Sebum
Sebum is an oily, slightly waxy substance (mostly made from natural fats) that is produced by your body’s sebaceous glands to coat, moisturize and protect your skin. Sebaceous glands cover...
Read moreSkincare Glossary
There's JOY in knowledge. Consider this your definitive guide to all things skincare and wellness.
Serum
Serums are lightweight, easily absorbed skincare formulas containing a high concentration of active ingredients. Serums can be water or oil-based, and their role is to effectively deliver beneficial ingredients to...
Read moreSilicones
Silicones, derived from silica, are an ingredient used within many skincare and haircare formulations. Silicones feel silky and slippery, and, when used in skincare formulations, can fill small crevices so...
Read moreSkin Barrier
The skin barrier is the watertight, outermost surface of the skin. Technically called the stratum corneum, it is your body’s first line of defense against environmental aggressors such as UV...
Read moreStretch Marks
Stretch marks, also known as ‘striae distensae,’ are scars within the skin that occur when your skin rapidly stretches or shrinks, typically appearing as red or purple jagged lines which...
Read moreSulfates
Sulfates are most commonly used as cleansing agents in cosmetics. Known as an anionic surfactant, they create a lather and bind with dirt and impurities on the skin making them...
Read moreSurfactants
A surfactant is a "surface active agent" that has a unique molecular structure with parts that love both water and oil - which allows it to mix with dirt, oil...
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