GROOMING TERMS AND INGREDIENTS GLOSSARY
Have you ever wondered why your self-care products include specific ingredients? Confused by what those terms mean?
We've compiled an easy to read list of key ingredients used in skincare and hair care and what they can do for you!
Key Ingredients in Skincare for Men
Hyaluronic Acid is a hydrating substance naturally present in the human body. As we age, our bodies slow down the natural production of Hyaluronic Acid, which can lead to dryness, wrinkles, and fine lines. Fortunately, Hyaluronic Acid is available in many skincare products, from serums and creams to eye masks.
As a product, it comes in a clear, gel-like form that helps to keep the skin youthful and plump. Known to protect against environmental damage such as UV radiation and pollution, it is a powerful anti-ageing ingredient suitable for all skin types.
By incorporating Hyaluronic Acid into your self-care routine, you can help prevent signs of ageing, safeguarding the skin against environmental stressors to keep your complexion looking youthful and radiant.
Suitable for all skin types
Niacinamide is a form of Vitamin B3 commonly used as an active ingredient in skincare products. It can be found naturally in foods like yeast, meat, and fish. When applied to the skin, it has been known to help improve the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles, and uneven skin tone.
Niacinamide is also effective in helping to reduce the redness associated with acne and other inflammatory skin conditions, at the same time working to minimise the appearance of pores.
People with oily skin in particular could benefit from incorporating Niacinamide into their routine as it can help to regulate excess sebum which makes it less likely to clog pores, resulting in the reduction of acne and breakouts.
Suitable for all skin types
Vitamin C is a water-soluble vitamin that plays an important role in skincare and the body’s immunity. It is necessary for the synthesis of Collagen, which helps to boost firmness, promote wound healing and reduce the appearance of dark spots. It also works as a powerful antioxidant, neutralising harmful toxins and free radicals.
Incorporate Vitamin C into your daily routine to help protect against damage from environmental stressors like pollution and UV radiation. Over time, you may even see brighter skin and a more even tone.
When selecting the right product for your skin’s needs, make sure to choose a formula that contains a form of Vitamin C that is easily absorbed into the skin, such as L-ascorbic Acid.
Suitable for oily and combination skin types
Salicylic Acid is a type of Beta-Hydroxy Acid that is often used as an acne treatment. Salicylic Acid works by exfoliating the skin, which helps to unclog pores and prevent breakouts. In addition to its acne-fighting properties, it also has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant benefits. As a result, it works wonders for soothing redness and irritation, as well as safeguarding the skin against damage. Salicylic Acid also dissolves dead skin cells and naturally exfoliates, removing build-up to reveal a clearer complexion. It is an effective astringent which minimises pores by tightening the skin and reducing oiliness.
It can be found in many over-the-counter acne treatments, as well as in some skincare products designed for other purposes.
Face wash, toners, and moisturisers often contain Salicylic Acid.
Suitable for oily and acne-prone skin
The holy grail ingredient used in many skincare products, Charcoal has clarifying properties that work to remove impurities. Charcoal is known to cleanse deep down, targeting blocked pores to leave the skin feeling refreshed, exfoliated and rejuvenated.
Charcoal scrubs (for face or body) are an excellent way to exfoliate without stripping the skin of its natural oils. Your face and body will thank you for incorporating this detoxifying ingredient into your routine once or twice a week. With regular use, you will notice fewer blackheads, smaller, clearer pores and tighter, skin that looks and feels healthier.
Suitable for dry or sensitive skin types
Retinol is a type of Vitamin A commonly found in skincare formulas. This powerful antioxidant helps to protect the skin from damage caused by free radicals, as well as boost Collagen and Elastin production, making it an effective anti-ageing ingredient. In addition, Retinol can help to improve the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles, and dark spots, brightening the complexion.
To safely incorporate Retinol into your routine, apply it at night as it can make the skin sensitive to sunlight. Start with a lower concentration and build up, as too much can cause irritation, redness, and flaking.
Suitable for dry and sensitive skin
Glycolic Acid is a type of Alpha Hydroxy Acid (AHA) derived from Sugar Cane.
Glycolic Acid works by dissolving the bonds that hold dead skin cells together, which encourages cell turnover and reveals brighter, smoother skin.
