Butte College

Course Outline

2026-2027 Catalog

COS 21 - Chemical Hair Services Practicum

Catalog Description

Transfer Status
CSU
Prerequisite
COS 20 (or concurrent enrollment)
Unit(s)
5.00
  • Lab: 255.00 Contact hours/0.00 Out of class hours/255.00 Total hours/5.00 Unit(s)
  • Total: 255.00 Contact hours/0.00 Out of class hours/255.00 Total hours/5.00 Unit(s)

Course Description: In this course students will develop and demonstrate understanding and practice of the basics of chemistry, chemical texture services, and the fundamentals of haircoloring. Students will work towards California State Board of Barbering and Cosmetology minimum practical operations in the subjects learned. This course is an integral class in the Barbering and Cosmetology program sequences.

Objectives

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

  1. Differentiate organic and inorganic chemistry and employ solutions, mixtures and compounds appropriately.
  2. Execute advanced techniques of hair coloring and bleaching.
  3. Collaborate with clients and execute permanent waves and relaxation strategies with appropriate pH levels to achieve desired outcomes.
  4. Demonstrate consistent client safety and protection in the use of chemical hair services.
  5. Perform client services proficiently using professional tools and equipment.

Course Content

Topic Titles / Suggested Time Topic

Lab

Lab topics and suggested hours
TopicsLab Hrs

Client Consultation

35.00

Disinfection and Sanitation

  • Demonstrate a habit and consistent practice of disinfection and sanitation standards set by the Board of Barbering and Cosmetology.
50.00

Permanent Waves

  • Basic permanent wave
  • Brick-lay permanent wave
  • Spiral wrap permanent wave
  • Piggyback and double-rod permanent wave
  • Application of waving and neutralizing solutions
42.00

Haircolor

  • Applying color theory to achieve desired outcomes 
  • Single and double process haircolor
  • Gray hair coverage
  • Toners and glossing
42.00

Highlighting 

  • Foil highlighting
  • Balayage
  • Global lighteners
  • Foilage
  • Dimensional color methods
46.00

Chemical Relaxing

  • Application of chemical relaxers
  • Keratin treatments
  • Permanent straightening options
40.00
Total Hours:255.00

Methods of Instruction

  1. Class Activities
  2. Collaborative Group Work
  3. Demonstrations
  4. Discussion
  5. Multimedia Presentations
  6. Reading Assignments

Methods of Evaluation

  1. Exams/Tests
  2. Portfolios
  3. Class participation
  4. Written Assignments
  5. Performance Examinations
  6. Mid-term and final examinations

Examples of Assignments

Reading Assignments

  1. Read Chapter 15: Chemical Texture Services in the course textbook and be prepared to discuss in class.
  2. Read article "Body Position Matters: Employing Proper Ergonomics". Be prepare to answer questions in the chapter comprehensive exam.

Writing Assignments

  1. Watch the assigned video on chemical hair treatments and write a brief summary on the methodology using proper terminology. Pay particular attention to chemical safety considerations.
  2. Write a brief reflection on a client chemical service that you performed and the order of operations used to complete the service. Be prepared to share it with the class.

Recommended Materials of Instruction

Milady. (2023). Milady’s Standard Cosmetology with Standard Foundations + Student Workbook for Milady Standard Foundations + Workbook for Milady’s Standard Cosmetology. Cengage, 14th. 9780357925256.

Other Learning Materials

Understanding Workers Rights and responsibilities (Published by the State Board of Cosmetology)

Minimum Qualifications

Cosmetology