Nevada State Board of Cosmetology Practice Exam

What is the result of over-processing hair with chemicals?

1. Hair can look shinier

2. Hair can become dry and brittle

3. Hair will become more elastic

4. Hair will maintain its moisture

The correct answer is: Hair can become dry and brittle

Over-processing hair with chemicals leads to a significant breakdown of the hair’s natural structure and moisture balance. When hair is subjected to repeated chemical treatments, such as coloring, perming, or relaxing, the cuticle—the outer protective layer—can become damaged. This damage disrupts the hair's ability to retain moisture, resulting in a loss of essential oils and proteins. As a consequence, the hair becomes dry and brittle, often leading to additional issues such as split ends, frizz, and an overall lack of luster. This state of the hair indicates that it is in need of deep conditioning treatments and care to restore its health. Therefore, the result of over-processing is indeed that hair can become dry and brittle, highlighting the importance of moderation in chemical treatments and proper hair care practices.