Butte College

Course Outline

2026-2027 Catalog

COS 20 - Chemical Hair Services Theory

Catalog Description

Transfer Status
CSU
Prerequisite
Permission of instructor
Unit(s)
3.00
  • Lecture: 51.00 Contact hours/102.00 Out of class hours/153.00 Total hours/3.00 Unit(s)
  • Total: 51.00 Contact hours/102.00 Out of class hours/153.00 Total hours/3.00 Unit(s)

Course Description: In this course, students learn and develop an understanding and knowledge of the basic theoretical concepts that govern and guide salon-industry related chemistry, chemical texture services, and the fundamentals of hair coloring. Topics such as Chemistry, Safety, Haircolor and Chemical Texture applications will be covered. Students will work towards the California State Board of Barbering and Cosmetology minimum hours and practical operations in subjects learned. Theoretical instruction will be applied towards the curriculum minimum requirements to qualify for a Board examination.

Objectives

Upon successful completion of this course, the student should be able to:

  1. Explain the basic functions of the human organs and body systems.
  2. Discuss the different forms of matter, elements, compounds, and mixtures and be able to explain the difference between solutions, suspensions and emulsions.
  3. Differentiate chemicals used in the salon industry and describe the role pH plays in determining the correct chemical to use.
  4. Explain oxidation reduction reactions and the role they play in chemical texture services.
  5. List and describe the categories of haircolor and lighteners.
  6. Study communication for success, life skills, career planning, and business building in the industry.

Course Content

Topic Titles / Suggested Time Topic

Lecture

Lecture topics and suggested hours
TopicsLec Hrs

Basics of Chemistry

  •  Organic and inorganic chemistry
  •  Oxidation - reduction reactions
  •  pH scale
  •  Matter, elements, compounds and mixtures
12.00

Permanent Waving

  •  Tools and materials
  •  Types of permanent waves
  •  Chemistry of different permanent waves
  •  Client consultation
  •  Client safety
13.00

Chemical Relaxers

  •  Tools and materials
  •  Types of chemical relaxers
  •  Permanent straightening options
  •  Client consultation
  •  Client safety
13.00

Haircoloring

  •  Fundamentals of haircoloring
  •  Chemistry of haircolor
  •  Hair structure
  •  Types of hair color and lighteners
  •  Level system and tones
  •  Gray coverage
  •  Client consultation and safety
13.00
Total Hours:51.00

Methods of Instruction

  1. Discussion
  2. Homework: Students are required to complete two hours of outside-of-class homework for each hour of lecture
  3. Instructor Demonstrations
  4. Lecture
  5. Multimedia Presentations
  6. Reading Assignments

Methods of Evaluation

  1. Research Projects
  2. Portfolios
  3. Homework
  4. Class participation
  5. Written Assignments
  6. Written or Oral Examinations

Examples of Assignments

Reading Assignments

  1. Read the segment on Types of Haircolor in Chapter 16, Haircoloring. Be prepared to summarize and discuss the information outlined.
  2. Read the study guide and prepare your responses to the exam preparation questions.

Writing Assignments

  1. Complete short answers to the review questions given at the end of Chapter 16: Haircoloring in the course textbook. Review questions will serve as a study guide for your chapter quiz.
  2. Write a 1-2 page summary on a particular topic relating to the history and evolution of chemical services in hairdressing. Be prepared to discuss key points in class.

Out-of-Class Assignments

  1. Survey a minimum of five people to determine the top five reasons why they choose to return to a salon. Be prepared to discuss your findings in class.
  2. Research at least three upcoming education events in our area (not online) that pertain to chemical services and be prepared to share pertinent information with the class.

Recommended Materials of Instruction

Milady. (2024). Milady Standard Cosmetology Bundle Hard Cover Textbooks, Practical Workbook and Theory Workbook. Cengage, 14th. 9798214359892.

Pivot Point. (2016). Pivot Point Cosmetology textbook/study guide bundle w/ digital access + tech fee. Pivot Point, 2nd. 978-1-948482-66-0.

Minimum Qualifications

Cosmetology