GLOSSARY OF TERMS

A Glossary of Skincare and Aesthetic Terminology

Laser hair removal- A medical procedure that uses a concentrated beam of light (laser) to remove unwanted hair. During laser hair removal, a laser emits a light that is absorbed by the pigment (melanin) in the hair.

Body contouring, or body sculpting- Refers to surgical procedures that improve the appearance of skin and tissue after major weight loss.

Skin Tightening- Treatments that stimulate collagen, tighten the skin and slow the ageing process. Immediately after your treatment, your skin is visibly tighter as the fibres contract. This will continue over time, further improving structure and definition.

Photo Rejuvenation- A skin treatment that uses lasers, intense pulsed light, or photodynamic therapy to treat skin conditions and remove effects of photoaging such as wrinkles, spots, and textures. The process induces controlled wounds on the skin, prompting it to heal itself by creating new cells. This process reverses the signs of photoaging to a certain extent by removing appearances of damage.

Laser Tattoo Removal- Lasers remove tattoos by breaking up the pigment colors with a high-intensity light beam. Black tattoo pigment absorbs all laser wavelengths, making it the easiest color to treat. Other colors can only be treated by selected lasers based upon the pigment color.

LED Light Therapy- LED stands for light emitting diode. A popular non-invasive skin treatment for acne, sun damage, wounds, and other skin problems. The treatment uses varying wavelengths of light to trigger the skin’s natural healing processes to repair the skin. Several treatments are necessary to see results.

Microneedling- A cosmetic procedure also known as collagen induction therapy. It involves pricking the skin with tiny sterilized needles. The small wounds cause your body to make more collagen and elastin, which heal your skin and help you look younger. You might also hear it called collagen induction therapy.

Spider Veins- Also known as broken blood vessels, are small, damaged veins that can appear on the surface of the legs or face. They are usually not painful or harmful, but some people may wish to treat them for cosmetic reasons. Spider veins can be blue, purple, or red and may appear in the form of thin lines, webs, or branches.

Varicose Veins- Are swollen, twisted veins that lie just under the skin and usually occur in the legs. Varicose veins are a common condition caused by weak or damaged vein walls and valves. Varicose veins may form whenever blood pressure increases inside your veins. Risk Factors: Old age; Pregnancy; Obesity

Vein Treatment- Veins can be removed by laser treatment or sclerotherapy. Both of these treatments provide satisfactory results with almost no downtime. Patients most often can resume even high-intensity physical activity the next day.

Chemical Peel- a cosmetic procedure for the removal of facial blemishes and wrinkles that involves the application of a caustic chemical and especially an acid (such as alpha hydroxy acid) to the skin.

Waxing- The process of removing unwanted hair from a part of the body by applying wax and peeling off the wax and hairs together.

Acne- The occurrence of inflamed or infected sebaceous glands in the skin; in particular, a condition characterized by red pimples on the face, prevalent chiefly among teenagers.

Acne scars- Are usually the result of inflamed blemishes caused by skin pores engorged with excess oil, dead skin cells and bacteria. The pore swells, causing a break in the follicle wall. Shallow lesions are usually minor and heal quickly.

Aging Hands- As we age, our skin thins and the fat in the back of our hands diminishes. The reduced volume and decreased elasticity produces translucent skin that wrinkles and develops age spots.

Aging Skin- Your skin changes as you age. You might notice wrinkles, age spots and dryness. Your skin also becomes thinner and loses fat, making it less plump and smooth. It might take longer to heal, too. Sunlight is a major cause of skin aging.

Dry skin- Occurs when your skin loses too much water and oil. Dry skin is common and can affect anyone at any age. The medical term for dry skin is xerosis.

Fine Lines- Small and shallow creases that form on thin, delicate skin, this is normally an indicator of first signs of ageing. Fine lines turn into wrinkles as you age, this is because the collagen and elastin beneath the surface of your skin begins to break down. Fine lines on your face are associated with repetitive movements (frowning, smiling, squinting, and laughing). You'll usually see these fine lines first around your eyes and mouth.

Wrinkles- Are creases, folds, or ridges in the skin. They naturally appear as people get older. The first wrinkles tend to appear on a person's face in areas where the skin naturally folds during facial expressions. They develop due to the skin becoming thinner and less elastic over time.

Age Spots- Are small, flat dark areas on the skin. They vary in size and usually appear on areas exposed to the sun, such as the face, hands, shoulders and arms. Age spots are also called sunspots, liver spots and solar lentigines.

