Aesthetic Terms Glossary

Glossary of Aesthetics and Skin Care Terms

Welcome! You're likely already familiar with the world of aesthetics, and to further assist you, we've compiled an aesthetics glossary.

This glossary aims to clarify and define common terms and buzzwords used in aesthetics and skincare. We cover everything from technical terms to everyday language, starting with 'Aesthetician' and going all the way to 'Wrinkles' (we're still on the lookout for 'Z' words).

Our goal is to make these terms understandable for everyone, whether you're a medical professional or just beginning to explore the aesthetics industry. Here, you'll find the essential vocabulary explained in simple, straightforward language.
  • Patient Care Coordinator
    A patient care coordinator is a pivotal figure in aesthetic skin care, responsible for managing patient care, communication, and enhancing the treatment experience.
  • Peeling
    Peeling is a skincare process that removes dead skin cells, promoting cell renewal and enhancing skin's health and appearance.
  • Pharmacodynamic Synergism
    Pharmacodynamic synergism is an interaction that occurs when two or more drugs produce a greater effect when used together.
  • Photoaging
    Photoaging refers to skin damage caused by prolonged exposure to the sun's UV rays, manifesting as wrinkles, spots and loss of elasticity.
  • Photoprotection
    Photoprotection refers to the measures we utilize to mitigate damage caused by sun exposure on our skin.
  • Phototherapy
    Phototherapy is a dermatological procedure utilizing light to treat various skin conditions, enhancing aesthetic appeal.
  • Physician Assistant
    A licensed medical professional trained to practice medicine including aesthetic skin care under the supervision of a physician.
  • Plastic Surgeon
    A plastic surgeon is a specialized medical professional who performs surgical procedures to alter, restore or enhance physical appearance.
  • Platelet Rich Plasma
    Platelet Rich Plasma (PRP) is a therapy that uses patient's own platelets to accelerate healing and rejuvenate skin.
  • Poly-L-lactic acid (PLLA)
    Poly-L-lactic Acid (PLLA) is a biodegradable, synthetic substance often used in aesthetic skincare for enhancing facial volume and stimulating collagen production.
  • Polylactic acid
    An in-depth look at Polylactic acid, a key component used in aesthetic skin care treatments.
  • Polysaccharide
    Polysaccharides are complex carbohydrates that play a crucial role in maintaining skin health and texture.
  • Potential Z
    Potential Z refers to the scientific concept of electrical potential, crucial in advanced aesthetic skincare treatments.
  • Pressotherapy
    Pressotherapy is a non-invasive, painless procedure used in aesthetic skin care to improve blood circulation and lymphatic drainage.
  • Proteoglycans
    Proteoglycans are large molecules present in the skin, playing a vital role in maintaining its hydration and elasticity.
  • Radiofrequency
    Radiofrequency is a skin treatment technology that uses energy waves to stimulate collagen production and tighten the skin.
  • Randomized Clinical Trial
    A detailed look at how Randomized Clinical Trials contribute to the development and validation of aesthetic skin care treatments.
  • Reducer
    Reducer is a term used in aesthetic skin care to describe substances or treatments that minimize the appearance of skin imperfections.
  • Reticular Layer
    The reticular layer is the deeper part of the dermis, offering strength and elasticity to the skin.
  • Retinoid Therapy
    A comprehensive guide to retinoid therapy, its benefits and role in aesthetic skin care.
  • Retinol
    Retinol is a form of Vitamin A widely known for its strong anti-aging and skin-enhancing properties.
  • Rhinoplasty
    Rhinoplasty, often referred to as a 'nose job', is a surgical procedure that reshapes or resizes the nose for aesthetic or functional purposes.
  • Salicytic acid
    Salicylic acid is a Beta Hydroxy Acid (BHA) widely recognized for its remarkable benefits in aesthetic skincare, particularly in treating acne and improving skin texture.
  • Scars
    Scars are a natural part of the body's healing process, representing the final stage in wound repair.
  • Sclerotherapy
    Sclerotherapy is a non-surgical procedure used to treat varicose and spider veins, enhancing the aesthetic appearance of skin.
  • Sebum
    Sebum is an oily substance secreted by sebaceous glands to protect and moisturize the skin.
  • Semaglutide
    Semaglutide is a medication primarily used to control blood sugar in people with type 2 diabetes but recently discovered for its potential benefits in weight loss and anti-aging treatments.
  • Semax
    Semax is a peptide known for its cognitive-enhancing and neuroprotective properties.
  • Serotonin
    Serotonin is a neurotransmitter with significant roles in the body. It influences mood, sleep, and notably, skin health.
  • Serum
    Serum is a lightweight skincare product that delivers powerful ingredients directly to the skin, promoting beauty and health.
  • Serum
    Serum is a concentrated skin-care product with active ingredients targeting specific concerns.
  • Seven Skin Method
    A K-Beauty skincare routine involving the application of toner in seven layers for hydrated, plump skin.
  • Sheet Mask
    A sheet mask is a face-shaped fabric soaked in skin-nourishing serum for deep skincare treatment.
  • Shock waves
    Shock waves refer to high-energy sound waves used in aesthetic skincare for non-surgical treatments.
  • Skin Resurfacing
    Skin resurfacing is a category of aesthetic skin care procedures that rejuvenate the skin's appearance.
  • Skin Whitening
    Skin whitening refers to the use of products to lighten skin tone and reduce pigmentation.
  • Squamous Cell Layer
    The squamous cell layer, also known as the stratum spinosum, is the second deepest layer of the skin's epidermis playing a crucial role in skin health.
  • Stem cells
    An in-depth guide to understanding the role of stem cells in aesthetic skin care.
  • Stratum Corneum
    The stratum corneum is the outermost layer of the skin, playing a crucial role in protecting against external damages and maintaining skin health.
  • Stretch marks
    Stretch marks are long, narrow streaks or stripes that develop on the skin when it is rapidly stretched beyond its elasticity.
  • Subcutaneous Injection
    Subcutaneous injection is a method of administering medication under the skin, often used in aesthetic skin care.
  • Tesamorelin
    Tesamorelin is a synthetic peptide used to reduce excess abdominal fat in HIV patients.
  • Tesofensine
    Tesofensine is a drug initially developed for Alzheimer's and Parkinson's, now explored for weight loss.
  • Topical Antioxidants
    Topical antioxidants are substances you apply on the skin to neutralize free radicals, providing skin rejuvenation and protection.
  • Tranexamic acid
    Tranexamic acid is an effective skincare ingredient that aids in reducing pigmentation and promoting a balanced complexion.
  • Treatment
    Treatment in aesthetic skincare refers to procedures or routines aimed at improving the skin's health and appearance.
  • Trigeminal Nerve
    The trigeminal nerve, a key facial nerve, significantly influences aesthetic skincare practices.
  • Tripeptide-29
    Tripeptide-29 is a synthetic peptide known for stimulating collagen production, improving skin elasticity and reducing wrinkles.
  • UVA
    UVA refers to ultraviolet A rays, known for their longer wavelengths and skin aging effects.
  • UVB
    UVB, short for ultraviolet B, represents a band of the UV spectrum causing skin damage and aging.