New Jersey Cosmetology and Hairstyling Practice Exam

How can using too much bleach affect hair?

1. It can enhance hair color vibrancy

2. It can lead to dryness, brittleness, and breakage

3. It makes hair grow faster

4. It has no effect on hair quality

The correct answer is: It can lead to dryness, brittleness, and breakage

Using too much bleach can lead to dryness, brittleness, and breakage because bleach is a strong chemical that strips the hair of its natural pigments and moisture. When bleach is applied, it opens the hair cuticle to penetrate the inner cortex, which can cause significant damage if not properly managed. The over-processing effect occurs when hair is subjected to excessive amounts of bleach or when bleach is left on for too long. This process not only depletes the hair of its natural oils, which are essential for moisture retention and elasticity, but it can also make the hair susceptible to external damage. Consequently, the result is hair that may feel rough, look dull, or experience split ends. Hence, it is critical to follow safe bleaching practices, including using appropriate products, applying conditioning treatments, and allowing sufficient recovery time between processes to maintain hair health.