Beauty buzzwords explained: Decoding skincare and haircare labels

With serums, creams, treatments and skincare trends flooding our brains, understanding the vocabulary can be the key to mastering your own routine. The words hold the promise of radiant skin — but without clarity, they can be overwhelming. Fear not! We break down some of the most talked-about terms so you can browse confidently.

01 Slugging

A moisturising technique where a thick layer of an occlusive agent, like petroleum jelly, is applied as the final step of a nighttime skincare routine to promote hydration.

beauty

How to tell the difference between glowing skin and greasy skin

02 Exfoliation

The process of removing dead skin cells from the surface of the skin to promote renewal and improve skin texture. This can be done through physical exfoliants (like scrubs) or chemical exfoliants (like AHAs or BHAs).

03 Hyaluronic acid

A powerful yet gentle, naturally occurring substance that helps retain moisture in the skin. It is an essential ingredient in serums and moisturisers — helping to hydrate and plump the skin.

Exfoliating promotes skin renewal and improves skin texture, Image: FreePik

04 Collagen

A protein that provides structure and elasticity to skin, nails and hair. Our collagen levels decrease with age — as such, many skincare products include collagen or collagen-boosting ingredients to alleviate signs of ageing, like sagging skin or wrinkles.

05 Skin barrier

The outermost layer of the skin that acts as a protective shield against irritants, pollutants and moisture loss. Maintaining a healthy skin barrier is essential for overall skin health.

06 Hydrating

This refers to the properties of a product that add moisture to the skin. Hydrating ingredients include glycerin, aloe vera or hyaluronic acid, which are essential for plump skin.

Collagen provides structure and elasticity to skin, Image: FreePik

07 Retinol

A derivative of vitamin A known for its anti-ageing properties. It helps promote cell turnover, reduces fine lines and improves skin texture and tone.

08 SPF

The sun protection factor measure of how well a sunscreen protects skin from ultraviolet (UV) rays. A daily SPF of 30 or higher is crucial for skin health and to prevent signs of premature ageing.

09 Micellar water

A gentle cleansing solution made of water, moisturisers and micelles that attract and lift dirt and makeup —often for easy, no-rinse cleansing.

A daily SPF of 30 or higher is crucial for skin health, Image: Instagram/@fforahh

10 Clean beauty

A movement toward skincare and makeup products that are free from harmful ingredients. It emphasises natural, non-toxic formulations that are safer for both the skin and the environment.

11 Hair mask

A deep-conditioning treatment designed to nourish and repair hair strands, typically containing rich ingredients that penetrate the hair shaft for enhanced hydration and shine.

12 Peptides

Short chains of amino acids that help stimulate collagen production and improve skin firmness and elasticity, often found in anti-ageing products.

Hair masks assist in enhancing hydration and shine, Image: FreePik

13 Heat protectant

A product formulated to shield hair from the damaging effects of heat styling tools, helping to prevent breakage and maintain shine.

14 Double cleansing

A two-step cleansing method — usually starting with an oil-based cleanser or micellar water to remove makeup and impurities — followed by a water-based cleanser to cleanse the skin thoroughly.