cosmetology/trichology

Anatomy

The study of the structure of the body and its parts.

Physiology

The study of how the body and its parts function.

cells

The basic building blocks of all living things.

tissue

A group of similar cells working together to perform a function.

organs

A structure made of different tissues that perform a specific function.

system

A group of organs working together to perform a body function.

matter

Anything that occupies space and has mass

pH

A scale that measures how acidic or alkaline a substance is (0–14).

alkaline

A substance with a pH below 7.

acidic

A substance with a pH below 7.

peptide bond/end bond

A chemical bond that joins amino acids together.

polypeptide bond

Long chains of amino acids linked by peptide bonds.

hydrogen bond

A weak bond that is easily broken by water or heat.

disulfide bond

A strong bond that forms between sulfur atoms in hair.

salt bond

A weak bond affected by changes in pH

keratinization

The process where cells fill with keratin and die, forming hair.

medulla

The innermost layer of the hair shaft.

melanin

The pigment that gives hair and skin its color.

anagen

The active growth phase of hair.

catagen

The transition phase of hair growth

telogen

The resting phase before hair sheds.

trichology

The scientific study of hair and scalp.

hair bulb

The lowest part of the hair root where growth begins.

hair fiber

The visible strand of hair.

hair root

The part of hair below the scalp specifically in the hair follicle, and is responsible for the growth and nourishment of hair.

cortex

The middle layer of hair that gives it strength and color.

cuticle

The outer layer of hair that protects it.

acid mantle

A protective layer on the skin and scalp with a slightly acidic pH.

porosity

Hair’s ability to absorb and retain moisture.

texture

The thickness or diameter of hair strands.

elasticity

Hair’s ability to stretch and return to its original shape.

cornrowing

A braiding technique where hair is braided close to the scalp.

locks

Hair that is intentionally matted and formed into rope-like strands

external parasites

Organisms that lives on the outside of its host

alopecia

Hair loss caused by genetics, illness, or other factors.

dandruff

Flaking of the scalp caused by irritation or fungus.

split ends

Damage at the ends of hair where the strand splits.

dry hair

Hair lacking moisture, often brittle and dull.

Seborrheic Dermatitis

A disorder causing red, oily, flaky scalp.

Scalp Psoriasis

An autoimmune disorder causing thick, scaly patches on the scalp.