Hair Care: Shampooing, Conditioning, Styling and Basic Cutting
Hair Care tests hair and scalp analysis, shampoo and conditioner selection, safe styling and the basics of sectioned cutting. Questions often ask why a conditioner is applied to mid-lengths and ends rather than the scalp.
Core rules
- Assess scalp and hair: oily, dry, normal, chemically treated, damaged or sensitive.
- Wet hair thoroughly, dilute shampoo as directed, massage the scalp with fingertips and rinse completely.
- Apply conditioner to mid-lengths and ends for most hair types; rinse well.
- Detangle gently with a wide-tooth comb, working from ends upward.
- Blow-dry with the nozzle directed down the hair shaft to smooth the cuticle; keep heat moving.
- Section hair cleanly for cutting; use sharp scissors and controlled tension.
- Basic cuts include blunt lines, layers and fringes; damp cutting is common but tension must be even.
- Sanitise tools and never share combs between clients without cleaning.
Worked example
A client has an oily scalp and dry ends. Reasoning: shampoo should focus on the scalp to remove sebum, while conditioner should go on mid-lengths and ends to reduce dryness. Applying rich conditioner to the scalp would add weight and oiliness. Rinse thoroughly and avoid very hot water.
Traps that cost marks
- Scrubbing the scalp with nails.
- Applying conditioner to an oily scalp.
- Cutting with blunt or dirty scissors.
- Combing wet hair roughly from the roots.
- Using high heat on one spot for too long.