Oat
Oat is considered a specific in cases of nervous debility and exhaustion when associated with depression. It may be used with most of the other nervines, both relaxant and stimulatory, to strengthen the whole of the nervous system. It is also used in general debility. Go to the Other Supplements Dictionary and look up Oat.
Oat Beta Glucan
This ingredient provides great moisture-retention capability to the skin.
Oat Derived Polysaccharide
Natural complex derived from oats that function to assist the body's immune system, to maintain healthy skin.
Oatmeal
Oatmeal is known for its soothing properties in cosmetics. In soap, it adds texture for gentle exfoliation.
Oat Protein
This protein has moisture-binding properties that are easily absorbed by the skin and hair. It gives hair improved body and greater elasticity. Go to the Other Supplements Dictionary and look up Oat.
Oat Oil
Oat oil is a powerful emollient (skin smoothener and softener) and provides deep antioxidant activity. Go to the Other Supplements Dictionary and look up Oat.
Occlusion
Occlusion means the act of closing off. In dermatology, occlusion is a technique used to increase the penetration of a topically applied substance, such as a corticosteroid.
Occlusive
Occlusive means Impenetrable. 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.
O-Cresol
White to reddish crystals used in the manufacture of dyes.
Octapeptide
A peptide that on hydrolysis yields eight amino acids.
Octoxynol-9
Anti-inflammatory agent. Used as a spermicidal. Most spermicidals contain Nonoxynol-9.
Octyl
A hypothetical hydrocarbon radical regarded as an essential residue of octane, and as entering into its derivatives; as, octyl alcohol.
Octylacrylamide Acrylate Butylaminoethyl Methacrylate Copolymer
Part of cationic system. A fixative that is water soluble if washed within 48 hours after application. Used for stiffness and high gloss in hair sprays.
Octylacrylamide Butylaminoethyl Methacrylate Copolymer
see Octylacrylamide Acrylate Butylaminoethyl Methacrylate Copolymer.
Octyl Methoxycinnamate
A non-PABA sunscreen agent derived from cinnamic acid blocking 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; softens and smoothes the skin.
Oil, Fixed
These are lipids, esters of long-chain fatty acids and alcohols (oily stuff) that are basically scentless. Example: olive oil.
Oil, Volatile
The aromatic oils obtained from plants and used for their scent. Example: oil of Peppermint.
Ointment
Type of dermatological vehicle that has an oil base giving it lubricating properties. It is often used to treat dry skin.
Oleic Acid (Olive Oil)
Oil with acneigenic tendencies. Used as an emulsifying agent and to assist absorption of some drugs by the skin
Oleth 20
Organic perfume stabilizer, derived from unsaturated fatty acids.
Olive Oil
Extract of olive. A skin smoothener and softener (emollient) with great penetrating ability. Used in lipsticks, hairdressings, shampoos, soaps and conditioners.
Opaque
Exhibiting shadiness (contrast of clearness).
OPC (Proanthocyanidins)
OPC's are used as an antioxidant to protect the body against the harmful biological effects of free radicals. OPC's can be extracted from peanut skins, pine bark or grape seeds. OPC's, or proanthocyanidins are the most powerful antioxidant free radical scavengers known to man. They are as much as 50 times more potent than vitamin E and 20 times more than vitamin C. OPC's are major protectors of collagen, the basic foundation our blood vessels and all connective tissues such as skin, ligaments around joints and tendons.
Orange Flower
Used for emolliency (skin smoothener and softener) and to impart luster.
Orange Oil
Soothing, hydrating, calming oil that reduces irritation. Used in essential oil blends for treatment of cellulite.
Orange Peel Extract
Used for colors.
Organic
Pertaining to carbon-based compounds produced by living plants, animals or by synthetic processes. Referring to substances that are or have been alive, and therefore contain carbon molecules in their chemical structure.
Orthophosphoric Acid
A strong mineral acid, H3PO4, the monomeric form of phosphoric acid.
Oxy (oxy- or ox-)
A combining form meaning sharp, quick, or sour, or denoting relationship to acid, or denoting the presence of oxygen in a compound.
Oxidation
The removal of a pair of hydrogen atoms (dehydrogenation) from a molecule.
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