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UHB151M Hair tonics

Unit reference number: D/615/0825

Level: 3

Guided Learning (GL) hours: 20

Overview

This unit is about understanding the available range of hair tonics that offer features and benefits to clients who have a range of hair textures, characteristics and scalp conditions. Learners will understand the range of products that is available, their properties and how they could benefit the client. Learners will develop the knowledge to be able to discuss and recommend suitable hair tonics to the client within a professional and commercial consultation service. Learners will also develop an understanding of how to work safely and hygienically and factors which affect and influence the use of hair tonics.

Learning outcomes

On completion of this unit, learners will: LO1 Know the barbershop procedures for offering and recommending hair tonics

LO2 Understand the factors which influence the use of hair tonics

LO3 Know the hair tonics in the range

LO4 Be able to prepare for offering and recommending hair tonics

LO5 Be able to provide and apply hair tonics

Version 6

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Assessment requirements

Learners must complete all four assessment requirements related to this unit:

1. Service portfolio 2. Graded practical assessment 3. External examination 4. Graded synoptic assessment

1. Service portfolio

Learners must produce a service portfolio. The service portfolio must contain evidence that learners have:

Carried out a minimum of 5 products synopsis

Considered all hair tonics that are suitable for different lengths - Short

- Mid-length

- Long hair

Considered hair tonics that are suitable for all hair and scalp characteristics - Dry hair condition

- Chemically or physically damaged hair

- Dull limp hair

- Dandruff and dry scalp conditions

- Oily scalp conditions

- Male pattern baldness

Given all types of advice - Initial consultation to agree service

- Aftercare

- Post application maintenance where applicable

- Additional products and services that may benefit the client

The service portfolio must be completed prior to learners undertaking the graded practical skills test. Whilst treatment portfolios will not be graded, they may be sampled by the VTCT External Quality Assurer (EQA). Evidence from the graded practical assessment must also be presented in the service portfolio.

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2. Graded practical assessment

Learners should carry out hair tonic service on one client which will be observed and marked by centre assessors. Learners should achieve all assessment criteria in order to pass and achieve the unit. The graded practical assessment must take place in a real or realistic working environment, on a real client. At a minimum the summative practical assessment for this unit must cover:

Service – hair tonic recommendation and application. One client to have the hair tonic service performed within a commercial time appropriate to client’s hair and scalp type to produce a barbershop professional finish

Products, tools and equipment – appropriate hair tonic products, combs, brushes, sectioning clips/clamps (if appropriate), and personal protective equipment such as gloves and apron to protect clothes and skin should be used

Recorded professional discussion can also be used as an assessment method attached to the graded practical assessment and is particularly useful for gathering evidence for criteria related to evaluation and reflection. Professional discussions should be planned and recorded.

3. External examination

Whilst the theory content of LO1, LO2 and LO3 may be naturally assessed in the graded practical assessment, they will be tested by an external examination towards the end of the learning period. External examinations will test knowledge and understanding from across the whole vocational area (mandatory units). Learners should use the unit content section of this unit to aid revision since exam questions will test the full breadth of this section. External examinations will be set and marked by VTCT and will contribute to the overall qualification grade.

4. Graded synoptic assessment

In the last term or final third of their qualification, learners will be required to undertake a graded synoptic assessment. This will require learners to carry out a range of services from across the whole vocational area (mandatory units). Assessment coverage will vary year on year, although all services will be covered over time. VTCT will set a brief for centres which will detail the services to be covered in the graded synoptic assessment. Grading descriptors for the synoptic assessment will also be provided by VTCT. The graded synoptic assessment will be marked and graded by centre staff and externally verified by VTCT. The graded synoptic assessment will contribute to the overall qualification grade.

