Prepare for the Maryland Cosmetology State Practice Exam with interactive quizzes. Study with detailed flashcards, multiple-choice questions, all designed with hints and detailed explanations. Become exam-ready today!

Each practice test/flash card set has 50 randomly selected questions from a bank of over 500. You'll get a new set of questions each time!

Practice this question and more.


What does alkaline do to the cuticle in terms of appearance?

  1. Makes it shiny

  2. Blows it open

  3. Changes its color

  4. Makes it invisible

The correct answer is: Blows it open

Alkaline substances, such as ammonia, can cause the hair cuticle to swell and "blow open." This can potentially lead to damage and breakage. Making the cuticle invisible or changing its color are not effects commonly associated with alkaline products. Additionally, while some alkaline products may make the hair appear shiny, it is not the main purpose or effect of alkaline substances on the cuticle.