Client Consultation, Communication, and Professional Ethics
This domain tests consultation, communication, and professional ethics: informed consent, realistic expectations, confidentiality, and scope of practice.
Consultation
- Ask about history, products, medications, allergies, prior chemical services, and styling habits.
- Analyze hair and scalp; explain findings in plain language.
- Patch test when required; document consent.
- Set realistic expectations; never guarantee a result.
Ethics
- Stay within your license; refer medical or out-of-scope requests.
- Protect client privacy; do not post photos without permission.
- Use respectful, non-judgmental language about texture, culture, and identity.
- Disclose pricing and product costs; keep records accurate.
Worked example
A client asks for a very tight style that has caused hairline thinning. Explain the risk of traction alopecia, offer a lower-tension alternative, document the conversation, and let the client decide. The reasoning: the stylist's duty is informed choice, not simply compliance with a harmful request.
Traps
- Diagnosing a scalp disease.
- Posting before-and-after photos without written consent.
- Promising no damage or permanent results.