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Unit content

LO1 Know the barbershop procedures for offering and recommending hair tonics

Learners must explain the importance of good personal presentation: Personal presentation is important in creating an overall good impression and promotes client satisfaction, repeat/new business and reputation for the stylist/barbershop. Learners must:

Have a positive image and attitude

Ensure barbershop uniform requirements are adhered to. Each barbershop will have different requirements and expect learners to dress appropriately. As a general rule closed in low-heel shoes should be worn. Where tights/stockings/socks are worn, these should be clean and free from ladders or holes. Smart non-restrictive clothes for ease of movement with sleeves or jewellery that do not touch the client whilst the service is provided. Other examples may include a set uniform or tee shirt with or without barbershop logo

Be presentable and have good personal hygiene including clean clothes, clean teeth and fresh breath

Ensure they avoid a strong smell of tobacco or heavy perfume or aftershave

Ensure they maintain good posture throughout the service with weight evenly balanced

Learners must state the barbershop procedures when offering and recommending hair tonics:

A clean and hygienic working area will help create an overall good impression to the client and prevent cross-infection. Learners will have knowledge of health and safety

Learners must explain how to recognise relevant hazards and risks when using hair tonics:

Within a barbershop safety is of paramount importance and learners must know how to recognise potential harm or injury that may occur

Hazard – anything that has the potential to cause harm, e.g. lids left unsecured on tonic bottles that could spill over

Risk – a chance, high or low that a hazard may cause harm, e.g. someone may slip on any hair tonic that has spilt

Work safely throughout the offering and providing of hair tonic service ensuring maintenance of electrical equipment is monitored where appropriate

Make visual checks on electrical items for safe use

Dispose of waste appropriately to minimise risk of cross-infection and ensure it does not pose a risk to the environment

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LO2 Understand the factors which influence the use of hair tonics

Learners must identify the hair classifications and characteristics:

Hair classifications table

1a Fine/thin 1b Medium 1c Coarse

Type 1: Straight hair

Straight Straight with volume Straight difficult hair

2a Fine/thin 2b Medium 2c Coarse

Type 2: Wavy hair

‘S’ pattern Frizzy ‘S’ pattern Very frizzy ‘S’ pattern

3a Fine/thin 3b Medium 3c Coarse

Type 3: Curly hair

Soft curl Loose curl Tight curl

4a Fine/thin 4b Medium 4c Coarse

Type 4: Very curly hair

Tight coiled curl pattern

‘Z’ pattern and spring curl

Tight ‘Z’ pattern

Client with a hair classification of 1a – fine/thin hair would influence product choice Learners must explain how factors influence the suitability of hair tonics:

Density – this is defined as the numbers of hairs on the scalp – this will affect the choice of tools and products used and the duration of the service

Texture – this is defined as the circumference of an individual strand of hair. Hair can be fine, medium or coarse. Coarse hair has the largest circumference and fine hair the smallest

Porosity – this relates to the condition of the cuticle. Porosity levels are caused by both chemical and physical damage. Cuticles which are raised and feel rough are known as porous and will absorb water and products more easily and unevenly. Suitable treatment products and advice may be required if hair is porous

Hygroscopic – the ability of hair to absorb moisture into the cortex

Lifestyle – this is about the client’s everyday activities and working patterns

Hair length – this will affect the general condition of the hair

Learners must describe factors that can prevent or restrict the features and benefits of hair tonics:

A contra-indication to the hair and scalp can prevent effective use of hair tonics, e.g. a client with an open wound would not be able to have hair tonics as they would sting the scalp

Learners must identify contra-indications to using hair tonics - Scalp sensitivity – an inflamed, sore and red scalp may prevent some hair

tonics being placed on scalp and care should be taken when using some hair tonics

Hair and skin disorders and diseases - Contagious – can be passed person to person and may prevent service

Viral – warts, herpes

Fungal – ringworm

Animal parasites – head lice, scabies

- Non-contagious – may prevent service depending on the severity of condition Sebaceous cyst – lump on top or under scalp

Psoriasis – dry silvery scales of skin

Contact dermatitis – dry, red, sore, itchy may possibly be weeping

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Recent scar/tissue injury may be tender when using hair tonics

Hair loss, possible after hair extension removal, medication, stress or trauma (alopecia); use hair tonics following manufacturers instruction to ensure the best result from hair tonic application

Hair defects – Trichorrhexis Nodosa, rough swollen broken shaft, require extreme care when using hair tonics on the hair and correct product use is important

Learners must describe the effects of using hair and scalp tonics: Learners must know that hair tonics

Are used for male and female clients

Can be used to style hair

Are either oil based, spirit based or herbal

Are scented

Can be applied to wet or dry hair

Are used to improve the condition of the hair or scalp

Learners must be able to state the technique to apply tonics:

