Nevada State Board of Cosmetology Practice Exam

Which of the following best describes the role of a relaxer?

1. To add volume to hair

2. To straighten curly hair

3. To enhance natural curl

4. To create waves

The correct answer is: To straighten curly hair

The role of a relaxer is specifically designed to straighten curly hair. Relaxers work by breaking down the protein bonds in the hair shaft, allowing the hair to be reshaped into a straighter form. This chemical process results in a smoother texture and reduces the volume of naturally curly hair, making it easier to manage and style. Relaxers are often used by individuals with tightly coiled or frizzy hair who desire a straightened look. In the context of the other options, while adding volume, enhancing natural curl, or creating waves may be desired outcomes for some hair types, those processes do not align with the function of a relaxer. Instead, they pertain to different styling products or techniques such as volumizers, curl enhancers, or perm solution, which are intended to either lift the hair at the roots, maintain or amplify natural curls, or create waves through different chemical processes or styling tools.