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Material used for grinding, polishing, shaping etc through the action of rubbing. Abrasives are often used in toothpastes and exfoliating scrubs.

Substances used in cosmetics to absorb water or other substances.

Corrosive organic or inorganic substances with a pH less than 7 that donate hydrogen ions in an aqueous solution. Cosmetics with a low acid level would cause skin irritation.

Having a pH between 7 and 14, with 14 being the most alkaline.

An organic molecule consisting only of carbon and hydrogen atoms in straight or branched chains, where the carbon atoms in the chain are linked by single bonds. Alkanes occur naturally in petroleum and natural gas. Examples include butane, hexane, methane, pentane and propane.

Ammonia derivatives that contain nitrogen.

An amphoteric substance can function as an acid or base. Amphoteric surfactants can have different ionisation states in solution, anionic, cationic, or non-ionic, depending on the water’s pH.

In anionic surfactants the water hating (hydrophobic) part of the molecule carries a negative charge. Anionic surfactants are most widely used for shampoos, dishwashing liquids and laundering. Examples include alkyl sulphates, alkyl ethoxylate sulphates and soap.

Compound used to prevent clumping or caking in a product.

A substance that reduces the formation of excess foam, both during production and consumer use.

Added to cosmetic products to prevent or minimise the growth of undesirable microbes on the skin or body.

A molecule capable of slowing or reducing oxidative damage (damage caused by oxygen), such as the damage caused by free radicals. Antioxidants are usually added to cosmetics to prevent their deterioration by exposure to oxygen in the air.

See Antimicrobial.

Prevents the build up of static charges within cosmetics on human surfaces, for example on skin, hair or clothing.

Used to constrict the skin thereby producing a tightening sensation.