Acetate - an ester of acetic acid; any word that's combined with acetate in an ingredient list determines its function.

Acetone - the simplest ketone frequently used in toners. Acetone can cause irritation and drying if its concentration is high.

Acetylated Lanolin Alcohol - a non-drying alcohol that softens skin. However, it's also known for causing blackheads and whiteheads.

Acne - A chronic disorder of the hair follicles and sebaceous (oil) glands. There is non-inflammatory acne classified as blackheads and whiteheads. Inflammatory acne is characterized red and inflamed papules, pustules, cysts and nodules. Scarring of the skin can result from these breakouts.

Acne Rosacea - Acne-like appearance characterized by redness, sensitivity, irritation and flushing centralized on the middle of the face, particularly on the nose and across the cheeks.

Acrylates - provides water-resistant properties for cosmetics. This ingredient is often referred to as Octylpropenamide Copolymer.

Actinic Keratosis - Small, rough reddish patches on the skin. Often sharp to the touch. Most common in fair-skinned people, these may become skin cancer if not removed.

Alcohol SD-40 - A high grade purified cosmetic alcohol. Evaporates very quickly, so it is used as a vehicle to transport important ingredients to the skin's surface and then leave them there; gentler to the skin than ethyl (rubbing) alcohol. May help kill bacteria.

Algae/Seaweed Extract - Used for its emollient and moisturizing properties to skin; has antioxidant properties. skin calming botanical derived from the Comfrey Root; is used for its healing, moisturizing, soothing and anti-irritating properties.

Allantoin - is botanical in nature. It helps heal and calm skin irritations.

Aloe Vera - A superb hydrator and soothing agent, very beneficial to damaged, dry, chapped or sun-exposed skin.

Alopecia - A skin disease that results in baldness or very thin hair.

Alpha Hydroxy Acid (AHA) - this organic acid taken from fruit acids, is used widely in anti-aging skin care products. It encourages moisture restoration, exfoliation and helps other ingredients to penetrate through the skin more effectively. Always use products containing AHAs in combination with sunscreen as they make your skin more susceptible to sun damage and skin cancer. The most frequently used are glycolic acid and lactic acid.

Alpha Lipoic Acid - has anti-inflammatory benefits, plus it is both water and fat soluble antioxidant to protect skin cells.

Amino Acids - Amino acids are the body�s building blocks of protein. There are 20 amino acids, 10 being non -essential (the body produces these naturally) and 10 being essential (supplied by food). Those supplied by food sources must be replenished daily. Widely used in moisturizers and emollients because they may penetrate the skin.

Aminomethyl Propanediol - A substance that is used to adjust pH levels in cosmetics and skin care products.

Antioxidant - A substance that helps create a barrier from free radial damage, the result of the decaying process of oxidation. Oxidation is what causes most of the visible signs of aging in the skin. Valuable skincare antioxidants include Pomegranate, Vitamin C, Vitamin E, Goji Berry, Ellagic Acid and Green Tea Extract.

Antiseptic - An agent that prevents or arrests the growth of microorganisms.

Arbutin - A natural skin lightening agent composed of glucose and hydroquinone. It is extracted from bearberry plants.

Aromatherapy - The use of essential oils for healing body, mind, and spirit.

Ascorbic Acid (Vitamin C) - Is an antioxidant, helping to protect the body from oxidation, and free radical induced problems. Vitamin C performs numerous functions in the body including stimulation of collagen synthesis, strengthens capillary walls and neutralizes free radicals. Can have skin lightening effect on pigmentation and uneven skin tone. Stimulates collagen production.

Azelaic Acid - Used for its antibacterial, and anti- inflammation properties.

Azulene - An anti-inflammatory and soothing agent, derived from German chamomile.

Bentonite - A white clay found used to thicken lotions, to suspend make up pigments, and to emulsify oils.

Beeswax - derived from the natural honeycombs, is often used in moisturizing products such as lip balms, foot creams and body creams.

