Delaware Cosmetology and Barbering Practice Exam

When is it advisable to use a wide-tooth comb instead of a fine-tooth comb?

1. When the hair is dry

2. When the hair is wet and prone to breakage

3. When styling for an event

4. When applying leave-in conditioner

The correct answer is: When the hair is wet and prone to breakage

Using a wide-tooth comb is particularly advisable when dealing with wet hair, especially when it is prone to breakage. Wet hair is more fragile and can easily sustain damage if subjected to excessive tension or rough handling. A wide-tooth comb allows for easier detangling with less pulling on the strands, which helps reduce the risk of hair breakage and split ends. The spacing of the teeth in a wide-tooth comb gently separates the hair without tugging, making it the ideal choice for reducing stress on wet hair. In contrast, fine-tooth combs can create more friction and may close in on strands too tightly, increasing the likelihood of hair breakage. It's essential to treat wet hair with care, and using a wide-tooth comb is a practical and safe method to maintain hair health during the detangling process.