Pigmented Lesions- Brown or black spots on your skin are sometimes called pigmented lesions. Examples include moles, age (liver) spots and sun damaged skin. It is important to watch these areas to monitor any changes in shape, size or colour.

Sagging Skin- Loose skin that appears to hold no definition due to the lack of muscle underneath. Collagen and Elastin are the primary factors that ensure that your skin is firm. As we age, the skin is known to lose its elasticity and the production of collagen reduces.

Sun Damaged Skin- Also called photoaging, this can lead to skin cancer. Dermatologists refer to the damage the sun does to skin by several names, including photoaging, photodamage, solar damage, or sun damage. It happens when ultraviolet (UV) light hits skin unprotected by sunscreen, causing DNA changes at a cellular level.

Enlarged Pores- Are depressions in the facial skin surface that contain one or more openings to the ducts carrying sweat and oil from their respective eccrine glands and sebaceous glands.

Rosacea- A chronic inflammatory skin condition that usually affects the face and causes redness and visible blood vessels. It may also produce small, red, pus-filled bumps. These signs and symptoms may flare up for weeks to months and then go away for a while.

Weight Loss- Refers to a reduction of the total body mass, by a means of  loss of fluid, body fat (adipose tissue), or lean mass (namely bone mineral deposits, muscle, tendon, and other connective tissue).

Weight Gain- An increase in body weight. This can involve an increase in muscle mass, fat deposits, excess fluids such as water or other factors. Weight gain can be a symptom of a serious medical condition.

Cellulite- As fat cells increase, they push up against the skin. Tough, long connective cords pull down. This creates an uneven surface or dimpling, often referred to as cellulite. Cellulite is a very common, harmless skin condition that causes lumpy, dimpled flesh on the thighs, hips, buttocks and abdomen.

Stretch Marks- Are long, narrow streaks or stripes that occur when the skin is stretched too quickly. Pregnancy, puberty, and rapid weight gain can all cause stretch marks.

Hair Removal-  Also known as epilation or depilation, is the deliberate removal of body hair. Hair typically grows all over the human body. Hair can become more visible during and after puberty and men tend to have thicker, more visible body hair than women. Hair removal techniques include; waxing and laser hair removal.

Birthmark- A congenital, benign irregularity on the skin which is present at birth or appears shortly after birth—usually in the first month. They can occur anywhere on the skin. Birthmarks are caused by overgrowth of blood vessels, melanocytes, smooth muscle, fat, fibroblasts, or keratinocytes.

Port Wine Stain- A flat, red or purple mark on the skin that is present at birth. Very occasionally, over time, the port wine stain may become thicker, darken and develop a 'cobblestone' appearance with raised bumps and ridges.

Breast Cancer Marks- During your radiotherapy planning session, your radiographer might make between 1 to 5 permanent pin-point tattoo marks on your skin. Lasers remove these ‘tattoo” marks by breaking up the pigment colors with a high-intensity light beam.

IPL- IPL stands for intense pulsed light. It's a type of light therapy used to perform various skin treatments such as; photorejuvenation, minimize or remove age spots and treat unwanted hair. 

Electrolysis- A method of removing individual hairs from the face or body. Today's medical electrolysis devices destroy the growth center of the hair with chemical or heat energy. After a very fine probe is inserted into the hair follicle, the hair is removed with tweezers.

Permanent Hair Reduction- The long-term, stable reduction in the number of hairs regrowing after a treatment regime, which may include several sessions.

Ultrasound Technology- Also known as ultrasound cavitation is a cosmetic procedure which uses high-intensity, focused ultrasonic waves (commonly known as sound waves) to separate and destroy fat cells. Energy passes through the skin into the targeted fat cells without harming the skin or any surrounding tissues. The treatment claims to work as an effective, less invasive alternative to liposuction.

Radio Frequency- The procedure involves using energy waves to heat the deep layer of your skin known as your dermis. This heat stimulates the production of collagen. RF waves are a form of radiation. Radiation is the release of energy in the form of electromagnetic waves. It can be classified as low energy or high energy depending on the amount of energy released.

Lymphatic System- The lymphatic system, or lymphoid system, is an organ system in vertebrates that is part of the circulatory system and the immune system. It is made up of a large network of lymph, lymphatic vessels, lymph nodes, lymphatic or lymphoid organs, and lymphoid tissues. Functions of the lymphatic system include; protecting your body from illness-causing invaders, maintaining body fluid levels, absorbing digestive tract fats and removing cellular waste.

Non-Invasive- not requiring the introduction of instruments into the body.

