Milady Esthetics State Board Practice Test

People with which natural hair color are known to be particularly susceptible to sun damage?

1. Brown

2. Black

3. Blonde

4. Red

The correct answer is: Red

Individuals with red hair are particularly susceptible to sun damage primarily due to their unique pigmentation. Red hair contains pheomelanin, which provides less protection against harmful ultraviolet (UV) radiation compared to eumelanin, the pigment found in brown and black hair. Eumelanin has higher UV-absorbing properties, effectively shielding the skin from sun damage. Additionally, people with red hair often have fair skin that tends to burn easily and is prone to sun-related issues, such as skin cancer and premature aging. This predisposition to both fair skin and low melanin levels makes them more vulnerable when exposed to the sun’s rays without adequate protection. Therefore, the combination of lighter pigmentation in both hair and skin enhances the risk of sun damage in this group.