Glossary

A

Plant-derived compounds traditionally used to help the body adapt to stress. In beauty and wellbeing formulations, adaptogens are selected to support balance and overall skin and body resilience.

A plant-derived ingredient recognised for its soothing and hydrating properties. Helps calm the skin and support comfort, particularly when skin feels dry, sensitised, or stressed.

A cosmetic term used to describe skincare designed to support the appearance of smoother, firmer-looking skin and help reduce the visible signs of skin ageing over time.

Ingredients that help defend against oxidative stress caused by environmental factors such as pollution and UV exposure, supporting overall skin health and resilience.

B

Refers to the proportion of an ingredient that can be effectively absorbed and utilised by the body. Higher bioavailability supports more efficient use of nutrients.

A cosmetic term describing ingredients and formulations that help improve the appearance of dullness and uneven skin tone, promoting a more luminous, radiant-looking complexion.

C

Ingredients that have been studied in controlled settings to evaluate their performance and skin compatibility.

Indicates that a finished product or formulation has undergone testing under controlled conditions to assess skin compatibility and performance.

A naturally occurring antioxidant found in the skin that supports cellular energy and helps protect against oxidative stress. Levels decline with age, making topical replenishment beneficial for maintaining skin vitality and smoothness.

A structural protein that supports skin firmness, elasticity, and strength. Natural collagen levels decline with age, contributing to visible signs of skin ageing.

D

Indicates that a product has been reviewed or tested under dermatological supervision to assess suitability for use on the skin.

G

A well-established humectant that attracts water into the skin, helping maintain hydration and support skin softness.

A quality-controlled manufacturing standard ensuring products are consistently produced and controlled according to established safety and quality guidelines.

H

A naturally occurring molecule capable of holding up to 1,000 times its weight in water. Multiple molecular weights allow hydration across different layers of the skin for immediate and long-lasting moisture.

A process in which larger molecules are broken down into smaller components to improve absorption and usability.

Ingredients that draw moisture into the skin to help prevent dehydration and maintain skin suppleness.

A skin concern where areas of skin appear darker due to excess melanin production. Can be influenced by sun exposure, inflammation, and hormonal changes.

I

An essential mineral involved in oxygen transport and energy production in the body. Adequate iron levels support overall vitality and wellbeing.

M

An essential mineral involved in muscle function, nerve signalling, and energy production. Often included in wellbeing formulations to support relaxation and daily balance.

The community of beneficial microorganisms that live on the skin’s surface. A balanced microbiome supports skin comfort, resilience, and barrier function.

N

A form of vitamin B3 involved in energy metabolism and cellular function.

A multifunctional active that helps support the skin barrier, improve the appearance of uneven tone, enhance hydration, and refine overall skin texture.

O

Damage caused by free radicals generated by pollution, UV exposure, and environmental stressors. Antioxidants help reduce its visible effects on the skin.

P

A multifunctional ingredient that supports hydration, product stability, and ingredient delivery while contributing to a lightweight skin feel.

Skin-friendly by-products of fermentation that help support the skin microbiome and improve barrier function.

R

A gentle form of vitamin A that supports skin renewal and helps improve the appearance of fine lines and skin texture over time. Suitable for those new to retinoids or with sensitive skin when used as directed.

S

The outermost layer of the skin that protects against moisture loss and environmental aggressors. A strong barrier is essential for healthy, comfortable skin.

A skin-identical lipid derived from plant sources that helps support the skin barrier and prevent moisture loss, leaving skin feeling soft, smooth, and nourished without heaviness.

T

A collagen type primarily associated with skin structure and firmness.

An enzyme involved in melanin production within the skin. Certain cosmetic ingredients are used to help moderate tyrosinase activity, supporting a more even-looking skin tone.

V

A family of compounds involved in skin renewal and surface refinement. Commonly used in skincare to support smoother-looking skin.

A group of water-soluble vitamins involved in energy metabolism and cellular function.

An antioxidant vitamin that supports skin brightness and helps defend against oxidative stress.

A fat-soluble vitamin involved in immune and cellular function, often linked to overall wellbeing.

An antioxidant that helps protect skin from environmental stress while supporting hydration and barrier function.

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