Hairdresser
The Hairdresser domain focuses on hair care services: shampooing, cutting, styling, thermal styling, and chemical services within the New Mexico hairdresser scope. Questions test hair structure, tool safety, tension control, and sanitation.
Hair structure
- Cuticle is the outer protective layer; alkaline products raise it.
- Cortex holds pigment and strength; chemical damage happens here.
- Medulla is present in coarser hair and contributes little to strength.
Styling and heat
- Use a heat protectant and keep the dryer moving to avoid a hot spot.
- Round-brush tension should be firm but not pull the scalp.
- Thermal irons should be tested on a paper towel or the stylist's wrist.
Worked example
A client with fine, previously lightened hair wants a sleek blowout. Reasoning: fine, porous hair loses moisture and burns quickly. Apply heat protectant, use medium heat, keep the nozzle pointed down the shaft, and stop before the cuticle shows cracking. Do not use maximum heat to speed the service.
Traps
- Holding a hot iron on one section.
- Brushing through wet, tangled hair.
- Mixing chemicals without a strand test.
- Using high heat on fine or lightened hair.