NIC Barber Written (Theory) ExamHair Care ServicesEasy
A barber is performing a chemical relaxing service on a client. After rinsing the relaxer thoroughly, what is the next critical step to ensure the hair's pH is restored and the chemical process is stopped?
- AApply a deep conditioning treatment.
- BApply a leave-in conditioner.
- CShampoo with a neutralizing shampoo.
- DPerform a strand test.
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: C. Shampoo with a neutralizing shampoo.
After thoroughly rinsing a chemical relaxer, a neutralizing shampoo must be used immediately to stop the chemical process and restore the hair's pH, preventing further damage.
Why the other options are wrong
- A. Deep conditioning is done after neutralizing, not before, as it doesn't stop the chemical action.
- B. Leave-in conditioner is applied after the hair has been neutralized and conditioned, not as a neutralizing step.
- D. A strand test is performed before the relaxer application, not after rinsing.
Neutralizing Shampoo (Relaxers)
A specialized shampoo, typically containing a pH indicator, used after a chemical relaxer service to stop the action of the relaxer, remove residual chemicals, and restore the hair and scalp to a normal pH range.
- Crucial step to prevent over-processing and damage.
- Often turns pink or purple if relaxer residue is present, indicating more rinsing is needed.
- Contains ingredients to re-harden the disulfide bonds in their new straight configuration.
Memory trick: Neutralize to stabilize.