Florida Cosmetology Licensing ExamChemical ServicesMedium
After performing a chemical relaxer service, a cosmetologist must ensure the hair's pH is restored to its normal acidic range. What is the primary product used for this purpose?
- AA protein conditioner
- BAn alkaline pre-treatment spray
- CA neutralizing shampoo
- DA deep penetrating oil treatment
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: C. A neutralizing shampoo
A neutralizing shampoo is specifically formulated to re-harden the hair and restore the hair's natural pH (acidic) after an alkaline chemical relaxer, stopping the chemical action and preventing further damage.
Why the other options are wrong
- A. Protein conditioners help strengthen hair but do not primarily neutralize pH after relaxers.
- B. An alkaline pre-treatment spray would increase alkalinity, which is the opposite of what is needed post-relaxer.
- D. Oil treatments provide moisture and shine but do not neutralize chemical residues or pH.
Neutralizing Shampoo
A shampoo containing an acid-base neutralizer used after chemical relaxers to de-activate the highly alkaline relaxer solution and restore the hair's natural pH.
- Stops the chemical action of relaxers.
- Restores hair to a normal pH (typically 4.5-5.5).
- Often contains a color indicator to show if relaxer is still present.
- Essential step to prevent over-processing and damage.
Memory trick: Neutralize to Normalize