Kansas Cosmetology Practice Exam

Which tool is most effective for detangling wet hair?

1. Round brush

2. Paddle brush

3. Wide-tooth comb

4. Fine-tooth comb

The correct answer is: Wide-tooth comb

The wide-tooth comb is the most effective tool for detangling wet hair because it is designed with wider spaces between its teeth. This allows it to glide through the hair more easily without tugging or pulling, which is critical when hair is wet, as it is more susceptible to breakage. The gentle action of a wide-tooth comb helps minimize damage and split ends while effectively removing knots and tangles. Using a wide-tooth comb on wet hair reduces the risk of pulling too hard on the strands, which can lead to hair loss or additional tangling. It's also ideal for use on textured or curly hair, as it helps maintain the natural shape of the curls without causing frizz. Other tools, such as the round brush and paddle brush, are typically designed for styling and smoothing dry hair rather than detangling. A fine-tooth comb is not suitable for wet hair since its closely spaced teeth can snag and pull at tangles rather than easing them out. Therefore, the wide-tooth comb is clearly the best choice for detangling wet hair effectively and safely.