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The ultimate beauty dictionary: all beauty terms explained

  • 23 min reading time
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In the beauty dictionary, we explain all the terms about hair, makeup, skincare, and curls! In the beauty industry, new trends and terms regularly appear. Chances are you’ve heard of baking or micellar (or maybe even used them), but do you know exactly what they are? Stay up-to-date and check all the terms you need to know! 

 

HAIR TERMS ABC

We’ve all been there: hair crisis. If you have long hair, you want short hair. If you have short hair, you want long hair. The same goes for brown and blonde hair. There are so many different terms and styles that it’s hard to keep track. That’s why we’ve put everything together for you in a clear overview!

 

Babylights - This is a coloring technique where very fine and thin highlights are placed around the hairline and crown. The highlights are lighter than your own hair color, creating a refreshing effect.

 

Balayage - Balayage is a coloring technique that gives your hair a soft and natural look. The dye and your own hair color blend beautifully. The advantage of balayage is that you don’t have noticeable roots.

 

Bangs - Bangs is the same as a fringe. The front hair strands are cut so they fall over the forehead, usually down to the eyebrows. There are different styles of bangs. You can have straight bangs, but they can also fall diagonally.

 

Beach waves - Beach waves is a hair term that stands for loose, messy, and wild waves in the hair. You can create a beach look yourself by using salt spray.

 

Big Chop - This term means cutting off a large part of your hair. You often do this when your hair is very damaged. By doing a big chop, you remove the damaged parts of your hair and have fresh, healthy hair again. This gives your hair the chance to grow back healthy.

 

Blondering - Blondering is the bleaching of the pigments in the hair. You often do this with a bleaching powder and developer, usually done by the hairdresser. After bleaching, you often use a silver shampoo to keep the hair blonde and fresh. 

 

Blunt cut - Blunt cut is a straight-cut hairstyle without layers. This look can give you a full and strong appearance. 

 

Blow dry - Blow dry is styling your hair using a hairdryer or other heat tools. You can add a lot of volume this way. 

 

Curtain Bangs - Curtain bangs can be compared to bangs, but they are slightly different. Curtain bangs fall along your forehead instead of over it. This allows you to style bangs in more ways – either falling over the forehead or like a 'curtain' along your face. Curtain bangs are currently a big trend and you see them on many people. 

 

Coupe Soleil - This is a stronger form of highlights. The hair is bleached using a cap with holes instead of foil. 

 

Dip-Dye - This is a specific way of applying hair dye. Your hair has one color at the top and fades into another color towards the bottom. These can be any colors: for example, blonde at the roots and pink at the tips. 

 

Frizz - In other words - frizzy hair. The hair feels dry, is not smooth or shiny. It looks messy and static. You hair then does not blend with the surrounding hair, creating a blurry or irregular texture

 

Fading - This is a men's haircut where the bottom of the hair is shaved very short like stubble, gradually growing into a full hair cut towards the top. So from bottom to top, there is progressively more hair.

 

Finger Waves - This is a curling method where the hair is curled in an S shape against the scalp and fixed in place, creating a specific curl.

 

Blow-drying - This is a device that allows you to dry your hair quickly and easily. When blow-drying, you often use a heat protector to prevent heat damage. 

 

Highlights - Highlights is a coloring technique where strands of your hair get a lighter color than your natural hair color. You can have this done at the salon or do it yourself at home.

 

Cuticle - This is the outermost layer of the hair and protects your hair from external damage.

 

Hair pattern - The hair pattern indicates whether you have loose, medium, or tight hair texture.  

 

Hair coloring - This is when the hair is dyed a different color.

 

Keratin - Keratin is a protein. When hair is damaged, the keratin level decreases. With damaged hair, you can give the hair more keratin to repair it. It is often an ingredient in hair products. 

 

Lowlights - This is the opposite of highlights. Strands of hair are dyed a darker color than the current hair color.

 

Porosity - Porosity indicates how well your hair can absorb moisture. Hair with high porosity needs a lot of moisture and absorbs moisture very quickly. Low porosity hair actually doesn’t need that much and can retain moisture well. The indicate how well your hair can absorb moisture or protein. Low porosity hair needs hydration, high porosity hair needs protein. 

 

Silicones - These are ingredients added to hair products to make the hair shine. They give you smooth and frizz-free hair. They form a layer around the hair that protects (or seals) it, which is why they are often added to heat protectors. 

 

Sulfates - This is an ingredient often found in shampoos. It consists of salts and helps to degrease the hair. It cleanses the scalp and hair of sebum, impurities, etc. 

 

Teasing - Teasing is a technique to give your hair more volume. You brush against the hair growth direction at the roots with a comb. This gives your hair much more volume.

