Skincare Glossary: Skincare terms made simple

A

Acid Mantle

A thin protective layer of natural oils and sweat on the skin’s surface that keeps moisture in and harmful bacteria out. When balanced, it helps maintain smooth, resilient skin.

Adaptogen

Herbs or mushrooms that help the skin adapt to stress, whether from pollution, sun, or inflammation. Known to calm, protect, and strengthen skin over time.

Examples: Reishi, holy basil, ashwagandha.

Antioxidant

A compound that protects skin cells from free radical damage. They slow down signs of aging, boost brightness, and support skin repair.

Examples: Vitamin C, green tea, resveratrol.

Astringent

An ingredient that tightens pores and tones skin by removing excess oil and refining texture. Often used in toners or clarifying treatments.

Examples: Witch hazel, rose water.

B

Balancing

Describes ingredients that help normalize oil production, even tone, or restore skin’s natural pH for a more harmonious complexion.

Barrier Support

Refers to ingredients that strengthen and protect the skin’s natural barrier, helping lock in moisture and defend against external irritants.

Botanical

Plant-based ingredients including herbs, roots, flowers, and fruits. Chosen for their natural healing, soothing, or rejuvenating properties.

C

Carrier Oil

Base oils used to dilute essential oils or infuse plant extracts. They deliver nutrients deep into the skin and are rich in fatty acids.

Examples: Jojoba, apricot kernel, sunflower.

Chelating Agent

A stabilizer that binds with metal ions to prevent product degradation. Improves shelf life and enhances product performance.

Example: Sodium phytate.

Clarifying

Ingredients or treatments that purify the skin by drawing out impurities, removing buildup, and refining pores.

Cold Infusion (Oil)

An herbal oil infusion made without heat to preserve delicate plant nutrients. Used for gentle, nourishing skincare.

Example: Calendula infused in jojoba oil.

Comedogenic / Non-Comedogenic

Comedogenic means it may clog pores. Non-comedogenic means it won’t block pores — important for acne-prone or sensitive skin.

D

Dermis

The deeper layer of skin beneath the surface (epidermis), where collagen, elastin, and blood vessels are found. It’s responsible for firmness and elasticity.

E

Emollient

A softening and smoothing ingredient that helps moisturize and soothe dry or rough skin.

Examples: Shea butter, squalane, mango butter.

Exfoliation / Exfoliant

Removes dead skin cells to reveal smoother, brighter skin. Can be physical (scrubs) or chemical (acids and enzymes).

F

Free Radicals

Unstable molecules caused by UV exposure, pollution, and stress that damage skin cells and accelerate aging. Antioxidants neutralize them.

H

Humectant

An ingredient that draws moisture into the skin from the environment or deeper layers. Essential for hydration.

Examples: Glycerin, honey, tremella mushroom.

Hydrosol

A gentle floral water collected during essential oil distillation. Used as a toner or mist for hydration and soothing.

Examples: Rose water, lavender hydrosol.

Hydration

The process of increasing water content in the skin. Hydrated skin looks plumper, smoother, and more radiant.

I

Infusion

The process of soaking herbs or botanicals in oil or water to extract their skin-loving benefits.

Inflammation

The body’s natural response to irritation, often showing as redness, heat, or swelling. Chronic skin inflammation can lead to sensitivity, aging, or breakouts.

L

Lipid

Natural fats found in the skin or oils that help maintain moisture, structure, and barrier strength.

Examples: Ceramides, fatty acids, phospholipids.

M

Moisturizer

A product that helps the skin retain water and prevents dryness. May include humectants, emollients, and occlusives for layered hydration.

N

Non-Comedogenic

Won’t clog pores or contribute to breakouts. Ideal for acne-prone or oily skin types.

O

Occlusive

Forms a breathable barrier over the skin to trap moisture inside. Often used to lock in hydration as the final step in a skincare routine.

Examples: Beeswax, lanolin, shea butter.

P

Phototoxicity

A skin reaction triggered by certain essential oils when exposed to sunlight, causing irritation or burns.

Common in citrus oils like bergamot or lime.

Polyphenols

Potent plant compounds that defend against environmental damage, brighten skin, and improve elasticity.

Found in: Green tea, olives, cacao.

Preservative-Free

Indicates that a product contains no synthetic preservatives. These formulas often rely on natural antimicrobial ingredients and should be stored with care.

pH-Balanced

A product that matches the skin’s natural pH (about 4.5–5.5) to support healthy function and avoid irritation.

R

Resveratrol

A powerful antioxidant found in red grapes and berries. Fights aging, soothes inflammation, and boosts skin vitality.

S

Sebum

The natural oil produced by your skin. It protects and moisturizes, but excess can cause clogged pores or breakouts.

Shelf Stability

The length of time a product remains safe and effective. Formulas with proper pH, preservation, and packaging last longer.

Soothing

Describes ingredients that calm redness, reduce inflammation, and comfort sensitive or reactive skin.

Examples: Chamomile, aloe vera, calendula.

Surfactant

A cleansing agent that breaks down oil and debris so it can be rinsed away.

Mild surfactants include coco glucoside and decyl glucoside.

T

Toner

Used after cleansing to refresh skin, restore pH, and prep for serums or moisturizers. May hydrate, exfoliate, or balance the skin.

Transdermal

Refers to ingredients that can penetrate beyond the outer layer of the skin and deliver active nutrients deeper into the dermis.

V

Vitamin C

An antioxidant that brightens skin tone, fades dark spots, and boosts collagen. Often found in glow-enhancing serums.