Illinois Cosmetology Practice Exam 2026 - Free Cosmetology Practice Questions and Study Guide

When hair absorbs moisture from the air, it leads to frizz. This phenomenon occurs because the outer layer of the hair, called the cuticle, becomes raised or lifted when exposed to increased humidity. When the cuticle is not flat, the hair strands can become more porous and absorb moisture from the environment. This absorption causes the hair to swell and change its structure, often resulting in an uneven surface and making it fluffier or more unruly. Frizz is the visible manifestation of this underlying moisture absorption and is especially common in individuals with curly or textured hair, as these hair types are more prone to environmental changes.

On the other hand, while humidity refers to the amount of moisture in the air, it is more of a condition rather than a direct effect on hair. Static is typically related to dry conditions where hair lacks moisture, causing it to repel and stand away from the scalp. Volume refers to the overall fullness or body of the hair, which can be influenced by styling but is not directly connected to moisture absorption. Thus, frizz is the most accurate response to describe the phenomenon when hair interacts with high humidity.