What is the purpose of a strand test during color or chemical processing?

• A. To check scalp health
• B. To anticipate processing results and determine appropriate processing time and shade
• C. To test for color bleed
• D. To determine shampoo type

Answer: (B)

A strand test is used to see how hair will react to the chemical process before treating the whole head, so you can predict the result and plan the timing. By testing a small strand under the same conditions, you can gauge how much lift or deposit will occur, what the final shade will look like, and whether the processing time will produce the desired outcome without over- or under-processing. This proactive check lets you adjust the formula or processing time to protect the hair and achieve the target color. It isn’t primarily about scalp health, color bleed between strands, or choosing a shampoo type.