New Jersey Cosmetology and Hairstyling Practice Exam

Why is it important to know the hair's porosity before a chemical service?

1. To determine the hair's thickness

2. To predict how well the hair will absorb products

3. To assess the hair's elasticity

4. To determine the hair's color level

The correct answer is: To predict how well the hair will absorb products

Understanding the porosity of hair is crucial before performing any chemical service because it directly influences how effectively hair will absorb and interact with products such as color, relaxers, or conditioning treatments. Porosity refers to the hair’s ability to absorb moisture and products, which can vary greatly between individuals and hair types. When hair has high porosity, it has gaps and holes in its cuticle layer, allowing products to be absorbed quickly but also making it susceptible to damage. Conversely, low porosity hair has a tightly sealed cuticle, making it resistant to moisture absorption. Knowing the porosity helps professionals predict how well the hair will take in the chemical service being administered, allowing them to adjust techniques and products accordingly to achieve the desired results while minimizing potential damage. In contrast, the thickness of hair, its elasticity, and color level, while important factors in hair care, do not directly determine how a product will be absorbed during a chemical service. Hence, focusing on porosity provides vital information for effective treatment and care planning.