Hawaii Beauty Operator Practice Exam

Which of the following are signs of overprocessing hair?

1. Shininess and smooth texture

2. Dryness, brittleness, and excessive tangling

3. Vibrant color and elasticity

4. Softness and manageability

The correct answer is: Dryness, brittleness, and excessive tangling

The identification of overprocessed hair is key in understanding how various treatments and products affect hair health. When hair is overprocessed, it typically displays characteristics such as dryness, brittleness, and excessive tangling. This is a direct result of the hair's cuticles being damaged and stripped away due to overexposure to chemical treatments like bleaching, perming, or straightening. Dryness occurs because the natural oils that protect and moisturize hair are lost during the overprocessing, leading to a lack of moisture retention. Brittleness manifests as the hair becomes weak and prone to breaking. Excessive tangling is another sign, as the damaged hair fibers may become coarse and rough, causing them to snag against each other, making it difficult to comb or brush through. In contrast, signs such as shininess and smooth texture, vibrant color and elasticity, or softness and manageability indicate that hair is healthy and well-treated, which is the opposite of overprocessing. Recognizing these signs is crucial for hair care professionals to provide appropriate treatments and maintenance for their clients' hair.