Photofacial- Also known as laser skin rejuvenation, is a state-of-the-art skin treatment that stimulates the production of collagen to improve the effects of sun damage, rosacea, fine lines, large.

Hyperpigmentation-  A common, usually harmless condition in which patches of skin are darker than the surrounding skin. It occurs when special cells in the skin make too much of the pigment called melanin.

Vascular Lesions- Are relatively common abnormalities of the skin and underlying tissues, more commonly known as birthmarks. 

P. Acne Bacteria- Propionibacterium acnes is a bacterium commonly found on the skin, in pores and hair follicles. These bacteria play an important part in acne. 

Hyperkeratosis- Abnormal thickening of the outer layer of the skin.

Facial Flaccidity- The loss of firmness and elasticity of the facial skin, caused by a decrease or weakening of the tissues which hold the skin together. Mainly includes; loss of collagen, elastin, hyaluronic acid and muscle fibres, essential to maintain a smooth, firm and bright skin.

Microdermabrasion- A facial procedure that uses manual exfoliation to remove the outer layer of skin. One type of microdermabrasion treatment is using a Diamond tipped wand to abrade the surface of your skin, the exfoliated particles are then vacuumed away through the same wand.

Mechanical Exfoliation- Calls for the use of a tool or product that will act to physically remove dead skin cells from your skin's surface.

Broken Capillaries- Also Known as Telangiectasia, are actually tiny blood vessels that have burst under the skin that can appear in any location on the body, but are especially noticeable in the nose area or other regions of the face.

Dermaplaning- A method of exfoliation that consists of using a 10 gauge scalpel to gently scrape off the top layer of dulling dead skin cells in order to reveal a smoother, brighter complexion.

Skin Cell Regeneration- The process which consists of the epidermis, the outer layer of the skin, undergoes constant renewal; every 28 days all cells are turned over as the most superficial cells are replaced by new ones. The turnover is much faster for infants and slows down over the course of our lifetime. The healing process also slows as we age.

Vitamin C- This protein is naturally present in your skin and helps keep it from sagging. Your body slows down collagen production as you age. Vitamin C applied to the skin can encourage new collagen to grow. It also helps maintain the collagen you do have and protects the precious protein from damage.

Jessner Peel- Works by removing the top layers of skin to reveal smoother, more even-toned skin beneath.The Jessner peel is typically a medium peel, which means it removes skin cells from the top layer of your skin, the epidermis, and the upper portion of the middle layer, the dermis.

TCA Peel- A noninvasive skin treatment used to treat skin discolorations, scarring, and wrinkles. These peels get their name from trichloroacetic acid (TCA), which is used to clear away dead skin cells to reveal the newer and smoother skin layers below.

Facial Ozone Steamer- Loosens dirt particles in your skin and unclogs pores. Ozone also helps remove excess oils from your skin produced by the sebaceous glands located inside the skin. Using Ozone therapy improves cell oxygenation.

Enzyme Peel- Are made from fruit enzymes. It both nourishes and sloughs off dead skin cells, creating the perfect ph balance for your skin. It also fights free radical damages, which causes premature aging, by removing the top layer of skin and exposing newer skin.

Hyaluronic acid (HA)- A sugar found naturally in our skin that holds water and helps keep it hydrated and plump. The HA within our bodies holds a thousand times its weight in water to not only retain all that moisture in our skin and joints, but also prevent all that moisture from evaporating into the air.

Alpha-hydroxy acids (AHAs)-  AHAs are water-soluble acids derived from sugarcane, milk or fruit. They help peel away the surface of your skin so that new, more evenly pigmented skin cells may generate and take their place.These acids include; Glycolic acid, Lactic acid, Malic acid, Mandelic acid, Tartaric acid and Citric acid.

Beta-hydroxy acids (BHAs)- BHAs a type of acid found in willow tree bark, wintergreen leaves or sweet birch bark. BHAs are chemical exfoliators that soften and dissolve keratin, a protein that forms part of the skin structure. This helps to loosen dead skin cells, so they're easily sloughed off. BHAs also work inside the pores, where they not only dissolve keratin plugs, but also help to regulate keratinization (cell turnover and shedding). These acids include; Salicylic acid, Betaine salicylate and willow bark extract.

Ice Globe Facial Massage- A facial massage with Ice Globes is a relaxing and cooling experience that will not only encourage better blood circulation and oxygenate the skin, it will also help to shrink pores, heal and renew skin.

Collagen- The protein that gives skin its structure, suppleness, and stretch.

