NIC Cosmetology Written (Theory) ExamHair Care and ServicesMedium
A cosmetologist is performing a chemical relaxer service using a sodium hydroxide relaxer. After rinsing the relaxer thoroughly, what is the crucial next step to ensure the hair's pH is restored and the chemical process is stopped?
- AApplying a leave-in treatment
- BApplying a deep conditioner
- CNeutralizing shampoo application
- DBlow-drying the hair
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: C. Neutralizing shampoo application
After rinsing a hydroxide relaxer, a neutralizing shampoo is essential. It lowers the pH of the hair and scalp, deactivating any remaining relaxer chemicals and stopping the process.
Why the other options are wrong
- A. Leave-in treatments are for conditioning and styling, applied after the chemical process is fully stopped and neutralized.
- B. Deep conditioners are for moisture and repair, applied after neutralization, but do not stop the chemical action.
- D. Blow-drying the hair before neutralizing can cause damage and does not stop the chemical process.
Neutralizing Shampoo (Relaxers)
A shampoo with an acidic pH (typically 4.5-5.5) used after chemical relaxers to re-harden the hair, restore its natural pH, and deactivate any remaining alkaline residues.
- Essential step after hydroxide relaxers.
- Prevents further damage from alkalinity.
- Often contains a color indicator to show if relaxer is still present.
Memory trick: Rinse the relaxer, then neutralize the hazard.