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What is the purpose of a protective barrier cream?

  1. To enhance hair shine

  2. To smooth split ends

  3. To prevent skin irritation from chemical treatments

  4. To control frizz

The correct answer is: To prevent skin irritation from chemical treatments

A protective barrier cream is specifically designed to create a defensive layer on the skin, which helps to prevent irritation caused by various chemical treatments commonly used in the beauty and barbering industry. These treatments, such as hair color or relaxers, may contain potent ingredients that can lead to skin irritation or allergic reactions. By applying a protective barrier cream before such procedures, the skin receives an added layer of protection, which minimizes the likelihood of adverse reactions and ensures a safer experience for clients. The other options focus on hair care aspects—enhancing shine, smoothing split ends, and controlling frizz—which are important for cosmetic results but do not pertain to skin protection. A protective barrier cream’s main function is to safeguard the skin against potential damage rather than to improve the appearance of hair.