Hair and Scalp Care and Treatments
Hair and scalp fundamentals
Know the structure of the hair (cuticle, cortex, medulla) and the growth cycle (anagen, catagen, telogen). Understand hair types and textures, porosity, density and elasticity, and how these affect product choice. Learn the function of the sebaceous glands and how sebum affects scalp condition. Know the signs of common scalp conditions: dandruff, seborrheic dermatitis, psoriasis and fungal infections, and know which require referral to a physician rather than salon treatment.
Treatments and procedures
Understand shampoo types (clarifying, moisturising, medicated), conditioner function, and the role of scalp massage in stimulating circulation. Know how to perform a scalp analysis, including checking for lesions, redness, flaking or tenderness. Learn the difference between a normal and abnormal scalp and when to stop a service. Understand the purpose of hot oil treatments and how heat affects the hair and scalp.
Traps to watch
Questions often blur the line between what a barber can treat and what must be referred. Dandruff and dry scalp are not the same; neither is a fungal infection the same as product buildup. Another trap is elasticity versus porosity: elasticity is about stretch and return, porosity is about how hair absorbs and holds moisture. Watch for questions about massage direction and pressure, and about when to avoid heat or chemicals.
Rule of thumb and worked example
Rule of thumb: if the scalp shows redness, open sores, pus or unexplained hair loss, stop and refer. Example: a client has circular bald patches with scaling. This suggests a fungal infection, so do not treat it in the salon; refer to a physician and disinfect all tools.