Maryland Cosmetology State Practice Exam

What is a contraindication for chemical hair treatments?

1. Recent use of a relaxer

2. Allergies to hair dye

3. Scalp conditions

4. Recent haircuts

The correct answer is: Recent use of a relaxer

A contraindication for chemical hair treatments refers to a condition or factor that serves as a reason to withhold a certain treatment to avoid harmful effects. The use of a relaxer on the hair recently is a significant contraindication because the hair may already be compromised from the first chemical treatment. Applying additional chemicals, such as those found in hair coloring or further relaxing treatments, can lead to excessive damage, breakage, or adverse reactions. When hair has undergone chemical processing, it often becomes more fragile and prone to negative outcomes if subjected to additional stress from other chemicals. Therefore, careful consideration is given to the timing and compatibility of different chemical treatments on the same hair to maintain its health and integrity. While allergies to hair dye, scalp conditions, and recent haircuts are also relevant health and safety considerations in the context of chemical treatments, they do not inherently limit the feasibility of the treatment in the same way that recent chemical processing does. Allergies can prompt different reactions and may necessitate alternative products but don't specifically compromise hair integrity like using a relaxer can. Scalp conditions may require special care but do not always contraindicate chemical treatments outright. Similarly, recent haircuts alone do not influence the hair's ability to withstand further chemical processes.