South Dakota Barbering Practice Exam 2026 – All-in-One Guide to Master Your Barbering Certification!

'Overlapping' in the context of applying chemical relaxers specifically refers to the situation where the relaxer is applied not only to new growth but also to previously processed hair. This practice can lead to significant damage for several reasons.

When a relaxer is applied to hair that has already been chemically treated, it can result in over-processing, where the hair becomes weak and more susceptible to breakage. The formulated chemicals in the relaxer work to break down the hair's natural structure, and when they come into contact with hair that has already been relaxed, it can strip the remaining bonds, causing further damage.

Understanding this concept is vital for hairstylists and barbers, as it emphasizes the importance of careful application techniques to maintain hair health while achieving the desired straightening effect. Proper application should focus solely on the new growth area to minimize the risk of overlapping and consequent damage.