Benzoyl Peroxide � A powerful antibacterial agent used in acne treatments. Effective in treating acne but can dry the skin, causing more breakouts. Some develop high skin sensitivity to benzoyl peroxide. Used to sanitize open wounds.

Beta Hydroxy Acid - an oil-soluble organic acid used in exfoliators and acne-acne treatments. The most common one is salicylic acid. Known for its ability to dissolve oil.

Blackheads - Also known as open comedones, look like small dark or grayish dots. Blackheads are caused by excess oil that is oxidized which causes them to turn black in color. Is considered non-inflammatory acne.

Body Scrub - Any exfoliating procedure using either a dry brush or products such as salt, oatmeal, almond paste, pumice, algae, or gels.

Borage Oil - (Borago Officinalis) Borage is a nutrient-dense oil high in gamma-linoleic acid. Is an excellent treatment for dry or mature skin, acne, rosacea, dermatitis, eczema, psoriasis, and other skin problems. Contains potassium and calcium and has emollient properties.

Boric Acid - an antibacterial agent used in skin care products to give them a longer shelf life.

Caffeine - a stimulant present in coffee, tea and soda beverages, is also useful to reduce puffiness.

Camphor - an anti-infective agent with a unique taste and smell, cools and refreshes itchy skin.

Cellulose - is derived from the walls of plants and used as an emulsifier and thickener in skin care products.

Chamomile - Used for its anti-inflammatory properties. It is also known for its bactericidal, anti-itching, soothing, antiseptic and purifying capabilities

Chemical Peel - Application of product to the skin to remove dead or damaged cells of the epidermis, improving skin texture, and decreasing fine lines and wrinkles. A chemical peel is not intended to remove live tissue, only dead, or damaged cells from the skin surface.

Chitosan - Aids in moisture retention.

Clay - A variable group of fine-grained natural materials that is usually like plaster when moist and are mainly mineral in composition.

Coenzyme Q 10 - An enzyme, which functions as an antioxidant to boost the skin's defense mechanisms, immunity and protection against free radicals.

Collagen - the main epidermal protein that provides the skin with its structural support. Also found in bones, tendons, cartilage and connective tissue. Collagen is added to topical creams for its moisturizing benefits.

Comedogenic - A product applied to the skin that includes an ingredient which increases the accumulation of dead cells within the follicles (increased retention hyperkeratosis), leading to blackhead formation and acne flare-ups.

Cryogenic Product - A product that cools the body area to which it is applied. These products are sometimes used for cellulite treatments and sometimes used for sore muscles, because they stimulate circulation.

CTI - In the United States, cosmetics are regulated under the Food, Drug and Cosmetic Act, which is enforced by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA). The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has abundant legal authority to regulate the safety of cosmetic products.

Cyclomethicone - a type of silicone that provides luster and smoothness to skin care creams and cosmetics.

Cyst - Small, yellowish-tan to skin colored, firm round masses just beneath the skin. These can enlarge slowly and when infected can result in scarring. Can be exacerbated by acne.

Dehydrated Skin - Skin that lacks moisture.

Detoxification - A body cleansing to remove toxins accumulated by over-taxing the body with addictive habits.

Dihydroxyacetone (DHA) - The component in autotanning products that causes the skin cells to change color and appear tanned.

Dimethicone � A form of silicone. Used as a sealant in scar rehabilitation to smooth skin texture and provide moisture.

Dry skin - Skin that lacks oil.

Eczema - Cause unknown. In mild forms the skin is dry, hot and itchy, in more severe forms the skin can become broken, raw and bleeding.

Elastin - a fiber protein in the dermis (the layer of the skin beneath the epidermis) that is similar to collagen. Elastin is responsible for skin elasticity and firmness. When it's topically applied it has moisturizing effects.

Ellagic Acid - A super-antioxidant known for its healing benefits, found in Green Tea, Pomegranate, and Goji Berry. A naturally occurring ingredient; helps inhibit the formation of sun and age spots.

Emolliant - A substance that softens the skin by slowing the evaporation of water.

