibroblasts. Photochem Photobiol. 2003;78(3):256-261.
5. Parhiz H, Roohbakhsh A, Soltani F, Rezaee R, Iranshahi M. Antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties of the citrus flavonoids hesperidin and hesperetin: an updated review of their molecular mechanisms and experimental models. Phytother Res. 2015;29(3):323-331.
6. Zieli„ska, A., & Nowak, I. (2017). Abundance of active ingredients in sea-buckthorn oil. Lipids in health and disease, 16(1), 95. doi:10.1186/s12944-017-0469-7).
7. Rigo, L.A.; da Silva, C.R.; de Oliveira, S.M.; Cabreira, T.N.; de Bona da Silva, C.; Ferreira, J.; Beck, R.C. Nanoencapsulation of rice bran oil increases its protective effects against UVB radiation-induced skin injury in mice. Eur. J. Pharm. Biopharm. 2015, 93, 11-17.

Definition Guide for skin and hair care terms. A to Z Glossary of hair & skin ingredients with meaningful results. Updated regularly.

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G

Gallic acid

Gallic acid is a powerful phenolic compound found in amla. Studies show it repairs hair damaged from hair dye or environmental damage.[1]

Reishi mushroom AKA Ganoderma Lucidum

Gamma Oryzanol

Gamma Oryzanol is a Ferulic Acid ester found in Oryza Sativa, is an anti-aging antioxidant that protects the skin from free radical damage.[2]

Ganoderma Lucidum

Ganoderma Lucidum is also called Reishi Extract. It comes from a mushroom with polysaccharides. These are responsible for the skin’s natural ability to hydrate and retain water. Ganoderma Lucidum promotes cell regeneration while reducing skin inflammation, puffiness, and wrinkles. It is known as the mushroom of immorality because of its’ anti-aging properties, beauty, skin, hair and overall health benefits. See Reishi Extract.

Genstein

A phytoestrogen in soybeans. It is used in skin care as a skin-brightening antioxidant. Studies show it can stimulate collagen I and collagen II production in older, postmenopausal women.[3]

Geranium Extract

Geranium Extract makes skin glow and heals inflammatory skin conditions and topical ingredient induced irritation.[4] It also contains a fatty acid profile that promotes healthy skin cells and reduce wrinkles [5].

Gigawhite

Gigawhite is a combination of natural herbs and flowering plants that promote skin brightening.

Specifically:

MALLOW MALVA SYLVESTRIS (MALLOW) EXTRACT

Mallow is a natural floral extract. It contains Vitamins A, C, and E. It nourishes dry and damaged skin, restoring elasticity. Mallow softens while being gentle enough for the most sensitive of skin.

PIPERITA LEAF EXTRACT

Piperita Leaf Extract is a variety of Peppermint. It has both cooling and anesthetic properties to quell skin irritation.

It also soothes rough & dry skin.

PRIMULA VERIS EXTRACT

Primula Veris Extract is an herb commonly known as cowslip. It has cell-regenerating effects that help skin recover from topical actives.

It contains C and beta carotene to even out skin tone and reduce acne scars.

ALCHEMILLA VULGARIS EXTRACT

Alchemilla Vulgaris Extract comes from the Ladys mantle flower/herb. It is rich in tannins, flavonoids, and salicylic acid. Salicylic build collagen and treats acne.

VERONICA OFFICINALIS EXTRACT

Veronica Officinalis Extract comes from a wildflower. It contains Vitamins C, E, and K to condition and heal the skin.

MELISSA OFFICINALIS LEAF EXTRACT

Melissa Officinalis Leaf Extract is lemon balm leaf. It contains caffeine & ferulic acid. It counteracts sun damage.

ACHILLEA MILLEFOLIUM EXTRACT

Achillea Millefolium Extract is Yarrow. Yarrow is used in ancient and folk medicine practices. It reduces inflammation while promoting healing and circulation.

Ginkgo Biloba

Gingko Bilboa

A natural ingredient from the maidenhair tree. Ginkgo Biloba increases blood flow to the scalp and can accelerate hair growth rates. Better blood flow means more nutrients are available for the hair production process.