 

Toning - By toning your hair, you give it an even blonder and stronger color.

 

 

CURLS ABC

Curly girls, take note! In the curl world, there are plenty of terms related to curly hair, but chances are you’re reading them for the first time. We’ve listed the best terms about curls for you:

 

Bungee Bands - These are a type of hair elastics that prevent your hair from breaking. The elastics have 2 hooks at the ends, which you use to secure the elastic.

 

CG-proof - If a product is labeled CG-proof, it means the products are suitable for the Curly Girl Method routine. 

 

Co-Wash - This is mainly done by those who follow the Curly Girl Method. You wash your hair only with conditioner, skipping shampoo. 

 

Curly Girl Method - This is a term for the ideal hair routine for girls with curls. This routine ensures your curls look their best and is completely natural. This method focuses on which ingredients to use or avoid and hair routines that suit your curl type. 

 

CG-proof - Usually indicated on a product, meaning the product is approved for the Curly Girl Method, a hair routine for girls with curls.

 

Crunch - Some styling products can sometimes leave a hard or crunchy feeling in your hair once it’s dried. This is called "crunch.".

 

Deep conditioner - This is an important method for caring for your curls. Every 2 weeks, you replace your conditioner with a hair mask to nourish your hair even deeper.

 

Diffuser - A diffuser is a super handy attachment for the hairdryer. You attach it to the end of your hairdryer so your hair isn’t directly damaged by the heat. Ideal for girls with dry and/or frizzy hair. 

 

Dusting - This term is often used in hair salons. This cutting method ensures that the hair is gently trimmed by maintaining the length and only cutting off the damaged ends.

 

Shrinkage - This happens when your hair shrinks a bit after washing or swimming. Because the hair is wet, it is difficult to see the true length of the hair. 

 

Kinky hair - This is another name for the highest curl type, namely type 4C. These are tight spiral curls where the hairs are twisted around themselves.

 

Frizzy hair - This is hair with lots of small curls that together form a large dense mass. 

 

Curl type 2 - This curl type is often lightly wavy and not too heavy. It is easy to style and also includes beach waves.

 

Curl type 3 - This curl type has fuller curls and a clear curl pattern.

 

No-Poo - This is a method where no shampoo is used. You only rinse your hair with warm water.

 

Pineapple - This is a method with which you make a good high ponytail without holding your hair too tight or damaging it too much. Ideal for girls with lots of curls.

 

Pre-Poo - This means covering your hair for half an hour with, for example, oil or nourishing products, for a deep cleansing of your hair.

 

Relaxing - This is a treatment where a perm is applied. For example, you get permanently straight hair, temporarily changing the texture of your own hair. 

 

Scrunch - This is a styling technique to create an even fuller look. You squeeze your hair from bottom to top, up to the roots.

 

Second day hair - If you are reading this, you will probably find tips and tricks that ensure your hair looks just as good on the second day after washing as on the first. Washing your hair every day can be damaging, and this way you keep your hair looking its best without washing it too often. 

 

Transitioning - This is a process where you remove the perms from your hair and ensure that your natural hair grows back. 

 

Moisturizer - This is a product that contains moisturizers. This nourishes the hair well again and restores the moisture balance. 

 

 

SKINCARE-abc

Skincare has many different terms. Often these terms are still quite difficult. Below you will find the beauty dictionary about skincare. This way you find out what the words actually mean and learn more about skincare in an easy way.

 

Antioxidant - Every skin brightens up from a dose of nourishment full of antioxidants. Some antioxidants can protect the skin against UV radiation, while others promote the production of new skin cells or collagen. They also improve the skin's elasticity and can delay the formation of wrinkles.

 

Bi-phase - Bi-phase cleanses the skin in two different phases: the oil phase that even removes the strongest makeup and the water phase to gently cleanse the skin. It is important to shake the bottle before applying the product to a cotton pad.

 

Body lotion - Is a certain type of cream suitable for the entire skin. A body lotion can have multiple properties. Think, for example, of firming the skin or leaving a nice shine.

 

Deodorant - Everyone knows the word deodorant; the product helps to set in a refreshing scent. There are different variants of deodorant. Think, for example, of roll-on deodorant, spray deodorant, and deodorant sticks.

 

Dermatologically tested - Means that the manufacturer has had the product tested on volunteers by (dermatologists). The term does not indicate the test results. Nothing about the quality of the research or the size of the volunteer group is recorded in the law. So there is a difference between dermatologically tested and dermatologically approved.

 

Shower gel - This is a liquid that cares for, hydrates, and cleanses the skin easily in the shower. At Haarspullen.nl we have various types and scents!

