If your lotions and potions are starting to sound more like a science experiment than a moisturiser, read on, because the Beauty Bible team demystifies some common beauty buzzwords for you...

Non comodegenic
In simple terms, this pretty much means 'won't clog your pores' There is some complicated science behind this but as long as it means your pores won't get blocked up and cause pimples, who cares!

Ceramides
Ceramides are the substance inside you that protects your skin against moisture loss. When the level of ceramides in your skin drops - usually due to aging - your skin can become dry and hard, contributing to the formation of fine lines and wrinkles. Ceramides are synthetically reproduced as an ingredient for skin care products to combat the ageing process, but these products can be rather on the pricy side due to the difficulty in producing the ceramides.

Glycerin
Glycerin is a natural emollient (something that softens or smoothes the skin) derived from vegetable oils and is a by-product of soap manufacturing. It absorbs moisture from the air and, therefore, helps keep moisture in whatever it is put into and onto - this is why it is added to moisturisers and cleansers.

AHAs
AHAs or Alpha Hydroxy Acids are a group of acids that come from food, like apples and sour milk (yuck!). They work as chemical peelers by clearing off the top layers of dead skin cells through exfoliation. AHAs help to improve the texture of your skin and encourage cell regeneration.

Kojic Acid
Kojic Acid is a natural skin lightener made from a japanese mushroom extract that can fade age spots and lighten your skin - it is a little more gentle than other skin lightening treatments.

Lactic acid
Lactic acid is part of your skin's own natural moisturising formula (it is also what makes your muscles burn when you exercise). So it is great for your skin, and not so great for motivation to exercise!

Retin-A
Retin-A is a vitamin A derivative that acts as a topical anti-acne treatment. It can also be beneficial in removing fine lines. It is available by prescription only as a cream or lotion and is often prescribed as a pre-treatment to a facelift or chemical peel as it helps to enhance the overall texture of the skin.

Hydroquinone 
Hydroquinone is a skin bleaching agent that can reduce the intensity of pigmentation on your skin i.e. freckles and any unevenness due to sun damage. When applied to the skin over a period of several months, the skin temporarily becomes somewhat lighter. It is also used to lighten age spots and acne scars.

Photoageing
Photoageing is damage to the skin due to ongoing exposure to the sun - wrinkles, age spots and fine lines - all the things we don't like and three good reasons to always wear your sunscreen.

Keratin
Keratin is the strongest protein in the skin and is also the dominant protein in hair and nails.