Place into hands and massage into hair and scalp until evenly spread

Hair tonics must be brushed through the hair

Learners must be able to state the importance of effective questioning when consulting with the client:

An important factor of offering and recommending suitable hair tonics is to understand the client requirements. Learners must understand the importance of questioning the client prior to, during and after application of hair tonics regarding their personal needs. Learners will use questioning to communicate with the client in a way that meets the client’s individual needs

The client will feel valued if references are made regarding their comfort

Offering refreshments (if available) will add to the service and general ambience to personalise the service

A happy client rebooks for future service and recommends and promotes services

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LO3 Know the hair tonics in the range

Learners must be able to state the products, tools and equipment required for applying hair tonics:

Products - Scalp tonic – the scalp tonic must be the appropriate tonic for client’s scalp

condition. Regular use of a scalp tonic can nourish the scalp. It can strengthen hair follicles and inhibit dandruff

- Hair regrowth tonic – hair growth tonics claim to nourish the scalp and encourage hair growth

- Hair anti-fall tonic – hair anti-fall tonics contain an arginine based formula that helps build broken hair fibre and boosts microcirculation to the root area

- Therapeutic hair oil tonic – therapeutic hair oil tonic is a natural product. It is suitable for all hair types and is best used regularly to help nourish the scalp and revitalise the hair

Learners must describe the features and benefits of the hair tonics in the range: Learners must be able to describe the features and benefits of using hair tonics

Loosening of the scalp tissue

Relaxation and a feeling of wellbeing

Stimulation of the scalp

Counteraction of dry hair/scalp

Control or reduction of oily scalp

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LO4 Be able to prepare for offering and recommending hair tonics

Prepare and check the work area and products prior to the service:

Preparation is an important feature when offering and recommending hair tonics, not least because it enables learners to work safely and methodically. Learners will ensure that the cleanliness and health and safety standards within the barbershop are maintained to enhance the client’s overall satisfaction

Learners will prepare the working area - Learners will organise hair tonics in advance making provision for a diverse

range of clients’ needs. Learners will Ensure there is adequate room around the work area

Ensure all work areas are free from hair, including basin, chair, trolley, work station/dressing unit and floor

Move chairs to remove and wipe away any dropped products, check base of chairs for cleanliness and wipe seat and back of chair or apply fresh cover

Ensure trolleys are systematically cleaned between services, removing unwanted items and replaced with freshly cleaned/ sterilised items

Ensure towels, capes and client outer gowns are clean and freshly laundered for service and removed after use

Learners will prepare products - Learners must ensure a range of products is available. Products should be

displayed either at the work area, on a separate display trolley or by a visual chart. Learners must ensure that client has full range of available product choice. There must be sufficient products available, in good condition, clean and appropriate for all possible hair types and scalp conditions

Preparation of learners - Learners will present themselves professionally, displaying

Readiness for the service

A good attitude

Personality/persona fitting for the barbershop

Good communication and listening skills

Good posture throughout the hair tonic service Prepare the client for hair tonic application:

Learners will ensure that an appropriate shampoo has been used to prepare the client’s hair. Learners must ensure there are no excess products remaining in the hair to inhibit the application of hair tonics to the hair and scalp

Prepare client; learners must: - Remove obstructive jewellery or items that would inhibit the application of hair

tonics, e.g. earrings or necklace

- Adjust height of the client’s chair to avoid excessive bending by learners, but remain comfortable for client. Where necessary a foot stand to be positioned for client comfort

- Ensure the client maintains the correct posture to avoid hazard or risk

- Confirm that the client is comfortable at start of service

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Explain and agree service outcomes with the client:

Conduct a visual and manual check of the hair and scalp

Identify influencing factors and discuss these with client

Agree choice of products with the client

Agree service outcome with the client

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LO5 Be able to provide and apply hair tonics

Select appropriate hair tonics for the hair:

Learners must demonstrate they have identified and used the most suitable hair tonic to meet the hair and scalp type

