Glossary

Acne

The three factors in acne breakouts are oil, dead skin cells, and bacteria, and if any of these factors are out of balance, breakouts can occur. Acne is more likely to take place on the skin when experiencing stress, hormonal changes, excess oil production, and slower cell turnover with aging.

Algae (Seaweed)

Algae is used in skincare to help support natural collagen, reduce visible wrinkles, and ensure moisture balance in the skin. It is considered by some to be the world's most basic yet complete food. Both in the diet and in skincare products, algae can provide vitamins, minerals, trace elements, amino acids and fatty acids that are important for maintaining healthy and youthful skin. 

syn: Pullulan, Pepha Tight, Pepha-Tight, Microalgae, Micro Sea Algae, Algae Extract, Seaweed Extract, Kelp, Sea Kelp

Aloe Vera

Aloe is one of the oldest recognized botanicals with skincare benefits such as soothing and cooling the skin (including for after-sun use) and providing lightweight hydration. Drinking aloe vera juice is a popular practice because of the belief that it provides minerals, amino acids, and vitamins.

syn: Aloe, Aloe Vera, Aloe barbadensis

Alpha Hydroxy Acids (AHAs)

Alpha Hydroxy Acids (AHAs) loosen the "glue" that attaches dead skin cells to the surface of the skin; they also support natural hyaluronic acid to boost hydration and can help to reduce the appearance of surface pigmentation and enhance radiance, and to smooth texture. The most commonly used AHAs are Glycolic and Lactic Acid. 

syn: AHA, Lactic Acid, Citric Acid, Tartaric Acid, Malic Acid, Sodium Lactate, Lauryl Lactate, Cetyl Lactate, Myristyl Lactate, Mandelic Acid, Gluconolactone, Fruit Acid 

Amino Acid

In skincare, amino acids are either used on their own to promote hydration and resilience, or strings of amino acids can be joined to form peptides. Peptide technology has evolved and as a result, there are many different peptides that offer a variety of beauty benefits. One example of a popular amino acid in skincare is Arginine.

syn: Arginine, Lysine, Proline, Valine, Tyrosine, Leucine, Glycine, Phenylalanine, Alanine, Gamma Amino Butyric Acid, GABA, Glutamine, Cysteine, Acetyl Cysteine, Carnitine, Thymidine, Guanosine, Guanine

Antioxidants

Antioxidants combat environmental stressors (free radicals) that can damage the skin. For example: Lemon Juice (containing the antioxidant Vitamin C) squeezed on an apple slice will help prevent the apple from turning brown. A "cocktail" of antioxidants can enhance the protective benefits of a product. Vitamins A, C, E energize each other and work better when used together than they would separately. 

Arbutin

Arbutin is a plant-derived antioxidant which can help to promote an even skin tone. Mulberry and Bearberry are natural forms of arbutin used in skincare.

syn: Alpha-Arbutin, Beta-Arbutin

Argan Oil

Argan Oil has been used by Moroccan women for centuries for beauty benefits. It works well for all skin types as an emollient ingredient that is rich in fatty acids which strengthen the natural protective barrier of the skin. 

syn: Argan, Argania spinosa 

Avocado Oil

Avocado Oil is used in skincare as it has been shown to visibly minimize sun damage, as well as restore suppleness. Adding avocados to your diet is not only a great-tasting way to get Essential Fatty Acids and Vitamins A, D and E, consuming their nutrients can also prove beneficial in maintaining healthy, radiant, soft skin. 

syn: Persea americana

Blackhead (Comedone)

Blackheads can affect all skin types, they are often common for oily and combination skin especially. A blackhead (comedone) is a pore with oil trapped with dead skin cells. When the air oxidizes the oil, it darkens to create the 'black' colour. Keeping the skin and pores free of debris with the help of salicylic acid or other exfoliation methods can be helpful for this concern. 

Collagen

Collagen partners with elastin in your skin to create a smooth texture, structural integrity, and a healthy youthful appearance. Environmental and genetic aging reduce collagen and elastin over time. Collagen is used in skin care to help to create a veil of moisture on the skin's surface, which visibly reduces the appearance of wrinkles.

syn: Marine Collagen, Hydrolysed Collagen

Combination Skin

Combination skin can seem to have two different skin types-normal to dry on the cheeks or in isolated parts of the face, oilier and breakout-prone in the T-Zone. It is the most common skin type, and many products are formulated with the needs of combination skin in mind. Try customizing by using a cleanser for normal to dry skin to avoid stripping the skin of moisture and follow with a lotion for combination to oily skin for lightweight hydration. Spot treating with masks and exfoliants can help achieve healthy balance.

