Glossary 

A water-soluble acid derived from fruits and milk that gently dissolves the bonds between dead skin cells, accelerating cell turnover. Found in glycolic, lactic, and mandelic acids. Ideal for brightening, smoothing texture, and improving pigmentation.

The natural, genetically programmed changes that occur in your skin over time — including reduced collagen production, slower cell turnover, and decreased elastin. Distinct from external ageing caused by sun and lifestyle factors.

Skin ageing caused by external factors you can influence — UV exposure, pollution, smoking, diet, and sleep. Responsible for up to 80% of visible skin ageing. The good news: it is largely preventable and treatable.

A molecule that neutralises free radicals — unstable atoms that damage skin cells and accelerate ageing. Common skincare antioxidants include Vitamin C, Vitamin E, niacinamide, and resveratrol. Essential in any morning skincare routine.

A gentle multitasking acid that reduces redness, calms inflammation, fades pigmentation, and fights acne-causing bacteria. Suitable for sensitive and rosacea-prone skin. Available in both prescription and over-the-counter strengths.

A treatment using a purified protein to temporarily relax facial muscles responsible for expression lines. When placed precisely and conservatively, the result softens lines while preserving natural movement — not freezing it.

A skin condition involving blocked pores, excess oil, and the bacteria Cutibacterium acnes. Ranges from blackheads and whiteheads to cystic lesions. Can be treated effectively with the right combination of in-clinic and homecare protocols.

Textural changes and skin depressions left behind after acne heals. Types include rolling, boxcar, and icepick scars. Not the same as post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH), which is discolouration rather than texture change.

The layer of fat cells beneath the dermis that provides volume, cushioning, and structural support to the face. Natural loss of adipose tissue with ageing contributes to hollowing, sagging, and loss of facial definition.

The active, purest form of Vitamin C used in clinical skincare. A potent antioxidant that brightens pigmentation, stimulates collagen synthesis, and neutralises UV-induced free radical damage. Requires careful formulation to remain stable.

An oil-soluble acid — most commonly salicylic acid — that penetrates deep into the pore lining to dissolve excess sebum, dead skin cells, and debris. Ideal for oily, acne-prone, and congested skin types.

The skin's outermost protective layer — also called the skin barrier or stratum corneum. When healthy, it locks in moisture and keeps irritants out. A compromised barrier leads to redness, sensitivity, dehydration, and breakouts.

A treatment approach — most associated with Profhilo — that uses high-concentration hyaluronic acid to remodel the skin's structural scaffolding rather than add volume. Stimulates collagen and elastin without creating a filler effect.

The purified protein used in anti-wrinkle injections. Works by temporarily blocking the nerve signal to a targeted muscle, reducing its movement and softening the expression lines it creates. Safe and reversible.

Clinical photography documenting skin condition before and after a treatment or treatment course. Used with client consent to illustrate realistic outcomes. At KM Advanced Skin, all images are unfiltered and shown with full disclosure.

A cluster of acne lesions — including papules, pustules, or cysts — appearing in a concentrated area. Can be triggered by hormones, stress, product reactions, diet, or bacteria. Not all breakouts indicate the same underlying cause.

A semi-permanent treatment that restructures brow hairs using a two-step chemical process, allowing them to be set into a lifted, uniform shape. Creates the appearance of fuller, more defined brows lasting 6–8 weeks.

The most abundant protein in the skin — responsible for its firmness, structure, and resilience. Collagen production naturally declines from the mid-20s onward. Many aesthetic treatments work by stimulating new collagen synthesis.

The clinical term for microneedling. A controlled micro-injury process that triggers the skin's wound-healing response, stimulating new collagen and elastin production. Results in improved texture, scar reduction, and skin quality.

A blocked pore. Open comedones are blackheads — the dark colour comes from oxidised sebum, not dirt. Closed comedones are whiteheads — the pore opening is covered with skin. Both are the foundation of acne lesions.

