Hair Styling & Chemical Treatments Flashcards

What is the purpose of a patch test before a chemical service?

Answer: To test for allergic reactions

A patch test, also known as a predisposition test, is essential before any chemical service, especially hair coloring or perming. It involves applying a small amount of the product to a discreet area of the skin to check for any adverse allergic reactions. This precaution protects the client from severe irritation or allergic responses, ensuring their safety.

Which chemical is commonly used in permanent waving?

Answer: Ammonium thioglycolate

Ammonium thioglycolate is the most common active ingredient in alkaline permanent waving solutions. It works by breaking the disulfide bonds within the hair's keratin structure, allowing the hair to be reshaped around perm rods. Once the hair is set, a neutralizer is applied to reform these bonds in the new curly pattern.

What is the main function of neutralizer in a perm service?

Answer: Reform and stabilize hair bonds

In a perm service, the neutralizer's main function is to reform and stabilize the hair's disulfide bonds in their new, curled shape. After the waving solution breaks these bonds, the neutralizer, typically containing hydrogen peroxide, oxidizes them to lock the curl pattern in place. This step is crucial for the perm's longevity and integrity.

What should be avoided after a chemical relaxer treatment?

Answer: Immediate use of flat irons

After a chemical relaxer treatment, the hair is in a fragile state, and applying immediate heat from tools like flat irons can cause severe damage, breakage, or even revert the relaxing process. It's crucial to allow the hair to rest and recover, often recommending a waiting period before using excessive heat or tight styling.

Why is hair porosity important in chemical services?

Answer: It affects chemical absorption and processing

Hair porosity refers to the hair's ability to absorb moisture and chemicals. Highly porous hair, with open cuticles, will absorb chemicals quickly and may process faster, while low porosity hair, with tightly closed cuticles, will resist absorption and require longer processing times or stronger solutions. Understanding porosity is vital for achieving desired results and preventing damage during chemical services.

Which technique creates volume at the scalp when styling?

Answer: Backcombing

Backcombing, also known as teasing, is a styling technique where hair is combed downwards towards the scalp, creating a cushion of tangled hair at the base. This technique effectively lifts the hair away from the scalp, adding significant volume and fullness to the hairstyle. It is often used to create updos or add height to specific areas.

What type of shampoo should be used before chemical treatments?

Answer: Clarifying shampoo

A clarifying shampoo is recommended before chemical treatments because it effectively removes product buildup, oils, and impurities from the hair and scalp. This ensures that the chemical solution can penetrate the hair shaft evenly and effectively, leading to more consistent and predictable results. Moisturizing or color-protecting shampoos might leave residues that interfere with the chemical process.

What is a common sign of chemical overprocessing?

Answer: Brittle and easily breakable hair

Chemical overprocessing occurs when hair is exposed to chemical solutions for too long or at too high a concentration, leading to severe damage. A common sign is hair becoming brittle, dry, and easily breakable, often feeling gummy or mushy when wet. This indicates that the hair's internal structure has been severely compromised.

Why should hair be sectioned during chemical services?

Answer: To ensure even product application

Sectioning the hair during chemical services, such as coloring, perming, or relaxing, is crucial for ensuring even and thorough product application. By dividing the hair into manageable sections, the cosmetologist can apply the product uniformly from root to tip, preventing missed spots or uneven processing. This leads to consistent and professional results.