Beauty Glossary (E)

Terms and meanings from Echinacea to Exfoliate

Eau de Parfum ... The most concentrated fragrance, usually more costly than eau de toilette because of its concentration.

Eau de Toilette ... A less-concentrated fragrance.

Echinacea ... An oral homeopathic substance thought to boost the immune system.

• Frequently taken for cold or flu symptoms.
• Has anti-itching and soothing properties when used in skin-care products.

Eczema ... A skin condition that causes areas of the skin to become red, itchy and scaly.

• The cause is unknown and it can affect any part of the body.
• The condition may be short-lived (acute) or long term (chronic), and is usually treated with topical anti-inflammatory medications available OTC or by prescription.

Elastin ... A surface protective agent used in cosmetics to alleviate the effects of dry skin.

Electrolysis ... Use of electricity to dissolve hair roots

Emollient ... A substance that softens and soothes the skin.

Emulsifier ... A thickening agent added to products to change their physical composition. For example, it can turn a lotion into a cream.

Epidermabrasion ... Skin peel in which the outermost layers of the skin are sloughed off

Epidermis ... The outer layers of the skin.

Epilate ... Remove hair from below the skin's surface

Essence ... Fragrant oil extracted from plant or herb.

Esthetician ... A specialist in the area of beauty

Eucalyptus ... A mild astringent with antiseptic properties.

Evening Primrose ... Used as an astringent and helpful for reducing skin irritation. Also beneficial for dehydrated skin.

Exfoliate ... To scale off layers of skin.