Emulsion - A mixture of two or more liquids in which one is present as microscopic droplets distributed throughout the other.

Environmental or Extrinsic Aging - Aging symptoms accelerated by elements of the environment-such as stress, pollution and sun damage.

Enzyme Peel - A body or face exfoliation treatment that uses ingredients such as protein enzymes or alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs) that chemically dissolve dead skin cells without the surface abrasive action of other body exfoliation treatments. AHAs are naturally-occurring acids found in sugarcane and citrus fruit. Glycolic acid is the most popular of the AHAs because it has the smallest molecular structure.

Essential Fatty Acids - The basic building block of cellular membrane, used to prevent cellular water loss, such as Omega 3, Omega 6, Flaxseed, and Goji Berry.

Essential Oils - Volatile plant oils, extracted from certain aromatic plants, that have both physiological and psychological effects on the human body. Lighter than water and have antiseptic and anti-inflammatory properties.

Esthetician - Skin care specialist who works in a medical environment along with a physician in either a pre-operative or post-operative situation.

Esthetics - The application of various techniques to the epidermal layer of the human body. Application of esthetic techniques may include, facial steaming, exfoliation, waxing, pore cleansing, extraction, and chemical peels.

Ethyl Alcohol - refined alcohol made from grain that's often used in medicines, cleaning products, fragrances and astringents and toners. As it dries skin very quickly, moisturizers are always required after application.

Eucalyptus Oil (Eucalyptus globulus) - Eucalyptus Oil is derived from the Eucalyptus Tree. It is known for its antiseptic action.

Evening Primrose - Evening Primrose is a nutrient oil high in GLA - Gamma Linolenic Acid (Omega 6). It is a valuable emollient and skin conditioning agent high in essential fatty acids and extremely useful for skin irritations and improves the skin's ability to develop normal barrier functions.

Exfoliation - The chemical or mechanical removal of dead or non-functioning skin cells. This process also aids in improving circulation through stimulating blood flow. Pressure used in the process can contribute to relaxation.

FD&C Dyes and Colors - Dyes approved by FDA for food, drug, and cosmetic use.

Flavonoids - Support health by strengthening capillaries and other connective tissue, and some function as anti-inflammatory, anti-histaminic, and anti-viral agents.

Folliculitis - Painful, cystic bump, when hair is trapped in the follicle. Also known as Psuedofolliculitas Barbae.

Fragrance - An pleasant aromatic blend of natural essential oils and/or synthetic fragrance substances.

Free Radicals - Unstable molecules found naturally in the body and in the environment. To reduce their energy load, free radicals react with certain chemicals in the body, and in the process, interfere with the cells' ability to function normally. Free radicals are a main cause of extrinsic aging.

Ginkgo Biloba - Enhances blood circulation and oxygen supply to the brain, heart and other body parts. It has been shown to have certain antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties.

Glucosamine - A major amino sugar. Besides its role as a "building block," glucosamine is one of the many small molecular weight chemicals that make the natural moisturizing factor, NMF. Strengthens connective tissue (collagen) so it can absorb more water.

Glycerin - this liquid derivative of biodiesel production is used in cosmetics, liquid soaps, dynamite, inks and lubricants to lock-in hydration and keep skin moisturized, but it can also clog the pores. Allows topical agents to go on very smoothly and provides a barrier against moisture loss.

Glycol Stearate - an emollient and emulsifier often used in body skin care products and shampoos to achieve a luminescent appearance.

Glycolic Acid - A member of the Alpha Hydroxy Acids family, derived from sugar cane. It is one of the most effective AHAs because it works the quickest and penetrates skin the deepest for fast results.

Glycosaninoglycans - Skin conditioning agent that also helps strengthen the skins barrier function.

Grape Seed Extract - Derived from the small seeds of red grapes, grape seed extract is rich in flavonoids, phytochemicals that have antioxidant properties. Known to increase the effectiveness of vitamin C by acting as a vehicle and a restorer of oxidized vitamin C.

