Natural Hair Care Techniques and Services
What this domain tests
This domain tests consultation, hair and scalp analysis, braiding, twisting, locking, weaving, extensions, tension control, and chemical services authorized for your license. The exam wants service decisions that protect the scalp and hair, not just appearance.
Core rules and concepts
- Consultation: ask about allergies, medications, prior chemical services, scalp lesions, lifestyle, and maintenance. Use patch and strand tests when chemicals are used.
- Hair analysis: assess texture, density, porosity, and elasticity. High-porosity hair is fragile and absorbs moisture quickly; low-porosity hair resists moisture. Do not diagnose disease.
- Scalp conditions: seborrheic dermatitis, psoriasis, tinea capitis, folliculitis, and traction alopecia. Refer suspicious or contagious conditions.
- Braids, twists, and locks: start with clean, detangled hair; use consistent sections; keep tension low at the hairline; avoid heavy extensions; teach scalp care.
- Extensions and weaves: build a foundation that is not too tight; cleanse and dry properly underneath; synthetic hair may irritate skin; do not reuse hair between clients.
- Chemical relaxers: understand lye versus no-lye, pH, scalp protection, no overlapping, strand testing, and full neutralization. Follow manufacturer instructions.
Worked example
A client requests small knotless braids at the hairline but reports tenderness and has visible thinning. Tenderness and thinning suggest traction alopecia. Reduce tension, use larger sections, avoid the hairline, or decline the style; document and refer if needed.
Traps that cost marks
Assuming itching always means dirty hair; ignoring patch tests; overprocessing with overlapping relaxer; braiding over wounds; using too much wax; assuming all natural hair is strong.