Beauty Glossary: Z

Urea - an antiseptic used in deodorants and antiperspirants, mouthwashes, moisturizers, and shampoos.

UV light (ultraviolet) - rays from the sun (UVA and UVB) that penetrate the skin and cause premature aging and skin cancer.

Walnut extract - used for brown coloring in brunette shampoos and hair products.

Waxing - a method of removing unwanted hair using hot or cold wax.

Wheat germ oil - from the germ of the wheat plant, it is rich in Vitamin E and often used in nail creams.

Witch hazel - an astringent derived from the twigs of the Hamamelis virginiana plant.

Xanthan gum - a stabilizer that keeps cosmetic ingredients from separating and helps maintain a consistent texture.

Zinc oxide - an opaque, full-spectrum sunscreen also used to give opacity to face powder and foundation.

Zinc pyrithione - a strong anti-dandruff ingredient that is both a bactericide and fungicide. It can be irritating to the skin.