Skin Care Cosmetics Ingredients Glossary

U

ubiquinone. See coenzyme Q10.

ultramarines. Inorganic pigments (of various colors) permanently listed by the FDA for external use only, including around the eye area.

Ulva lactuca extract. Extract from the plant known as sea lettuce, it has some anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties for skin. However, there is no research showing that it has any benefit for cellulite reduction.

Undaria pinnatifida. Form of brown algae. See algae.

urea. Component of urine, although synthetic versions are used in cosmetics. In small amounts urea has good water-binding and exfoliating properties for skin; in larger concentrations it can cause inflammation.

Urtica dioica. See nettle extract.

UVA. Ultra-violet A radiation. The sun produces a range of ultraviolet (UV) radiation, of which UVA and UVB affect our skin. UVA rays have wavelengths of 320 to 400 nanometers; UVB rays have wavelengths of 290 to 320 nanometers.

Uva ursi extract. See arbutin and bearberry extract.

UVB. Ultra-violet B radiation. See UVA.