 

Toner - A toner is intended to restore the skin's pH balance after the face has been thoroughly is cleansed. A toner is also there to remove the residues of the soap and an initial vitamins and other to bring ingredients into the skin. A toner has a liquid texture and is applied with a cotton pad.

 

Glycerine - Good old glycerine is a humectant, which means it can hold several times its own weight in water. Sounds complicated but that means the moisture in the skin is retained. The moisturizing properties lock the moisture in the skin. This is why Glycerine has a hydrating effect.

 

Skin balm - A balm is a collective term for thick and thin liquid plant-based ingredients. Often a balm has a somewhat thicker consistency. This is often suitable for the somewhat drier skin. This will make the skin feel softer more easily due to the oils and moisture contained in various balms. 

 

Hypoallergenic - Hypoallergenic means less than normal or low allergen. The term is mainly used in the cosmetics industry for products that cause no or few allergic reactions. 

 

Facial care - Cleansing the face is very important. A moisturizing cream, or a nice face mask can be good facial care definitely should not be missing. Always think carefully when cleansing the face, the choosing the right cream and scrubbing well from time to time.

 

Facial cleanser - Cleansing the face is very important. By properly cleansing your face you remove the bacteria and have less chance of pimples or other impurities. Must-have!

 

Face mask - A well-formulated mask ensures your skin does not dry out. After such a mask, your skin feels clean and fresh! Super fun to do on a girls' night with your friends.

 

Skin oil - A skin oil is an oil that helps soften and hydrate the skin. Moreover, it helps care for/fade scars. This can be applied both on the face and on the body.

 

Skin scrub - With a skin scrub, you can reduce pimples and spots, loosen ingrown hairs, and fade scars. Scrubbing is also good for your blood circulation and stimulates the production of new skin cells, which slows down the aging of your skin.

 

HSkin care - Taking care of your skin is very important; this way you maintain your skin well. This is how dead skin cells are removed and you prevent, for example, burning. due to UV radiation. So don’t forget to take good care of your skin and invest time in it!

 

Hyaluronic acid - Hyaluronic acid is the ingredient to combat the first wrinkles. Its moisturizing effect ensures your skin retains its elasticity as long as possible. It helps with better moisture absorption and prevents moisture loss. This gives your skin a healthier appearance.

 

Melanin - This is the pigment that gives hair and skin their color.

 

Micellar - This is a cleanser that you can use to remove makeup or other dirt from your face. It attracts dirt like a magnet.

 

Multi-masking - This is the use of multiple masks for all the different parts of the face. You do this because not every part of your face has the same condition.

 

Non-comedogenic - When a makeup product has a "non-comedogenic" label, it means this makeup contains ingredients that do not clog pores. Always good to keep an eye on!

 

Panthenol - Panthenol is a nice ingredient for sensitive skin. Panthenol, also known as provitamin B5, is an ingredient found in many beauty products. Panthenol is known for its ability to attract moisture.

 

pH-neutral - The pH value of a product indicates how acidic or basic a solution is. A product is called pH-neutral if it has a value of exactly 7.

 

Selftan - A self-tanning lotion, mousse, or gel gives you a brown color. There are also gradual self-tanners that you need to use more often to get a tan. This way, it looks like you’ve spent hours in the sun ;)

 

Skincare - You’ve probably heard that it’s important to have a good skincare routine. And that’s definitely true; it’s important to take good care of your face and skin. The products should match your skin type and you should like using them! With good skincare, you thoroughly cleanse your skin, hydrate regularly, and can start the day feeling refreshed.

 

Tanning - Tanning is a word the girls among us surely understand ;) Everyone can use a nice tan color. Tanning makes your skin a bit browner and gets you ready for summer even in winter!

 

Sunscreen - Sunscreen is a cream applied all over the skin to protect against sunlight. Sunscreen contains an ultraviolet filter, which means only a small portion of the radiation can penetrate the skin. This reduces the chance of getting sunburned.

 

 

MAKEUP ABC

We all know makeup by now. It has become so normal nowadays and you see it everywhere. It comes in all kinds of products, shapes, and colors. From eyeshadow to lipstick. You can go in any direction with it. Often you hear many different terms and names. Below we have listed everything for you:

 

Eye crease - Also known as: crease. The area where the movable eyelid transitions into the upper part of the eye (the bone). With makeup, you can create multiple dimensions.

 

Baking - A makeup technique where you apply large amounts of powder to set the base makeup. This is usually done on the areas you want to highlight, such as the cheekbones.

 

Blush - Blush is a makeup product that gives color to your face. You usually apply it on your cheeks or cheekbones. With blush, you can add some accents to your face along with the contours. It creates a healthy flush.

