New Jersey Cosmetology and Hairstyling Practice Exam

When should you use a clarifying shampoo?

1. Before a color treatment

2. To remove product buildup

3. As a daily shampoo

4. When hair is extremely dry

The correct answer is: To remove product buildup

Using a clarifying shampoo is primarily intended to remove product buildup from the hair and scalp. Over time, regular shampoos, conditioners, styling products, and environmental factors can leave residues that dull the hair's appearance and affect its health. A clarifying shampoo is formulated to deeply cleanse and effectively eliminate these excess residues, ensuring that the hair and scalp are adequately prepared for further treatments or styling. While it is indeed helpful to use a clarifying shampoo before a color treatment to ensure a clean slate for even coloring, the primary function and purpose of this type of shampoo focus on the removal of accumulated product buildup, making this the most correct choice. It is not recommended for everyday use, as frequent application can strip the hair of its natural oils, leading to dryness, which is why it is not ideal for use during periods when the hair is extremely dry. Clarifying shampoos are best used occasionally or in specific situations where a thorough cleansing is necessary, making them a valuable tool in a hairstylist's arsenal when addressing unwanted buildup.