California Barber Written ExamHair Care ServicesEasy
When performing a chemical relaxing service, after applying the relaxer and allowing it to process, what is the FIRST and most crucial step before shampooing the hair?
- APerform a strand test for elasticity.
- BThoroughly rinse the hair with warm water.
- CApply a deep conditioning treatment.
- DApply a neutralizing shampoo.
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: B. Thoroughly rinse the hair with warm water.
Thoroughly rinsing the hair with warm water immediately after the processing time is complete is the most crucial first step. This removes all traces of the chemical relaxer from the hair and scalp, preventing further processing and potential damage before any other products are applied.
Why the other options are wrong
- A. A strand test for elasticity is done BEFORE applying the relaxer to determine suitability, not after processing.
- C. A deep conditioning treatment is applied after the neutralizing process, not immediately after processing the relaxer.
- D. Neutralizing shampoo is applied after rinsing to restore pH, but not as the very first step.
Relaxer Rinsing
After chemical relaxer processing, thoroughly rinsing the hair with warm water is the critical first step to remove all relaxer residue and halt the chemical action, preventing over-processing and damage.
- Stops chemical action.
- Removes relaxer residue.
- Prevents scalp irritation and hair damage.
- Must be thorough and immediate.
Memory trick: Rinse 'right away' to stop the relaxer's sway.