Cosmetology written exam Ultimate Study Guide

Passing Standard

A score of $75\%$ or higher is required to pass the NIC National Cosmetology Theory Examination.

Weighted Items

The exam consists of $100$ weighted items that directly contribute to the candidate's final score.

Infection Control

Practices aimed at preventing the spread of infectious diseases, including sanitation, disinfection, and sterilization.

Sanitation

The lowest level of cleaning that reduces surface pathogens.

Disinfection

Destruction of most harmful microorganisms on non-porous surfaces using hospital-grade or EPA-registered disinfectants.

Sterilization

The highest level of infection control that completely destroys all microbial life, including bacterial spores.

Cross-Contamination

The transfer of pathogens between clients, surfaces, and tools, which infection control protocols aim to prevent.

OSHA

The Occupational Safety and Health Administration, responsible for enforcing workplace safety regulations.

EPA

The Environmental Protection Agency, which regulates chemical disinfectants and evaluates product efficacy.

Chemical Relaxing

The process of using chemical formulations to relax and smooth hair texture.

pH Scale

A logarithmic scale ranging from $0$ to $14$ that measures the acidity or alkalinity of a substance.

Basic Facial Treatments

Include cleansing, analysis, exfoliation, steaming, massage manipulation, mask application, and moisturization.

Contraindications

Medical or structural conditions that prohibit specific cosmetic or beauty treatments.

Nail Enhancement Systems

Includes application and maintenance of artificial nail enhancements such as acrylics and gels.

Skin Analysis

Evaluation of skin types and conditions to customize treatments and product recommendations.

Client Documentation

Record-keeping of service history, technical records, and client-specific information for future reference.

Hair Design Principles

Guidelines that inform the tailoring of haircutting, styling, and textural approaches to individual clients.