Pivot Point Barbering 108 Practice Exam

What is a common symptom of an allergic reaction to hair products?

1. Dryness of the scalp

2. Redness, itching, or swelling of the skin

3. Increased hair growth

4. Oily residue on the hair

The correct answer is: Redness, itching, or swelling of the skin

The common symptom of an allergic reaction to hair products includes redness, itching, or swelling of the skin. When the body encounters a substance that it identifies as harmful—such as certain chemicals found in hair products—it triggers an immune response. This response can manifest as inflammatory symptoms such as redness, which occurs due to increased blood flow to the affected area, itching, which is a result of nerve irritation, and swelling, which can occur from fluid accumulation in the tissue. These symptoms are particularly notable because they represent the body's defense mechanisms attempting to fight against what it perceives as an invader. In contrast, dryness of the scalp may occur for various reasons, such as environmental factors or product buildup, but it is not a direct indicator of an allergy. Increased hair growth is unrelated to allergic reactions and can be influenced by hormonal factors or genetics. Oily residue on the hair typically reflects issues with product formulation or excessive sebum production, rather than an allergic response.