Application of hair tonics will depend on - Hair classification

- Hair characteristics

- Length

- Condition

- Density

- Texture

- Porosity

- Influencing factors

Products – learners will choose the most appropriate hair tonic for the client’s hair and scalp condition. Hair tonics chosen will aid the client’s hair and scalp condition. Learners must demonstrate correct choice and even application of hair tonic

Use safe and hygienic working methods throughout the service:

Demonstrate they have clean products that are suitable throughout the service

Display safe usage of all hair tonics during application and storage

Ensure the use of products does not cause harm or present a risk

Demonstrate safe storage as some products may lose their ability to work or may present a risk or hazard, e.g. some products may evaporate if the lid is left off or not securely in place

Display good processes of application of products, e.g. carefully applying hair tonics to avoid damaging the client’s skin, ears or eyes

Carry out a service without causing danger or damage to self, client or work areas intentionally or by accident

Identify potential risks and hazards – clean up spillages immediately Use products appropriately:

Products - Learners will demonstrate they can use the correct products appropriate to

the client’s hair and scalp condition. An example of this would be using a scalp treatment when a client has a dry scalp condition

- Learners will apply the hair tonics evenly and economically Use a combination of techniques to achieve the desired outcome considering influencing factors: Learners will display an aptitude in controlling techniques, using products effectively and economically

Ensure hair is shampooed at start of service with the appropriate shampoo for the client’s hair and scalp

Use the correct products for hair classification/type

Apply products in logical sequence and appropriate to the service

Be time and cost effective, e.g. a client with short fine hair would not expect the application to take an hour

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Techniques – learners will use and adapt techniques appropriately to apply hair tonics, taking into consideration all influencing factors. Learners must

- Ensure the hair is not pulled beyond its tensile strength

- Demonstrate dexterity in application of hair tonics

- Apply the hair tonics in a logical sequence

- Demonstrate safe and hygienic working methods when applying hair tonics

Provide in-service checks with the client:

Learners will use appropriate communication and questioning techniques to check on client comfort and general well-being throughout the service

Learners must ensure checks with the clients confirm agreed service

Learners must demonstrate that the hair tonics may enhance and/or aid hair and scalp conditions, e.g. hair tonic that has moisturising benefits will improve the appearance of dry hair and scalp conditions

Provide advice and recommendations to the client:

Learners will ensure they have promoted the benefits of hair tonics and provided homecare advice where required

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Skin cancer awareness

Please note this information will not be assessed for the achievement of this unit. Public awareness of skin cancer has never been higher, and yet skin cancer remains the

fastest growing cancer in the UK, especially amongst young people. The chances of a

positive outcome can be dramatically increased with early identification and diagnosis.

Professionals in hair, beauty, sports massage and health and wellbeing industries work

closely with clients and in many cases have sight of areas of skin which may not be easily

visible to the client. An informed awareness of the signs, symptoms and changes of

appearance to be aware of when checking for early signs of cancer is a crucial tool for the

conscientious practitioner in order to provide the most thorough service and in some cases,

possibly lifesaving information signposting.

Signs to look for when checking moles include utilising the ABCDE guide:

A - Asymmetry – the two halves of the area/mole may differ in their shape and not match.

B - Border – the edges of the mole area may be irregular or blurred and sometimes show

notches or look ‘ragged’.

C - Colour – this may be uneven and patchy. Different shades of black, brown and pink may

be seen.

D - Diameter – most but not all melanomas are at least 6mm in diameter. If any mole gets

bigger or changes see your doctor.

E - Elevation/evolving – elevation means the mole is raised above the surface and has an

uneven surface. Looks different from the rest or changing in size, shape or colour. Anyone

can get a suspicious mole or patch of skin checked out for free by the NHS by visiting their

doctor, who may then refer to a dermatologist (an expert in diagnosing skin cancer).

If you require any additional NHS information please refer to https://www.nhs.uk/be-clear-on-

cancer/symptoms/skin-cancer

If your learners are interested in learning more about skin cancer awareness alongside this

qualification, VTCT runs the following qualification: VTCT Level 2 Award in Skin Cancer

Awareness for Non-Healthcare Professionals.

This qualification has been specifically designed for those working in the sports massage,

health and wellbeing, beauty, hairdressing and barbering sectors. It will enable learners to

identify any changes to their client’s skin and to highlight those changes to the client using

appropriate language and communication skills. It will enable the learner to raise awareness

of skin cancer and signpost their clients to public information about skin cancer.

