glossary.

The below list is comprised of terms and definitions we use in our everyday life here at MATTER OF FACT. Some of the terms are standard across the beauty and skincare industry while some are more science-related or specific to us as a brand. We use them to define our brand philosophies, to explain how Paul formulates, and to provide information on our products and validate their benefits. We share these meanings here with you so you can be informed as you explore our products and determine which ones are right for you. They are matter of fact.

Revolutionary, patent-pending technologies that allow us to combine, dissolve and stabilize active ingredients (such as Vitamin C and Azelaic Acid) at high concentrations to target multiple concerns, from various angles, all in one step, while providing a beautiful sensorial experience. The result is effective formulas with significant, visible results and less irritation.

Our products in blue packaging, formulated with potent ingredients such as vitamin C and retinol that target skin concerns such as dullness and wrinkling.

Skin's ability to prevent excessive water loss from the skin. An impaired barrier function often leads to dryness, tightness and flaking of skin.

Another term used for a lab.

Able to exert an effect upon a living organism, tissue, or cell. In skincare, 'biologically active' often refers to the form of an ingredient that research shows exerts a positive and measurable effect on the appearance of skin.

A tool used to measure the color of skin. It works by shining different wavelengths of light onto the skin and then measuring the amount of each wavelength that is reflected back. This measurement can be used to determine the color of the skin. We use chromameters in our clinical studies to assess skin color changes over time and evaluate the effectiveness of our products designed to improve skin tone.

Our commitment that we make for all of our clinical studies. High-quality clinical studies help users understand a product's realistic benefits, timing, and effectiveness. Our commitment involves rigorous testing in independent labs to avoid bias. We test on diverse skin tones and ages for real-world relevance. Results are assessed through dermatologist grading, instrumental measurements, and self-assessments.

A scientific study conducted to assess the product's effects on the skin. This involves enlisting human volunteers who use the product as instructed. Specific aspects such as skin hydration, smoothness, appearance of wrinkles, etc. are measured. By comparing the results before and after product use, we can determine if the product produces the desired improvements. Clinical tests help understand a product's safety, effectiveness, and how well it fulfills its intended purpose.

The concept of combining two or more actives into one formula in order to amplify their positive effects on skin.

A type of research study where people who use a product are asked about their thoughts and feelings regarding the product. This study aims to understand how users perceive the product's benefits, effectiveness, and overall experience. Participants might be asked to rate aspects like scent, texture, ease of use, and visible results.

Used to measure the moisture content of the skin. It works by using a small probe to measure the electrical capacitance of the skin's surface, which correlates with the amount of water present in the skin's outermost layer.

A tool used to measure the firmness and elasticity of skin. It works by sucking a small area of skin into a probe and then measuring how quickly the skin gets sucked up and how quickly it springs back into place when the suction is released.

A claim that comes from safety testing on human skin. This label means that the product was tested on human skin under the supervision of a dermatologist and there were no cases of irritation of sensitivity in the test group.

A means or technology designed to deliver a specific ingredient to a cellular target, such as skin. Fragile ingredients prone to degradation or oxidation often need special delivery system in order to be successfully delivered to skin.

A test conducted by a trained expert in which they observe and note a difference in skin over a period of time. For example, a dermatologist sees a difference in the severity of skin wrinkling before and after product use.

The final product, rather than individual ingredients.

The Fitzpatrick Scale is a method that classifies people by skin tone and their tolerance to sun exposure. It is used by dermatologists and the FDA to understand skin sensitivity, and is broken down into six groups. We use the Fitzpatrick Scale in our testing protocols to ensure diversity in our clinical tests, so we can see how our products affect a wide range of skin tones. We recruit for all Fitzpatrick Phototypes where we can, but all our clinicals only include Types II-V.

In the context of skin tone, homogeniety describes how even the skin tone is.

A test that uses specialized equipment or machinas to objectively measure the difference in skin. For example, we use a Visia CR machine to measure wrinkle visibility to confirm an improvement before and after product use.

International Societies of Investigative Dermatology

Our products in white packaging, formulated with restorative ingredients such as lipids and humectants that replenish, calm, and support the skin barrier for overall wellness.

The level of effectiveness of an ingredient or product; our patent-pending technologies allow for active ingredients, at optimal concentrations, to be delivered to skin for maximum effectiveness with minimal irritation

Another name for a consumer perception study.

The ability or strength to endure. In the context of skincare, this often refers to an ingredient's ability to maintain its integrity instead of degrading or oxidizing. It can also refer to the ability of an emulsion (i.e. a lotion or cream) to maintain its uniform structure and appearance, instead of separating into two distinct oil and water phases.

A measure from the VISIA-CR that quantifies the number of visible wrinkles within a selected area.

A measure from the VISIA-CR that quantifies the evenness of the skin tone in a selected area.

A measure from the VISIA-CR that quantifies the area occupied by the wrinkle within a selected area.

A machine used to evaluate the overall health of the skin using specialized imaging technology. It works by capturing high-resolution images of the skin's surface and deeper layers, which can then be analyzed to assess factors like wrinkles, pores, pigmentation, and UV damage.

Used to examine the skin's surface using high-resolution imaging. It works by taking close-up pictures of the skin, which can then be analyzed to assess factors like pigmentation, texture, and wrinkle depth.