Hard Wax- A type of wax that adheres to the hair follicle (versus the skin) and hardens, eliminating the need for paper strips. This allows for technicians to go over the areas a second time with minimal discomfort and without fear of breaking the skin. Hard wax is also thicker and applied to the skin with an application tool. Once applied, the wax hardens and can be removed directly from the area.

Soft Wax- This type of wax requires a strip to remove the hair and is normally used for larger areas of hair removal. The soft wax is applied to the skin very thinly and a muslin strip is applied on top of the wax to remove the hair. After the hair is removed, the technician applies an oil or some kind of wax remover over the waxed area, to remove any residue.

Ingrown Hair- Occurs when a shaved or tweezed hair grows back into the skin. It can cause inflammation, pain and tiny bumps in the area where the hair was removed.

Sensitive Skin- Refers to skin that is more prone to inflammation or adverse reactions. People with sensitive skin may have strong reactions to chemicals, dyes, and fragrances present in products that come into contact with the skin.

Hair Follicle- A hair follicle is a tunnel-shaped structure in the epidermis (outer layer) of the skin. Hair starts growing at the bottom of a hair follicle. The root of the hair is made up of protein cells and is nourished by blood from nearby blood vessels.

Eyelash Tint- Consists of adding a special dye to your eyelashes, giving you weeks of dark, full lashes without the assistance of mascara. 

Semi-Permanent Dye- A semi-permanent color contains no ammonia and deposits only. It does not require mixing with a developer.

Clogged Pores- Are the result of dead skin cells getting trapped in your skin instead of being shed into the environment. Pores are tiny openings in the skin that release oil and sweat. When pores are clogged, it can result in blackheads, whiteheads, and acne.

Adult Acne- Also known as post-adolescent acne, is acne that occurs after age 25. For the most part, the same factors that cause acne in adolescents are at play in adult acne. The four factors that directly contribute to acne are; excess oil production, pores becoming clogged by “sticky” skin cells, bacteria, and inflammation.

Acne Vulgaris- A common chronic skin disease involving blockage and/or inflammation of pilosebaceous units (hair follicles and their accompanying sebaceous gland). Acne can present as noninflammatory lesions, inflammatory lesions, or a mixture of both, affecting mostly the face but also the back and chest.

Keratosis- A growth of keratin on the skin or on mucous membranes stemming from keratinocytes, the prominent cell type in the epidermis. More specifically, it can refer to: actinic keratosis (also known as solar keratosis).

Boil- A painful, pus-filled bump that forms under your skin when bacteria infect and inflame one or more of your hair follicles. A carbuncle is a cluster of boils that form a connected area of infection under the skin. Boils (furuncles) usually start as red, tender bumps. 

Sebum (excess oil)- Sebum is an oily, waxy substance produced by your body's sebaceous glands. If you have very oily skin, your body may be producing an excess amount of the mixture of lipids (fat-like molecules) that make up sebum. 

Dead Skin- Dead skin refers to the dead skin cells that our bodies are always shedding and replacing with new cells. 

Depressed Acne Scars- Also called atrophic acne scars, appear as a small indentation in your skin. They form this way because the acne blemishes heal below the surface of your skin, and your skin can't regenerate enough tissue to even out the top layer.

Ice Pick Scars- Are a type of acne scar. Due to their depth and narrow impressions, ice pick scars are more severe than boxcar, atrophic, or other types of acne scars. Although professional treatments may not completely get rid of the scar, you should notice marked improvements in appearance and texture.

Pulsed Dye Laser (PDL)- Uses a concentrated beam of light that targets blood vessels in the skin. The light is converted into heat, destroying the blood vessel while leaving the surrounding skin undamaged. The laser uses yellow light, which is very safe.

Hypertrophic Scar- A thickened, wide, often raised scar that develops where skin is injured. Scars are common during the wound healing process, but a hypertrophic scar is a result of an abnormal response to a trauma or injury.

Free Radicals- A type of unstable molecule that is made during normal cell metabolism (chemical changes that take place in a cell). Free radicals can build up in cells and cause damage to other molecules, such as DNA, lipids, and proteins.

Cell Renewal- The cells of the top layer of skin (epidermis) are in a constant process of regeneration or renewal. Shedding old skin cells stimulates the formation of new skin cells. Thus, products that exfoliate and remove old skin cells speed up the process of cell renewal.

