BUZZWORDS
where we break down confusing
or common beauty terms so you know
if they’re worth the hype.
What Is It Exactly?
Shorthand for “Skin Minimalism”, this trend emphasizes embracing natural skin by simplifying skincare routines and using minimal makeup. The focus is on achieving healthy skin without heavy coverage, promoting a less-is-more approach to beauty.
What’s The Truth Behind It?
We’re all about going back to basics but we say: use what you need! If you have certain skin concerns that require an extra product or two, there’s no shame in that. It’s all about what’s right for you and your skin. (And if in doubt, you can always consult your dermatologist!)
What People Think It Means:
People usually think of “clean beauty” as being non-toxic & “natural”, making these products safer to use.
What It Actually Means:
The problem here is that “clean beauty” is an unregulated term. Typically it refers to products that lack known allergens or otherwise harmful ingredients, therefore indeed making it safer. But it is not a verification of the product actually being safer.
Our Take:
Clean beauty should simply be about being transparent about your product’s ingredients, and why they’re safe, whether they’re manmade or found in nature.
What People Think It Means:
Originating from K-beauty, this term describes exceptionally smooth, clear, and luminous skin that resembles glass. Achieving this look typically involves a meticulous skincare routine focused on intense hydration and layering lightweight, nourishing products.
What Is The Truth Behind It?
Often achieving “glass skin” — being ultra smooth and blemish free— is regarded as being the pinnacle of healthy skin. But in reality, you can have healthy skin without it being “glass”. What matters is that you have a healthy skin barrier to take care of the rest, so some texture is totally fine.
What People Think It Means:
These labels give the appearance that this product has been thoroughly tested and is trusted by professionals.
What It Actually Means:
The key here is to note the difference between this term and “Dermatologist Approved”. Similar to the term, “Clinically Tested”, all this indicates is that the product has, in fact, undergone clinical testing— and nothing about the results of this testing. “Dermatologist Approved” meanwhile, indicates that at least one dermatologist oversaw the clinical evaluation of this product, and approved it as safe & effective.
What People Think It Means:
The practice of taking breaks from skincare products to allow the skin to reset and function naturally without reliance on external products. Proponents believe it can help the skin regain its natural balance and resilience.
What Is The Truth Behind It?
Skin fasting is neither wholly illegitimate nor a universal solution. It may benefit those who overuse products or need to recalibrate their routine, but it's not scientifically necessary for healthy skin function. Instead of full fasting, many dermatologists recommend a "skin diet"—paring down your routine to essentials like cleanser, moisturizer, and sunscreen while skipping potent actives for a short time.
What People Think It Means:
Many people have a general sense that antioxidants help “detox” your body of damage done to your cells.
What It Actually Means:
This definition isn’t totally off, but it’s a bit more complicated. Essentially, antioxidants help neutralize the activity of free radicals, which are unstable molecules that come from external factors (such as UV rays, pollution molecules, etc.) which can damage the integrity of the skin barrier, breaking down collagen, and overall increasing your skin’s sensitivity. (Aka amplifying all of your current skin issues.)
Learn more about antioxidants on our blog >>
What People Think It Means:
With growing concerns about the effects of blue light from screens on skin aging, products claiming to protect against blue light exposure are becoming more prevalent. These often contain antioxidants and specific ingredients aimed at neutralizing potential damage.
What Is The Truth Behind It?
While large amounts of blue light exposure can be damaging, you’re not going to get that damage from screens alone. The main form of light damage you should worry about is UV exposure, which you can protect yourself from with SPF & antioxidants.
What People Think It Means:
The term “chemical” has gotten a bad rap over the years, with many coming to associate anything “chemical” as toxic & artificial.
What It Actually Means:
In reality though, everything is a chemical. The air we breathe, the water we drink, even “natural” ingredients… everything can be reduced down to a chemical name. So you can’t really avoid chemicals altogether. Instead you just want to be aware of the ingredients that are potentially harmful.
What People Think It Means:
A skincare practice where a thick layer of an occlusive agent, like petroleum jelly, is applied as the final step in the nighttime routine to lock in moisture and enhance skin hydration. This method has gained popularity for its simplicity and effectiveness in preventing transepidermal water loss.
What Is The Truth Behind It?
So is slugging legit? It’s actually backed by dermatological science as an effective way to lock in hydration and protect the skin barrier. However, it’s not suitable for everyone, particularly those with oily or acne-prone skin. As with any skincare practice, tailoring it to your specific skin type and concerns is key.