A clinical assessment appointment where your practitioner evaluates your skin, discusses your concerns and goals, and recommends an appropriate treatment plan. At KM Advanced Skin, consultations are included in your first appointment.

A medical or clinical reason why a specific treatment is not safe or appropriate for a particular person. Examples include pregnancy, active infection, certain medications, or skin conditions. Always disclosed at consultation.

A clinical treatment using a carefully selected acid solution to accelerate cell turnover, improve skin texture, reduce pigmentation, and reveal fresher skin beneath. Depth and formulation are tailored to each client's skin concern and type.

Skin that has lost elasticity and takes on a thin, fine-wrinkled texture — similar in appearance to crepe paper. Common in the neck, décolletage, and upper arms. Can be significantly improved with energy-based tightening treatments.

Fine lines that radiate from the outer corners of the eyes, caused by years of squinting, smiling, and facial movement. One of the most common concerns treated with anti-wrinkle injections.

A blunt-tipped, flexible tube used as an alternative to a sharp needle for dermal filler placement. Reduces bruising, allows greater reach under the skin, and is preferred for certain treatment areas due to improved safety profile.

The middle layer of the skin — below the epidermis and above the subcutaneous fat. Houses collagen, elastin, hair follicles, sweat glands, and blood vessels. The primary target layer for most aesthetic treatments.

A manual exfoliation treatment using a sterile surgical scalpel to remove the surface layer of dead skin cells and vellus hair. Leaves skin immediately smoother, brighter, and better primed for active skincare absorption.

An injectable treatment — most commonly hyaluronic acid — used to restore lost volume, define facial structure, and soften deeper folds. Placed strategically to create balanced, proportionate results aligned to your natural anatomy.

The period of time after a treatment during which visible redness, swelling, peeling, or healing means you may not feel comfortable in social or public settings. Ranges from none (dermaplaning, LED) to extended (plasma fibroblast).

A temporary condition caused by insufficient water content in the skin — distinct from dryness (which is a lack of oil). Dehydrated skin can be oily or dry in type. Symptoms include tightness, dullness, and fine surface lines.

The targeted reduction of unwanted pigmentation — sunspots, melasma, or post-inflammatory marks — using chemical, energy-based, or biological treatments. Requires a multi-modal approach and diligent SPF use to sustain results.

Expression lines that appear when the face moves — smiling, squinting, frowning. Caused by repeated muscle contraction over time. Distinct from static lines, which are present even at rest. Treated primarily with anti-wrinkle injections.

A protein in the dermis that gives skin its elasticity — its ability to snap back after stretching or movement. Elastin production declines significantly with age and UV exposure. Aesthetic treatments can stimulate new elastin synthesis.

A technology that uses low-level electrical pulses to temporarily open micro-channels in skin cell membranes, allowing active serums to penetrate up to 400% deeper than topical application alone — without any needles.

The outermost layer of the skin — the part you can see and touch. Contains melanocytes (pigment-producing cells) and serves as the skin's primary barrier. Cell turnover in the epidermis takes approximately 28 days in young skin.

The removal of dead skin cells from the skin's surface. Can be physical (dermaplaning, microneedling), chemical (AHAs, BHAs, peels), or enzymatic. Regular exfoliation improves texture, radiance, and active ingredient penetration.

Nano-sized biological messengers produced by cells that carry growth factors, proteins, and RNA signals to instruct surrounding cells to repair and regenerate. When applied during microneedling or laser, they dramatically amplify the healing response.

Lines and wrinkles formed by repeated facial movements over time — smiling, squinting, frowning. Also called dynamic lines or mimetic wrinkles. A natural part of a lived, expressive face. Treatable without eliminating movement.

A topical product formulated specifically for the delicate periorbital area — thinner, more fragile skin prone to dryness, puffiness, and fine lines. Active ingredients require lower concentrations than those used on the rest of the face.

