Oregon Cosmetology Certification Practice Exam – Study Guide & Prep

Straight hair is most prone to oiliness due to its structure and the way oil distributes along the hair shaft. In straight hair, the sebum produced by the scalp can travel more easily down the hair strands, leading to a greasier appearance, particularly at the roots. Because straight hair lays flat, the oils can spread uniformly, resulting in a shiny or oily look.

In contrast, curly, wavy, and coily hair types tend to have more difficulty allowing oil to travel down the hair shaft. The bends and twists in these hair types create barriers that prevent oil from distributing evenly, often resulting in drier ends while the scalp may still produce oil. Thus, those with curly, wavy, or coily hair may not experience oiliness to the same extent as individuals with straight hair.