Hair Care, Cutting, and Styling
Domain 5 tests hair analysis, cutting geometry and styling safety. Expect questions on sectioning, elevation, angles and heat protection.
Core rules
- Analyse texture, density, porosity, elasticity, scalp condition and previous chemical treatments before cutting or styling.
- Shampoo and condition according to scalp and hair type; detangle gently; do not scrub a sensitive scalp.
- Section hair cleanly and keep subsections even; uneven sections produce uneven lines.
- Elevation controls length and shape: 0° blunt, 45° graduation, 90° layering, 180° long layers. Cutting angle and tension must be consistent.
- Cut wet hair with sharp scissors; check the result after drying because hair shrinks and springs up.
- Blow-dry in the direction of the desired finish; use heat protectant; keep the dryer moving; test tong temperature on paper or cloth before use.
- Sanitise scissors, combs and clippers between clients; dispose of razor blades safely.
Worked example
A one-length bob is requested. Reasoning: divide into four sections, take a horizontal subsection at the nape, establish a guideline at 0° elevation, cut blunt, then work up section by section using the previous section as a guide. Keep tension even, cross-check both sides, and dry to confirm the line. Do not over-direct hair or use 45° elevation if a solid bob is required.
Traps that cost marks
- Cutting with blunt or dirty scissors and crushing the ends.
- Taking horizontal sections that are too thick.
- Forgetting that curly hair lifts when dry.
- Applying a hot tong to wet hair without protection.