HomeA-Z of terms and ingredients

Baffled by technical terms and jargon?
Use this section to understand what it all means.

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Alcohol-free claims

"Alcohol-free" is commonly understood as meaning "free from ethanol".

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Absorption of chemicals

Cosmetic products are carefully formulated to ensure ingredients are delivered to the appropriate site on the skin or hair. The skin is an effective barrier against penetration which is why even today most medicines have to be swallowed or injected and very few can be absorbed through the skin from topical patches.

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Advertising Standards Authority (ASA)

The Advertising Standards Authority is the independent body set up by the advertising industry to police the rules laid down in the advertising codes. The ASA is committed to protecting consumers and creating a level playing field for advertisers.

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Anti-ageing

As more is learned about the process of cell ageing, so this knowledge can be applied to products designed to minimise the consequences.

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Arsenic in make-up

Arsenic is NOT found in cosmetic products.

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Artificial nails

Also sometimes known as "fake" or "false" nails.

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Asbestos

Asbestos is not allowed in cosmetic products.

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Alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs)

Found in fruit such as grapes and lemons, as well as in sugar cane and milk. Often known as fruit acids, they are used at low concentrations to gently speed up the skin's normal exfoliation process. The result is a shedding of dry surface skin cells and an improved appearance and skin feel. At concentrations higher than used in cosmetic products, irritation and peeling can occur.

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Aerosols

Top tips for using aerosols safely

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