Colorado Cosmetology Written Practice Exam

When using a chemical relaxer, which of the following must you avoid using?

1. bleaches or high lift color products

2. conditioners

3. neutralizers

4. shampoos

The correct answer is: bleaches or high lift color products

When working with chemical relaxers, it is essential to avoid using bleaches or high lift color products because these agents can exacerbate the chemical reaction and compromise the hair's integrity. Both relaxers and high-lift colors alter the hair structure, and using them in conjunction can lead to severe damage or breakage. The primary purpose of a relaxer is to straighten curly or wavy hair, and introducing a lightening agent can lead to unpredictable results, resulting in over-processed hair. Conditioners, neutralizers, and shampoos serve different functions in hair care and can be safely used in conjunction with relaxers. Conditioners help maintain moisture and hair health, neutralizers are essential post-relaxation to balance and fix the pH of the hair, and shampoos are used for cleansing the hair. Therefore, while using a chemical relaxer, maintaining the right balance of care products is crucial, but high-lift colors and bleaches must be avoided to ensure the safety and health of the hair.