A specialised cell in the dermis responsible for producing collagen, elastin, and hyaluronic acid. As we age, fibroblast activity slows significantly. Many aesthetic treatments — including microneedling and RF — work by stimulating fibroblast activity.

Superficial, shallow lines in the skin — often caused by dehydration, sun damage, or early collagen loss. Distinct from deeper wrinkles. Generally the first visible sign of skin ageing and among the most responsive to treatment.

A clinical classification system (I–VI) that categorises skin based on its response to UV exposure — from very fair (Type I) to very dark (Type VI). Used by practitioners to determine safe treatment parameters and peel suitability.

Unstable molecules generated by UV exposure, pollution, and stress that damage skin cells at the molecular level. Responsible for accelerating skin ageing. Neutralised by antioxidants such as Vitamin C and Vitamin E.

Vertical lines between the eyebrows — also called glabellar lines or the 11s — caused by repeated contraction of the corrugator and procerus muscles. Among the most commonly treated concerns with anti-wrinkle injections.

Horizontal lines across the forehead caused by repeated raising of the frontalis muscle. One of the most visible signs of facial ageing. Treated with precision anti-wrinkle injections — results best achieved with conservative, natural dosing.

An AHA derived from sugar cane with the smallest molecular size — allowing it to penetrate the skin most deeply of all AHAs. Highly effective for cell turnover, brightening, and fine line reduction. Not ideal for sensitive skin types.

Proteins that act as biological signals, directing cells to repair, regenerate, and produce structural proteins like collagen. Naturally present in the skin but decline with age. Used therapeutically in exosome therapy and PRP treatments.

The clinical term for frown lines — the vertical creases between the eyebrows created by repeated muscle contraction. Often appear as the number 11, hence the common name '11 lines'. One of the most sought-after areas for anti-wrinkle treatment.

A naturally occurring sugar molecule in the skin capable of holding up to 1,000 times its weight in water. Used both topically (for surface hydration) and as an injectable dermal filler or skin booster for deeper volumising and hydration.

An excess of melanin in a localised area, causing dark patches on the skin. Types include sunspots, melasma, freckles, and post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH). Treatable with chemical peels, IPL, laser, and depigmenting actives.

A loss of melanin in a localised area, resulting in patches that are lighter than the surrounding skin. Can occur as a side effect of certain laser or peel treatments if applied incorrectly — underscoring the importance of practitioner expertise.

A non-surgical skin lifting technology that delivers focused ultrasound energy to the SMAS layer — the same foundational layer addressed in a surgical facelift — stimulating deep collagen production and tightening without any incisions.

The personalised skincare routine prescribed by your practitioner to support and extend your in-clinic treatment results. Results are only as strong as the homecare that surrounds them — a protocol is an essential part of any treatment plan.

The naturally occurring protective layer on the skin's surface — a blend of water and lipids produced by sweat glands and sebaceous glands. Maintains the skin's pH balance and forms part of the skin's barrier defence system.

Any aesthetic procedure delivered via needle or cannula beneath the skin's surface. Includes anti-wrinkle injections, dermal filler, skin boosters, mesotherapy, and PRP. All injectables at KM Advanced Skin are performed by qualified practitioners.

A broad-spectrum light treatment that targets melanin and haemoglobin in the skin to reduce pigmentation, redness, and vascular lesions. Not a laser — it uses a range of wavelengths rather than a single, focused beam.

The skin's immune response to injury, irritation, or infection — characterised by redness, warmth, swelling, and sometimes pain. Short-term inflammation is necessary for healing. Chronic, low-grade inflammation accelerates skin ageing.

The professional chemical peel range by Innoaesthetics — a clinically validated system incorporating Smart GPS® Technology to guide active ingredients to their optimal target layer in the skin for enhanced efficacy and safety.

The sagging of soft tissue along the lower face and jawline — a common sign of ageing caused by a combination of volume loss, reduced skin laxity, and the downward migration of facial fat pads. Treatable with filler, HIFU, or plasma tightening.