Davidson Plum Cellular Extract
Restricted to the native rainforests of northern New South Wales on the east coast of Australia, The NE Davidson Plum Cellular Extract is packed with an exciting range of Phyto-compounds including gallic acid, ellagic acid, quercetin, organic + amino acids, sugars, and anthocyanin which is responsible for its dark red colour. The synergism of these powerful compounds delivers exciting new possibilities for natural solutions to premature aging, age lines, radiance and luminosity, acne prone skin, suppleness, inflammation and antioxidant applications in skincare.

syn: Davidsonia jerseyana

Desert Lime

Adapted over centuries to survive the harsh bushland of semi-arid Australian outback, Desert Lime is leading the next generation of advanced natural cosmetics. The Desert Lime Cellular Extract delivers ten phyto-active compounds, offering potential for all skin types from hydration, age spots, age lines, and premature aging - all in one source.

syn: Citrus glauca 

Dry Skin

Supplementing with and eating collagen can be helpful for dry skin. Avoid extreme weather conditions, drink plenty of water, and use a humidifier to help ease dry skin concerns. Add a hydrating serum and moisturiser on overnight to wake up to hydrated, glowing skin. 

Elastin

Elastin allows your skin to expand and 'bounce-back', and is used in skincare to draw water into the skin as well as support the skin's flexibility. Sun exposure damages the network of elastin fibers in the skin over time, making sunscreen vitally important to the protection of elasticity in skin resilience. 

Emu Apple

Emu Apple is a unique Australian pioneer species that has evolved over centuries to create powerful mechanisms to store vast quantities of phyto-compounds needed to survive extreme conditions across South Australia. This little fruit is a phyto-nutrient powerhouse for moisturising aging skin, inflammation, hair care applications and revitalising the appearance of skin, hair, scalp and face.

 

Encapsulation

Encapsulation is a targeted delivery system that envelopes a key ingredient in a thin film, similar to a bubble. This protects the integrity of the ingredient and is an effective means of enhancing absorption of both water-soluble and fat-soluble ingredients. It can make active ingredients more tolerable, minimizing sensitivity while maximizing potency.

syn: Liposomes, Microspheres, Microcapsules, Nanosomes, Time-Released, Time Released

Essential Fatty Acid (EFA)

Essential Fatty Acids (EFAs) are needed for healthy, radiant, and soft skin. EFAs can't be produced by the body; dietary sources and supplements as well as skincare containing these ingredients are helpful in promoting nourished, supple skin. Great dietary EFA sources are fish, flaxseed, chia seeds, sunflower seeds, and walnuts.

syn: Carthamus Tinctorius, Safflower, Rosa canina, Rose Hip, Rosehip, Acai, Açaí, Euterpe Oleracea, EFA, Omega-3, Omega-6, Black Currant, Prunes Amygdalus, Borage, Borago officinalis, Linseed, Flaxseed, Linum Usitatissimum, Flax Seed, Evening Primrose, Oenothera biennis, Alpha-Linolenic Acid, Linolenic Acid, Linoleic Acid, Sea Buckthorn, Seaberry, Hippophae rhamnoides, Hemp Seed, Cannabis sativa, Rapeseed, Canola, Brassica napus, Sesame, Sesamum indicum, Wheat Germ,Triticum vulgare, Sunflower, Helianthus Annuus, Meadowfoam, Limnanthes Alba, Apricot, Prunus Armeniaca, Camelina, Camelina sativa, Camellia, Camellia oleifera, Crambe, Crambe abyssinica, Macadamia, Macadamia Ternifolia, Sweet Almond, Prunus dulcis, Coconut, Cocos nucifera, Black Cumin, Nigella sativa, Shorea stenoptera, Illipe, Theobroma cacao, Cocoa, Astrocaryum Murumuru, Mangifera indica, Mango, Citrullus lanatus, Watermelon, Prunus Domestica, Plum, Rubus idaeus, Raspberry, Oryza Sativa, Rice Bran, Passiflora, Maracuja, Maracujá, Passion Flower, Attalea speciosa, Orbignya oleifera, Babassu

Essential Oils

Essential Oils are plant-derived, lightweight, and easily absorbed. Different varieties of essential oils achieve unique beauty benefits to increase radiance, balance oil, support natural circulation and for some, they enhance a sense of well-being. These potent oils are combined with suitable companion carrier oils in products for topical use.

Fermented Ingredients

Fermentation helps purify, refine and enhance bio-availability of the ingredients, so products are more readily accepted and absorbed by the skin. This allows the product to work with the skin and not against it, improving the skin's natural functions to make it brighter, stronger, and more resilient. Fermented ingredients are a growing trend in food and are thought to improve digestion and allow the body to better soak up food nutrients.

Ferulic Acid

Ferulic acid is an antioxidant from plants, and is very effective partnered with Vitamins C and E to increase the efficacy and enhance stability of the formula.

