Hair Follicle: The small cavity in the skin from which a hair grows, containing cells that produce the hair shaft and surrounding structures like sebaceous glands. It plays a key role in hair growth and the secretion of sebum.

Hair Shaft: The visible part of the hair that extends above the scalp, composed of keratin. The shaft is responsible for protecting the hair follicle and is affected by various factors, such as hair care products, heat styling, and environmental conditions.

Halal Skincare: Products formulated according to Islamic law, which excludes the use of certain ingredients such as alcohol, animal by-products, or harmful chemicals, ensuring purity and ethical practices.

Helichrysum Oil: Essential oil derived from the flower of the Helichrysum plant, known for its anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and healing properties. It is often used in skincare to help with skin regeneration, scarring, and irritation.

Hematite: A mineral often used in cosmetics for its purported ability to enhance circulation and oxygen delivery to the skin, though its use in skincare is largely based on anecdotal evidence.

Herbaceous: Refers to plants or botanicals that have a green, fresh scent or are used for their skin benefits, such as lavender, chamomile, and rosemary.

Hirsutism: A condition characterized by excessive hair growth in women, often in areas where men typically grow hair, like the face, chest, and back. It can be caused by hormonal imbalances, such as polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS).

Histamine: A compound released during allergic reactions and inflammation. It can cause redness, itching, and swelling on the skin, often involved in conditions like hives or dermatitis.

Holistic Skincare: A philosophy of treating the skin by addressing the body as a whole, considering mental, emotional, and physical health. It emphasizes natural products, lifestyle changes, and stress management in addition to topical treatments.

Honey: A natural humectant with moisturizing and antimicrobial properties. It’s used in skincare for its soothing, healing, and anti-inflammatory benefits, making it a popular ingredient in masks, cleansers, and moisturizers.

Humectant: A substance that attracts moisture from the environment and helps retain it in the skin or hair. Humectants work by drawing water from the air into the skin, maintaining hydration and preventing dryness. Common humectants include glycerin, hyaluronic acid, and propylene glycol. These ingredients are often used in moisturizers, serums, and conditioners to keep the skin soft and hydrated.

Hyaluronic Acid: A naturally occurring humectant found in the skin known for its incredible ability to retain moisture, offering skin plumping, hydration, and improved elasticity. It is widely used in serums, moisturizers, and dermal fillers.

Hyaluronidase: An enzyme used in cosmetic procedures to break down hyaluronic acid-based fillers or to reduce swelling. It is sometimes injected to reverse the effects of dermal fillers.

HydraFacial: A non-invasive facial treatment that combines cleansing, exfoliation, extraction, hydration, and antioxidant protection in a single treatment to improve skin appearance and address concerns like fine lines, acne, and uneven skin tone.

Hydration: The process of restoring water-based moisture to the skin or hair, which is essential for maintaining its softness, elasticity, and overall health. Hydrated skin is less prone to dryness, irritation, and fine lines.

Hydroquinone: A skin-lightening agent that inhibits melanin production, used to treat hyperpigmentation conditions like age spots, melasma, and sun damage. It is often found in creams and serums designed for brightening and even skin tone.

Hydrosol: The aromatic water that is produced as a byproduct during the distillation of essential oils. It contains a small amount of the essential oil’s properties and is often used as a facial toner or body spray.

Hyperkeratosis: A condition where the skin becomes thickened due to an overproduction of keratin. It can lead to rough patches, calluses, or corns, and is commonly seen in conditions like psoriasis or eczema.

Hyperpigmentation: A condition where areas of the skin become darker than the surrounding tissue due to an excess production of melanin, often caused by sun exposure, acne scars, hormonal changes, or inflammation.

Hypoallergenic: A term used to describe products formulated with ingredients that are less likely to cause allergic reactions. These products are ideal for sensitive skin or individuals with known allergies.

Hypoallergenic Fragrance: Fragrances that are formulated to minimize the risk of causing allergic reactions. These products are especially important for those with sensitive skin or known allergies to fragrance ingredients.

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