California Cosmetology Written ExamChemical Texture ServicesMedium
A cosmetologist is applying a virgin relaxer application to a client with coarse, resistant hair. Where should the relaxer be applied first during the initial application?
- ATo the hairline and nape, as these areas are most resistant.
- BTo the porous ends of the hair, to ensure even processing.
- CTo the scalp area, as it needs the longest processing time.
- DTo the mid-shaft, 1/4 to 1/2 inch away from the scalp and ends.
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: D. To the mid-shaft, 1/4 to 1/2 inch away from the scalp and ends.
In a virgin relaxer application, the relaxer is applied first to the mid-shaft of the hair, typically 1/4 to 1/2 inch away from the scalp and ends. The scalp area processes faster due to body heat, and the ends are often more porous and can over-process quickly. Applying to the mid-shaft first allows for proper processing time before moving to the more sensitive or porous areas.
Why the other options are wrong
- A. While the hairline and nape can be resistant, the general rule for virgin application is to start at the mid-shaft for overall evenness, not specifically these perimeter areas first.
- B. Applying to the ends first would lead to over-processing and damage, as ends are usually the most porous.
- C. Applying to the scalp first would cause over-processing and scalp irritation due to body heat accelerating the reaction.
Virgin Relaxer Application
The first-time application of a chemical relaxer to hair that has not been previously relaxed, requiring a specific application pattern to ensure even results.
- Start application 1/4 to 1/2 inch away from the scalp.
- Apply to the mid-shaft first, then to the ends, and finally to the scalp.
- Scalp processes faster due to body heat (zona of greatest porosity).
- Ends are often more porous and require less processing time.
Memory trick: Mid-shaft First, then Ends, then Scalp Last.