Before a virgin sodium hydroxide relaxer service, which practice is recommended?

• A. No pre-shampoo
• B. Pre-shampoo
• C. Deep conditioning only
• D. Scalp massage

Answer: (A)

Protecting the scalp during a strong chemical service is the key idea here. Not pre-shampooing keeps the scalp’s natural oils and protective barrier intact, which helps reduce the risk of irritation or chemical burns from the high-pH sodium hydroxide relaxer. Pre-shampoo would strip these oils and leave the skin more vulnerable as the product sits on the scalp. Deep conditioning alone isn’t the protective step needed during the application, and a scalp massage isn’t part of the prep for this chemical service. After processing, you follow with proper cleansing and conditioning per protocol.