Colorado Barbering Practice Exam 2026 – All-in-One Guide to Master Your Certification!

Shine and elasticity are fundamental indicators of healthy hair. When hair is shiny, it reflects light well, which often indicates that the cuticle, the outermost layer of the hair, is smooth and healthy. A smooth cuticle helps to lock in moisture and nutrients, preventing damage and promoting a vibrant appearance.

Elasticity refers to the hair's ability to stretch and return to its original shape without breaking, which is crucial for maintaining the structure and health of the hair. Healthy hair is able to withstand styling and environmental stressors, allowing it to retain both its resilience and appearance over time. Therefore, hair that exhibits both shine and elasticity is generally considered to be in good health.

In contrast, dullness, brittleness, fragility, split ends, dryness, and lack of movement all signify potential damage or lack of care, indicating an unhealthy state of the hair. These conditions can result from factors such as heat styling, chemical treatments, or lack of adequate moisture and nutrition, making them poor indicators of hair health.