Useful Terminology

Absolute – A highly concentrated extract of perfumery material (derived from a flower, bark or leaf for example), which is free from waxes and other by products.

Acid – This refers to a substance with a ph below 7.0(normally hair and skin have a ph between 4.0 and 6.0) used to control bacteria on the skin and keep it healthy.

Alkaline – A substance or solution with a ph of 7 or above. Most soaps and detergents are alkaline.

Amino Acids – A large group of organic compounds that represent the end product of protein metabolism. They are necessary for growth of all parts of the body, skin, hair and nails.

Antioxidant – A substance that inhibits the oxidation that turns cosmetics rancid.

Antiseptic – A substance that inhibits the growth of microorganisms on living tissue.

Aromatherapy – The use of essential oils from aromatic plants to restore and enhance health and beauty.

Astringent - Substances that cleanse, tighten and close the pores making the skin feel smoother.

Detergent – Cleansers in which petroleum distillates take the place of animal fats or vegetable oils.

Emollient – Substances which soften the skin.

Enfleurge – The cold extraction of the volatile flower oil by using fat on frames or plates for absorption

Essential oils –Concentrated essences derived from plants, bark, roots, seeds, stems, flowers, fruits and leaves through a method of extraction, usually steam distillation.

Honey – A delicious food produced by bees, it tests on the acid side but is soothing and is used as an emollient or preservative in some body care products.

Homeopathy – A system of healing using very small doses of a plant or drug material.

Humectant – Something that helps the skin retain moisture and draws moisture from the air.

Hydrating - The ability to restore or maintain the normal fluid proportion in the skin or body.

Mineral Oil – A heavy oil derived from petroleum. Not recommended for use in body-care products as it leaves a residue on skin and hair.

Moisturizer – Something that helps the skin retain its natural moisture and also ads moisture.

Nervine – An agent that soothes the nerves.

Ph - A measure of the hydrogen ion concentration of a substance. Ph of 7 is balanced. 1-7 is acidic. 7-14 is basic or alkaline.

Pomade – Prepared perfume materials obtained by enfleurge.

Salve - A soothing or healing medicinal or cosmetic ointment.

Saponification – A complex chemical reaction in which a fatty acid reacts to a base to produce soap and glycerin.

Synergist – A substance which when combined with another increases the effectiveness of both.

Tonic – A substance, usually liquid that, that invigorates, restores or stimulates the system to improve health or body tone.