National Occupational Competency Testing Institute (NOCTI) Cosmetology Practice Exam

Excessive blow-drying can lead to a loss of which hair property?

1. Color

2. Elasticity

3. Moisture

4. Volume

The correct answer is: Elasticity

The correct choice is linked to the concept of hair elasticity, which refers to the hair’s ability to stretch and return to its original shape. When hair is excessively blow-dried, especially at high temperatures or for prolonged periods, it can lead to structural damage. This damage often results in diminished elasticity, making the hair brittle and less capable of bouncing back after being stretched. Understanding that hair is primarily composed of protein (keratin) and water is critical. Excessive heat from blow-drying can strip away the moisture content in hair, leading to dryness and a compromised internal structure. This loss of moisture contributes to the loss of elasticity since well-hydrated hair is inherently more flexible and resilient. Other options, while they may be affected by blow-drying, such as moisture, color, or volume, do not directly correlate to the specific property of elasticity as significantly as the correct choice does. Thus, the primary concern with excessive blow-drying is the detrimental effect on the hair’s elasticity.