Eczema- Also known as Atopic dermatitis is a condition that makes your skin red and itchy. It's common in children but can occur at any age. Atopic dermatitis is long lasting (chronic) and tends to flare periodically. It may be accompanied by asthma or hay fever. Certain substances or conditions called trigger factors can cause eczema to flare-up. Irritants such as; soaps and detergents, wool, skin infections, dry skin, low humidity, heat, sweating or emotional stress.

Psoriasis- A skin condition that causes red, flaky, crusty patches of skin covered with silvery scales. These patches normally appear on your elbows, knees, scalp and lower back, but can appear anywhere on your body. Most people are only affected with small patches. In some cases, the patches can be itchy or sore.

Dehydrated Skin- Means that your skin is lacking water. It can be dry and itchy and perhaps dull looking, too. Your overall tone and complexion may appear uneven, and fine lines are more noticeable. 

Anti-Aging- Refers to slowing, preventing, or reversing the aging process. Skin care products and treatments can help with slowing down the process.

Sun Protection Factor (SPF)- A measure of how well a sunscreen will protect skin from UVB rays, the kind of radiation that causes sunburn, damages skin, and can contribute to skin cancer.

Melanocytes- A cell in the skin and eyes that produces and contains the pigment called melanin.

Intrinsic Aging- Also known as chronological ageing, is the inevitable genetically determined process that naturally occurs. Intrinsic ageing is determined by each person's individual genetic clock and is affected by the degenerative effects of free radicals and the body's inability to perfectly repair their damage.

Extrinsic Aging- A distinctive declination process caused by external factors, which include ultraviolet radiation, cigarette smoking, air pollution, among others. 

Skin Elasticity- The skin's ability to stretch and snap back to its original shape. Loss of skin elasticity is known as elastosis. Elastosis causes skin to look saggy, crinkled, or leathery.

Box Scars- Are a type of acne scar. Specifically, they are a type of atrophic scar, which is the most common type of acne scar. Boxcar scars make up about 20 to 30 percent of atrophic scars.They typically have sharp vertical edges, and are wider than ice pick scars but not as wide as rolling scars.

Ultraviolet (UV) Radiation- A form of non-ionizing radiation that is emitted by the sun and artificial sources, such as tanning beds. 

UVB- Medium-wavelength UVB is very biologically active but cannot penetrate beyond the superficial skin layers. It is responsible for delayed tanning and burning; in addition to these short-term effects it enhances skin ageing and significantly promotes the development of skin cancer. Most solar UVB is filtered by the atmosphere

UVA- The relatively long-wavelength UVA accounts for approximately 95 per cent of the UV radiation reaching the Earth's surface. It can penetrate into the deeper layers of the skin and is responsible for the immediate tanning effect. Furthermore, it also contributes to skin ageing and wrinkling. 

Skin Discoloration- Can be due to changes in melanin. Melanin is a skin pigment that gives color to the skin. Changes in melanin can also cause skin to be patchy. Treatment for skin discoloration includes using topical treatments.

Blackheads- Are small bumps that appear on your skin due to clogged hair follicles. These bumps are called blackheads because the surface looks dark or black. Blackheads are a mild type of acne that usually form on the face.

Whitehead- Are small, white, raised bumps on the skin. They form when oil and skin collect in the pores. Whiteheads are also known as closed comedones and pimples. They occur with acne, often on the face, chest and back.

Milia- Are commonly found on the skin of people of all ages. They are formed when keratin (a substance produced by the skin) becomes entrapped beneath the outer layer of the skin, forming a tiny cyst. An individual milium (the singular of milia) is formed at the base of a hair follicle or sweat gland. Commonly seen under the eyes in adults.

BroadBand Light (BBL)-  A skin treatment that can reduce the appearance of damage and subtract years from your complexion. BBL, also known as Intense Pulsed Light therapy or the photo facial, uses cutting edge technology to produce younger-looking skin that's firmer and more even in tone and texture.

Dermis- The inner layer of the two main layers of the skin. The dermis has connective tissue, blood vessels, oil and sweat glands, nerves, hair follicles, and other structures. It is made up of a thin upper layer called the papillary dermis, and a thick lower layer called the reticular dermis.

Epidermis- The outermost layer of skin, provides a waterproof barrier and creates our skin tone.

Liposuction- A technique in cosmetic surgery for removing excess fat from under the skin by suction.

Mesotherapy- A procedure in which multiple tiny injections of pharmaceuticals, vitamins, etc. are delivered into the mesodermal layer of tissue under the skin, to promote the loss of fat or cellulite.

Nasolabial Folds- Are the deep wrinkles or lines that form from the bottom of the nose to the corners of the mouth. 

