What is the purpose of using a neck strip during a haircut?

The primary purpose of using a neck strip during a haircut is to keep hair off the client's neck and prevent irritation. When hair is cut, it can often fall onto the client's skin, which can cause discomfort and irritation, particularly if the hair is coarse or sharp. The neck strip serves as a barrier, ensuring that loose hair remains on the cape or in the air rather than against the skin. This enhances the client's overall comfort during the haircutting process and contributes to a more pleasant salon experience.

The other options, while they may touch on various aspects of client comfort or hygiene, do not accurately represent the main function of a neck strip in a salon setting. It does not absorb excess hair products, provide physical support for the neck, or block the client’s view, as those functions are not part of the neck strip's intended design or utility.