Arizona Cosmetology Practice Exam

What is the primary purpose of a keratin treatment?

1. To add volume to hair

2. To improve hair color

3. To smooth and straighten hair

4. To enhance natural curls

The correct answer is: To smooth and straighten hair

The primary purpose of a keratin treatment is to smooth and straighten hair. Keratin is a protein that is a key structural component of hair, and the treatment involves applying this protein to the hair to help fill in gaps in the hair structure. By doing so, it creates a protective layer around each strand, which tends to make hair more manageable, reduces frizz, and provides a sleeker appearance. This treatment is particularly popular among individuals with frizzy or curly hair who desire a straighter look without the daily effort of styling. The smoothing effect is often long-lasting, which is one reason many choose this option for maintaining a polished look. Other options, while they might relate to hair treatment or styling techniques, do not accurately reflect the primary effect of keratin treatments. For instance, enhancing curls or adding volume is generally more aligned with other hair products or treatments specifically designed for those purposes, while improving hair color pertains to techniques such as dyeing or highlighting rather than smoothing treatments. As such, focusing on the "smoothing and straightening" aspect highlights the core benefit of keratin treatments in hair care.