New Jersey Cosmetology and Hairstyling Practice Exam

What is a common side effect of hair bleaching?

1. Increased shine and softness

2. Scalp irritation

3. Dryness and brittleness of hair

4. Unusual hair growth

The correct answer is: Dryness and brittleness of hair

When hair is bleached, the chemical process involved strips the hair of its natural pigments and can also deplete its moisture content. This leads to a common side effect of dryness and brittleness. The harsh chemicals in bleaching solutions, such as hydrogen peroxide and ammonia, work to alter the hair structure, breaking down its proteins. As a consequence, the hair can become less resilient, lose its natural oils, and feel rough or straw-like. While increased shine and softness are desirable results that some may seek from professional hair treatments, they are usually not outcomes of bleaching; instead, adequate conditioning treatments are necessary to restore these qualities. Scalp irritation can occur but is not as prevalent as dryness and brittleness, as the hair itself directly experiences the bleaching damage. Unusual hair growth is unrelated to the chemical processes involved in bleaching, making it an unlikely side effect as well. Thus, the prevalent issue of dryness and brittleness clearly stands out as a well-documented consequence of hair bleaching.