Shampooing, Conditioning, and Scalp Care
What this domain tests
Shampooing, conditioning, and scalp care tests water temperature, shampoo selection, massage technique, scalp analysis, conditioner placement, and contraindications. The exam connects product choice to scalp condition and hair texture.
Core rules
- Use lukewarm water; hot water strips oils and irritates scalp. Wet hair gently and avoid vigorous rubbing.
- Shampoo is massaged into the scalp with fingertips, not nails. Conditioner is generally applied to midshaft and ends, not the scalp, unless the product is designed for scalp use.
- Match shampoo to scalp condition: oily scalp may need more frequent cleansing; dry scalp needs gentle surfactants. Treat dandruff as a scalp condition, not simply dirty hair.
- Do not massage an inflamed, broken, or infected scalp; refer medical concerns.
- Rinse thoroughly because residue can dull hair and irritate scalp. Follow with a cool rinse if appropriate.
Worked example
A client has an oily scalp and dry ends. The reasoning is to shampoo the scalp thoroughly with a gentle formula, rinse, then apply conditioner from midshaft to ends and keep it off the scalp. This addresses both areas without adding weight at the roots.
Traps
Very hot water, nail scratching, and applying heavy conditioner to an oily scalp are common errors. Also do not diagnose a scalp disease or continue massage over a rash.