A brand of hyaluronic acid dermal filler produced by Allergan, available in multiple formulations designed for different areas and depths of treatment — including lips, cheeks, jawline, and fine lines.

The primary structural protein that makes up the outer layers of the skin, hair, and nails. In skin, keratin provides protection and resilience. Brow lamination and lash lifting use a chemical process to temporarily restructure keratin bonds.

The most abundant cell type in the epidermis — responsible for producing keratin and forming the skin's protective outer layer. Keratinocytes migrate upward from the base of the epidermis and are eventually shed as dead skin cells.

A natural brightening ingredient derived from fermented rice or fungi that inhibits melanin production. Frequently used in pigmentation peels and brightening serums — particularly effective when combined with other depigmenting actives.

A gentle AHA derived from milk that exfoliates, hydrates, and brightens simultaneously. Less aggressive than glycolic acid, making it suitable for sensitive and dry skin types. Also helps strengthen the skin's natural barrier function.

A semi-permanent treatment that uses a chemical process to restructure and lift natural lashes from the root, creating a curled, open-eye effect lasting 6–8 weeks. Often combined with a lash tint for full definition without extensions.

A treatment using focused laser energy to remove or remodel skin tissue, improving texture, pigmentation, and wrinkles. Ablative lasers remove the outer skin layer; non-ablative lasers work beneath the surface with less downtime.

The loss of firmness and elasticity in the skin — resulting in sagging, crepiness, or a less defined facial contour. Caused by reduced collagen and elastin production, volume loss, and gravity over time. Highly treatable with current technology.

A non-invasive light treatment using specific wavelengths to stimulate biological responses in the skin. Red light stimulates collagen production; blue light targets acne bacteria; near-infrared reduces inflammation and accelerates healing.

The natural movement of lymph fluid through the body's lymphatic vessels, removing waste and reducing fluid retention. Facial lymphatic drainage massage or microcurrent technology can reduce puffiness and support skin health.

A gentle AHA derived from bitter almonds with a large molecular size — meaning it penetrates slowly and is less irritating than glycolic acid. Effective for pigmentation, acne, and sensitive skin. Also has mild antimicrobial properties.

The pigment produced by melanocytes in the skin that gives it its colour and provides some protection against UV radiation. Uneven melanin distribution causes hyperpigmentation, sunspots, freckles, and melasma.

A specialised cell in the epidermis that produces melanin. When activated by UV exposure or hormonal changes, melanocytes produce excess melanin — leading to pigmentation, sunspots, or melasma.

A chronic pigmentation condition characterised by symmetrical, blotchy patches — typically on the forehead, cheeks, and upper lip. Triggered by hormonal changes, UV exposure, and heat. Requires a specific, carefully managed treatment approach.

A technique involving microinjections of vitamins, minerals, amino acids, and hyaluronic acid directly into the dermis. Also known as Liquid Microneedling. Bypasses the skin barrier for full-concentration delivery of active ingredients.

A medical-grade treatment using a precisely controlled device to create thousands of micro-channels in the skin, triggering collagen induction. Treats texture, scarring, pores, fine lines, and skin quality.

A topical product that hydrates the skin's surface and helps seal in water. Ranges from lightweight gels for oily skin to rich creams for dry or compromised skin. An essential step in any skincare routine regardless of skin type.

A clinical chemical peel ingredient used in the INNO-EXFO MCA 35 formulation. Performs controlled micro-exfoliation for skin revitalisation and tone-evening. A prescription-strength option requiring professional application.

The lines that run from the sides of the nose to the corners of the mouth — often called smile lines or laugh lines. Caused by volume loss and skin laxity. Commonly treated with dermal filler for a natural softening effect.

A versatile form of Vitamin B3 that reduces redness, minimises pore appearance, regulates oil production, and brightens uneven skin tone. Compatible with most active ingredients and suitable for all skin types, including sensitive.

