How can you tell if a client’s hair is damaged?

Evaluating a client's hair texture and elasticity is crucial in determining if the hair is damaged. Healthy hair should exhibit smoothness, good tensile strength, and the ability to stretch without breaking. When hair is damaged, it often exhibits altered texture—perhaps feeling brittle or rough—and has reduced elasticity, meaning it may break easily when pulled or stretched.

Assessing texture and elasticity allows a hairdresser to make informed decisions about the types of treatments or products that may be needed to restore the hair's health. This kind of evaluation goes beyond surface-level indicators, such as color, split ends, or volume, and focuses on the hair's fundamental qualities, which directly relate to its health. By understanding these characteristics, hairdressers can better serve their clients' needs and develop appropriate care regimens.