It is one of the most popular AHAs used in skincare products due to its ability to penetrate the skin’s barrier and improve the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles, and hyperpigmentation. It can be used as a cleanser, toner, or moisturiser, and is often found in Glycolic Acid peels.
When incorporated into your regular skincare routine, Glycolic Acid can help to improve the texture and appearance of the skin.
Suitable for normal, combination and oily skin
Witch Hazel is a plant with many powers. From the leaves to the bark, every part of it can be used to make an astringent that is often used in skincare products. It is also sometimes used as a natural remedy for haemorrhoids, acne, and other skin conditions.
The astringent properties of Witch Hazel help to cleanse the skin and reduce inflammation. Witch Hazel can be found in many skincare products, such as toners and face wipes, and can come in the form of Witch Hazel Extract or Witch Hazel Oil.
Witch Hazel is also perfect for treating inflamed, irritated or broken skin. It can also be known to shrink pores and promote firmness, giving the appearance of more youthful skin.
Suitable for oily and acne-prone skin
As we age, our skin's ability to absorb and retain moisture reduces, which causes the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. Collagen is a structural protein that is often seen as the miracle ingredient for firmer, younger-looking skin because it can help to improve the skin’s elasticity and ability to absorb and maintain moisture.
If you’re looking to kickstart an anti-ageing skincare routine, then make sure you have Collagen in your checklist of ingredients. Not only does it play a role in strengthening the skin’s barrier, it also helps to retain moisture, for a healthy and brighter complexion.
With regular use, Collagen can promote more supple skin, boosting its natural renewal process.
Suitable for all skin types
You may know Aloe Vera as a cooling, natural treatment for sunburnt skin, yet there’s so much more to this soothing succulent. Used for centuries across cultures, it has natural healing powers that provide immediate and comforting relief.
Aloe Extract is a holy grail ingredient for skincare products formulated to calm and alleviate irritated skin; sunburn being just one example. Its hydrating properties lock in moisture and rejuvenate, helping to slow down the ageing process and improve cell regeneration. It is also rich in Amino Acids, Minerals and Vitamins that promote healthy skin tone and texture.
So if you’re looking to wave goodbye to dark spots and stubborn acne, or even combat dandruff, make sure you incorporate an Aloe-infused product into your daily routine, for long-lasting results!
Aloe Vera is also an excellent choice for hydrating and enhancing facial hair. It repairs and restores the dry skin beneath your beard while also moisturising and promoting a natural sheen.
Suitable for all skin types
SPF is commonly found in sunscreen, but it is important to incorporate it into your daily routine even in the colder months or when the sun's not out (UV rays are present, regardless). Not only does it provide an effective barrier against harmful UV rays which can lead to fine lines and wrinkles, it also protects against blotchiness and hyperpigmentation.
Many face creams contain SPF which is essential for preventing premature ageing and achieving an even complexion. It can be found in moisturisers, foundations, lip treatments and tinted lotions, while coconuts, almonds and even lavender contain a natural source of SPF. Incorporating SPF into your skincare routine adds an extra layer of protection that will help you to maintain a more youthful appearance.
Suitable for all skin types
Peptides, like Retinol, help to boost the skin’s elasticity, reducing the appearance of fine lines. They are Amino Acids that act as building blocks of Proteins such as Collagen, Elastin and Keratin.
Used in anti-ageing products, they create a protective barrier for the skin to fight pollutants, enhancing the skin’s appearance to look firmer and more youthful. They work to supercharge Elastin production to ward off wrinkles, most commonly found in eye creams, serums and moisturisers.
Derived from Green Tea leaves, Green Tea Extract contains antioxidants that help to protect the skin from damage and external pollutants. Packed with detoxifying properties, Green Tea Extract can help to improve the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, reduce inflammation and soothe irritated skin. It has also been shown to provide protection against UV damage, making it an ideal ingredient for anyone looking for a natural way to improve the health of their skin.
Green Tea Extract is a popular ingredient in skincare products and can mostly be found in facial cleansers, toners, and moisturisers.
Suitable for all skin types
Key Ingredients in Haircare for Men
Almond Oil is a common ingredient in personal care products, which you’re bound to come across in most personal care sections in supermarkets and high-end department stores. But why is it such a staple?
