Page 246 - Cosmetology

phytonadione. See vitamin K.

Phytoplenolin. Trade name for the plant extract Centipeda cunninghami. See Centipeda cunninghami
extract.

Phytosphingosine. A long-chain, complex fatty alcohol that functions as a water-binding agent and also
has preservative qualities. Its name is derived from the term sphingoid, coined by chemist J.L.W. Thudichum
in 1884 because the way the molecules of this substance lined up reminded him of the riddle of the Sphinx.

phytosterol. Cholesterol-like molecules found in all plant foods, with the highest concentrations occurring in
vegetable oils. Phytosterols in the natural diet may lower cholesterol. However, regarding topical application,
there is research showing that the high lipid content of phytosterols can make the skin extremely sensitive to
light.

pilewort extract. See Ranunculus ficaria extract.

Pimpinella anisum. See anise.

pine cone extract. Components of this extract, specifically linolenic and linoleic acid, can have antioxidant
properties and antibacterial properties for skin.

pine needle extract. See pine oil.

pine oil. Can have disinfectant properties, but it can also be a potent skin irritant and should never be used
on abraded or chafed skin.

pineapple extract. Contains the enzyme bromelain, which can break down the connecting layers between
skin cells to exfoliate skin. However, bromelain used alone is a more effective source of exfoliation, without
the other irritating properties of the pineapple. See bromelain.

Pinus lambertiana wood extract. Pine extract that may have skin-sensitizing properties.

Pinus sylvestris extract. See pine cone extract.

Piper nigrum. See black pepper.

pistachio seed oil. An emollient plant oil with uses similar to peanut oil in cosmetics.

Pistacia vera seed oil. See pistachio seed oil.

Pisum sativum. The Latin name for the garden pea, and while it does have antioxidant activity there is no
research showing if it can reduce cellulite.

placenta. The nourishing lining of the womb that protects and supports human and animal fetuses during
prenatal development. The placenta is linked to the uterus and regulates metabolic changes. Placenta does
not have anti-aging or rejuvenating effects on skin.

placenta extract. Obtained from the afterbirth of animals, it is supposed to have rejuvenating properties for
skin, but this claim has never been proven in research of any kind. Much like any part of a human or animal
body, the placenta is a source of proteins and amino acids that have water-binding and antioxidant
properties. These are helpful for skin, but no more so than hundreds of other ingredients with similar or
superior attributes. Due to the concern about Mad Cow Disease, ingredients of this nature are best avoided.

placenta protein. Protein that works like other proteins on skin, regardless of the source. It is just a good
water-binding agent. See placenta, and protein.

placental enzymes. Obtained from either human or animal placentas. See placenta extract and placental
protein.

placental lipid. A lipid obtained from either human or animal placentas. See placenta extract and placental
protein.