Aesthetics Glossary
Understand Treatments, Ingredients, and Terms
This glossary breaks down commonly used aesthetic terms from devices to injectables — with simple explanations and links to explore more.
A
Acne
A common skin condition where pores become clogged with oil and dead skin cells, leading to inflammation and pimples. While typically seen in teens, adult acne is also common. Treatments include medicated skincare, lasers, and light therapy.
B
A neurotoxin used in aesthetic medicine to temporarily relax facial muscles that cause dynamic wrinkles, such as frown lines and crow’s feet. Results typically appear within a few days and last 3 to 6 months. Often used for wrinkle prevention and softening expression lines.
Broadband Light Therapy (BBL)
BBL is a light-based treatment that uses a broad spectrum of wavelengths to target pigmentation, redness, and sun damage. Often used for skin rejuvenation with minimal downtime. Suitable for improving overall skin tone.
C
Collagen-Stimulating Injectables
A class of injectables (such as PDLLA or calcium hydroxylapatite) that work by stimulating the body’s natural collagen production rather than just filling lines. They improve skin firmness and elasticity over time and are often used for deeper skin rejuvenation or volume restoration.
D
Injectable substances, such as hyaluronic acid, used to restore volume, smooth wrinkles, and enhance facial contours. Results are usually immediate and can last from several months to over a year, depending on the product.
F
Face Shape
Refers to the overall contours and proportions of the face, including jawline, cheeks, and chin. Treatments like fillers, botulinum toxin, or energy-based devices may be used to enhance or soften specific features, based on individual preferences.
Fine Lines
Shallow creases in the skin, often the early signs of ageing. Fine lines typically appear before deeper wrinkles set in, especially around the eyes, mouth, and forehead. Treatments include skinboosters, collagen-stimulating injectables, or gentle resurfacing. They are easier to treat than wrinkles and respond well to preventive approaches.
H
A non-invasive treatment that uses ultrasound energy to stimulate collagen production deep beneath the skin, resulting in a natural lifting and tightening effect over time. Often used for sagging skin.
I
Injectables
A broad category of non-surgical treatments administered via injection, including botulinum toxin, dermal fillers, skinboosters, and collagen stimulators. They are used to address wrinkles, volume loss, hydration, and facial contouring.
Intense Pulsed Light (IPL)
A light-based skin treatment used to target pigmentation, redness, and broken capillaries. Unlike lasers, IPL uses multiple wavelengths. Often recommended for photorejuvenation and uneven skin tone.
L
Large Pores
Visible, dilated openings in the skin often caused by excess oil, ageing, or loss of skin elasticity. Treatments to refine pores include resurfacing lasers, RF microneedling, and skinboosters.
P
PDLLA (Poly-D,L-lactic acid)
A type of injectable collagen stimulator that gradually improves skin firmness and volume by triggering the body’s natural collagen production. Results build over time and last longer than traditional fillers.
PDRN (Polydeoxyribonucleotide)
An injectable treatment derived from salmon DNA, known for promoting skin healing, regeneration, and collagen synthesis. Often used in skinboosters for sensitive or damaged skin.
Pigment Lasers
A class of lasers specifically designed to target and break down melanin in the skin, helping to treat freckles, sun spots, and melasma. Examples include Q-switch and pico lasers.
Pigmentation
Refers to discolouration or uneven skin tone caused by sun exposure, hormones, or inflammation. Treatments include pigment lasers, chemical peels, and topical agents.
R
RF Microneedling (Radiofrequency Microneedling)
Combines fine needles with heat energy to stimulate collagen production deep in the skin. Commonly used for acne scars, enlarged pores, and mild skin laxity.
S
Sensitive Skin
Skin that reacts easily to environmental or topical irritants. Can be prone to redness, burning, or itching. Treatments for sensitive skin should prioritise barrier repair and avoid harsh ingredients or overly aggressive procedures.
Skin Boosters
Microinjections of hydrating substances (like hyaluronic acid or PDRN) that improve skin texture, elasticity, and radiance. Unlike fillers, they do not add volume but work by deeply hydrating the skin.
V
Volume Loss
Refers to the gradual depletion of fat, collagen, and bone support in the face due to ageing. Often seen in the cheeks, temples, and under-eye area. Treatable with fillers or collagen-stimulating injectables.
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The contents on Medical Channel Asia are for general educational purposes only.
It is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, treatment, or diagnosis.
See additional information.