New Jersey Barber and Hairstyling Practice Exam 2026 – Complete Preparation Guide

Before applying a chemical treatment to a client's hair, it is essential to perform a strand test to determine how the hair will react to the chemicals. This test involves applying a small amount of the chemical treatment to a discreet section of hair to observe the results. This step is crucial for assessing the hair’s condition, porosity, and overall health, as well as checking for any adverse reactions such as damage or breakage that may occur from the treatment.

Conducting a strand test allows a stylist to make informed decisions about the strength of the chemical, the timing of the application, and whether any adjustments need to be made to ensure the client's hair remains healthy and in good condition after the treatment. It helps prevent unexpected outcomes and contributes to a more personalized approach to hair care.

While deep conditioning, moisture testing, and color tests can be beneficial procedures in a hair care routine or preparation for specific services, they do not specifically address the immediate concern of assessing the hair's reaction to the chemical being applied. The strand test focuses directly on the compatibility of the client's hair with the proposed treatment, making it a necessary step prior to any chemical application.