Milady Cosmetology Practice Exam

What condition is characterized by brittleness and nodular swellings along the hair shaft?

1. Alopecia

2. Trichorrhexis Nodosa

3. Split Ends

4. Androgenetic Alopecia

The correct answer is: Trichorrhexis Nodosa

The condition characterized by brittleness and nodular swellings along the hair shaft is known as Trichorrhexis Nodosa. This disorder manifests as weak points along the hair, which can form knots or nodules that make the hair brittle and more prone to breaking. The nodules can be seen as swollen areas on the hair shaft, leading to the hair appearing uneven and frayed. In understanding the other choices, it is important to note that alopecia refers to hair loss, which does not describe the brittleness or swellings on the hair shaft. Split ends, on the other hand, specifically involve the fraying of hair ends rather than nodules along the shaft. Androgenetic alopecia describes a type of hair loss related to genetics and hormonal factors but does not relate to the characteristics of brittleness or nodular formations. Thus, the defining features of Trichorrhexis Nodosa clearly make it the only choice that aligns with the symptoms described in the question.