Cosmetology · Hairstyling and Finishing

Wet hair being set and dried into a temporary new shape is an example of what kind of change?

Correct answer

A temporary physical change

  1. A A change to the hair color
  2. B No change
  3. C A temporary physical change
  4. D A permanent chemical change

Why this is the answer

Setting wet hair and drying it into a new shape (for example, with rollers or a blow-dryer and round brush) is a temporary physical change. The hydrogen bonds in the hair are broken by water and reformed in a new position as the hair dries, holding the style until the hair gets wet or absorbs moisture again, at which point it reverts. This contrasts with permanent chemical changes (like perms or relaxers) that restructure the hair. Recognizing wet styling as a temporary physical change is basic hairstyling science.
Source: Hair Care — Physical Styling Change

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About this topic: Hairstyling and Finishing

Hairstyling and finishing questions cover wet styling (finger waves, pin curls, roller sets), blow-dry techniques, thermal styling with irons and the products and safety precautions for each. This is one of 10 Hair Care questions on hairstyling and finishing, each with a full explanation on a single study page.

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