Skin Care Glossary

Ceramides
Ceramides are natural lipids and are a major component in surface skin structure. They serve as part of the "glue" that holds surface skin cells together.

Collagen
A group of naturally occurring proteins, collagen is the main protein of connective tissue.

Elastin
A protein found in skin and tissue, elastin enables some tissues in the body to return to their original shape after contracting or stretching.

Emollients
Substances that soften and soothe the skin, emollients are used to address dryness and scaling of the skin.

Eczema
A term for a group of medical conditions, eczema is a chronic skin disorder that produces scaly and itchy rashes.

Glycerin
Also known as glycerol, glycerin improves smoothness by providing lubrication and as a humectant. Glycerin is found in many other personal care products, including cough syrups and hair care products.

Humectant
A non-oily substance that absorbs moisture from the air, retards evaporation and helps hold water, humectants are used in personal products and food to help retain moisture.

Lipid
Natural fats which play an essential role in maintaining healthy skin hydration and structure, skin lipids include ceramides, cholesterol and fatty acids which contain important nutrients for skin such as vitamin E.
 
Occlusive
Substances which provide a protective lipid layer to the skin, occlusives help reduce water loss and maintain skin hydration.
 
Panthenol
A form of Vitamin B5, panthenol is a moisturizing agent which serves to help smooth rough, cracked, and dry skin.
 
Petrolatum
Also known as soft paraffin, petrolatum is an emollient which helps soften skin and reduce dryness.