CHS Scalp & Hair Health 3 — Questions and Answers
Question 1: Which pH range is considered ideal for scalp and hair health?
- 2.0–3.5
- 4.5–5.5 (Correct answer)
- 6.5–7.5
- 8.0–9.0
Correct answer: 4.5–5.5
The scalp and hair have a natural acid mantle with a pH of 4.5–5.5, which keeps the cuticle closed and protects against bacteria and fungi.
Question 2: Tinea capitis is caused by which type of organism?
- Bacteria
- Virus
- Dermatophyte fungus (Correct answer)
- Parasitic mite
Correct answer: Dermatophyte fungus
Tinea capitis is a fungal infection of the scalp caused by dermatophytes, and it requires medical treatment with antifungal medication.
Question 3: Which scalp condition is characterized by thick, silvery plaques and a well-defined border, often appearing on the hairline?
- Seborrheic dermatitis
- Psoriasis (Correct answer)
- Eczema
- Folliculitis
Correct answer: Psoriasis
Psoriasis presents with thick, silvery-white plaques with sharply defined borders and is an autoimmune condition that commonly affects the hairline.
Question 4: What is the name of the structure at the base of the hair follicle that supplies blood and nutrients to the growing hair?
- Sebaceous gland
- Dermal papilla (Correct answer)
- Arrector pili
- Inner root sheath
Correct answer: Dermal papilla
The dermal papilla is a cluster of connective tissue at the follicle base that contains blood vessels and directs hair growth.
Question 5: A stylist should NOT perform a scalp service on a client with which condition?
- Dry scalp
- Mild dandruff
- Open sores or abrasions on the scalp (Correct answer)
- Slightly oily scalp
Correct answer: Open sores or abrasions on the scalp
Open sores or abrasions on the scalp are a contraindication for scalp services because treatments could worsen irritation, introduce infection, or spread disease.
Question 6: Which type of hair loss is hereditary and caused by sensitivity to dihydrotestosterone (DHT)?
- Alopecia areata
- Androgenetic alopecia (Correct answer)
- Telogen effluvium
- Anagen effluvium
Correct answer: Androgenetic alopecia
Androgenetic alopecia (pattern baldness) is hereditary and results from follicular sensitivity to DHT, which causes progressive miniaturization of hair follicles.
Question 7: Which ingredient in scalp treatments is known for its keratolytic (scale-softening) properties?
- Panthenol
- Salicylic acid (Correct answer)
- Biotin
- Tea tree oil
Correct answer: Salicylic acid
Salicylic acid is a beta-hydroxy acid with keratolytic properties that dissolves the bonds holding dead skin cells together, helping to remove scalp buildup and scales.
CHS Scalp & Hair Health 3
Which pH range is considered ideal for scalp and hair health?