Grooming ain’t rocket science - but it can be difficult if you don't understand the terminology. Here's an alphabetical listing of some of the most commonly used terms.

Acne
A common skin condition, especially among adolescents. Usually characterised by pimples, spots or blemishes on the face, chest or back. The most common cause of acne is a buildup of oil, dead skin cells or the presence of bacteria deep within the pores of the skin.

Alpha Hydroxy Acids (AHA's)
A naturally occuring or synthetic compound that is widely used in both men’s and women’s skincare products for their exfoliating properties. With continued use, they may reduce the visible signs of aging and improve the general look and feel of the skin. Glycolic acid is perhaps the most commonly used and well-known member of the AHA family.

Antioxidants
A chemical, such as vitamin A, C or E, that fights off free radicals (molecules that cause damage to the skin). Lecithin, tocopherol, and citric acid are some of the most common antioxidants.

Astringent
A chemical substance used to shrink or contract the pores, keeping excess oil production to a minimum. Especially suited to oily skin types.

Base Note
Refers to the component of a fragrance or perfume that is the most long-lasting. The base notes of a fragrance will remain long after the top and middle notes have evaporated. Base notes are sometimes called low or bottom notes.

Comedone
Technical term for a blackhead.

Cuticle
The soft skin that forms at the base of a fingernail or toenail, where the skin and nail meet.

Dermis
The layer of skin directly beneath the epidermis. Contains the hair follicles, sweat glands, sebaceous glands, apocrine glands and blood vessels.

Epidermis
The outermost layer of the skin.

Exfoliant
Removes dead cells from the surface of the skin.

Free Radicals
While the chemistry behind it is beyond the scope of this guide, the most important thing to note is that free radicals cause damage to your skin. Sun exposure, stress, poor nutrition and smoking can all lead to increased free radical formation (which is why these activities are considered bad for your skin). Unfortunately, free radicals are part of everyday life and there is no way of escaping their negative effects completely. They can, however, be fought off with antioxidants.

Glycolic Acid
One of the most commonly used alpha hydroxy acids (AHA's). Usually manufactured from sugarcane.

Hangnail
A small, loose strip of torn skin near the base of a fingernail or toenail.

Humectant Moisturiser
A moisturiser that absorbs into the skin to promote moisture retention. Suited to oily skin types.

Hypoallergenic
A product that is less likely to provoke an allergic reaction in an allergy sufferer. Products marked as hypoallergenic are more suitable for use by those with sensitive skin.

Middle Note
Refers to the component of a fragrance or perfume that appears shortly after the top note has faded, yet before the base note develops. The middle notes of a fragrance usually determine its character. Middle notes are sometimes called heart notes.

Non-Comedogenic
Term used to describe a product that will not clog the pores (you’ll often see it as a label on moisturizers, creams or body lotions). If you are prone to acne, or have oily skin, then it’s probably a good idea to stick to products that are marked as non-comedogenic.

Occlusive Moisturiser
A moisturiser that deposits oil or silicone on the surface of the skin to prevent moisture from evaporating. Suited to dry skin types.

pH
A measure of the acidity or alkalinity of a solution. A pH of 7 indicates neutrality (pure water). Solutions with pH values lower than 7 are considered acidic, while those with pH values higher than 7 are basic.

Pomade
A product used to style the hair.

Pore
A very small opening in the surface of the skin. Secretes sweat or oil.

Salicylic Acid
A chemical compound often used to treat acne, dandruff, callouses or warts. Also known as beta hydroxy acid (BHA).

Stratum Corneum
The outermost layer of the epidermis.

Sun Protection Factor (SPF)
A measure of the effectiveness of a sunscreen. The higher the SPF, the better the protection against UV-A and UV-B radiation. Choose a sunscreen with an SPF rating of at least 15.

T-Zone
Refers to the part of the face consisting of the forehead, nose, chin and space between the brows. It is a particularly oily area of the face. It is named the T-zone because it's shaped like the letter 'T'.

Top Note
Refers to the component of a fragrance or perfume that appears straight out of the bottle or on initial application to the skin. The top notes of a fragrance evaporate quickly and usually only last 10-20 minutes. Top notes are sometimes called high notes.