cosmetic chemistry glossary

20 terms

Cosmetics professionals often work in research and development laboratories, engaging in the creation of new products or improvement of existing formulations. Their role is essential in the cosmetics' industry, as they guarantee the quality and safety of the products.The duration of the program is approximately 3 years.This program is only given at Laval University. This glossary is for people who have difficulty with language relating to cosmetic chemistry, so it can help people with facial or body problems.

acne
Chronic inflammatory skin disease of the pilosebaceous canal that evolves in flare-ups. It appears when three things are simultaneously involved: hyperkeratinization, hyperseborrhea and bacterial proliferation.
active ingredient
The chemical compounds in medicines that have effect on the organism.
cleansers
A product that cleans or removes dirt or other substances.
collagen
Protein naturally present in all structures of the body: skin, cartilage, tendons, ligaments and connective tissues. It is the most abundant protein in the human body.
emulsion
Heterogeneous mixture of two fluids that are normally non-mixable. The addition of an active ingredient (emulsifier) causes them to blend together.
epidermis
The outermost and superficial covering of the skin, located above the dermis and hypodermic.
exfoliate
The removal of the surface skins cells and built-up dirt from the skin's surface.
facial masks
A creamy or thick pasted mask applied to the face for cleansing or skin-smoothing purposes.
fibroblast
Star-shaped cell of the dermis responsible for producing the components of the extracellular matrix, notably collagen, elastin and hyaluronic acid.
glycolic acid
Glycolic acid comes from sugarcane. Alpha hydroxy acids like glycolic acid work by removing the top layers of dead skin cells.
moisturizers
A cosmetic preparation used for protecting, moisturizing and lubricating the skin.
natural products
Natural compounds or substance produced by a living organism.
pore
A small hole in the surface of the skin from which sweat and sebum are released.
retinol
A vitamin for immune function and reproductive.
salicylic acid
A medicated topical gel, cream, lotion or solution. It treats and prevents acne along.
serums
Treatment concentrated in active ingredients, which will reinforce the action of your cream or your usual product.
skin barrier
Physical barrier anointing of the epidermis which plays a role in protecting the body from the external environment. The skin barrier encompasses all of the skin's defense mechanisms.
skin care
The care of the condition and appearance of the skin.
skin flora
A group of bacterial and fungal species that live permanently on the surface of the skin in symbiosis with the human body.
toners
A water-based lotion, tonic, or wash designed to cleanse the skin products, such as moisturizers and serums.