Hair Treatments and Styling Basics
This section covers Hair Treatments and Styling Basics. The exam tests treatment selection, heat protection, sectioning, tension and tool hygiene.
Treatments
Moisture treatments restore softness to dry hair; protein treatments temporarily strengthen damaged hair but overuse can make it stiff and brittle. Scalp treatments address flaking or dryness, not undiagnosed disease. Hot-oil treatments need careful temperature control. Always follow manufacturer timing and rinse instructions.
Styling basics
Blow-drying uses sectioning, tension and directional airflow. Straighteners and curling irons should be used on dry hair with heat protection and at the lowest effective temperature. Roller setting gives volume and smoothness. Braids and tight ponytails should not pull the hairline, because constant tension can cause traction damage. Clean and disinfect brushes, combs and clips between clients; remove loose hair.
Worked example
A client with brittle, over-bleached hair asks for maximum-heat straightening. The correct plan is a strand test, a moisturising treatment, heat protectant, a lower temperature and limited passes. Reason: high heat on compromised hair can cause breakage; the service must be adapted, not rushed. If hair is severely damaged, decline aggressive styling and recommend a trim and conditioning plan.
Traps
Using irons on wet hair, skipping heat protectant, over-applying protein, and ignoring scalp tension are common errors. Do not promise repair of split ends; they must be trimmed.