Free Radicals

Free radicals are some of the biggest culprits of environmental aging, reducing the integrity of collagen and elastin in the skin, as well as decreasing the skin's natural rejuvenating abilities. Antioxidants protect against free-radical activity to promote skin's defences.

Fucoidan

Fucoidan is a long chain sulphated polysaccharide found in various species of brown algae. Fucoidan can be utilised as a stand-alone ingredient or readily incorporated with other ingredients. Delivery formats vary from capsules and tablets to creams, gels, liquids and serums.

Fucoidan is currently utilised in a wide range of products currently on the market such as dietary supplements, skincare products, medical devices, functional food and beverages and animal health products. Fucoidan is also utilised in medical and pharmaceutical research. 

Gluten

Gluten is a protein derived from wheat and related grains, including barley and rye. There are some cosmetics products labelled as gluten-free. If you are interested in these products look for statements like 'gluten-free' or 'no gluten' on the product package label. Because of periodic changes in product ingredient formulations and sources, for the most up-to-date information the recommended practice is to contact brands directly regarding the gluten-free status of their products.

Glycerine

Glycerine is used in skincare as an emollient, slip agent, and humectant that absorbs moisture from the air and draws it into the skin. It is also enhances the spreadability of cosmetic products. It has been studied and used extensively in skincare for its compatibility with other ingredients. 

Hyaluronic Acid

Hyaluronic Acid is a key ingredient in many skincare products for all skin types, both for its moisture-retaining benefits as well as its ability to deliver other active ingredients like Vitamin C to the skin. It can attract up to 1,000 times weight in water from moisture in the air. It is also used in anti-aging skincare to plump the skin with moisture, reducing the appearance of fine lines.

syn: sodium hyaluronate, hyaluronic acid

Hyperpigmentation

Hyperpigmentation is characterized by dark spots and/ or larger dark patches. Heredity and sun exposure are both very important in the role of pigmentation. Since darker skin produces more melanin, it is also more prone to hyperpigmentation. Sun damage, inflammation, skin injuries (including post-acne inflammation), as well as hormonal changes, can contribute to dark spots. 

Jojoba Oil

From jojoba plant seeds, jojoba oil is similar to the skin's natural oil. It is easily absorbed and works with the natural lipids in the skin, preventing water loss to soften the skin. It is very stable and is frequently found in moisturizers, lipsticks, and shampoos and conditioners.

syn: Simmondsia chinensis, Isopropyl Jojobate 

Kakadu Plum

The Kakadu Plum most the world’s most potent, stable, natural and bio-available source of vitamin C.  Vitamin C is used in skincare to help protect collagen from UV damage, and can also support natural collagen production. It promotes firmness, boosts luminosity and helps with uneven texture. In skincare, Vitamin C is a well-regarded ingredient for anti-aging concerns and anti-oxidant protection, making it especially relevant for daytime use.

Syn: Terminalia ferdinandiana

Keratin

Keratin is a protein found in skin, hair, and nails, and so is often a featured ingredient in products that aim to fortify the outermost layer of skin, smooth and strengthen hair, and protect and nourish nails.

Lilli Pilli

The NE Lilli Pilli/Riberry Cellular Extract contains potent amino acids, anthocyanins, phenolics and more. Extensive peer reviewed research identifies its Amino Acids as a source for multiple skin and hair benefits as well as positive effects on skin improvement, hydration and premature aging.

Syn: Syzygium leuhmannii

Maritech® Reverse

Maritech® Reverse is a high-purity fucoidan extract developed specifically for anti-aging formulations. Derived from the Undaria pinnatifida species of seaweed, this unique natural ingredient has been shown to inhibit many of the key enzymes responsible for skin damage. This unique extract is COSMOS organic certified and delivers a powerful combination of protective, soothing and anti-aging properties in one natural ingredient. 

Melanin

A term used to reference natural pigments found in skin, hair, and areas of the eye. Helps protect skin from UVB damage.  

Normal Skin

Ideally balanced, normal skin typically has an even complexion and refined pores. Normal skin types should focus on protection from environmental stressors including the sun to maintain its happy condition.

Oily Skin

Oily skin is characterized by being oily all over; pores are more visible and consistently over-produce oil leading to blackheads, whiteheads, and blemishes. Fine lines and wrinkles are less likely to appear until the skin progresses to a Combination skin type with age. Certain cleansing oils can work surprisingly well for this skin type, and products with salicylic acid help to reduce excess oil and shine. Hyaluronic acid, aloe, and glycerin tend to be good balancing ingredients for this skin type to look for in a moisturizer.