Scrubs- Are physical exfoliants that mechanically slough away dead skin cells.

Hemangioma- A bright red birthmark that shows up at birth or in the first or second week of life. It looks like a rubbery bump and is made up of extra blood vessels in the skin. A hemangioma can occur anywhere on the body, but most commonly appears on the face, scalp, chest or back.

Skincare Experts- Assess the condition of his or her clients' skin and make recommendations on what can be done to improve their skin quality. Treatments performed include; facials, full-body treatments, lasers, head and neck massages to improve the health and appearance of the skin. 

Dermaplaning- A method of exfoliation that consists of using a 10 gauge scalpel to gently scrape off the top layer of dulling dead skin cells in order to reveal a smoother, brighter complexion.

Vellus Hairs- Also referred to as peach fuzz, is the fine, thin, light-colored hair that covers the majority of the body, including the face, arms, stomach, and legs. Vellus hair also tends to be very short and is usually no longer than 2 millimeters.

Hyperpigmentation-  A common, usually harmless condition in which patches of skin are darker than the surrounding skin. It occurs when special cells in the skin make too much of the pigment called melanin.

Extraction- The process of clearing a clogged or compacted pore by manual or mechanical means. Extractions are often performed as part of a facial. 

Exfoliation- Exfoliation involves the removal of the oldest dead skin cells on the skin's outermost surface. 

Rough Skin- Has uneven texture and feels coarse to the touch. Common on the face and body, rough skin can be the result of dryness or a buildup of dead skin cells.

Mature Skin- The main characteristics of mature skin that disappear with age are flexibility and elasticity. Part of the skin's consistency gradually decreases, it becomes more fragile, finer, more uneven and the dreaded wrinkles appear, which are accompanied by pronounced expression lines.

Peach Fuzz- Fine, light hair and especially such hair growing on the face.

Dull Skin- Skin tone as a result of excess dead skin cells that build up on the surface of the skin. This can make your face feel rough or bumpy, and can also give the skin a dull, lackluster appearance.

Active Ingredients- Are the ingredients contained within skincare products that actually work to address the skin concern the product is meant to target. They are the ingredients that have supposedly been scientifically proven to actually have the desired effect.

Skin Types- There are four basic types of healthy skin: normal, dry, oily and combination skin. Skin type is determined by genetics. The condition of our skin can, however, vary greatly according to the various internal and external factors it is subjected to.

Retinol- Also known as Vitamin A, helps eliminate and reduce signs of aging, improve appearance of fine lines and wrinkles and improve skin texture. An excellent ingredient for flawless-looking skin.

Breakouts- Most often appear where our skin has the most oil glands. That means on the face, chest, and even upper back and shoulders. During a breakout or an acne flare, the hair follicle fills with dead skin cells, sebum (oil), and sometimes bacteria.

Physical Exfoliant- A product or tool that requires rubbing or scrubbing action. These include your skincare scrubs, brushes, sponges, loofahs and muslin wash cloths. This type of exfoliation nudges the loose dead skin cells from the topmost layer of the skin using physical friction.

Chemical Exfoliant- Are acids that get rid of dead skin cells. They come in various concentrations. Weaker formulas can be bought over the counter, while stronger ones are usually applied by a skincare specialist in the form of a chemical peel.

Face Masks- They blanket the skin, delivering benefit ingredients to improve the appearance and or quality of the skin. 

Facial Cleanser- A skincare product used to remove make-up, dead skin cells, oil, dirt, and other types of pollutants from the skin, helping to keep pores clear and prevent skin conditions such as acne.

Moisturizer- Are emulsions of oil and water (plus other ingredients for nourishing, treatment, and preserving) that help replenish hydration, keeping moisture in skin and dryness out.

Serums- Are lightweight moisturizers that contain a higher concentration of active ingredients (such as hyaluronic acid, glycolic acid, and vitamin C) than typical facial moisturizers. Known for their effectiveness, face serums are often used to manage specific skin care concerns, such as wrinkles.

Toner- A fast-penetrating liquid that delivers skin a quick hit of hydration, helps remove some dead cells off the surface of the skin and removes any last traces of dirt, grime and impurities stuck in your pores after you wash your face. When added to your daily skincare routine and used regularly, it can have a major positive impact on the appearance and tightness of your pores. The result: plump, glowy skin.Toner is like a primer for the rest of your skin-care routine like serums and moisturizer.

Fitzpatrick Scale- A numerical classification scheme for determining the skin color based on a questionnaire related to an individual's genetic constitution, reaction to sun exposure, and tanning habits etc. The Fitzpatrick scale is based on six different skin types, according to how much melanin is present.

