What does a 1:20 test determine in hair treatment?

A 1:20 test is specifically designed to detect the presence of metallic salts in hair. Metallic salts can be found in various hair products, particularly older formulations and some at-home treatments. When performing a 1:20 test, a mixture of the hair sample and a solution (often a solution containing bleach or peroxide) is analyzed to see if any discoloration occurs, which would indicate the presence of these metallic compounds.

The presence of metallic salts is significant because they can react unpredictably with other chemical treatments, such as relaxers or perms, leading to potential hair damage. If metallic salts are detected, it's crucial to address this before proceeding with any chemical service to avoid hair breakage or undesirable results.

Hair color matching, moisture level, and product pH are unrelated to the purpose of a 1:20 test. These aspects require different assessment methods, such as color swatches for matching, moisture meters for hydration levels, and pH strips for checking acidity or alkalinity in products. Therefore, the correct identification of a 1:20 test as a means to determine metallic salts presence is essential for safe and effective hair treatment.