Olive

Olive oil and one of its key elements, squalene, is beneficial for dry skin because of its fatty acid content. It is an excellent carrier oil for essential oils used in skincare, and can increase the skin's ability to retain moisture. Olive has historically been a renowned dietary staple for its health and beauty benefits.

syn: Olea Europaea, Olive Oil, Olive Leaf Extract

Peptides

Peptides are used in skincare for promoting firmness and minimizing visible signs of aging such as fine lines and wrinkles, and dark spots. Peptide technology is based on creating and manipulating chains of amino acids and proteins, and this technology has quickly evolved to address multiple skincare concerns.

syn: Argireline

pH Factor

pH refers to the level of acidity or alkalinity of an ingredient, product or the skin. Our skin is naturally acidic, and can range from 4.4 to 5.6. The pH factor of skincare products is scientifically adjusted to work with specific ingredients to achieve desired benefits.

Protein

Protein is found in all living cells and is an important element in hair, skin, and nails. Wheat, soy and milk protein are commonly used proteins in skincare. Amino acids combine to form proteins and peptides, and different combinations are formulated to address various concerns. Proteins such as collagen and keratin fortify skin, hair and nails, contributing to the health of skin and hair and promoting strength. 

syn: Wheat Protein, Milk Protein 

Retinoids

Retinoids are derived from Vitamin A. Retinoids serve all skin types and many skin concerns well. Finding the right retinoid for your needs can help in improving cell turnover, reducing visible lines, minimizing enlarged pores, and promoting an even skin tone. For beginners, it can be helpful to start by using the retinoid every third night and gradually increase the frequency of use as your skin adjusts. Retinoids can make skin more photo-sensitive, so use a UVA/ UVB broad-spectrum sunscreen daily.

syn: Retinyl Palmitate, Vitamin A, Retinyl Acetate

 

SPF

SPF stands for Sun Protection Factor, the numeric value stating the level of effectiveness provided by a sunscreen in preventing sunburn and other conditions caused by exposure to the sun. While SPF specifies level of protection from UVB rays, the new required testing and labels for Broad Spectrum sunscreen ensures that UVA protection also increases in tandem with higher SPF values. However, even high SPF products must be applied and re-applied according to the label directions in order to achieve and maintain proper sun safety.

Sulphates

Sulphates emulsify dirt and oil, and create a foaming action. Sodium Lauryl and Sodium Laureth Sulphates are common surfactants in facial cleansers, shampoos, and body washes.

Sulphur

Sulphur has been used for skin concerns including acne for over a thousand years, including the Romans who soaked in sulphur hot springs to treat skin ailments. It is an excellent anti-acne agent as it dries existing blemishes and can help future pore blockages and blemishes. Oily and combination skin types may use sulphur masks to manage excess oil and shine.

syn: Colloidal Sulphur, Sulphur

Tasmanian Kelp

The Native Seaweed-Tasmanian Kelp offers an impressive range of phyto-compounds known to target wrinkles, inflammation, repair and several skin types.

Syn: Durvillea potatorum

Wakame seaweed

Undaria pinnatifida, commonly known as Wakame, is produced from wild grown, hand harvested Undaria found in the pristine waters off Tasmania’s South East Coast, Australia. In its native range, Undaria pinnatifida, is rich in fucoidan which is prized for its youth-giving properties. 

Syn: Undaria pinnatifida

UVA/UVB

Both are types of rays from sunlight that reach the earth. Ultraviolet A and Ultraviolet B are both responsible for skin damage from sun exposure. UVA is known to penetrate deep into the skin and cause damage in the long term, like wrinkles and skin cancer. UVB reaches the top layer of the epidermis and can lead to sunburns, tanning, skin cancer, and cataracts. 

Vitamin A

Retinoids are derived from Vitamin A. Retinoids serve all skin types and many skin concerns well.

Vitamin C

Vitamin C is used in skincare to help protect collagen from UV damage, and can also support natural collagen production. It promotes firmness, boosts luminosity and helps with uneven texture. In skincare, Vitamin C is a well-regarded ingredient for anti-aging concerns and anti-oxidant protection, making it especially relevant for daytime use.

syn: Calcium Acerbate, Ascorbyl Palmitate, Vitamin C Palmitate, Sodium Ascorbate, Aminopropyl Ascorbyl Phosphate, Tetrahexyldecyl Ascorbate, Ascorbyl Tetraisopalmitate, Sodium Ascorbyl Phosphate, Calcium Ascorbate, Ascorbyl Tetraisopalmitate, vitamin c ester, Ascorbyl glucoside, ascorbic acid

Vitamin D

Vitamin D is used in skincare to enhance firmness and to smooth skin texture. It is said to support collagen, elasticity, and skin resilience. Since using a daily SPF is important and our sun exposure may be limited, new skincare products have recently come out to address this dilemma. Your doctor can perform a simple test to identify whether Vitamin D Supplements are appropriate for your specific needs.

syn: ergocalciferol, cholecalciferol 

Vitamin K

Vitamin K is used in skincare to reduce visible redness, and in eye treatments to address the appearance of dark circles.

syn: phytonadione