Cosmetic Glossary - A

AH3

Also known as: Acetyl Hexapeptide

• used as ingredient in anti-aging cosmetics
• relaxes facial muscle contractions and helps smoothen wrinkles
• acts similarly to Botox injections.

Alpha Hydroxy Acids (AHAs)

Also known as: AHA

• water soluble compounds used in chemical peels and skin care products like moisturizers, cleansers, eye creams, sunscreen and foundations.

Alpha Lipoic Acid (ALA)

Also known as: ALA

• antioxidant increasing the production of glutathione and boosting toxic substances dissolving in the liver
• used in preventing age-related diseases
• found in meats and vegetables such as spinach.

Antioxidants

• substances and vitamins used in cosmetic products for their inhibiting properties, preventing oxidation and rancidity generated by oxygen or peroxide
• they act as anti-aging ingredients and by fighting the free radicals.

Avocado

• fruit reputed to act as a stimulator of soluble collagen content in the skin
• rich in fats, enzymes and proteins
• used, most often, in creams, lotions and hair care products as oil obtained from seeds and pulp with rejuvenating and calming effect.

Avocado

Avocado Oil

• oil extracted from the avocado fruit, pressed and refined
• very rich in Vitamin A, B1, B2, D and E, amino acids, sterols, lecithin, essential fat acids and pantothenic acid
• effective in the treatment of eczema, psoriasis, sensitive and irritated skin and other derma disorders.

Aminophylline

• Active ingredient in Epidril
• Aminophylline has been used for many years as an asthma medication
• Some studies come to a conclusion that this substance might have the property to induce the release of fat from the fat cells.