Barber Consultation, Shampoo and Scalp Care Questions
Every service starts with a consultation and usually a shampoo. NIC places these in the Hair Care Services domain, the largest at 40% of the exam.
60 questions in 90 minutes across all four NIC domains, with a score by topic and an explanation for every answer.
Or try the free consultation, shampoo and scalp care drill- 26 original shampoo and scalp care questions, every answer explained
- NIC domain: Hair Care Services (40% of the exam)
Which shampoo cleans the hair without water, often used for clients who cannot have a wet shampoo?
What the shampoo and scalp care questions test
- The consultation records what the client wants and checks for contraindications, such as open sores, contagious conditions or recent surgery. A record card keeps the history.
- Haircut draping uses a neck strip under the cape; shampoo draping adds a towel at the neckline.
- Hair analysis covers texture (strand diameter), density (hairs per square inch), porosity (ability to absorb moisture), elasticity (stretch and return) and wave pattern.
- Clarifying shampoos remove buildup, medicated shampoos treat scalp conditions and acid-balanced shampoos restore pH after chemical services.
- Massage movements: effleurage (gliding), petrissage (kneading), friction (rubbing), tapotement (tapping) and vibration (shaking).
- The scalp is not brushed or massaged vigorously before a chemical service, and water temperature is checked on the inside of the wrist.
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60 questions in 90 minutes across all four NIC domains, with a score by topic and an explanation for every answer.
Or try the free consultation, shampoo and scalp care drillCommon questions
What is a contraindication?
A condition that makes a service unsafe or inadvisable, such as an infection, an open wound, an allergy or a recent surgery in the area.
Why avoid scalp massage before a chemical service?
Stimulating or scratching the scalp makes it more sensitive and can open small abrasions, so chemicals are more likely to irritate or burn.
60 questions in 90 minutes across all four NIC domains, with a score by topic and an explanation for every answer.
Or try the free consultation, shampoo and scalp care drillMore barber topics
- Infection control and safety
- Anatomy and physiology
- Hair, scalp and skin disorders
- Barbering chemistry
- Implements, tools and equipment
- Haircutting and styling
- Hair color and chemical services
- Shaving and facial hair design
- Facials, massage and electrotherapy
- NIC Barber Theory Practice Test
- Texas Barber Practice Test
- California Barber Practice Test
- Florida Barber Practice Test
Domains and format: NIC: National Barber Theory Examination CIB (effective June 1, 2025) · NIC: National Barber Styling Theory Examination CIB (effective June 1, 2025), checked November 2026.
NIC exam names belong to the National-Interstate Council of State Boards of Cosmetology; PSI and Pearson VUE are trademarks of their owners. Original independent practice. Every question is written for practice to the published content outlines and the cited statutes and rules. Not affiliated with or endorsed by NIC, PSI, Pearson VUE, TDLR, the California Board of Barbering and Cosmetology, the Florida DBPR, the Florida Barbers’ Board or any state board.