Green Tea Extract - this derivative from decaffeinated green tea contains "catechins"; which are effective antioxidants (20 times stronger than Vitamin E) known to help to prevent cancer. When used topically, revitalizes the skin and prevents damage from environment, sun, and free-radicals.

Herbal Infusion - Herbs steeped in water to produce an infusion. Sheets, bath towels, or hand towels are soaked in the herbal infusions and applied to the body for therapeutic purposes.

Herbal Wrap - The body is enveloped in in a special blend of herbs. The herbs induce perspiration to draw toxins from the skin. Relaxation is promoted by the deep heating action. Herbal wraps last anywhere from fifteen minutes to one hour.

Hibiscus Extract - A peptide that acts as a neurotransmitter, reducing muscle movement to aid in the appearance of lines and wrinkles.

Homeopathy - Alternative healing method developed into a system by Samuel Hahnemann in the late 1700s, and based on a "like cures like" principle--that is, if a substance can cause symptoms in a healthy person, then it can stimulate self-healing of similar symptoms in a sick person.

Honey - Acts as a natural sealant, holding moisture in the skin.

Hormonal Aging - Part of intrinsic aging specifically associated with the natural change in hormone levels. Includes peri-menopausal and menopausal concerns.

Horsetail - An herb that gives the skin a firmer, youthful and smoother look. Horsetail improves elasticity, giving skin the ability to spring back into shape.

Humectant - A substance used to preserve the moisture content of materials.

Hyaluronic Acid - An effective humectant/moisturizing agent. Can bind up to a 1,000 times its own weight in moisture. Also known as �cyclic acid�

Hydrators - Ingredients that add moisture to the skin to help strengthen the barrier.

Hydrogen Peroxide - Used for its antibacterial properties. Also effective in killing P-Acnes bacteria that is associated with inflammatory acne.

Hydroquinone - a skin pigmentation lightening agent to help lighten age spots and acne scars. Two-percent concentrations are commonly found in over-the-counter lighteners; while prescription bleaching products have higher concentrations.

Hydroxy Acids - A group including alpha hydroxy acid and beta hydroxy acid known for its exfoliating properties.

Hyperpigmentation - Excess production of melanin pigment, resulting in darkening of the skin.

Hypopigmentation - Lack production of melanin, causing �white spots' on skin.

Intrinsic Aging - The normal process of aging without the influence of external factors. Largely controlled by genetic.

Isopropyl Palmitate - a skin softening ingredient that comes from palm and coconut oil, however it's known to cause blackheads and whiteheads.

Jojoba Oil - natural oil taken from the seeds of the Simondsia Chinesis, a desert shrub. It's very similar to natural human oil secretions so it's non-greasy.

Kaolin (China Clay) � A fine clay that's white in color. Kaolin is often used in facial masks and powders to absorb excess oil. Highly absorbant.

Lactic Acid - An alpha hydroxy acid used in chemical peels. It hydrates and smoothes the skin while stripping away dry, flaking skin.

Lanolin - this oily substance that comes from sheep is commonly used in bath oils and hand creams to provide extra moisturize. In rarely cases, it can irritate the skin and cause skin allergy.

Lavender Oil- Essential oil used for its anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, antiseptic, soothing and healing qualities.

Lecithin - The chemical cousin of vitamin B, lecithin is an essential building block of the lipid layer surrounding the cells and forms the foundation of the cell membrane. Derived from soybeans, Lecithin is an emulsifying, dispersing, antioxidant, penetrating agent. It helps soften the skin.

Licorice Extract - Anti-inflammatory and skin lightener; believed to be more potent than kojic acid.

Linoleic Acid - Also known as Vitamin K an essential fatty acid that fattens skin cells.

Liposomes � Used as a delivery system to the skin; hollow spheres made from phospholipids (such as lecithin) that are up to 300 times smaller than skin cells. Liposomes are filled with active agents which help hydrate the skin.

Meadowsweet -Rich in vitamin C, this herb contains salicylic and citric acids.

