CHS Cheat Sheet 2026

The 30 highest-yield CHS facts, distilled from real exam questions. Print it, save it as a PDF, or study it here — free, no sign-up.

1. Slithering (effilating) is a technique that: → Removes bulk by sliding scissors down the hair shaft
2. A client has unwanted brassy orange tones after lightening. Which toner level best neutralizes orange? → Blue-based toner
3. A square layer cut is characterized by: → Interior layers that build a square or boxy shape at the crown
4. When using a flat iron to create beach waves, which technique is most effective? → Rotating the iron 180° while gliding down the section
5. Which of the following is a TRUE contraindication for performing a chemical service? → Client has a known allergy to PPD (paraphenylenediamine)
6. How does professional liability insurance protect CHS practitioners? → Covering financial losses from claims of negligence or errors
7. What is the technical term for the visible part of the hair above the skin surface? → Hair shaft
8. Which of the following developers is used when the maximum lift is needed for a lightening service? → 40 volume (12%)
9. What is the primary purpose of an exposure control plan in a salon? → To outline procedures for responding to bloodborne pathogen exposures
10. Which concentration of isopropyl alcohol is most effective as a disinfectant? → 70%
11. Why must disinfectant solutions be changed regularly in salons? → Because organic matter reduces disinfectant effectiveness over time
12. What is the first step in CHS risk assessment? → Identifying potential hazards and threats
13. What is the role of a healthy scalp in hair growth? → To increase hair density
14. Which item should NEVER be disinfected and reused after a salon service? → Single-use lancets or razor blades
15. How does professional liability insurance protect CHS practitioners? → Covering financial losses from claims of negligence or errors
16. A stylist is using a chemical relaxer and begins to feel lightheaded. What is the first action they should take? → Open windows and move to fresh air immediately
17. Which document must a salon maintain to demonstrate that all disinfectants and sterilizers meet the EPA's registration requirements? → EPA registration number on the product label
18. What does 'accounts receivable' represent for a salon? → Money owed to the salon by clients or insurance companies for services already rendered
19. A stylist observes a coworker reusing a single-use implement (such as a neck strip) on multiple clients. This is a violation of: → State board sanitation regulations
20. How does professional liability insurance protect CHS practitioners? → Covering financial losses from claims of negligence or errors
21. Which styling technique uses a round brush with a blow dryer to add curl and volume? → Thermal styling
22. The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) requires salons to: → Make reasonable accommodations for clients and employees with disabilities
23. Which type of hair is considered the gold standard for extensions due to intact, aligned cuticles and long-lasting quality? → Remy human hair
24. Which disinfectant concentration of isopropyl alcohol is considered effective for sanitizing salon implements? → 70%
25. Which single factor has the greatest influence on how long hair extensions will last and look their best? → Proper installation technique combined with diligent at-home maintenance
26. Which chemical is responsible for breaking the disulfide bonds in a thio-based relaxer? → Ammonium thioglycolate
27. What is the approximate rate of hair growth on the human scalp per month? → 1.25 cm
28. Which mixing ratio is standard for most powder lighteners used with 20 volume developer? → 1:2
29. Which product ingredient is specifically recommended to help control Malassezia yeast overgrowth on the scalp? → Zinc pyrithione
30. What is the importance of continuing education for CHS professionals in Sanitation & Infection Control? → Maintaining current knowledge and adapting to industry changes