AHA
Alpha hydroxy acids
Includes glycolic and lactic acid. Uses and irritation risk depend on formula and directions; not a mandatory everyday step.
BEAUTY, WITH A LITTLE PERSPECTIVE.AUSTRALIAN EDITION · OUR STORY
Twenty useful terms explained in plain English, without the suggestion that you need to buy every one.
Beauty ingredients have different roles, and the finished formula matters more than a single hero ingredient. Use these short notes to read labels with more confidence, not to diagnose a skin concern.
How to read a label ↗Alpha hydroxy acids
Includes glycolic and lactic acid. Uses and irritation risk depend on formula and directions; not a mandatory everyday step.
Botanical ingredient
Common in gels and lotions; a botanical label does not guarantee that everyone will tolerate a product.
Beta hydroxy acid
Often refers to salicylic acid in skincare. Check the product type and instructions, especially alongside other treatments.
Lipids
Lipids naturally found in skin; often featured in moisturisers formulated for skin comfort.
Silicone
Used to give products slip and to help form a protective, smooth-feeling surface.
Humectant
A water-attracting ingredient used in many moisturisers and personal-care formulas.
AHA
An alpha hydroxy acid used in exfoliating products; can irritate if overused or used inappropriately.
Humectant
Used to attract or retain water in skincare formulas. A separate serum is not necessary for everyone.
Emollient
An oil-like ingredient often used to soften the feel of skin or hair formulas; suitability varies.
AHA / humectant
Can be used for different formulation purposes; product concentration and directions matter.
Vitamin B3 form
Common in serums and creams. Do not infer results from front-label percentages alone.
Provitamin B5
Included in a range of skin and hair products for conditioning and product feel.
Occlusive
An ingredient used to help limit water loss at the skin surface.
Vitamin A derivative
A retinoid found in some cosmetic products. May irritate; seek guidance in pregnancy or for medical concerns.
BHA
Used in certain cleansers and treatment formulas. Follow product directions; not right for every skin concern.
Emollient
A lightweight-feeling emollient used in cosmetic formulas; can suit some textures and routines.
Vitamin E form
Often included for antioxidant-related formulation roles; the whole finished product matters.
Humectant / keratolytic
Used in moisturisers at varying levels; higher-strength products can sting compromised skin.
Ingredient family
Several different chemical forms appear in cosmetics; stability and formulation vary.
Mineral UV filter
Used in certain sunscreen formulas. Check the full SPF labelling and Australian regulatory status.