Kansas Barber Practice Exam

How does humidity typically affect hair during styling?

1. It makes the hair feel dry

2. It can cause hair to swell and frizz

3. It enhances the shine of the hair

4. It helps to set the style

The correct answer is: It can cause hair to swell and frizz

Humidity typically affects hair during styling by causing it to swell and frizz. When the humidity level is high, the moisture in the air can be absorbed by the hair, leading to an increase in its overall volume. This moisture can disrupt the hair's natural structure, resulting in a frizzy appearance as hair strands become more porous and swell. This phenomenon occurs because the hydrogen bonds in the hair's cuticle layer are more likely to break down when they come into contact with excess moisture, thus losing their smooth and sleek texture. Understanding the effects of humidity is crucial for hairstyling, as it informs the choice of products and techniques used to manage the hair's response to environmental conditions. For example, specific anti-frizz products or serums may be more appropriate in humid conditions to help control the unmanageable flyaways that can occur during styling.