HAIR RELAXING TREATMENTS AND TECHNIQUES - Chapter 12 - Health and safety and preparation for relaxing hair

Oct 12, 2026

Uploaded by Franzy

Chapter 12 explains chemical hair relaxation for curly hair, including expected results based on natural curl pattern and the styling options after relaxing. It emphasizes health and safety responsibilities, safe use of relaxing and normalising products, and legal consultation with clients before and during services. The chapter covers preparation through thorough consultation, relevant tests, identifying contra-indications, documenting discussions and results on client record cards, and maintaining client comfort.

LanguageEnglish

CategoryGeneral

FormatPDF

Pages38

Reading Time13 min

AccessFree to download

Introduction

Health and safety policies and procedures

The hair professional at work

Prepare for relaxing hair

Importance of questioning clients prior to and during services

HAIR RELAXING TREATMENTS AND TECHNIQUES (OPTIONAL UNIT) CHAPTER 12 This chapter maps to: ● Unit 7 Hair relaxing treatments and techniques INTRODUCTION Chemical relaxation is a versatile treatment you can use on curly hair to create a variety of looks for your client, ranging from soft waves to completely straight hair. The finished look will be dependent on the client’s natural curl pattern and the overall look desired. Once the hair is relaxed there are several styling options available to the client. Depending on how curly or straight the hair is once relaxed, you can set, blow dry or wrap set the hair. Electrical tools such astongs, straighteners and styling wands can be used. The results can be a dramatic and welcome change of style for your client, but relaxed hair must be handled carefully: avoid too much heat or excessive handling, blow-drying and stretching of the hair. Remember, the hair has been chemically processed and is therefore much more prone to damage as a result of extreme brushing and combing. Your role as a stylist is to recommend follow-up visits to the salon for regular cuts as well as vital conditioning treatments and other aftercare products to ensure the relaxed hair is kept in optimum condition. After reading this chapter, you will: ● know how health and safety policies and procedures affect relaxing services ● understand how to prepare for relaxing hair ● understand the process for relaxing hair. ▲ manicured nails HANDY HINT It is a good idea to have specific tools that are only used for the chemical relaxer service, such as tint brushes, combs, bowls and non-metallic clips. You should store and label these separately. 2 HEALTH AND SAFETY POLICIES AND PROCEDURES As with all services, you must follow the rules of health and safety when carrying out relaxing services. You must pay particular attention to the regulations (such as following the manufacturers’ instructions and the Control of Substances Hazardous to Health (COSHH) 2002 Regulations) in relation to the use of relaxing and normalising products. When carrying out a relaxing service on your client, the chemicals used can be harmful to yourself or your client. If used incorrectly, these chemicals can damage the skin, scalp and hair. Paying close attention to working safely is essential and to safeguard both you and your client.You must ensure that you and your client are protected throughout the relaxing service and always read and follow the manufacturer’s instructions. THE HAIR PROFESSIONAL AT WORK Nails should be manicured regularly to avoid scratching the scalp while you work, as the relaxing chemicals could cause serious discomfort if they come into contact with broken skin. PREPARE FOR RELAXING HAIR You will need to carry out a thorough consultation to ensure the desired relaxing result can be achieved. This will include asking appropriate questions and listening to your client’s responses, conducting relevant tests, analysing your client’s hair and recognising any contra-indications. Once you have carried out the above you will be able to choose the correct tools, equipment and products to prepare your client’s hair for a relaxing service. Importance of questioning clients prior to and during services You have a legal obligation to question your client about their hair. This helps you to ascertain the best service for the client and confirm the service is compatible with their hair and previous services carried out. The purpose of the consultation process, prior to relaxing, is to find out your client’s requirements, identify any influencing factors and discuss the likely outcomes of the service with them. You should: ● advise the client on the relaxing service you are proposing ● explain how the process works ● check the hair’s porosity, elasticity, texture and general condition to confirm that it is safe to proceed with the service ● tell the client how long the service will take and

FAQs

What determines the final look after chemical relaxation?

The finished result depends on the client’s natural curl pattern and the overall look desired. Hair relaxed in the correct way can then be styled using options such as setting, blow-drying, or wrapping.

How should a stylist manage health and safety during relaxing services?

Follow health and safety rules, pay attention to regulations and manufacturers’ instructions, and protect both stylist and client. Chemicals used can harm skin, scalp, and hair if used incorrectly, so safe working practices are essential.

What must be done before starting a relaxing service?

Carry out a thorough consultation by asking appropriate questions, listening to client responses, conducting relevant tests, analysing the hair, and recognising any contra-indications. Then choose the correct tools, equipment, and products and keep full records on the client’s record card.

Oct 12, 2026

Uploaded by Franzy