You might have come across some slangs and jargons related to skincare which might intrigue, confuse or fascinate you.
Here we decode some common Skincare Jargon for you:
Clean
What does it mean?
There is no exact definition for ‘Clean’. So it is a subjective term used by different brands, and each one might have different rules for defining it. In the literal sense, the term ‘clean’ should signify a product that has ingredients which do no harm to anyone’s health.
You should know..
Just because a product is termed ‘Clean’ doesn’t make it non toxic.
Parabens
What does it mean?
Parabens are preservatives used in many products to extend their shelf life and protect against bacteria and mold. However, due to concerns surrounding their potential impact on health, HAISKN products are consciously formulated without the use of parabens. We prioritize the safety and well-being of our customers by opting for alternative preservation methods that maintain product integrity while adhering to strict quality standards.
You should know..
Some research points towards allergic reactions from the use of parabens, but no concrete evidence has been obtained. Still they are considered controversial and people may not be comfortable using products which have them.
Essential Oils
What does it mean?
Essential oils are derived from flowers, plant roots, and leaves, offering a natural and highly concentrated form of oil. These oils are known for their distinct aromatic properties and are often used in various applications such as aromatherapy, skincare, and wellness. They are prized for their pure and natural composition, harnessing the beneficial properties of plants to enhance our daily lives.
You should know..
Due to their high concentration, essential oils can potentially cause allergic reactions, skin irritation, or redness when directly applied to the skin. It is important to exercise caution and consider diluting essential oils with a carrier oil or using them in combination with other skincare products. Patch testing on a small area of skin is also recommended before applying them more broadly. Respecting proper usage guidelines and consulting with a healthcare professional or aromatherapist can help ensure the safe and beneficial use of essential oils.
Oil Free
What does it mean?
The product is free of oil-based ingredients. However, it's good to know that creams, lotions, and certain serums often use water as the primary ingredient in combination with other non-oily substances. So, while we can describe the product as 'oil-free,' it may still contain non-greasy elements or water-based oils
You should know..
You're absolutely right! Not all oils are bad for the skin, and in fact, our skin needs a certain amount of oils to maintain its balance and functionality. "Oil-free" products may still contain synthetic concentrations of oil or other non-oil substances that provide a lightweight feel. So, instead of relying solely on the "oil-free" label, it's often beneficial to opt for lightweight formulas that suit your skin type and preferences. These formulas can provide the necessary hydration and nourishment without feeling heavy or greasy on the skin. It's always a good idea to check the ingredients list and choose products that align with your specific skincare needs.
Vegan
What does it mean?
In skincare, vegan means that a product does not have any animal byproducts or animal derived ingredients (oils, wax).
You should know..
Nowadays, many companies have stopped using animal based ingredients in their products. But not all. Do check the label before buying any product.
Plant Based + Natural
What does it mean?
Plant-based and natural skincare products are formulated using ingredients exclusively sourced from plants and other natural products, such as fruits, vegetables, florals, and herbs. These products prioritize the use of botanical extracts, essential oils, and plant-derived compounds to provide various skincare benefits. By harnessing the power of nature, they aim to offer gentle, effective, and environmentally friendly alternatives for skincare routines. Plant-based and natural skincare options have gained popularity due to their perceived purity and potential to minimize exposure to synthetic chemicals.
You should know..
Just because it is derived from nature, doesn’t mean it is good for the skin. They can cause irritation as there are some synthetic ingredients in nature too.
Dermatologist Tested
What does it mean?
It means that the product has been tried and tested by one or more dermatologists, and has been approved by them. There is no legal criteria- whether they tried for a day, month, it doesn’t matter. This may specifically be found in a product for specific skin concerns like acne.
You should know..
The product has been evaluated by a board certified dermatologist to confirm if the product is safe and effective.
Cruelty Free
What does it mean?
There are no legal guidelines for this. And so brands may use it however they want. It could mean ingredients or the final product.
You should know..
Ideally, this should imply that the product has not been tested on animals. Before buying, do your research on the product before going on the face value.
Organic
What does it mean?
Organic produce-plants and fruits are the ones not exposed to synthetic fertilisers and pesticides. Not all natural or plant based skincare will be organic.
You should know..
There are no legal guidelines for this term, so brands may use it however they like. There may be just one or two ingredients that are organic instead of all, so do not go on the face value.
Clinically Tested
What does it mean?
This term means that the product has been in a clinical trial, usually to prove how effective it is. Tests may be done in the lab or on real people.
You should know..
Clinical trials take a lot of time and money, so many brands rely on untested claims about their products.
Sustainable
What does it mean?
This is also an unregulated term that doesn’t have one definition. Generally, it indicates a part of a products’ ingredients, production, manufacturing processes, and packaging that is eco-friendly in some way.
You should know..
Being sustainable and protecting the environment is something we all should practise and promote. But don’t take it on face value. When you read that something is sustainable, try and find out more about the nature of sustainability.