Glabridin

A natural chemical found in the licorice root.  Glabridin is a skin-brightening antioxidant that inhibits excess pigment production. It is a natural alternative to harsh bleaching agents to lighten scars, sun damage and even cystic acne brown marks. Pairs well with Niacinamide. See Licorice Root Extract.

Glucomannan

Glucomannan is a natural substance in Konjac Root. It is a moisturizer similar to the natural hyaluronic found in young skin. It makes skin look and act younger. It penetrates the upper layer of the epidermis and hydrates the surface.

Glutarmine

Glutarmine is an amino acid needed to grow fibroblast cells. Fibroblast cells significantly increase collagen production. Also an anti-oxidant. Glutarmine is abundant in the skin but is valuable in a formulation because it makes skin feel and look healthy and vibrant. ^[6]

Glycerin

Glycerin is a natural humectant for both skin and hair. It helps hair to retain moisture. This is particularly important for thirsty coarse and curly hair. These hair types have a wider diameter, which means more surface to lose moisture and feel dry. Glycerin must be diluted as a direct application will dry the hair, making it brittle and even cause breakage.

Glyceryl Caprylate

Glyceryl Caprylate is a 100% plant derivative of glycerin and caprylic acid. It has emollient and moisturizing properties. It is a  co-emulsifier that helps water and oil based ingredients to work together.

Glycine Betaine AKA Beet Sugar offers skin enhancing hydration

Glycine Betaine

Glycine Betaine is Beet Sugar Extract, a food trade moisturizer. It restores hydration and imparts a youthful luster to the skin. It also serves as a light deflector, making recessed areas, such as the undereye area, seem less sunken and appear brighter.

Glycolic Acid

(AHA) Glycolic Acid (AHA) exfoliates by loosening the “glue” that adheres dry, dead skin to healthy skin, and then dissolves away the dead skin. It is a superior form of exfoliation for mature skin because there is no rubbing or pulling the skin. There is also little to no peeling or sloughing sections, and limited redness or irritation after use. Skin is brighter, younger, softer, with few lines and wrinkles, and it glows like younger skin. In-office micro-needling with Glycolic Acid greatly reduces acne scars. [7] Glycolic Acid also promotes collagen production. Several at-home Glycolic Peel products are available. Read more about Glycolic Acid here.

Goji Berry

Goji berry (Lycium Barbarum Fruit Extract) is an antioxidant that softens the skin. It is considered a superfruit and has long been used in traditional medicine practice. Goji berries are rich in vitamin C to synthesize collagen.[8] Goji Berries contain 19 amino acids, the building blocks of keratin.

Goji berries

Goji berries contain trace minerals including zinc and copper. Copper aids hair growth and follicle health. The topical application of copper increases the size of shrunken hair follicles. It stops hair thinning and often reduces premature graying. [9, 10] Goji berries contain vitamins B1, B2, B6, and vitamin E, plus beta-sisterol, an anti-inflammatory agent. The Linoleic Acid in goji berries is an Omega-6 makes hair feel hydrated, lush and stronger. [11]

Gota Kola improves skin elasticity for firmer skin

Gotu Kola

Gotu Kola is especially good at improving elasticity and reduce sagging. It boosts antioxidant activity, strengthening the skin and increases blood circulation.

Grape Seed Extract

Grape Seed Extract prevents breakouts and calms existing breakouts. Contains very high antioxidant levels to protect the skin against UV damage.

Grapeseed Oil Extract kills bacteria and softens skin

Grapeseed Oil

Grapeseed Oil is highly beneficial for both skin and hair. For hair, it is an outstanding moisturizer for brittle and dry hair. It soothes dry scalp skin. Regular Grapeseed oil scalp massages remove follicle-shrinking DHT. DHT is a hormone that accumulates on the scalp and can cause hair loss.  Grapeseed Oil is nourishing to the skin and contains building blocks for collagen production. High in Polyphenols, Vitamins C, D, E and Omega 6, it treats dry skin, wrinkles, discoloration, and aging. Choosing an organic product is especially important when selecting a grapeseed oil.