Melanin - A substance responsible for giving skin color.

Menopausal Skin - Caused by a shift in hormones, sometimes resulting in facial hair, breakouts, dilated blood vessels, and increasingly sensitive skin.

Menthol - Used for its stimulating and cooling properties.

Methyl Gluceth - attracts moisture and reduces skin dryness.

Methylparaben/Propylparaben - Food grade preservative. One of the most commonly used preservative in cosmetics today; nonirritating, nonsensitizing and nontoxic.

Milia - Little white cysts or bumps under the skin. Unlike whiteheads, these have no pore opening and cannot be squeezed out.

Mineral Baths - A bath usually drawn using a natural mineral spring supply of water at very specific temperatures with recommended soaking times. Minerals vary from spring to spring and determine the action of the bath on the body.

Mineral Oil - clear, unscented oil derived from petroleum hydrocarbons. Mineral oil is widely used in cosmetics to remove makeup, grease and excess oil from the skin.

Minerals - Naturally occurring substances that play a crucial role in the body's metabolic processes. They are required by the body to function properly.

Night Cream - A moisturizer in which there is a greater concentration of hydrating ingredients than typically used in day creams. They are important to use to keep hydration at night where water loss is greatest.

Nonapeptide-78 - An immune boosting and anti-aging peptide to help repair existing skin damage and aids in prevention of future damage.

Non-comedogenic - Also called non-occlusive. Refers to products that do not cause skin breakouts because they do not plug the pores of the skin.

Normal/Combination Skin - Partially oily and partially dehydrated skin. Most often t-zone is oily and the outside of the checks and jaw are dehydrated.

Octyl Methoxycinnamate - used as an ingredient in non-PABA chemical sunscreens. May cause skin irritation in some cases.

Octyl Palmitate - often used as an alternative to mineral oil for its similar properties.

Octyl Salicylate - a sunburn and anti-bacterial preventative.

Oily Skin - Is defined as an excess of sebum or oil production skin.

Oxidation - A change in a chemical characterized by the loss of electrons.

Oxybenzone - a UVB blocker often used as an ingredient in sunscreen.

Oxygen Therapy - Use of humidified oxygen infused with aromas and flavors for therapeutic purposes. Oxygen is delivered via tanks or a machine that extracts it from the atmosphere.

PABA - stands for para-aminobenzoic acid; blocks UVB sunlight.

P-acnes - Also known as propinibacterium acnes, the bacteria that causes acne.

Palmitoyl Pentapeptide-3 - Skin conditioning peptide; helps towards reconstruction of the matrix structure of the dermis to reduce deep and medium wrinkles. Great anti-aging ingredient.

Panthenol - A B vitamin (B5), works as a humectant (holds water in the skin). Anti-inflammatory.

Papaya Enzyme - A source of proteolytic (protein dissolving) plant enzymes. Papain is a highly potent plant enzyme isolated from papaya when the fruit is unripe & green. Exfoliates dead skin cells for a healthier complexion

Papule - A raised lesion characterized by red bumps.

Parabens - artificial chemicals, used as preservatives in cosmetics.

Paraffin - Warm liquid wax used to ease pain and/or rehydrate the skin. Often the wax is infused with substances such as aromatherapeutic oils.

Peppermint Oil - Used for its antibacterial properties. Peppermint Oil is also soothing, calming and cleansing.

Peri-menopause- The period of time anywhere from 2-10 years before menopause. Starts as early as late twenties in women.

Permanent Cosmetics - The technique of tattooing cosmetics, including eyeliner, lip line, eyebrows, eye shadow, etc., permanently on the face permanently. This technique is also used in restorative applications and/or to help correct flaws and scars on the face and body.

