Rhode Island Cosmetology and Barbering Practice Exam

The primary effect of heat on hair during styling is that it softens the cuticle and allows for shape manipulation. When heat is applied to the hair, the cuticle—the outer protective layer—becomes more pliable. This softening effect enables stylists to manipulate the hair into desired shapes and styles, whether through curling, straightening, or adding volume. As the cuticle lifts slightly, it allows the underlying cortex to be reshaped, providing versatility in various hairstyling techniques.

In contrast to this, other effects of heat do occur but do not represent the primary function in styling. While hair can indeed lose moisture when exposed to high temperatures, the primary focus during styling is not solely on moisture loss but rather on the ability to create and hold new shapes. Additionally, heat does not harden the hair strands nor does it add weight; these characteristics are not conducive to effective styling. Thus, it's the ability to manipulate the strand shape through heat application that underscores the primary effect for hairstyling purposes.