What does the term 'overprocessing' refer to?

The term 'overprocessing' specifically refers to the damage that occurs to hair as a result of excessive chemical treatments, such as repeatedly bleaching, perming, or relaxing the hair. These procedures alter the hair's natural structure, which can lead to weakened hair, excessive dryness, brittleness, and an inability to hold moisture. This damaging effect stems from the fact that each chemical treatment can strip away the hair's natural proteins and moisture, causing it to break down over time.

While other choices address actions that can affect hair quality or style, they do not encapsulate the specific nature of 'overprocessing' as it relates strictly to the effects of chemical treatments. For example, while applying too many styling products may weigh hair down or make it greasy, it doesn't inherently damage the hair structure in the same way that excessive chemical treatments do. Similarly, using heat on damp hair can cause damage, but it isn't classified as overprocessing; it's more accurately a misuse of heat styling. Cutting hair too short, on the other hand, pertains to hair length and styling rather than chemical integrity or treatment.