Hair Care: Shampooing, Conditioning and Basic Styling
Hair care: shampoo the scalp, condition the lengths
This domain tests shampooing, conditioning, scalp massage, rinsing and basic styling. Expect questions on hair type, product placement, heat protection and water temperature.
Core rules
- Wet hair thoroughly with lukewarm water. Dilute shampoo if the product is concentrated, apply to the scalp, massage with fingertips not nails, and rinse until the water runs clear.
- Shampoo frequency depends on scalp oiliness and lifestyle; daily washing is acceptable for many oily scalps, while dry scalps may need less.
- Conditioner belongs on mid-lengths and ends, not the scalp, unless the product is designed as a scalp conditioner. Comb through with a wide-tooth comb and rinse.
- Match products: lightweight shampoo for fine or oily hair; moisturising conditioner for dry or coarse hair; clarifying shampoo occasionally for build-up.
- Basic styling: towel-dry by pressing, not rubbing; apply heat protectant; section hair; keep the dryer moving; use the lowest effective temperature.
- Scalp inflammation, sudden hair loss or broken skin needs referral, not a stronger product.
Worked example
A client with fine, oily hair wants more volume. Recommend a lightweight shampoo, conditioner only on the ends, a cool rinse, and a root-lift blow-dry with low heat. Avoid heavy oils or thick masks at the roots. Reasoning: heavy products weigh fine hair down; conditioning the scalp increases oiliness.
Traps
- Scratching the scalp with nails.
- Applying conditioner to the roots of oily hair.
- Using very hot water or a hot dryer on wet hair.
- Brushing wet hair roughly from root to tip.
- Recommending a strong treatment for undiagnosed hair loss.