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GLOSSARY

 AN A-Z GUIDE TO ALL YOUR BEAUTY NEEDS

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Oat image
Oat
Known for its soothing properties in cosmetics. In soap, it adds texture for gentle exfoliation.
Oat Beta Glucan
This ingredient provides great moisture-retention capability to the skin.
Occlusive
Occlusive means impenetrable and usually refers to an occlusive shield or film that is spread onto the skin to slow or prevent moisture evaporation. This shield or film is usually made up of materials, such as oils and waxes that cannot be penetrated by water. 
Octapeptide
A peptide that on hydrolysis yields eight amino acids.
Octinoxate
An absorber of ultraviolet B radiation, used topically as a sunscreen.
Octoxynol-9
Anti-inflammatory agent that is used as a spermicidal.
Octyl Methoxycinnamate
A non-PABA sunscreen agent derived from cinnamic acid and manufactured in Switzerland that blocks UVB rays.
Octyl Palmitate
An emollient amplifying ester commonly used as a mineral oil replacement.
Octyl Salicylate
An antiseptic and sunburn preventative.
Octyl Stearate
Provides a barrier between skin and the elements that softens and smoothes the skin. It is used in cosmetics as a thickening agent and emollient.
Octylacrylamide Acrylate Butylaminoethyl Methacrylate Copolymer
Part of cationic system. A fixative that is water soluble if washed within 48 hours after application. It is used for stiffness and high gloss in hair sprays.
Oleic Acid
Olive oil used as an emulsifying agent and to assist absorption of some drugs by the skin.
Olive Oil Image
Olive Oil
Extract of olive and skin smoothener and softener with great penetrating ability. It is used in lipsticks, hairdressings, shampoos, soaps, and conditioners.
Omega-3
Essential fatty acids, these nutrients regulate the body's production of cholesterol, and strengthening cell walls, fortifying them against the invasion of viruses and bacteria. They are essential nutrients for the development of the brain and retina, and in infant development. They improve immune functions, they alleviate arthritis symptoms and inflammation, and they lower the risk for cardiovascular disease. Omega-3 fatty oils also prevent or delay the development of cancer and related tumors and may improve bone growth.
Omega-6
Fatty acids found mainly in sunflower and safflower oils, as well as various nuts and seeds. Omega-6 is consumed more readily than its omega-3 counterpart. In fact, the estimated level of omega-6 present in the body is 20 times that of omega-3. The key type of Omega 6 fatty acid is called GLA (gamma linolenic acid). GLA is a precursor to hormone-like prostaglandins, which are powerful health gladiators cascading through the body performing a wide range of vital anti-inflammatory, anti-infection, anti-spasm functions in addition to reducing the stickiness of blood platelets and reduce the risk of blood clots.
Omega-9
Mono-unsaturated fat mainly found in olive oil. It acts to regulate the immune system. It makes cells healthier and reduces cellular and tissue inflammation, heat, redness, swelling, and pain. Lubricates joints so that even in bone-on-bone situations, pain is reduced and healing promoted.
Organic
Referring to substances that are or have been alive (living plants, animals) and therefore contain carbon molecules in their chemical structure.
Oxidation
The removal of a pair of hydrogen atoms (dehydrogenation) from a molecule.
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