Petrolatum - Most commonly known for its occlusive benefits to help hold in hydration; good for sensitive skin. Used in creams, it softens and soothes skin. Forms a film to prevent moisture loss.

pH - Measures the acidity or alkalinity of a substance. Neutral pH is considered to be 7.0 (the pH of pure water). Substances with a pH of less than 7.0 are acids; pHs higher than 7.0 are bases. The lower the pH the stronger the acid. The higher the pH, the stronger the base. Extremely high pHs or low pHs are irritating to the skin and may cause acid or chemical burns.

Pharmaceutical Grade Ingredients- (or prescription grade) - Means ingredients found normally in the highest quality products.

Phosphatidylcholine - Ingredient that helps maintain cell walls.

Phospholipids - Used for its essential fatty acid properties. Used in moisturizers because they bind water and hold it in place.

Photoaging - Damage to the skin caused by the sun or ultraviolet rays.

Phytochemicals - Compounds that act as free radical scavengers to help eliminate the highly charged oxygen molecules that are by-products of metabolized oxygen. Phytochemicals are known for their anti-oxidant properties.

Pigmentation - Discoloration of the skin.

Pineapple Enzymes (Ananas comosus) - Contains the digesting enzyme bromelain, anti-inflammatory, eliminates dead cells and improves skin texture.

Polyphenols - Plant derived chemicals with superb antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, anti-bacterial and skin rejuvenating capabilities.

Pomegranate - Used for its intensive antioxidant properties, considered a super-antioxidant and contains 5% ellagic acid.

Propylene Glycol - excellent for hydrating dry skin.

Pustule - An infected papule with a white or yellow center of pus.

Red Tea - Also know as Aspalathus Linearis Leaf extract, is the strongest known antioxidant. Known to help strengthen capillary walls.

Retinol � Fat-soluble form of vitamin A; helps normalize skin cell production. Most commonly found in anti-aging and acne products.

Retinyl Palmitate - Normalizes the skin's texture and helps smooth out fine lines.

Rosacea - A skin condition characterized by redness, pimples, and broken blood vessels in the central region of the face.

Sensitive Skin - Very often dry, can become irritated on contact with various substances.

Shea Butter - Derived from the Karite Nut a fruit of an African tree. It is a rich and potent skin-softening treatment. A tiny amount makes a big difference in skin tone, moistness, softness and strength.

Shitake - A mushroom that is a natural antioxidant and rejuvenator. Like many other medicinal mushrooms, Shitakes are being studied for their use in preventing cancer.

Silica- Highly oil absorbant. Silicon dioxide

Silicone - A mineral based substance, allowing moisture to stay locked in the skin but at the same time allowing oxygen in and out of the follicles. found naturally in seaweed, that binds water to skin and gives the product a silky smooth feel

Sodium Bicarbonate - Neutralizes acid (raises pH levels), making products less irritating; commonly called baking soda.

Sodium Borate - commonly called "borax"; works as a preservative in cosmetics.

Sodium Hyaluronate - An effective humectant related to Hyaluronic acid (salt form), works to moisturize the skin.

Sodium PCA - A naturally occurring component of human skin that is believed to be in part responsible for its moisture-binding capacity. It is a highly water absorbing humectant.

Sorbic Acid- a water-soluble acid and preservative.

Soy - Soybeans are a vital source of EFA (essential fatty acids) that has moisturizing effects on the skin.

SPF - Sun Protection Factor

Squalane - A light-weight oil derived from olives, wheat germ or rice bran. It is a luxurious, non-comedogenic, irritation-free oil that the skin readily absorbs due to its similarity to the skin�

Stratum Corneum - The outermost layer of the epidermis of the skin that provides the skin with its barrier function. Also known as the horny layer.

Sugar - used as an exfoliant to help slough dead skin. Mild sugars help rid the pores of dirt and toxins without stripping the skin.

Sulfur � an essential mineral of Vitamin B. Helps kill some species of bacteria on the skin improving acne, seborrhea and psoriasis. Typically found in soaps, shampoos and some topical acne medications. It is believed to help reduce stress on the body and is used to treat arthritis, sore muscles and skin problems.

Sunblock - A method to physically deflect UV rays. Common mineral derived sunblocks are Titanium Dioxide or Zinc Oxide.