This qualification will enable hair, beauty and wellbeing professionals to gain the appropriate

knowledge and communication skills required to provide non-diagnostic, professional advice

and information to clients in a discrete, empathetic and confidential manner.

For more information please refer to the Record of Assessment book:

https://qualifications.vtct.org.uk/finder/qualfinder/1Record%20of%20Assessment%20Book/A

G20529.pdf

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Assessment criteria

Assessment criteria will be applied to the graded practical assessment. In order to pass this unit, learners must at a minimum achieve all pass criteria. The pass criteria relate to the proficient demonstration of skills and knowledge. All criteria within a given grade must be achieved to be awarded that grade.

Learning outcome

The learner must:

Pass

The learner can:

Merit

To achieve a merit grade, in addition to achievement of the pass criteria, the learner can:

Distinction

To achieve a distinction grade, in addition to achievement of the pass and merit criteria, the learner can:

LO4 Be able to prepare for offering and recommending hair tonics

P1 Prepare and check the area and products prior to the service

M1 Adapt and tailor interpersonal communication to the client

M2 Promote products and additional services

M3 Use products, tools and equipment in a methodical and controlled way during the hair tonic service

D1 Explain the choice of products, tools, equipment and techniques used during the hair tonic service

P2 Prepare the client for hair tonic application

P3 Explain and agree service outcomes with the client

LO5 Be able to provide and apply hair tonics

P4 Select appropriate hair tonics for the hair

P5 Use safe and hygienic working methods throughout the service

P6 Use products appropriately

P7 Use a combination of techniques to achieve the desired outcome considering influencing factors

P8 Provide in-service checks with the client

P9 Provide advice and recommendations to the client

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Assessment guidance

Assessors must use the amplified assessment guidance in this section to judge whether assessment criteria have been achieved in the graded practical assessment.

P1 Prepare and check the area and products prior to the service

Learners must prepare and check the area, and have the full range of hair tonic products, tools and equipment prior to the service. Learners must understand that preparation is an important feature of offering hair tonics to the client. Learners will ensure that the cleanliness and health and safety standards within the work area are maintained.

P2 Prepare the client for hair tonic application

Learners will ensure that an appropriate shampoo has been used to prepare the client’s hair. Learners must ensure there are no excess products remaining in the hair to inhibit the application of hair tonics to the hair and scalp and that all jewellery that may inhibit the service has been removed and that the client is correctly gowned and ready for the hair tonic application.

P3 Explain and agree the service outcomes with the client

Learners must conduct a visual and manual check of the hair and scalp and identify influencing factors and discuss these with the client. Learners must agree choice of products with the client and discuss and agree the service outcome.

P4 Select appropriate hair tonics for the hair

Learners will choose the most appropriate hair tonic for the client’s hair and scalp condition. Hair tonics chosen will aid the client’s hair and scalp condition based on consultation and visual checks. Learners must demonstrate correct choice and even application of hair tonic.

P5 Use safe and hygienic working methods throughout the service

Learners must demonstrate they have clean products that are suitable throughout the service and display safe usage of all hair tonics during application and storage. Products should be stored, handled, used and disposed of following the manufacturers’ instructions.

P6 Use products appropriately

Learners must demonstrate they can use the correct products appropriate to the client’s hair and scalp condition. Learners must apply the hair tonics evenly and economically.

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P7 Use a combination of techniques to achieve the desired outcome considering

influencing factors

Learners must display an aptitude in controlling techniques, using products effectively and economically. The learners must ensure hair is shampooed at the start of service with the appropriate shampoo for the client’s hair and scalp and hair classification/type. The products should be applied in a logical sequence and appropriate to the service. The learners must be time and cost effective. The techniques the learners will use must be adapted appropriately to apply hair tonics, taking into consideration all influencing factors. The learners must ensure the hair is not pulled beyond its tensile strength and be able to demonstrate dexterity in application of hair tonics whilst demonstrating safe and hygienic working methods.

P8 Provide in-service checks with the client

Learners must use appropriate communication and questioning techniques to check on client comfort and general well-being throughout the service. Learners must ensure checks with the client confirm agreement of progress.

