Mixed Deck — All Cosmetology Test Topics Flashcards

Which SPF value is recommended by the American Academy of Dermatology for daily use?

Answer: SPF 30 or higher

The AAD recommends at minimum SPF 30, which blocks about 97% of UVB rays, for adequate daily sun protection.

Which part of the nail unit contains the nerves, lymph, and blood vessels, and is responsible for producing the cells that form the nail plate?

Answer: Matrix

The matrix is the area where nail plate cells are formed and is the living part of the nail. It is located at the base of the nail, under the skin, and contains the blood vessels and nerves necessary for nail growth. Damage to the matrix can affect how the nail grows permanently.

Which nail shape is most recommended for clients with wide nail beds to create the illusion of a slimmer finger?

Answer: Almond or oval

Almond or oval shapes taper toward the tip, visually elongating the finger and narrowing the appearance of wide nail beds.

Which phase of the hair growth cycle involves active cell division and hair elongation?

Answer: Anagen

The anagen phase is the active growth phase during which hair matrix cells divide rapidly and hair grows in length.

What does the term 'volatile' mean when describing a chemical used in cosmetology?

Answer: Easily evaporates at room temperature

A volatile substance evaporates quickly at room temperature, which is important when working with solvents and nail products.

What does 'single-use' mean in the context of salon implements?

Answer: The item must be discarded after one use

Single-use items like nail files, buffers, and cotton pads must be discarded after each client to prevent cross-contamination.

If an establishment moves, the licensee is required to file for a new establishment license and ensure that the new location complies with the Act's and this chapter's requirements. In accordance with the Act, a relocated beauty culture school must also be inspected before opening. Mobile shops are exempt from this subsection's restrictions.

Answer: True

This statement is true. When an establishment moves, the licensee must apply for a new license for the new location and ensure it meets all regulatory requirements. Relocated beauty culture schools also require re-inspection before opening to verify compliance. Mobile shops are typically exempt from these specific relocation inspection rules due to their nature.

What does 'contributing pigment' refer to in haircoloring?

Answer: The underlying warm tones revealed as hair is lightened

Contributing pigment (also called undertone) refers to the warm residual tones—red, orange, yellow—that are exposed as the hair's natural melanin is lightened.

Which type of hair bond is the strongest and most difficult to break?

Answer: Disulfide bond

Disulfide bonds are covalent bonds that are the strongest bonds in hair and can only be broken by chemical processes such as perms or relaxers.

What is the primary advantage of human hair wigs over synthetic wigs?

Answer: They can be heat-styled and chemically colored

Human hair wigs tolerate heat styling tools and chemical services such as coloring, which would permanently damage synthetic fibers.

What does the term 'sectioning' refer to in haircutting?

Answer: Dividing the hair into manageable, organized parts

Sectioning divides the hair into organized panels so the stylist can work through each area systematically and accurately.

Which type of perm solution is most appropriate for color-treated or damaged hair?

Answer: Acid wave solution

Acid wave solutions have a lower pH (6–7) and are gentler, making them more appropriate for color-treated, damaged, or fine hair.

Where do blood vessels and nerves reside?

Answer: Nail bed

Blood vessels and nerves reside in the nail bed, which is the living tissue underneath the nail plate. This area is rich in capillaries and nerve endings, providing nourishment to the growing nail plate and contributing to the nail's sensitivity. Damage to the nail bed can affect nail growth and health.

Which one of these is not a cosmetology specialty?

Answer: Shoe making

Cosmetology encompasses the art and science of beautifying the hair, skin, and nails. Specialties within this field include shampoo technicians, aestheticians (skin care specialists), and hair coloring. Shoe making, however, is a craft focused on footwear production and is entirely unrelated to personal grooming and beauty services, thus not a cosmetology specialty.

What is the function of a rheostat in cosmetology electrical equipment?

Answer: To regulate or vary the strength of electrical current

A rheostat is a variable resistor used to adjust or regulate the intensity of electrical current flowing through equipment during treatments.

What is the difference between cleaning and disinfecting?

Answer: Cleaning removes dirt; disinfecting kills pathogens on a clean surface

Cleaning removes visible debris and bioburden, while disinfecting uses chemicals to kill pathogens on surfaces that have already been cleaned.

Which sign indicates that hair extensions need repositioning or removal?

Answer: Natural hair has grown 2 or more inches past the attachment point

When natural hair grows 2 or more inches from the attachment point, extensions shift away from the scalp, becoming visible and placing stress on the hair.

Under most state cosmetology laws, which of the following requires a written client record or intake form?

Answer: Chemical services such as color, perm, or relaxer

Chemical services require documented client records including patch test results, previous services, and contraindications to ensure client safety and legal compliance.

Which mixing ratio is standard for most permanent haircolor with 20-volume cream developer?

Answer: 1:1 (color to developer)

Most permanent haircolor manufacturers specify a 1:1 ratio of color to developer, though always check the manufacturer's instructions.

What is the PRIMARY purpose of wearing a wig cap under a wig?

Answer: To protect natural hair and create a smooth, secure base

A wig cap compresses natural hair flat, protects it from friction and moisture, and creates a smooth base for the wig to sit evenly.