Page 214 - Cosmetology
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ext. D&C. A type of coloring agent. According to the FDA, when Ext. D&C is followed by a color, it means
the color is certified as safe for use only in drugs and cosmetics to be used externally, but not around the
eyes or mouth. It is not safe for foods.
eyebright. A plant; however, while the name sounds like it would be beneficial for the eye area, there are no
studies demonstrating it to have any benefit for the eye area or skin. The information about this plant's effect
on the skin or the eye is strictly anecdotal
F
faex. See yeast.
Fagus sylvatica extract. See yeast.
farnesol. An extract of plants that is used in cosmetics primarily for fragrance. A few animal studies and
some in vitro research have investigated farnesol's antibacterial properties, and it may also have some
antioxidant properties , but there is no research showing it to have benefit on skin.
farnesyl acetate. See farnesol.
fatty acid. Substances typically found in plant and animal lipids (fat). Fatty acids include compounds such
as glycerides, sterols, and phospholipids. They are used in cosmetics as emollients, thickening agents, and,
when mixed with glycerin, cleansing agents. Fatty acids are natural components of skin and are components
of a complex mixture that makes up the outermost layer protecting the body against oxidative damage. Fatty
acids can help supplement the skin's intercellular matrix. See natural moisturizing factors.
fatty alcohols. Made from fatty acids; in cosmetics these are thickening agents and emollients. See fatty
acid.
FD&C. A type of coloring agent. According to the FDA, when FD&C is followed by a color, the color is
certified as safe for use in food, drugs, and cosmetics.
fennel extract. Derived from the fennel plant; it can be a skin irritant.
fennel oil. A volatile, fragrant oil that can cause skin irritation and sensitivity. See fennel extract.
fennel seed extract. Can have antioxidant properties, but on skin it can be a skin irritant and
photosensitizer.
fenugreek. A spice plant; some research shows it to have antioxidant properties when taken orally. Whether
it has similar properties when applied topically is unknown.
ferric ammonium ferrocyanide. The inorganic salt of ferric ferrocyanide. See ferric ferrocyanide.
ferric ferrocyanide. Also known as Iron Blue. A coloring agent for use in cosmetic products, including those
designed for use around the eye. Permanently listed (since 1978) by the FDA as safe though the EPA
considers it toxic when found in water systems.
Ferula galbaniflua. See galbanum.
feverfew extract. Can be very irritating to the skin and can trigger allergic reactions. When taken orally it
has been shown to relieve migraines and have anti-inflammatory properties.
fibroblast growth factor (FGF). Within the body, stimulates growth of the nervous system and bone
formation. See human growth factor.
fibronectin. A type of protein found in the skin's intercellular matrix similar to collagen and elastin.
Fibronectin's deterioration from sun damage and other factors is an element in skin aging and wrinkling. As
is true for all proteins, regardless of their origin, it is probably a good water-binding agent for skin. However,
applying fibronectin topically on skin doesn't help reinforce or rebuild the fibronectin in your skin.
Filipendula rubra. See meadowsweet.
film-forming agent. A large group of ingredients that are typically found in hair-care products but are also