Flowering Camellia Sinensis or green tea leaves

Green Tea

Green Tea is used topically and ingested. Green Tea feeds and moisturizes the skin, calms irritation and is an excellent antioxidant. Topical Green Tea application can calm the irritation that aggressive topicals such as Retinol cause. Drinking green tea has anti-aging benefits from polyphenols. It can reduce sun damage, decrease collagen breakdown and increase cell regeneration. Green tea contains polyphenols that soothe skin while providing antioxidants. Polyphenols may improve sun-damaged skin. [12] High in Epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG), green tea is a major player in skin health and appearance. EGCG is the potent antioxidant from green tea. It protects against environmental damage and neutralizes free radicals that prematurely age skin. Research shows EGCG reactivates dying skin cells. This shows promise for repairing sun damage and scar healing. [13] Topical application of Green Tea reduces hair fall. Dermato-trichologists use green tea as an excellent scalp massage as it nourishes the scalp, soothes inflammation and dandruff. The Polyphenols in green tea are good for hair roots and follicles, promoting hair regrowth. [14]

Gua Sha

Gua Sha is an ancient alternative remedy practice. Gua Sha stimulates skin renewal with lymphatic drainage and increased blood flow. Improved blood flow assists in collagen production. Gua Sha facial tools are designed to improve circulation by gently scraping the skin. This non-invasive treatment can reduce puffiness and inflammation. Gua Sha tools are often made of gemstones like Brazilian Jade and Rose Quartz.

Guaiazulene

Guaiazulene is an oil that comes from chamomile. It is named for the Spanish word for blue due to its’ natural deep blue-violet pigment. Guaiazulene is used as a natural colorant, to add a blue hue. Like chamomile, it holds skin-soothing properties including being an anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, and anti-fungal agent.

Guava Seed Oil

Guava

Unrefined Psidium guajava is also known as guava seed oil. It is harvested from India.

Guava seed oil is a non-comedogenic oil that is high in Lycopene to fight free radicals. It is also high in linoleic acid, a form of omega-6. This fatty acid gives skin a lovely glow.

Guava seed oil is a mild astringent to treat acne. High in copper, it promotes collagen production and skin elasticity. It is especially effective at targeting wrinkles. While it contains Vitamins A and C, it is gentle enough for sensitive skin.

