Iowa Barber Practice Exam 2025 – All-In-One Guide to Master Your Barber Certification!

Common signs of hair damage include split ends, brittleness, and loss of elasticity. These characteristics indicate that the hair has been subjected to stressors such as chemical treatments, heat styling, or environmental factors that compromise its structural integrity.

Split ends occur when the protective cuticle of the hair strand wears away, allowing the inner layers to fray, while brittleness refers to the reduced strength and increased tendency to break. Loss of elasticity means the hair no longer has its natural ability to stretch and return to its original shape, often resulting in a lack of bounce and vitality.

In contrast, signs like a shiny and smooth texture or thick and voluminous hair suggest healthy hair that is well-maintained and not suffering from damage. Similarly, dark pigmentation is related to the color of the hair rather than its health status. Thus, the presence of split ends, brittleness, and loss of elasticity is a clear indication of compromised hair health, confirming the choice as the correct answer.