NIC Barber Written (Theory) ExamHair Care ServicesMedium
A barber is preparing to perform a chemical relaxing service on a client with tightly coiled, resistant hair. To ensure the client's safety and determine the appropriate relaxer strength and processing time, which of the following tests should be performed immediately prior to the application?
- AElasticity test
- BStrand test
- CPorosity test
- DPatch test
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: B. Strand test
A strand test (or preliminary strand test) is crucial before chemical relaxing to determine processing time, relaxer strength, and the expected results on the hair. It involves applying the relaxer to a small, inconspicuous section of hair.
Why the other options are wrong
- A. An elasticity test assesses the hair's ability to stretch and return, indicating its strength, but does not determine relaxer processing time or strength.
- C. A porosity test assesses the hair's ability to absorb moisture, which is important for product selection but does not directly determine processing time for a relaxer.
- D. A patch test (predisposition test) is performed 24-48 hours prior to identify allergic reactions, not to determine relaxer processing time or strength.
Strand Test (Relaxers)
A preliminary test performed on a small, inconspicuous section of hair to determine the correct processing time and relaxer strength needed for a chemical relaxing service.
- Determines processing time
- Assesses relaxer strength suitability
- Checks for desired results and damage
Memory trick: Before relaxing, always check the strand for strength, not just the skin.