A 1:20 test shows hair lightening slightly. What is the recommended action?

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

Answer: (A)

Testing for metallic salts before chemical services helps prevent unpredictable reactions with the processing solution. A 1:20 test on a strand is used to see if metallic salts are present in the hair. If the strand lightens only slightly, that indicates there are no metallic salts reacting with the solution, so it’s safe to proceed with the perm or lightening service. If metallic salts were present, you’d expect a different, often problematic reaction, and the appropriate action would be not to proceed or to choose a metal-free alternative. So, the slight lightening outcome supports moving forward with the treatment.