Hypopigmentation- A condition in which the skin is lighter in color than normal. It occurs when special cells in the skin do not make enough of the pigment called melanin.

Dead Skin Cells- These cells are called 'keratinocytes', and are composed of the fibrous protein keratin. They are formed at the base of the epidermis, and gradually move up through the skin until they reach the outer surface, where they die.

Polycystic Ovary Syndrome- A disorder involving infrequent, irregular or prolonged menstrual periods, and often excess male hormone (androgen) levels. The ovaries develop numerous small collections of fluid — called follicles — and may fail to regularly release eggs. Symptoms: Obesity

Transgender- Are people whose gender identity is different from the gender they were thought to be at birth. 

Shaving- Shaving is the removal of hair, by using a razor or any other kind of bladed implement, to slice it down—to the level of the skin.

Tweezing- The process of plucking, grasping, or pulling hair out from the root of human hairs.

Depilatory- An agent for removing hair, wool, or bristles.

Anagen Phase- The active phase of hair growth. The cells in the root of the hair are dividing rapidly.During this phase the hair grows about 1 cm every 28 days

Catagen Phase- The transitional part of the cycle and only lasts for around two to three weeks. In this stage hair growth stops and the outer root sheath shrinks and attaches to the root of the hair.

Telogen Phase- The resting phase in the hair growth cycle when the hair follicle is completely inactive. 

Brazilian Wax- Pubic hair is groomed and removed from the front of the pubic bone, around the external genitals, between the upper thighs, and around the anus. 

Hair Follicle- A tunnel-shaped structure in the epidermis (outer layer) of the skin. Hair starts growing at the bottom of a hair follicle. The root of the hair is made up of protein cells and is nourished by blood from nearby blood vessels.

Double Chin- A roll of fatty flesh below a person's chin.

Adipose Tissue- Commonly known as body fat. It is found all over the body. It can be found under the skin (subcutaneous fat), packed around internal organs (visceral fat), between muscles, within bone marrow and in breast tissue.

Lipocyte- A fat storing cell.

Professional-Grade Products- Must contain active substances in sufficiently high concentrations. Due to their high concentration, professional-grade products are more active and can be used in smaller quantities. The effect is achieved and maintained by stimulating our own cells.

Non-Surgical- Used to describe a medical treatment that does not involve cutting open the body.

Body Sculpting-  The process or activity of increasing the body's visible muscle tone through exercise or the removal of fat using cosmetic procedures.

Hormonal Acne- Acne tied to fluctuations in your hormones. Although it's typically associated with hormone fluctuations during puberty, hormonal acne can affect adults of any age. 

Circulation- The movement of blood through the vessels of the body induced by the pumping action of the heart.

Connective Tissue- Group of tissues in the body that maintain the form of the body and its organs and provide cohesion and internal support. 

Subcutaneous Fat- The deepest layer. Subcutaneous fat has five main functions: It's the one way that your body stores energy. It functions as a padding to protect your muscles and bones from the impact of hits or falls. It serves as a passageway for nerves and blood vessels between your skin and your muscles It insulates your body, helping it regulate temperature. Lastly, it attaches the dermis to the muscles and bones with its special connecting tissue.

 Brow Lift-  A brow lift, also known as a forehead lift or forehead rejuvenation, is a cosmetic procedure to raise the brows. A brow lift improves the appearance of the forehead, the brow and the area around the eyes by raising the soft tissue and skin of the forehead and brow. 

 Freckles- A small patch of light brown color on the skin, often becoming more pronounced through exposure to the sun.

Mottled Skin- Also called livedo reticularis, is skin that has patchy and irregular colors. The skin may have red and purple marks, streaks, or spots. It may also have a marbled appearance with different colors.

Numbing Cream- A topical anesthetic that is used to numb the surface of a body part.

Salicylic Acid- Works by loosening and breaking apart desmosomes (attachments between cells in the outer layers of the skin).This action encourages exfoliation of skin and unclogging of pores. This acid is also lipophilic, which means it can penetrate oily skin and clogged pores, resulting in a deep cleaning.

Inflammation- a localized physical condition in which part of the body becomes reddened, swollen, hot, and often painful, especially as a reaction to injury or infection.

Porphyria- Refers to a group of disorders that result from a buildup of natural chemicals that produce porphyrin in your body. Porphyrins are essential for the function of hemoglobin- a protein in your red blood cells that links to porphyrin, binds iron, and carries oxygen to your organs and tissues.

