Nevada State Board of Cosmetology Practice Exam

Which of the following is considered a chemical process in cosmetology?

1. Manicure

2. Hair coloring

3. Scalp massage

4. Facial treatment

The correct answer is: Hair coloring

Hair coloring is classified as a chemical process in cosmetology because it involves the application of chemical substances to alter the structure and color of the hair. These substances often contain ingredients like ammonia and peroxide, which work to penetrate the hair shaft and change the natural pigments within the hair. This process fundamentally alters the composition of the hair, which aligns with the definition of a chemical process in the beauty industry. In contrast, manicures, scalp massages, and facial treatments primarily involve physical methods and topical applications that do not fundamentally change the chemical structure of the hair, skin, or nails. While products used in these treatments may have some active ingredients, the techniques used do not involve chemical reactions that alter the inherent properties of the materials being treated.