 

Bronzer - This gives the same effect as a blush. It adds some color and accents to your face. You apply bronzer to the sides of your face. As if you just came back from the sun ;)

 

Beauty blender - A beauty blender is a sponge that you can use for many things. For example, you can apply foundation with it and blend it out so it becomes even and beautiful. You can also apply concealer or highlighter with it. The sponge expands as soon as you put water on it.

 

Blending - There are different ways of blending. You can blend foundation over your face with a sponge so your skin absorbs the foundation well. Blending eyeshadow means smudging the eyeshadow to create a nice gradient effect or to soften sharp lines.

 

Contouring - Or: shaping. This is a technique where you apply makeup that creates shadows on your face. This can make it look slimmer or bring out the right features. You can contour your cheekbones, along your jawline, or your nose to slim it down.

 

Cupid’s bow - The cupid’s bow is located above your lip and below your nose. You can apply highlighter here to make it more noticeable.

 

Concealer - A concealer works a bit differently than foundation. The concealer is more strongly colored than foundation. You use concealer for smaller spots, for example to cover pimples or dark circles. Concealers come in solid and liquid forms.

 

Eyeliner - An eyeliner is a makeup product that makes your eyes stand out. There are many different eyeliners, from thick brushes to thin ones, and in colors from black to blue. You usually apply eyeliner above your eye, with or without a wing. You can decide how thick you make the line.

 

Foundation - Foundation is a base makeup and comes in many colors. Foundation is used to give your face an even and covering tone, matching your own skin color. Foundation is available in different forms, such as powder foundation, liquid foundation, and tinted day cream.

 

Fall out - Fall out is eyeshadow that falls down from your brush. When you use eyeshadow, the powder is on your brush, and when you apply it, some may fall down. This often lands on your cheeks or under your eyes. You can easily remove this with a brush.

 

Face powder - Face powder is usually used after foundation to mattify the skin. The powder ensures that the makeup stays in place better and that the skin does not become shiny. 

 

Highlighter - Highlighter is a product you use to create a glow on your cheeks or other parts of your face. For example, you can use it on your nose or the inner corners of your eyes. Highlighter is most often used on the cheekbones.

 

Lipstick - Lipstick is a stick that comes in a tube with a cap. You apply this to your lips for a beautiful color. You can also use lipstick to make your lips look fuller.

 

Lip gloss - Lip gloss is a bit different from lipstick. It is thinner and shiny. Lip gloss comes in a transparent form or in a color. You can also apply lip gloss over your lipstick to give it a shine.

 

Lipliner - Lipliner is a perfect addition to your lipstick. It is a pencil you can apply to your lips. You can use it to contour and it also accentuates the color of your lipstick.

 

Mascara - Mascara is a makeup product used for your eyelashes. You apply mascara with a brush or comb that makes your lashes fuller and longer. There are different types and colors of mascara.

 

Eyeliner pencil - With an eyeliner pencil, you can do a lot. You draw a line along the lashes to make your eyes more noticeable and expressive. You can choose how bold you want it. The darker and thicker, the more dramatic your eyes will appear. 

 

Eyeshadow - Eyeshadow is makeup used to make your eyes more striking. It is applied with a brush or fingertip on and above the upper eyelid. Eyeshadow is available in various powder and cream forms and comes in many colors.

 

Primer - Primer is a must for your makeup look. You always start with a primer before applying makeup. It ensures your look stays put all day. 

 

Smudging - Smudging is the blending of your (often eye) makeup so that it transitions smoothly and beautifully. You can smudge as much as you want. From eyeliner to eyeshadow. You can use a brush for this, but it can also be done with your fingers.

 

Swatching - You see this everywhere on Instagram with influencers. You show with a swatch how a color looks. Some products can have a very different color when you take them out of the pot and apply them to your face. When you swatch first, you can already see this. You basically test the product on your hand or face to see the true color.

 

Tightlining - You color a line under the lashes of your upper eyelid black, for example with an eyeliner pencil. This gives a beautiful effect to the eyes.

 

Eyebrow pencil - A You use an eyebrow pencil to enhance the color of your eyebrow hairs and shape your eyebrows. With an eyebrow pencil, you can draw your eyebrows and also add extra hairs where you have none.

 

Eyebrow tint - Eyebrow tint is a dye that you can apply to your eyebrows, making them look much fuller and thicker. Eyebrow tint can last for a while.

 

Eyebrow serum - An eyebrow serum nourishes the eyebrow hairs and is very suitable for improving thinning or misshapen eyebrows. Eyebrow serum not only improves the eyebrows but also protects and hydrates them.

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