What does the term "over-processing" refer to in chemical treatments?

The term "over-processing" refers specifically to damage that occurs when hair undergoes excessive use of chemical products. This damage can arise from repeated applications of color, perm solutions, or relaxers, which can strip the hair of its natural moisture, lead to breakage, and affect the overall integrity and appearance of the hair. Over-processing is a significant concern in the beauty industry because it can compromise the hair's strength and texture, making it important for cosmetologists to understand and recognize the signs to prevent further damage.

Insufficient processing time, improper application of the product, and too little chemical on the hair do not accurately describe the consequences of over-processing. Instead, these situations may relate to different issues, such as not achieving the desired effect or results from a treatment rather than damage from excessive chemical exposure. Therefore, recognizing over-processing is critical for hair care professionals to maintain the health and quality of their clients' hair.