So you’re familiar with CTM (cleansing, toning, moisturising) and have been religiously following it! But that’s not the only beauty term you need to be familiar with. Do you often read ingredients on your skincare products and wonder what they mean? Why bother when you have us! We have decoded beauty terminologies so you won’t have to! Here’s the beauty glossary you’ve been looking for.
AHAs
Alpha hydroxy acids or AHAs are used in skincare products to get help get rid of dead skin, fine lines and wrinkles. Products that contain AHAs also brighten the complexion and improve the texture of the skin. These can be naturally derived through citric fruits and milk.
AC
If you use a Korean skincare product in your routine chances are you may have noticed the term AC. In simple terms AC stands for Acne Care! Yes, that simple. Now you know why the beauty shop attendant handed you this product.
AM:PM
Decoding this isn’t too difficult, however if you haven’t discovered what it means yet. Products that have AM written on it are to be used in the morning and those with the PM mark on it should be used at night.
Broad spectrum
UVA rays cause premature aging while UVB rays causes burning. A broad spectrum sunscreen will protect you from both. Look for a broad spectrum sunscreen if you want protection from both.
Non-comedogenic
Those with oily skin are prone to acne, breakouts and blackheads. A product designed for this skin type will usually have the word non-comedogenic on it. It means that the product does not clog pores which are usually responsible for increasing acne.
Written by Sanya Hamdani on Jan 16, 2019
Sanya Hamdani is a skincare enthusiast and lipstick hoarder, she truly believes no two red lipsticks look exactly alike. With a Master's degree in Communication & Journalism and 5+ years of digital writing experience up her sleeve, Sanya has some of the biggest beauty experts in the country on her speed dial. When she's not swatching products or writing about the latest trends in beauty, you will find her watching F.R.I.E.N.D.S. or cooking up a storm in the kitchen.