Page 221 - Cosmetology

Heather Extract. A flower whose constituents have anti-inflammatory properties, though significant research
is lacking. It appears to have antibacterial properties as well.

heavy water. Water in which hydrogen atoms have been replaced by deuterium; it is used chiefly as a
coolant in nuclear reactors.

Hedera helix. See English ivy.

hedione. Synthetic fragrant component in products that can also be a skin irritant.

helianthus oil. See sunflower oil.

Helichrysum italicum. One species of a plant family that includes strawflower. Extracts of these plants can
have potent antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties for skin.

hematin. Iron-containing portion of blood. It has no known benefit for skin.

hemolymph extract. Extract of crustacean blood. It can be a source of proteins or other water-binding
agents, but there is no research showing it to have special benefit when applied topically on skin.

hemp seed oil. From the hemp plant, Cannabis sativa. Because both hemp and marijuana are from the
genus Cannabis, they are often thought (erroneously) to have similar properties. Yet because hemp
contains virtually no THC (delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol), the active ingredient in marijuana, it is not used as
a drug of any kind. In cosmetics, hemp seed oil is used as an emollient. Other claims about its effect on skin
are not substantiated. See fatty acid.

hepatocyte growth factor (HGF). Stimulates division in cells lining the liver, skin cells, and cells that
produce skin color. See human growth factor.

heptamethylnonane. See isohexadecane.

hesperidin. Is a flavonoid found in various plants such as citruses and evening primrose oil. It has potential
as a potent antioxidant—reducing the effects of sun damage and in the prevention of some cancers. It is
also taken orally to improve circulation and to strengthen capillaries. There is no published research showing
it combats cellulite.

hexyl laurate. A skin conditioning agent and emollient that is a mixture of hexyl alcohol and lauric acid.

hexylene glycol. See propylene glycol.

Hibiscus sabdariffa flower extract. There is some research showing extracted components of the plant
have antioxidant, antitumor, and anti-inflammatory properties. Whether or not these potential benefits are
from the flower extract itself as opposed to its components has not been evaluated.

Hierochloe Odorata extract. Commonly known as sweet grass, it may have antioxidant properties.

Himanthalia elongate extract. Component of algae. See algae.

histidine. See amino acid.

Hoelen. Has antibacterial, preservative, wound-healing, and water-binding properties when applied topically.

honeysuckle extract. Fragrant plant extract that can be a skin irritant, but may also have anti-irritant
properties.

hops. There is no research showing that hops have any benefit for skin. However, components in hops may
have antioxidant and antibacterial properties. The plant may also have estrogenic properties.

Hordeum vulgare extract. See barley extract.

horse chestnut extract. May have anti-inflammatory properties for skin. Orally it has been shown to reduce