Hair Care
What the exam tests
This domain tests hair structure, growth cycle, scalp and hair type analysis, shampoo and conditioner use, heat protection, oiling safety and when to refer a scalp problem.
Core rules and concepts
- Hair has cuticle, cortex and medulla. The cuticle protects the shaft; damage makes hair rough and porous.
- Growth cycle: anagen (growth), catagen (transition) and telogen (resting and shedding). Shedding some hair daily is normal.
- Shampoo cleans scalp and hair; conditioner smooths the cuticle. Apply conditioner mainly to mid-lengths and ends, not the oily scalp.
- Use heat protectant before dryers, straighteners and curling tongs. Keep tools clean and at controlled heat.
- Warm oil can be used as a pre-wash treatment; it must not be hot enough to burn the scalp. Refer persistent itching, sores or sudden hair loss.
Worked example
A client has dry, brittle ends from daily straightening. Reasoned plan: reduce heat and frequency, use heat protectant, trim split ends, use a moisturizing conditioner on mid-lengths and ends, and avoid tight wet hair ties. A protein treatment is not automatically the answer; overuse can make hair stiff. The cause is heat and mechanical damage, so the plan must remove that cause.
Traps that cost marks
Do not apply heavy conditioner to an oily scalp. Do not brush wet hair roughly. Do not use burning-hot oil. Do not diagnose dandruff or hair-loss disease. Do not promise that oil cures baldness.