Skin Care Related Terms that begin with the letter A

acid mantel – a barrier of oil and perspiration, created by the sweat and sebaceous glands of the dermis, that protects the body from infections. We can strip this away by using harsh soaps thus disrupting the pH of the skin.

acne – inflammation of the sebaceous glands and hair follicles of the skin producing pimples and pustules.

alpha hydroxy acid – an organic acid containing both OH (alcoholic hydroxyl group) and COOH (carboxyl acid group) groups, for example lactic and tartaric acid. Has the qualities of an alcohol in addition to its acid properties. Alpha refers to the chirality of the molecule.

alpha lipoic acid – one of the most potent and active antioxidants known. Functions as both a water soluble and fat soluble antioxidant. The body actually makes enough alpha lipoic acid to perform some basic metabolic functions. However, it only acts as an antioxidant when it is above the body’s threshold of what it requires for these basic functions. Therefore it must be in excess of these basic needs to perform its important antioxidant functions. The only way to get excess is to take a supplement. It also works to help “recycle” other important antioxidants such as Vitamin C and E.

antioxidant – an agent that inhibits oxidation; neutralizes free radicals. Please see CE Ferulic

arachidonic acid – an unsaturated fatty acid essential in nutrition; the biological precursor of the prostaglandins, the thromboxanes, and the leukotrienes collectively known as the eicosanoids. Eicosanoids are involved in the inflammatory process of the body.

astringent – an agent that tends to constrict tissues, stop secretions or control bleeding.