A topical anaesthetic — typically containing lidocaine — applied before aesthetic treatments to minimise discomfort. Applied in-clinic 20–45 minutes before treatment. Standard practice at KM Advanced Skin for microneedling, filler, and plasma treatments.

A skin type characterised by overactive sebaceous glands producing excess sebum. Results in shine, enlarged pores, and a higher tendency toward congestion and acne. Responds well to salicylic acid-based treatments and targeted peels.

An imbalance between free radicals and antioxidants in the skin's cells — leading to cellular damage, collagen breakdown, and accelerated visible ageing. Caused by UV exposure, pollution, stress, and poor diet. Mitigated by antioxidant skincare.

Short chains of amino acids that act as signalling molecules in the skin — instructing cells to produce collagen, repair damage, or reduce inflammation. A key active ingredient in advanced anti-ageing and skin repair formulations.

Premature skin ageing caused by cumulative UV exposure — characterised by pigmentation, fine lines, rough texture, broken capillaries, and loss of elasticity. Responsible for the majority of visible skin ageing. Highly treatable.

Any change in the skin's natural colour caused by an excess or absence of melanin. Includes sunspots, melasma, freckles, post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation, and birthmarks. Treatment approach depends on the specific type and cause.

Ionised gas generated by a pen-like device that creates controlled micro-trauma on the skin's surface. Triggers immediate tissue contraction and a sustained collagen remodelling response. Used in Plasma Skin Tightening and Plasma Fibroblast treatments.

An advanced plasma energy treatment that stimulates fibroblast cells at a deeper level than standard plasma tightening, producing a more intensive resurfacing and collagen remodelling result. Suitable for significant laxity and scarring.

Dark marks left on the skin after inflammation — from acne, injury, or certain treatments — has resolved. Not the same as scarring (which is textural). PIH is a pigmentation issue and responds well to chemical peels, IPL, and brightening actives.

A bio-remodelling injectable containing ultra-high concentration hyaluronic acid that spreads through the skin to stimulate four types of collagen and elastin simultaneously. Improves skin quality and laxity — without adding volume or filler effect.

A concentrated solution of your own platelets derived from a small blood sample. Rich in growth factors that signal intensive collagen production and tissue repair. Applied during microneedling to significantly amplify treatment outcomes.

Small openings in the skin's surface through which sebum and sweat are released. Pore size is largely genetic but can be minimised in appearance with salicylic acid, niacinamide, retinoids, and treatments like microneedling.

An energy-based technology that delivers controlled heat energy to the dermis, stimulating collagen production and tightening existing collagen fibres. Used for skin tightening and contouring with no downtime.

A vitamin A derivative that accelerates cell turnover, stimulates collagen production, reduces pigmentation, and smooths fine lines. One of the most evidence-backed ingredients in skincare. Requires gradual introduction and daily SPF use.

A chronic inflammatory skin condition characterised by persistent redness, visible blood vessels, and sometimes acne-like breakouts — predominantly affecting the cheeks, nose, and chin. Managed (not cured) with targeted treatments and homecare.

The process of removing or remodelling the upper layers of the skin to improve texture, tone, and surface irregularities. Achieved through chemical peels, laser, dermaplaning, microneedling, or plasma treatments.

A BHA that is oil-soluble, allowing it to penetrate deep into pores to dissolve excess sebum and dead skin cells. Anti-inflammatory and antibacterial. The gold standard for oily, acne-prone, and congested skin.

A small oil-producing gland in the dermis attached to a hair follicle. Produces sebum to moisturise and protect the skin. Overactive sebaceous glands contribute to oily skin, congestion, and acne.

The natural oil produced by the skin's sebaceous glands. Essential for maintaining the skin barrier and preventing dehydration. Too much sebum contributes to shine and breakouts; too little leads to dryness and sensitivity.

A skin condition (not a skin type) characterised by heightened reactivity to products, environmental factors, and treatments. Often associated with a compromised skin barrier. Requires gentle, fragrance-free products and careful treatment selection.