P9 Provide advice and recommendations to the client

Learners will ensure they have promoted the benefits of hair tonics and provided homecare advice where required, avoiding the use of technical jargon.

M1 Adapt and tailor interpersonal communication to the client

Learners must demonstrate listening skills be able to understand the client’s expectations. Learners must respond positively to the client by displaying excellent communication skills when presenting possible alternative solutions to the service. Learners will show they are able to present and offer other options, especially if the client’s hair is not suitable to meet client expectations.

Learners must demonstrate that they have tailored their style of communication to suit and respond empathetically to the client. For example, if the client indicates that they would like to chat and engage in conversation, the learner will engage in unobtrusive friendly conversation with the client. If the client is more reticent and indicates that they do not wish to engage in conversation, the learner should respect the client’s wishes and communicate in a discreet manner. Learners must demonstrate throughout the service that all communication with the client is ethical, respectful, unobtrusive and inoffensive.

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M2 Promote products and additional services

Learners will effectively appraise the overall characteristics of the hair with the client, providing detailed information about salon services and suitable salon products that will enhance the client’s hair condition or style.

The client may be reticent about a new hair style especially if it involves a major change and learners should use visual aids where available to demonstrate and show alternatives. For example in order to promote a colouring service learners may use colour hair swatches placed strategically in the client’s hair to demonstrate how a colour change might look.

Samples of products for client to try at home may be offered. Learners will provide and record written information for the client and barber shop/salon records of recommendations.

M3 Use products, tools and equipment in a methodical and controlled way during the hair tonic service

Learners must demonstrate excellent manual dexterity skills and show that they can treat the hair and scalp, whilst holding the comb, applying the hair tonic, without causing damage to the hair or scalp. Learners must demonstrate that they have worked in methodical order and been in complete control of tools and equipment throughout the treatment.

Learners may show excellent handling of the hair during application and massage of hair tonics.

D1 Explain the choice of products, tools, equipment and techniques used during the hair tonic service

Learners must explain their reasons for choosing products, tools, equipment and techniques based on the characteristics, classification, growth, density, texture and influencing features of the hair. Learners must fully explain each point of the hair tonic service and justify their choices.

An example could include where a client has been suffering with dandruff and a scalp tonic is used and recommended for long term usage to treat and improve the scalp condition.

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Resources

The special resources required for this unit are access to a real or realistic working environment which supports the providing, offering and recommending hair tonics. Learners must also have access to health and safety standards, manufacturers’ instructions, and full range of hair tonics.

Delivery guidance

Teachers are encouraged to use innovative, practical and engaging delivery methods to enhance the learning experience. Learners may benefit from:

Meaningful employer engagement so they relate what is being learned to the real world of work and understand commercial competency and use of products, tools and equipment

Work experience within a commercial barbershop so they can practise their skills in a real environment

Using interactive information and technology, systems and hardware so they can learn about concepts and theories, research current trends, research product knowledge and produce visual aids

Links with other units

This unit is closely linked with the following units:

UCO34M Health, safety and hygiene

Health and safety greatly underpins the present unit. Learners will be required to apply knowledge and understanding of health and safety for applying hair tonics when providing the service in a real or realistic working environment.

UHB169M Advise and consult with clients

Alongside health and safety in the barbershop, consultation underpins every other professional hair service and should be the first unit delivered. Performing a thorough consultation before all services is a necessity by learners and this unit supports all technical units within the qualification.

UHB175M Shampoo, condition and treat the hair and scalp

Hair tonics can be complimentary to this unit in aiding a men’s specific hair or scalp treatment. Often a tonic will compliment a specific hair condition that has been also treated with special shampoo or conditioning products.

Graded synoptic assessment

At the end of the qualification of which this unit forms part, there will be a graded synoptic assessment which will assess the learner’s ability to identify and use effectively in an integrated way an appropriate selection of skills, techniques, concepts, theories, and knowledge from a number of units from within the qualification. It is therefore necessary and important that units are delivered and assessed together and synoptically to prepare learners suitably for their final graded assessment.

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Version Details of amendments Date

v5 Skin cancer awareness page added

14/06/17