Sunflower Oil - Used for its smoothing properties, very high in essential fatty acids.

Sunscreen - A cream or lotion that is SPF rated. It reacts with the skin to create an invisible barrier against the sun. The strength of the barrier is determined by the SPF number. The lower the number the less protection. Using a sunscreen will not prevent you from tanning but it will lower your risk of getting burned. Sunscreens chemically absorb UV rays while sunblocks physically deflect them.

Tannic Acid - Encourages bonding of cells that strengthen the barrier function. Also has antioxidant, anti inflammatory, and germicidal properties.

Tea Tree Oil - A natural preservative with antiseptic and germicidal properties used in soaps, shampoos, and skin-care products.

Technoceuticals - The infusion of technology with advanced skin care.

Telangiectasia - Commonly known as �spider veins�, small purple, blue or red veins. These often occur in clusters or branch-like formations, most frequently on the nose and across the cheeks. Often associated with acne rosacea.

Titanium Dioxide - Broad spectrum physical UV blocker, helps block both UVA and UVB wavelengths of light.

Tocopherol - Also known as Vitamin E, primarily serves the body as an antioxidant.

Toner - Product used after cleansing to help return skin to its natural pH. Removes any remaining trace of dirt or debris.

Triclosan - Anti bacterial agent used in acne treatments.

Tyrosine - An amino acid that may potentiate the effect of vitamin C on collagen synthesis by fibroblasts; plays a role in melanin formation.

Ultraviolet A (UVA) Rays - Sometimes referred to as "aging rays," these rays from the sun penetrate deeper into the skin than ultraviolet B rays and cause photosensitivity reactions.

Ultraviolet B (UVB) Rays - Also known as "burning rays," these rays from the sun are the primary rays associated with skin damage and cancer from the sun.

Vitamin A � Fat-soluble vitamin that helps improve skin hydration. Important for skin renewal; may improve skin texture and fine lines; may improve acne. Also used to increase collagen production, a wrinkle fighter and an exfoliant. Makes the skin more sensitive to sun exposure, therefore, it is VERY important to stay out of the sun or wear a high SPF sunscreen.

Vitamin B - Increases blood circulation and tissue repair.

Vitamin C - (L-ascorbic acid) boosts collagen synthesis; vital water soluble antioxidant both systemically as and topically. Unstable in solution when exposed to air. Used in cosmetic creams.

Vitamin D - a fat-soluble vitamin required for tooth and bone structure. It's used in some prescription medicines to treat psoriasis. Helps regulate cell turn over.

Vitamin E - (Tocopherol) an oil soluble antioxidant widely used in skin care; also an emollient. Often used in deodorants and hair care products to soften the skin and hair.

Vitamin K - Used for its redness reduction properties.

Water� H2O, Most frequently listed main ingredient in skin care products, used in its purest form, is a tasteless, clear ingredient void of minerals and other chemicals, hence the various names like distilled, deionized, purified, etc.

Waxing - Used as an esthetic hair removal procedure, warm wax is applied to the skin. Once the wax is firm, it is pulled off. There is momentary pain on the surface of the skin as the wax is removed.

White head - Also known as a closed comedone caused by trapped dead skin cells, oil buildup, bacteria and impurities. Whiteheads appear as small white bumps. Milium (sometimes called acne albida).

Witch Hazel- an effective astringent extracted from the leaves and bark of the Hamamelis Virginnia plant. It has botanical properties, helps improve acne, awakens puffy eyes and removes excess oil on the skin.

Xanthan Gum - an emulsifier and thickening agent.

Zinc - A trace mineral used to protect the skin from UV light, infection, bacteria and fungi. It also promotes collagen building, enhances the effects of vitamin A and E, and soothes irritation.

Zinc Oxide - A composite of zinc and oxygen, zinc oxide increases immune function and is a mild antiseptic and anti-irritant. When added to sunscreens, it physically reflects UV light from the skin. It is also the key active ingredients in diaper rash creams.