California Cosmetology Written ExamChemical Texture ServicesHard
A client returns for a chemical relaxer retouch application after eight weeks of new hair growth. To minimize the risk of hair breakage and overprocessing, the cosmetologist should apply the relaxer:
- AOnly to the new growth, carefully avoiding overlap onto previously relaxed hair
- BOnly to the mid-shaft and ends, skipping the new growth entirely
- CTo the entire strand from scalp to ends for a uniformly fresh application
- DAt double strength specifically on the new growth to match the previous texture
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: A. Only to the new growth, carefully avoiding overlap onto previously relaxed hair
On a retouch service, relaxer should be applied only to the new, unprocessed growth; overlapping onto hair that was already chemically straightened causes over-processing, weakening or breaking the previously relaxed hair.
Why the other options are wrong
- B. Skipping new growth would leave the retouch ineffective; new growth is exactly what needs treatment.
- C. Applying to the entire strand overlaps previously relaxed hair, risking severe breakage.
- D. Doubling strength increases overprocessing risk rather than preventing it.
Relaxer Retouch Application
Applying relaxer only to new, unprocessed hair growth during a retouch service to avoid overlapping and damaging previously relaxed hair.
- Overlapping causes overprocessing and breakage
- New growth is chemically virgin and needs full processing
- Careful sectioning and application timing are critical
Memory trick: Treat only the 'new roots,' never re-cook what's already done.