Shampooing, conditioning and scalp care
Shampooing, conditioning and scalp care
This domain tests product selection, massage and water control, and recognition of scalp conditions that limit service. The exam wants you to match shampoo and conditioner to scalp and hair needs, not to a brand story.
Core rules
- Shampoo surfactants lift oil and dirt; water temperature should be comfortable, not hot.
- Shampoo the scalp; condition mid-lengths and ends for most clients.
- Massage with pads of fingers, not nails; avoid vigorous massage on inflamed, broken or infected scalp.
- Use a clarifying shampoo occasionally for build-up; use moisturising or protein products according to hair condition.
- Rinse thoroughly; residue dulls hair and irritates scalp.
- Treat scalp lesions, lice, ringworm or unexplained hair loss as contraindications and refer.
Worked example
A client has an oily scalp and dry, colour-treated ends. The stylist double-shampoos the scalp with a mild clarifying shampoo, applies conditioner from mid-lengths to ends, keeps it off the scalp, and rinses cool. Reasoning: the scalp needs oil removal, but the ends need conditioning and less surfactant contact; applying conditioner to the scalp would add build-up and weigh hair down.
Traps
Using hot water because it 'opens pores'; scratching the scalp during massage; applying conditioner to the roots for everyone; over-clarifying colour-treated hair; ignoring a flaky scalp that may be fungal. Always check for allergies and sensitivity before choosing a strong shampoo.