Almond Oil is a versatile and powerful ingredient that can be used as a natural moisturiser for the hair, face, or body. Vitamin B-7 (a.k.a Biotin) is found in Almond Oil, which works wonders on the hair, helping to smooth frizz and even target dandruff. It can help condition and moisturise the hair, improve overall scalp health, and helps prevent hair breakage.
Avoid using Almond Oil if you have a known nut allergy.
Suitable for all hair types, particularly dry or damaged hair
Argan Oil is extracted from the core of the Argan tree. High in Vitamin E, Argan Oil provides a natural sheen for head and beard hair, nourishing deep down into the roots of the hair. This hydrating plant-based carrier oil also protects against environmental damage and external pollutants, promoting healthy follicle growth.
Argan Oil has also been proven to slow down the ageing process and is particularly beneficial for dry, lacklustre hair. For the skin, its balancing properties also work to control excess oil, revealing a smoother and brighter complexion with long-term use.
Suitable for all hair types
If you’re wondering what’s all the buzz about Beeswax, this natural wax produced by honey bees has powerful antioxidant and antibacterial benefits.
What’s more, Beeswax is popular in hair styling products as it provides a strong, natural hold while strengthening barrier function. It can also help in retaining moisture in the scalp.
However, as it does not dissolve in water, don't use this product too frequently to avoid buildup.
Suitable for curly hair
Sea Salt is an ingredient often found in hair spray that works to give the hair texture, volume and hold. It is often used as a key ingredient for creating beachy waves and curls, for effortless everyday styling. Sea salt spray is made with Sea Salt, which is full of minerals that are beneficial for your follicles. These minerals can help to strengthen the hair, add shine, and even improve scalp health.
One of the main benefits of Sea Salt is the absorption of oil and added body to the hair. It is a versatile product that can be used on all types of hair, from poker straight to tight curls, and is a great option for those who are looking for an easy way to style their hair.
To learn more about Sea Salt Hair Sprays, check out our journal article.
Sea salt is also an effective exfoliator, helping to remove impurities that clog pores, promote new skin growth and restore the skin’s natural oil balance.
You may not have heard about Pro-Vitamin B5 and its benefits for hair, but chances are, you’ve heard of it by its other name, Panthenol - one of the most powerful and popular ingredients in the hair care industry.
Pro-Vitamin B5 binds the follicles, adding a coating that seals in moisture for a hydrated scalp. It also creates a natural sheen, improving softness and manageability with regular use as part of your haircare routine.
Pro-Vitamin B5 can also be found in skincare products to provide deep hydration and shield the skin from irritation, making it a vital vitamin all-round!
Castor Oil is extracted from the castor bean and is packed with nutrients. Castor Oil has been claimed to have a slew of benefits including strengthening hair strands, promoting growth, and nourishing dry scalps.
While the oil itself likely can't make the hair grow, it's loved for its ability to create a healthier environment on the scalp (it can help reduce scalp flakiness) that promotes stronger follicles.
In skincare products, Castor Oil acts as a humectant (read moisturiser) and helps prevent water loss through the outer layer of the skin, improving the skin’s complexion and radiance.
Caffeine is a powerful and purifying antioxidant that, when used in hair care products, can help promote growth straight from the root in the initial phases of growth, which it does by targeting a hormone called ‘DHT’, which causes hair loss. DHT can prevent vitamins, proteins and minerals from helping hair follicles to grow. Caffeine combats this by causing hair cells to produce more ‘ATP’, which is a form of energy that encourages the hair to grow.
When used on the skin, can protect against free radicals. It is found in eye serums, moisturising treatments and regenerating oils.
The avocado fruit, most popularly found in guacamole, is packed with vitamins, lipids, and antioxidants that are beneficial for the hair.
With its low viscosity, Avocado Oil penetrates and absorbs rapidly into the hair. It contains many monounsaturated fatty acids, antioxidants, and nutrients that are essential for maintaining excellent hair health.
Like Olive Oil, Avocado Oil contains vitamins A, D, and E, which are beneficial to your follicles. In hair care products, Avocado Oil hydrates the scalp to reduce dandruff and prevent breakage. It is also perfect for detangling and improving the hair’s manageability.
As a skincare ingredient, Avocado Oil calms itchiness, replenishes parched skin and instantly absorbs to provide powerful hydration.