Skincare Buzzwords: What Does It All Mean?

When it comes to skincare, there are so many terms used to describe products and their properties. Some are pretty intuitive, but some are confusing and can be very misleading. That’s why we’ve created a list of some of the most commonly used buzzwords used by different skincare brands (including our own!). So you know exactly what they mean and what to look for.

Active Ingredients: Refers to ingredients that have a direct effect on the skin, like retinoids, vitamin C, and glycolic acid. Actives are often the key drivers of a product’s efficacy.

Anti-Aging: Typically refers to products designed to reduce visible signs of aging, like wrinkles, fine lines, and age spots. Ingredients like retinol, peptides, and collagen boosters are common in these formulations.

Anti-Pollution: Products formulated to protect the skin from environmental pollutants. These often contain antioxidants and barrier-supporting ingredients.

Barrier Repair: Focused on restoring and strengthening the skin’s natural barrier to prevent moisture loss and protect against irritants. Ingredients like ceramides and fatty acids are common in barrier-focused products.

Brightening: Often associated with ingredients that reduce hyperpigmentation and even out skin tone, such as vitamin C, niacinamide, and alpha arbutin.

Clean Beauty: Refers to products free from harmful ingredients like parabens, sulfates, and synthetic fragrances. Clean beauty emphasizes transparency, with a focus on non-toxic, eco-friendly formulations.

Clinical-Grade: Products that are formulated to have higher concentrations of active ingredients or that claim to deliver clinical-like results, sometimes inspired by dermatological treatments.

Dermatologist-Tested: This means products have been tested (often for safety and efficacy) by dermatologists. However, it doesn’t always guarantee dermatologist approval, just that testing has occurred. This term can be misleading as it doesn’t guarantee that a dermatologist actually recommends the product.

Exfoliating: Chemical exfoliants, like AHAs (alpha hydroxy acids) and BHAs (beta hydroxy acids), are especially popular for promoting cell turnover and reducing breakouts.

Fragrance-Free: Products without added synthetic or natural fragrances, often recommended for sensitive skin types to reduce the risk of irritation. This term does not mean the product has no smell, just that no fragrances have been added.

Glowing / Radiant Skin: Often associated with products that promote a dewy or luminous look, like serums with vitamin C, hyaluronic acid, or illuminating creams.

Hydrating vs. Moisturizing: Hydrating products bring water to the skin, while moisturizing products lock it in. Hydration is achieved with humectants like hyaluronic acid, whereas moisturizers often include occlusives like oils and butters.

Hypoallergenic: Formulated to reduce the risk of allergic reactions. However, this term isn’t regulated, so people with sensitive skin should still be cautious and always check the ingredients.

Minimalist Skincare / Skinimalism: A movement towards a simpler skincare routine using fewer products with multitasking ingredients, catering to people looking to streamline their routines.

Non-Comedogenic: Products labeled non-comedogenic are formulated not to clog pores, which makes them ideal for acne-prone or oily skin types. Ingredients in these products should have a low comedogenic rating, but this term isn’t regulated so always check the ingredients first.

Plant-Based / Botanical: Products that include plant extracts, essential oils, and other botanicals. Plant-based products are typically marketed as gentler, more natural alternatives.

SPF (Sun Protection Factor): SPF measures a product's ability to protect skin from UVB rays, which cause sunburn. High-SPF products are sometimes marketed for anti-aging and protective benefits. We have a detailed guide on sun protection that you can read here.

Sustainable / Eco-Friendly: Refers to environmentally responsible packaging and ingredients. Sustainable products are often marketed as being better for the planet with reduced waste, biodegradable formulas, and eco-conscious practices.

Vegan & Cruelty-Free: Vegan products contain no animal-derived ingredients, and cruelty-free products are not tested on animals.

This isn’t an exhaustive list, and brands are always creating new terms to describe their products. As always, we recommend checking the ingredients to see exactly what you’re putting on your skin first.