Hypersensitivity- Refers to undesirable reactions produced by the normal immune system, including allergies and autoimmunity.

Wavelength- The power of a laser beam depends on the energy levels of the electrons in the atoms of the material used to produce it. The shorter the wavelength of the light, the higher the energy of the photon. Ultraviolet radiation for lasers consists of wavelengths between 180 and 400 nm. The visible region consists of radiation with wavelengths between 400 and 700 nm. This is the portion we call visible light. The infrared region of the spectrum consists of radiation with wavelengths between 700 nm and 1 mm.

Blue LED Light- Most often used to treat acne. It may do this by reducing activity in the sebaceous glands, so they produce less of the oil that can plug the hair follicles, leading to acne. Blue light may also kill acne-causing bacteria.

Green LED Light- Absorbed into the skin where it has a calming effect. It helps to lighten hyper-pigmentation spots revealing a brighter complexion. The calming effect also has anti-inflammatory properties that soothe the surface of the skin.

Red LED Light- Light therapy promoted to increase tissue repair and healing. Can be used to treat skin issues, such as wrinkles, scars, and persistent wounds, among other conditions.

Melanin- Dark brown to black pigment occurring in the hair, skin, and iris of the eye in people and animals. It is responsible for tanning of skin exposed to sunlight.

Fibroblasts- The most common type of cell found in connective tissue. Fibroblasts secrete collagen proteins that are used to maintain a structural framework for many tissues. They also play an important role in healing wounds.

Photosensitivity- An extreme sensitivity to ultraviolet (UV) rays from the sun and other light sources. Most people are at risk of developing sunburn during long exposure to sunlight.

Stem Cells- Are cells with the potential to develop into many different types of cells in the body. They serve as a repair system for the body. They have the potential to become specialized cells, such as muscle cells, blood cells, and brain cells.

Skin Resurfacing- The superficial abrasion of the epidermis. This skin aggression induces a natural skin healing process and stimulates the neocollagenesis in the dermis. The collagen and elastin production contribute to a smoother, even skin and blemishes are faded.

Congested Skin- The build-up of dead skin cells, sweat, impurities, and sebum in the pores. As this debris builds up, if it's unable to leave the skin it becomes trapped and leads to blackheads, uneven skin texture and a dull appearance.

Sunspots- Are flat brown spots that develop on areas of your skin that are exposed to the sun. They're also known as liver spots.

Lactic Acid- Brightens, smooths, and evens skin, while also making it look firmer. It helps reduce the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles, and dark spots. It exfoliates by loosening the bonds between dead skin cells to reveal a more radiant complexion.

Glycolic Acid- It helps shed dead skin cells and reveal the newer, brighter layers underneath by acting on the stratum corneum (the outermost layer of skin). By stimulating collagen production, it helps skin feel firmer and minimizes fine lines and wrinkles.

Resorcinol- Works by breaking down rough, scaly, or hardened skin. Resorcinol also disinfects the skin to help fight infection. 

Antioxidants- Are substances that help protect the skin's surface from oxidative damage caused by free radicals and environmental aggressors like UV and pollution. Antioxidants are often found in skin care product formulas because of their powerful anti-aging benefits.

Male Brazilian- Includes removing all hair from the scrotum, perineum, and anal region. The results typically last for about four to six weeks.

Acne Vulgaris- A common chronic skin disease involving blockage and/or inflammation of pilosebaceous units (hair follicles and their accompanying sebaceous gland). Acne can present as noninflammatory lesions, inflammatory lesions, or a mixture of both, affecting mostly the face but also the back and chest.

Pimple- A small pustule or papule. Pimples develop when sebaceous glands, or oil glands, become clogged and infected, leading to swollen, red lesions filled with pus. Also known as spots or zits, pimples are a part of acne.

Keratosis- An area of skin marked by overgrowth of horny tissue.

Collagen Fiber- A type of biological fiber that is characteristically white and composed of collagen. It is typically arranged in branching bundles of indefinite length. It is the most predominant type of connective tissue fiber. It is a strong insoluble fiber.

Lesions- An abnormal change in structure of an organ or part due to injury or disease.

Mites- Are tiny parasites that feed and live on or under your skin. Mange can itch and appear as red bumps or blisters. You can get mange from animals or from human-to-human contact. A common type of mange in humans is known as scabies. Most cases of mange and scabies affect only your skin and are treatable.

Cosmetic Procedure- Includes techniques, both surgical and nonsurgical to enhance appearance.