Glossary Of Terms

Welcome to our comprehensive Glossary of Terms page, designed to provide you with a better understanding of the wide range of skin conditions covered on our website. This easy-to-navigate resource offers clear definitions and explanations for specialized vocabulary, technical terms, and various skin condition-related concepts.

Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a returning user, our glossary is a convenient reference point to help you navigate the complex world of skin health. Organized alphabetically or by skin condition, this glossary page aims to simplify your learning journey and enhance your overall experience on our website.

As our website grows, we are committed to regularly updating this glossary to ensure you always have the most accurate and up-to-date information. Our goal is to empower you with the knowledge needed to make informed decisions about your skin health and confidently navigate the various skin conditions we cover.

Acne

  1. Acne: A skin disorder characterized by blackheads, whiteheads, pimples, and cysts on various body parts, caused by clogged hair follicles due to excess oil, dead skin cells, and bacteria.
  2. Comedonal acne: A type of acne marked by non-inflammatory lesions, such as blackheads and whiteheads, resulting from oil buildup and dead skin cells within hair follicles.
  3. Inflammatory acne: A type of acne characterized by red, swollen pimples (papules and pustules) caused by bacterial infection and inflammation within hair follicles.
  4. Cystic acne: A severe form of acne characterized by large, painful, inflamed cysts that develop deep within the skin, often leading to scarring.
  5. Sebaceous glands: Glands in the skin that produce sebum, an oily substance that lubricates hair and skin.
  6. Propionibacterium acnes: A type of bacteria naturally present on the skin, which can increase within clogged hair follicles, leading to inflammation and the formation of acne.
  7. Salicylic acid: A beta-hydroxy acid that aids in skin exfoliation and unclogging pores, commonly used in over-the-counter acne treatments.
  8. Benzoyl peroxide: An antimicrobial substance used in acne treatments that eradicate acne-causing bacteria and unclog pores.
  9. Glycolic acid: An alpha-hydroxy acid that contributes to skin exfoliation and enhances texture, often found in acne treatments.
  10. Topical retinoids: Substances that help to unblock pores and stimulate cell turnover, reducing the occurrence of acne lesions. Examples include adapalene, tretinoin, and tazarotene.
  11. Topical antibiotics: Medications like clindamycin and erythromycin are applied to the skin to minimize inflammation and eradicate acne-causing bacteria.
  12. Oral antibiotics: Medications, such as tetracycline and doxycycline, are taken by mouth to target acne-causing bacteria and alleviate inflammation.
  13. Hormonal treatments: Medications, such as oral contraceptives and spironolactone, that regulate hormone levels, potentially reducing excessive oil production and improving acne symptoms.
  14. Isotretinoin: A potent oral medication used for severe cystic acne cases that reduces oil production, cell turnover, and inflammation.
  15. Chemical peels: Procedures involving the application of a chemical solution to the skin to cause exfoliation and eventual peeling, revealing smoother, less blemished skin beneath.
  16. Microdermabrasion: A technique that uses a machine to exfoliate the skin’s surface, removing dead skin cells and improving overall skin texture.
  17. Light and laser therapy: Treatments that target acne-causing bacteria, reducing inflammation and promoting skin healing.
  18. Non-comedogenic: A term used to describe skincare and cosmetic products formulated to avoid clogging pores.
  19. Niacinamide: A form of vitamin B3 that helps reduce inflammation, regulate oil production, and improve the skin’s barrier function.
  20. Tea tree oil: A natural oil known for its antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties, used to soothe irritated skin and eliminate acne-causing bacteria.
  21. Green tea extract: A substance derived from green tea, rich in antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds, that can help reduce redness and inflammation associated with acne.
  22. Azelaic acid: A naturally occurring acid that helps to reduce inflammation, unclog pores and fade acne scars.
  23. Hyperpigmentation: Darkening of the skin due to an increase in melanin production, which can occur as a result of acne, sun exposure, or other factors.
  24. Microneedling: A minimally invasive skin treatment that uses tiny needles to create micro-injuries in the skin, promoting collagen production and skin regeneration.
  25. Laser therapy: A treatment that uses focused light energy to remove the top layer of skin and stimulate collagen production, which can help reduce the appearance of acne scars and improve skin texture.
  26. Subcision: A surgical technique that uses a needle to break up scar tissue beneath the skin’s surface, allowing the scar to rise and become more even with the surrounding skin.
  27. Non-comedogenic makeup: Makeup products that are formulated to avoid clogging pores, making them suitable for acne-prone skin.
  28. Mineral makeup: Makeup products that use minerals as their primary ingredients can provide good coverage without irritating the skin or worsening acne.
  29. Anti-inflammatory diet: A diet that emphasizes foods that help reduce inflammation in the body, such as fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean meats, and healthy fats. This type of diet may contribute to maintaining overall skin health.
  30. High-glycemic-index foods: Foods that cause a rapid increase in blood sugar levels, which some research suggests may be linked to acne development. Examples include white bread, sugary snacks, and processed foods.