NOCTI Cosmetology Practice Exam 2026 - Free Cosmetology Practice Questions and Study Guide

The correct choice is to avoid lacquer when a client wants her hair shampooed and blow dried without additional heat. Lacquers are typically used as finishing products that provide a strong hold and shine, but they often contain alcohol and other ingredients that can cause dryness and potential damage to the hair, especially when heat is applied. Since the client specifically requested not to use additional heat, using lacquer could lead to an undesirable effect, as it may require styling tools to achieve the desired look, contradicting the client's wishes.

On the other hand, conditioners, serums, and moisturizers are beneficial for hair health. Conditioners help to detangle and hydrate the hair, serums can provide shine and reduce frizz without heat, and moisturizers can enhance the hair's texture and prevent dryness. None of these would impede the blow drying process, especially when avoiding additional heat styling tools. Therefore, avoiding lacquer aligns with the client’s request for a gentle, heat-free blow dry.