Hair Care and Styling
What the exam tests
This domain tests hair and scalp analysis, shampoo and conditioning, drying, basic styling, tool safety and contraindications. You should know how texture, density and porosity affect product choice, and how to use heat tools without damaging hair.
Core rules and concepts
- Hair has a cuticle, cortex and medulla. The cuticle protects the hair; rough handling and high heat lift the cuticle and cause dryness.
- Analyse scalp and hair: oily or dry scalp, flaking, sores, lice, recent colour or chemical service, and hair texture.
- Shampoo by massaging the scalp, rinse well, then apply conditioner from mid-length to ends. Keep conditioner off an oily scalp.
- Towel dry gently, apply heat protectant, and use a dryer at a safe distance while moving it continuously. Flat irons must be used on dry hair only.
- Sanitise combs and brushes between clients. Do not share tools with a client who has lice, scalp infection or open sores.
Worked example
A client with dry, colour-treated hair wants a blow-dry. Use a sulphate-free shampoo, a moisturising conditioner on mid-lengths and ends, then a heat protectant before blow-drying on medium heat with a cool shot. Reasoning: colour-treated hair has a raised cuticle and loses moisture easily; gentle cleansing, conditioning and heat protection reduce further damage.
Traps that cost marks
- Applying conditioner to an oily scalp.
- Using high heat on wet hair.
- Sharing combs without disinfection.
- Brushing curly hair dry with a fine comb.
- Styling over scalp sores or lice.