California Cosmetology Written ExamClient Consultation and AnalysisEasy
A client's hair has turned uniformly white with age, and a strand analysis under magnification shows a complete absence of melanin pigment in the cortex, though the hair shaft structure itself remains normal. Which condition does this describe?
- ATinea Capitis
- BTrichorrhexis Nodosa
- CAlopecia Areata
- DCanities
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: D. Canities
Canities is the technical term for gray or white hair caused by a decrease or complete loss of melanin pigment in the hair cortex. It can occur naturally with age (acquired) or be present from birth (congenital), and it does not affect hair shaft structure or growth ability.
Why the other options are wrong
- A. Tinea Capitis is a contagious fungal scalp infection, not a pigment condition.
- B. Trichorrhexis Nodosa is a hair shaft breakage disorder, not a pigment disorder.
- C. Alopecia Areata is patchy hair loss, unrelated to pigmentation.
Canities
The technical term for gray or white hair resulting from a decrease or absence of melanin pigment in the hair cortex.
- Can be congenital (present at birth) or acquired (develops with age).
- Caused by reduced melanocyte activity in the hair bulb.
- Does not indicate a contagious or contraindicated condition — service can proceed normally.
Memory trick: Canities = 'can't-tint' hair, since melanin has faded away.