References

1. Nishida, Yuichi & Ito, Taketoshi & Hosokawa, Minoru & Aono, Megumi & Yokomaku, Atsushi & Konta, Hiroshi & Iimura, Ken-Ichi & Kato, Teiji & Sugiyama, Keikichi. (2004). Repairing Effects of Diglucosyl Gallic Acid on Coloring-Damaged Hair. Journal of Oleo Science. 53. 295-304. 10.5650/jos.53.295.
2. M Patel and S N Naik*, Gamma-oryzanol from rice bran oil” A review. Journal of Scientific & Industrial Research Vol. 63, July 2004, pp 569-578
3. Silva LA, Ferraz Carbonel AA, de Moraes ARB, et al. Collagen concentration on the facial skin of postmenopausal women after topical treatment with estradiol and genistein: a randomized double-blind controlled trial. Gynecol Endocrinol. 2017;33(11):845-848. doi:10.1080/09513590.2017.1320708
4. Boukhatem, Mohamed Nadjib et al. “Rose geranium essential oil as a source of new and safe anti-inflammatory drugs.” The Libyan journal of medicine vol. 8 22520. 7 Oct. 2013, doi:10.3402/ljm.v8i0.22520
5. Radulovi‡, Niko & Dekic, Milan & Stojanović-Radić, Zorica & Palic, Radosav. (2011). Chemical composition and antimicrobial activity of the essential oils of Geranium columbinum L. and G. lucidum L. (Geraniaceae). Turkish Journal of Chemistry. 35. 499-512. 10.3906/kim-1002-43.
6. Comparative Biochemistry and Physiology, August 2001, pages 24-30
7. J Cosmet Dermatol.2017 Dec;16(4):454-459. doi: 10.1111/jocd.12377. Epub 2017 Oct 26.
   Efficacy of microneedling with 70% glycolic acid peel vs microneedling alone in treatment of atrophic acne scars- A randomized controlled trial.
8. Andrei Mocan, et al. œUHPLC-QTOF-MS analysis of bioactive constituents from two Romanian Goji (Lycium barbarum L.) berries cultivars and their antioxidant, enzyme inhibitory, and real-time cytotoxicological evaluation, Food and Chemical Toxicology, Volume 115, 2018,
   Pages 414-424, ISSN 0278-6915, https://doi.org/10.1016/j.fct.2018.01.054.
9. Applied Biochemistry and Microbiology, July 2001, pages 392–399
10. Bernice Cheung, Macy Kwan, Ruth Chan, Mandy Sea, Jean Woo, Chapter 47  “ Potential of Asian Natural Products for Health in Aging, Molecular Basis of Nutrition and Aging, Academic Press, 2016, Pages 659-676
11. Alessandra Cristina Pedro, Mar­a-Cortes Sinchez-Mata, María Luisa Pérez-Rodrguez, Montaña Cámara, Josà Luis López-Colón, Fabiane Bach, Marcelo Bellettini, Charles Windson Isidoro Haminiuk, Qualitative and nutritional comparison of goji berry fruits produced in organic and conventional systems, Scientia Horticulturae,  Volume 257, 2019, 108660, ISSN 0304-4238,  https://doi.org/10.1016/j.scienta.2019.108660.
12. International Journal of Cosmetic Science, February 2015, pages 456-463
13. Journal of Pharmacol Exp Ther 2003 306: 29-34
14. Yesudian, Patrick. Can beverages grow hair on bald heads? International journal of trichology vol. 4,1 (2012): 1-2. doi:10.4103/0974-7753.9607

Skin & Hair care A-Z beauty glossary definitions. Defining active ingredients with meaningful results. Updated regularly.

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E

E (Vitamin)

Vitamin E softens the skin, making scar tissue more pliable and soft. It gives the skin a cushion to deter wrinkles and fine lines. It also supports skeletal and smooth muscles, including facial and throat muscle. In one study, people with hair loss experienced 34.5% more hair growth after taking a 100 mg vitamin E supplement for eight months. It is presumed to fight oxidative stress on the scalp [1]

EGCG comes from Flowering Camellia Sinensis or Green Tea

Eczema

A skin condition characterized by itchy, irritated skin. The raised, inflamed skin can be painful and red and requires care in washing and maintaining adequate barrier function with moisturization.

Edelweiss is a natural anti-aging ingredient

Edelweiss

Edelweiss is a mountain flower high in antioxidants. It tightens and appears to lift sagging skin; smooths the look of wrinkles

EGCG

EGCG is Epigallocatechin gallate, the potent antioxidant from green tea. It protects against environmental damage and neutralizes free radicals that prematurely age skin. It is beneficial to drink and for topical application. Research shows EGCG reactivates dying skin cells. This shows promise for repairing sun damage and for scar healing. [2]

Eggplant Extract

Rich in Vitamin C and glucosides, eggplant extract heals sun damage-based hyperpigmentation by evening out age spots as well as helping to assist in different skin problems like Eczema and Psoriasis.

Elastin, Hydrolyzed Elastin

Elastin is a protein found in skin and hair. Elastin is paired collagen in the dermis skin layer and gives structural support to skin. It is the stretchy structural proteins that allow the skin to snap back into place. Elastin is vulnerable to sun damage. Elastin is as important as collagen for the appearance of younger skin, but fewer products address the loss of skin elastin. Unlike collagen, topically applied elastin is readily absorbed by the skin and can promote new elastin synthesis. [3] In hair, elastin is easier to replace. Elastin gives hair the ability to stretch and resist breakage. Hydrolyzed Elastin adds strength, body, and elasticity to hair. It improves hair’s tensile strength and moisture retention. This reduces hair breakage.

