Skincare Glossary - Basic Knowledge for Choosing Cosmetics
Have you ever looked at a cosmetic product's packaging or website and wondered, "What does this mean?" There are many terms that are unique to cosmetics.
So, we've compiled a list of common skincare terms and their meanings. Read this and use it to help you choose the right cosmetics!
🍀 Start with the basics: Know your skin type
When talking about skin care, it is essential to know your skin type.
There are four main skin types:
dry skin
Oily skin
Combination skin (inner dry, oily in parts)
Normal Skin <br>Many cosmetics are labeled as being for "such skin type," so the first step in skin care is to choose products that suit your skin.
Basic concept:
Dry skin : We recommend products with high moisturizing power or those containing hyaluronic acid.
Oily skin : Use ingredients that calm sebum secretion (such as vitamin C derivatives).
Combination skin : Use products that balance dryness and sebum.
Normal skin : Maintain healthy skin condition with gentle, moisturizing care.
🍀 What does "XX tested" mean?
Have you ever seen the phrase "Tested for XX" written on cosmetics?
Ophthalmologically tested
→This product has been confirmed as safe for use around the eyes under the supervision of an ophthalmologist. This label is often found on eye creams, mascaras, etc.
Dermatologically tested
→These products have been confirmed to be safe for the skin under the supervision of a dermatologist. They are often found in products for sensitive skin.
🍀Common ingredients and terms used in cosmetics
・Humectant
→ An ingredient that attracts moisture to the skin and keeps it hydrated.
Representative examples: glycerin, hyaluronic acid
・Antioxidant
→ An ingredient that protects the skin from oxidative stress, which causes aging due to UV rays and air pollution.
Representative examples: Vitamin C and Vitamin E
・Lactic Acid
→ This ingredient is also used in cleansing products. It is a mild fermentation-derived ingredient that also helps to balance the skin's pH.
・INCI
→ This stands for "International Nomenclature of Cosmetic Ingredients," and is the international rule for ingredient labeling. Cosmetic ingredients are listed in order of the amount used.
・Hydrolipidic film/Hydrolipidic barrier
→ This is the sebum film that protects the surface of the skin. It acts as a barrier to protect the skin from external stimuli. It can be easily damaged by over-washing or using ingredients with strong cleansing power, so care is needed.
🍀Finally some advice
Understanding skincare terminology will help you become more familiar with cosmetic labels and ingredient lists. You don't need to memorize them all, but the important thing is to be able to choose products that suit your skin.
If there are any ingredients or terms that you are curious about, do a little research. Small steps like this will surely be a shortcut to finding the skin care that is perfect for you!