Client Consultation and Hair/Scalp Analysis
What the exam tests
This domain examines systematic consultation, hair and scalp analysis, contraindication recognition and realistic expectation setting. It tests whether you can gather relevant history, perform simple tests, interpret findings and translate them into a safe service plan.
Core rules
- Use a structured consultation: greeting, open questions, history, visual and manual analysis, tests, options, agreement, record and aftercare.
- Ask about previous chemical services, home colour, medications, allergies, pregnancy, scalp conditions and lifestyle factors such as heat styling and swimming.
- Analyse texture, density, porosity, elasticity, length, growth pattern and scalp condition. A porosity check shows how quickly hair absorbs water; an elasticity test on a wet strand shows whether hair stretches and returns or snaps.
- Treat redness, broken skin, infestations, unexplained hair loss or active scalp disease as contraindications or referral points; do not diagnose.
- Perform strand and patch tests where indicated and explain the realistic outcome, maintenance and cost before starting.
- Record findings objectively and update the record after the service.
Worked example
A client requests a lightening service but has visible scalp flakes, reports recent scratching and takes a prescribed topical treatment. Reasoning: the scalp is not intact, so colour may irritate or the medication may affect the result. Defer chemical service, suggest a mild cleansing routine and advise the client to seek pharmacist or medical advice. Record the decision and offer a review.
Traps that cost marks
- Assuming hair is virgin because the client cannot remember colour history.
- Diagnosing dandruff or eczema instead of referring.
- Ignoring medication and allergy answers because they seem unrelated.
- Testing porosity on conditioner-coated hair or judging elasticity on dry hair.