West Virginia Barber Practice Exam

How do environmental factors like humidity affect hair?

1. They make hair more manageable

2. They can lead to frizz and affect the hold of styling products

3. They have no effect on hair

4. They reduce hair growth

The correct answer is: They can lead to frizz and affect the hold of styling products

Humidity is a significant environmental factor that can have a profound effect on hair. When the air is humid, it contains a high level of moisture, which can penetrate the hair shaft. This moisture causes the hair to swell and alter its structure, which can lead to frizz. Frizzy hair occurs because the outer layer of hair, called the cuticle, lifts and doesn't lie flat, allowing the strands to become puffy and unmanageable. Moreover, humidity can compromise the effectiveness of various styling products. Products designed to hold styles, like gels and mousses, may not adhere well in humid conditions, resulting in a lack of lasting hold and definition in styled hair. This means that hairstyles may fall flat or lose their intended shape when exposed to moist air. In contrast, factors such as making hair more manageable or having no effect on hair are not accurate in the context of humidity's impact. Additionally, while humidity can affect the appearance of hair, it does not directly influence hair growth itself, which is regulated by a variety of internal factors rather than external moisture levels.