What should be done if a client has overly dry or damaged hair?

When a client has overly dry or damaged hair, it is essential to prioritize the health and integrity of the hair before proceeding with any coloring process. Using a conditioning treatment before coloring is the most effective choice, as it helps to restore moisture, improve hair elasticity, and prepare the hair for the chemical processes involved in coloring. This step can protect the hair from further damage and ensure a more even and successful color application.

A deep cleansing shampoo, while it might remove buildup, can strip hair of essential oils and moisture, which is counterproductive for dry or damaged hair. Skipping the coloring process altogether may seem prudent, but providing a conditioning treatment allows for the possibility of safe coloring, rather than foregoing it entirely. Applying color without any treatment could exacerbate the existing damage and lead to additional breakage or poor results, making the conditioning treatment a necessary preventative step.