As with food items, it’s important to be informed about ingredients in the beauty and skincare products we use every day. Doing so can mean the difference between seeing the desired results or causing serious damage to our body.

We know that many of the terms used can be hard to understand, which is why we bring you this list of the 15 most common:

Vegan.

It means that the product isn’t tested on animals nor does it contain any ingredients made from or by animals, such as honey or milk. These kinds of products are perfect for sensitive skin, although keep in mind that vegetable-based products can cause allergic reactions for all skin types.

Toluene.

Used mainly to make nail polish remover, this is a solvent which can irritate the eyes, throat, and lungs. To avoid this, it’s best to look for 3-free products, which eliminate these and other solvents such as formaldehyde and dibutyl phthalate.

Aluminum salts.

These are frequently used in deodorants and antiperspirants because they help to minimize the skin’s pores. However, studies have confirmed that high concentrations of these salts can increase the risk of breast cancer. For this reason, it’s recommended sticking to products whose concentrations of this substance doesn’t exceed 0.6%.

Retinol.

The is the equivalent of vitamin A, used as an antioxidant and to restore collagen. Given the side effects, it should be applied by experts.

Keratin.

It may be vegetable or animal in origin, and it is used for hair restructuring in order to protect it from damage caused by heat or hair dye.

Pro-biotics.

As with food products, they produce vitamins and strengthen our defenses.

Parabens.

This is a kind of preservative commonly used in beauty products. However, its use has been linked with the appearance of tumors, so it’s best to look for products that don’t contain parabens.

Oil-free.

Recommended for use on oily skin or those with a tendency to have open pores, because these products won’t block them, thus preventing acne or blackhead breakouts.

Non-comedogenic.

Just as with oil-free products, these substances aren’t occlusive. This means they won’t block the skin’s pores.

Hypoallergenic.

During manufacturing, an emphasis is placed on selecting ingredients less likely to cause allergic reactions or irritate sensitive skin.

DHA.

Used in tanning products and is a derivative of sugar cane.

Cosmeceuticals.

They contain bio-active ingredients. That is, they’re medical-grade products which must be prescribed by a professional.

Bio.

Products which comply with environmental impact rules and standards.

Antioxidants.

They’re a vital component of any moisturizing cream, since they prevent oxidation caused by free radicals. The most effective are vitamins E and C, retinol, and resveratrol.

Ammonia.

Used in hair dyes and known for its strong smell. Although evaporation eliminates any excess from the hair, it’s important to remember that in large quantities it’s highly toxic.

Now that you know the meaning of these terms, don’t forget to share this valuable information with family and friends!

It’s important to state that all of the information contained in is designed to be exclusively INFORMATIVE, and at no time should it be considered professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Always seek medical advice. Don’t ignore or delay seeking medical advice because of anything you have read on this site.