A 1:20 test shows the hair lightens quickly. What does this indicate and what should you do?

A 1:20 test shows the hair lightens quickly. What does this indicate and what should you do?

• A. Contains lead, do not proceed
• B. No metallic salts, proceed
• C. Hair contains silver, do not proceed
• D. Hair contains copper, do not perm

Answer: (A)

A quick lightening on this test signals the presence of metallic salts in the hair, most commonly lead. Metals in the hair react with waving solutions in unpredictable ways, which can cause over-processing, breakage, or uneven results and can be unsafe. Because of this risk, you should not proceed with the perm. Inform the client and avoid chemical processing until metal-containing residues are removed or the service is otherwise contraindicated.

A quick lightening on this test signals the presence of metallic salts in the hair, most commonly lead. Metals in the hair react with waving solutions in unpredictable ways, which can cause over-processing, breakage, or uneven results and can be unsafe. Because of this risk, you should not proceed with the perm. Inform the client and avoid chemical processing until metal-containing residues are removed or the service is otherwise contraindicated.