What should you do before performing a hair service?

Performing a patch test for allergies is a crucial step before administering any hair service, particularly when the service involves chemical processes such as coloring or perming. This procedure helps to identify any allergic reactions the client may have to the products that will be used, ensuring their safety and comfort during the treatment. By checking for allergies, you mitigate the risk of adverse skin reactions, which can range from mild irritation to severe anaphylaxis.

While washing the client's hair, discussing hairstyle preferences, or applying a conditioning serum may be important in their respective contexts, none of these steps address the potential health risks associated with the products used in hair services. The patch test is specifically designed to protect the client from possible allergic responses, making it a fundamental practice in the cosmetology field.