California Cosmetology Practice Exam

The primary purpose of using conditioner on hair is to moisturize and detangle it. Conditioners are designed to add moisture back into the hair strands, helping to prevent dryness and brittleness. They work by smoothing the hair cuticle, which reduces friction and makes the hair easier to comb and style. This is particularly important because wet hair can be more susceptible to breakage, so a good conditioner helps to protect hair during the detangling process.

While conditioners can contribute to strengthening the hair and may help enhance shine, their most critical function remains to provide moisture and aid in detangling. This is essential for maintaining healthy hair, as it helps minimize damage that can occur from tangling and styling. Color treatments and shine enhancements are secondary benefits that some conditioners may offer, but they are not the primary purpose of a conditioning product.