Elder Flower

Elder Flower is rich in bioflavonoids that help prevent wrinkles

Branch with fresh Elderberries. Elderberry extract provides a gentle Vitamin C

Elderberry Fruit Extract

Common name for extract from the Sambucus Nigra. Elderberry Extract increases microcirculation. It is high in Vitamin C and E to decrease fine lines, but is still gentle enough to use delicate skin such as orbital area skin or on the lips.

Eleven lines

Eleven lines is a term used to describe the pair of expression lines that appear between the eyebrows, above the nose. They are most noticeable in movement, due to “crunching” the brow while working or even while asleep. Eleven lines are common but respond well to retinol treatments.

Elfe Flower

Elfe Flower

Elfe Flower is used to thicken thin skin, especially useful around the eyes and mouth to reduce wrinkling.

Ellagic Acid

A polyphenol found in many berries and nuts, pomegranates, dark-colored grapes, and red wines. It is a powerful antioxidant within skincare both topically and orally.

Ellagic acid reduces the destruction of collagen as well as protects against Ultraviolet sun damage. ^[4] Ellagic acid is also a moisture sealant.

Emollient

Ingredients that lubricate the skin surface, smoothing or softening its’ appearance. They tend to be heavier than creams and moisturizers.

Emulsifier

An emulsifier binds together skin care ingredients.  There are both synthetic chemical and natural emulsifiers.

Epidermis

Epidermis is the thin, outer protective layer of the skin. The epidermis is made up of five sub-layers: the stratum germinativum, stratum spinosum, stratum lucidum, stratum granulosum, and stratum corneum.

Essence

A concentrated formulation with a water or serum consistency which is splashed or dabbed onto skin after cleansing.  The purpose is to hydrate and prepare the skin for the next layer of skincare applied afterwards, typically a treating active or moisturizer.   A product commonly seen in multi-step skin care routines. A good essence contains no occlusives which would block absorption.

Eucalyptus

Essential Oil

Essential Oil is concentrated liquid compounds or extracts of plants. It is generally aromatic. A few drops are diluted into a carrier oil. There are various health and beauty benefits to Essential Oils. Lavender is used for hair conditioning, Rosemary Oil promotes scalp health. Tea Tree is used for acne.

Euphorbia Cerifera Wax 

A vegan substitute for beeswax but with similar properties. It works well with other waxes for improved product consistency and to raise melting points without chemicals.

Eucalyptus Essential Oil

From the Eucalyptus plant. Eucalyptus Oil is an invigorating scent. It is a common addition to a facial steam treatment as Eucalyptus Oil moistures the skin and locks in moisture. In skincare it is an anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, antiviral antioxidant that can be used in bath and face washes. It also has clarifying and antiseptic properties to heal wounds from acne, psoriasis, or eczema. The macrocarpal in Eucalyptus increases ceramides. [5] It helps congestion due to allergies, colds, or respiratory issues. Best used on oilier skins and in moderation on dry or sensitive skins. Highly potent, always dilute.

Eugenia Caryophyllus

Eugenia caryophyllus is clove leaf oil.

Clove leaf oil can firm the skin.

It is also an anti-inflammatory that reduces acne-causing bacteria.

Evening Primrose Oil

Evening Primrose

Evening Primrose Oil is a vitamin supplement and topical ingredient that restores a glow to the skin. It is excellent as a topical ingredient to provide moisture without clogging the skin and is helpful for eczema and acne. Supports elastin, moisture, and skin firmness. [6] Full of Omega-6 fatty acids, it keeps hair and skin healthy. As an oral supplement, it supports skin health and acne reduction, but some experience a period of acne breakouts before skin stability is achieved.

Exfoliate, Exfoliation

To remove the dead skin cells from the top layer of the skin. Exfoliation smooths the appearance of the skin and is helpful in reducing acne formation as it removes dead skin cells that can harbor bacteria in clogged pores. Chemical peels, grain scrubs, and dermabrasion devices are all means of exfoliation.

References

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