California State Board Barber Practice Exam

The ingredient that provides hold in styling gel is polymers. Polymers are large molecules made up of repeating structural units, which give styling products their defining characteristics. In the context of hair gel, polymers work by coating the hair strands and creating a film that helps to bind the hair in place. This provides the desired structure and control for hairstyles, allowing them to maintain their shape throughout the day.

In contrast, water is primarily a solvent in hair products and aids in the application, but it does not contribute to holding power. Alcohol may serve as a solvent or preservative but can also lead to dryness and does not offer any significant holding properties. Fragrance is added to make the product smell pleasant but has no effect on the hold of the hairstyle. Therefore, polymers are the key ingredient for achieving the necessary hold in styling gels.