Here, I hope to make it easier to know what it is that your cosmetic products really do.
Anti-oxidents
These are particularly good at soaking up free radicals (explained later)
from your skin. Good anti-oxidents are vitamins A, C and E, otherwise know
as the ACE Vitamins. You will also find certain foods like broccoli and
tomato's referred to as ACE foods, as they are good at combating free radicals
from the inside.
Benzoyl
Peroxide
This is used in many over-the-counter spot treatments, as it gently peels
surface skin and unclogs blocked follicles which can cause spots.
Collagen
Collagen is the elastic substance in the underlying tissues of your skin
that gives it suppleness and support. Old collagen fibres are less elastic
than new ones - hence the ageing process.
Collagen is a popular ingredient in many skincare products however there
is doubt whether a molecule of this size can actually penetrate the skin.
Dermatologically
Tested
This means it has been patch tested on a group of volunteers to monitor
any skin irritation. If you see this on a product it usually means it's
suitable for sensitive skin.
Free
Radicals
Whilst researching free radicals, I found the true explanation actually
goes into quantum science. This I thought was too long winded, plus very
hard to follow. So in simple terms it's a damaged cell, caused by the sun,
chemicals, pollution etc. Anti-oxidents therefore help to remove these.
Fruit
Acids
These are also known as AHA's or Alpha Hydroxy Acids. They are commonly
found in fruit, sour milk and wine.
AHA's are used because they break down protein bonds that hold dead skin
cells together. This will reveal a newer fresher skin underneath.
If you have sensitive skin this may cause irritation.
Humectants
These are found in some moisturisers as they work by attracting moisture
to themselves and so keep the surface of the skin hydrated.
Hypo-allergenic
These products tend to be fragrance free and only contain the minimum of
colourings and know irritants.
There is no guarantee that you won't be allergic to them as some people
are allergic to water, it just means that you are less likely to have a
reaction.
Liposome's
These are microscopic fluid filled spheres made of the same material that
forms cell membranes. They penetrate into the skin where they act as delivery
parcels that release their active ingredients.
Milia
Another word for white heads. Oil is produced from the sebaceous glands
which collect to form a plug under the skin.
Non-comedogenic
A comedo is a blackhead. Non-comedogenic means that the product has been
screened to eliminate ingredients which can clog the follicles. These products
are particularly good for oily skins.
pH
Balanced
The pH scale measures the acidity (or alkalinity) of a solution. 7 is neutral
so any number below this means its acidic and any number above is alkaline.
Healthy skin is slightly acidic, so pH balanced products are slightly acidic
to maintain the optimum level of the skin.
Retin
A
Also know as Retinoic Acid. This is a derivative of Vitamin A and has been
used for years to treat acne. It works like the fruity acids but much stronger,
which is why its used only under medical supervision, although weaker versions
can be bought over the counter. Many famous people use it to help against
the ageing process.
Ultraviolet
(UV) Rays
Ultra violet can damage your skin. UVB (remember B for burn) will burn your
skin. UVA rays are strong all year round and cause the ageing process in
your skin. Always use a broad spectrum cream with both UVA and UVB filters.
Vitamin
E
You will find this in most moisturises as it helps combat dryness and signs
of ageing.
If you have any questions you would like answered please email me and I will be happy to try and answer any questions you may have.
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