Hair and Scalp Care, Shampooing, and Conditioning
What this domain tests
Scalp and hair analysis, shampoo selection, and conditioning logic: matching products to porosity, density, scalp condition, and chemical history.
Core rules
- Assess before wetting: scalp condition such as dry, oily, or inflamed; hair porosity, elasticity, density, and texture.
- Shampoo surfactants lift oil and debris; pH matters. Lower-pH shampoos and conditioners help close the cuticle after color or lightening.
- Conditioners work differently: surface conditioners smooth the cuticle; penetrating protein conditioners temporarily fill gaps in porous hair; moisturizing conditioners add water-binding ingredients.
- Water temperature should be comfortable, not hot; massage with fingertips, not nails; rinse thoroughly because residue dulls hair and irritates scalp.
Worked example
A client with color-treated, high-porosity hair and a dry scalp wants a deep clean. Reasoning: high porosity means the cuticle is raised and loses moisture quickly. A strong clarifier would further strip color and moisture. Choose a sulfate-free, lower-pH cleanser, then a moisturizing conditioner mid-shaft to ends; keep conditioner off the scalp if it is oily or prone to buildup. Recommend less frequent clarifying.
Traps
Assuming more lather means cleaner; applying conditioner to the scalp for fine or oily hair; using hot water; failing to rinse; recommending a protein treatment for hair that is already brittle and overloaded.