Glossary
Your quick guide to the key terms in beauty, fashion, health, self-development and lifestyle — with clear, simple definitions.
Beauty & Self-care9 terms
- Double CleansingDouble cleansing is a two step method, an oil based cleanser followed by a water based one, that removes makeup, sunscreen and daily impurities gently.
- ExfoliationExfoliation is the gentle removal of dead skin cells, physically with a scrub or chemically with mild acids, to reveal smoother, brighter, softer skin.
- Hyaluronic AcidHyaluronic acid is a naturally occurring molecule that binds water within the skin, delivering deep hydration and a plump, dewy, healthy looking finish.
- HyperpigmentationHyperpigmentation refers to dark spots or patches caused by excess melanin, often triggered by sun exposure, lingering acne marks or shifting hormone levels.
- NiacinamideNiacinamide is a gentle form of vitamin B3 that reduces excess oil, minimizes the look of pores, calms redness and gently brightens an uneven skin tone.
- RetinolRetinol is a vitamin A derivative that speeds up skin renewal, softens fine lines and helps clear acne, used at night alongside your daytime sunscreen.
- SerumA serum is a lightweight, concentrated skincare product packed with active ingredients, applied after cleansing and before moisturiser to target specific needs.
- Skin BarrierThe skin barrier is your skin's outermost protective layer, locking in moisture and keeping irritants out; over-cleansing can weaken it and leave it sensitive.
- Sun Protection Factor (SPF)SPF, or sun protection factor, is a rating that tells you how well a sunscreen shields your skin from the sun's burning UVB rays each and every day out.
Fashion7 terms
- Body ShapesBody shapes are common silhouette types used to understand your proportions and choose the cuts, styles and outfits that flatter and celebrate your figure best.
- Capsule WardrobeA capsule wardrobe is a small, thoughtfully curated collection of versatile, mix and match essentials that work together to create countless easy outfits.
- Color AnalysisColor analysis is the process of discovering which shades most flatter your skin tone, hair and eyes, often grouped into seasonal palettes to guide choices.
- Fast FashionFast fashion is cheap, mass produced clothing that copies runway trends at high speed, is worn only a few times and then quickly thrown away as waste.
- Neutral ColorsNeutral colours are versatile base shades like black, white, beige, navy and grey that mix effortlessly with everything and form the backbone of a wardrobe.
- Statement PieceA statement piece is one eye-catching item, such as a bold coat, bag or accessory, that anchors your look and instantly elevates an otherwise simple outfit.
- Sustainable FashionSustainable fashion means making and buying clothes in ways that respect the planet and the workers who create them, from fair wages to gentler materials.
Health & Wellness9 terms
- CortisolCortisol is your body's main stress hormone, and when it stays high too long it can disturb your sleep, energy and mood and leave you battling cravings.
- Hormonal BalanceHormonal balance is when your body's hormones sit at healthy, steady levels, quietly shaping your mood, energy, skin clarity and monthly menstrual cycle.
- Intermittent FastingIntermittent fasting means cycling between set eating and fasting windows, such as sixteen eight; it should gently suit your body rather than feel forced.
- Iron DeficiencyIron deficiency is when your body's iron stores run too low, causing tiredness, paleness and hair loss, and it is very common among menstruating women.
- Menstrual CycleThe menstrual cycle is the roughly monthly hormonal rhythm that prepares a woman's body for a possible pregnancy, shaping her energy, mood and her skin.
- Mindful EatingMindful eating means slowing down and paying attention as you eat, noticing your hunger, fullness, the flavours on your plate and how each meal makes you feel.
- Premenstrual Syndrome (PMS)PMS, or premenstrual syndrome, is the mix of physical and emotional symptoms that many women feel in the days leading up to their monthly period arriving.
- ProbioticsProbiotics are the friendly gut bacteria found in yogurt and fermented foods, supporting healthy digestion, a balanced tummy and a stronger immune system.
- Sleep HygieneSleep hygiene is the set of everyday habits and calming routines that support deep, good quality and consistent sleep, helping you wake up truly rested.
Self-development8 terms
- BurnoutBurnout is a deep exhaustion caused by chronic stress or overwork, leaving you drained, cynical and emotionally detached from things you once cared about.
- Comfort ZoneYour comfort zone is the familiar space where everything feels safe and predictable; it soothes you, yet real growth tends to happen just beyond its edges.
- Emotional IntelligenceEmotional intelligence is the ability to recognise, understand and manage your own feelings while reading and responding thoughtfully to others' emotions.
- Growth MindsetA growth mindset is the empowering belief that your abilities and talents can improve through effort, learning and practice, rather than being set at birth.
- Healthy BoundariesHealthy boundaries are the personal limits that protect your time, energy and emotional well-being within your relationships, work and everyday commitments.
- Imposter SyndromeImposter syndrome is the nagging feeling of being a fraud who will soon be found out, even though your skills, results and success are all perfectly real.
- ProcrastinationProcrastination is putting off tasks even when delay may cost you; it is usually driven by emotion, overwhelm or quiet fear rather than plain laziness.
- Self-EsteemSelf-esteem is your overall sense of your own worth and value, the quiet inner belief that you are truly enough exactly as you are, flaws and all included.
Lifestyle9 terms
- DeclutteringDecluttering is the freeing act of clearing out whatever you no longer need or love, making room for a calmer, tidier and lighter, more peaceful space.
- Digital DetoxA digital detox is a deliberate, refreshing break from screens and social media, giving your busy mind space to rest, reset and reconnect with real life.
- GratitudeGratitude is the warm daily practice of noticing and appreciating the good things in your life, from tiny everyday joys to the people who make it brighter.
- Me-TimeMe-time is intentional time spent alone to rest, enjoy your hobbies and gently recharge your energy, with zero guilt and full permission to simply be yourself.
- Meal PrepMeal prep means preparing your meals or ingredients ahead of time, so you save effort, waste less and still eat well during your busiest, most hectic weeks.
- MindfulnessMindfulness is the gentle practice of paying full attention to the present moment, noticing your thoughts and feelings openly and without any judgment.
- MinimalismMinimalism is the freeing choice to live with less and keep only what adds real value or joy, so you can focus on what truly matters most to you in life.
- Slow LivingSlow living is a calmer, more intentional pace of life that values presence, meaning and savouring each moment over constant busyness and endless hurry.
- Work-Life BalanceWork-life balance is about sharing your time and energy wisely so work never crowds out rest, relationships and the simple joy of caring for your own wellbeing.