Redseal Hairstyling License Practice Test

Which method is used to break hydrogen bonds in hair?

1. Physical manipulation

2. Water or heat

3. Chemical solutions

4. Active ingredients

The correct answer is: Water or heat

Hydrogen bonds in hair are temporary connections that can be affected by various factors, particularly water and heat. When water is applied to hair, it can penetrate the hair shaft and disrupt the hydrogen bonds that hold the hair's structure together. This process is reversible; once the hair dries, the hydrogen bonds reform, restoring the hair to its original state. Heat, on the other hand, also serves to break these bonds by altering the physical structure of the hair. For example, when heat is applied through styling tools like curling irons or straighteners, it temporarily alters the shape of the hair by breaking the hydrogen bonds, allowing for the desired style to be achieved. This is particularly useful in hairstyling techniques, as it allows for versatility in the design of hair. Other methods listed may have their own functions but do not directly impact hydrogen bonds in the same manner as water or heat. Physical manipulation relies on styling techniques rather than breaking bonds, while chemical solutions and active ingredients focus more on altering or penetrating the hair in a different way, rather than specifically targeting the temporary hydrogen bonds.