CHS Study Guide 2026
Everything you need to pass the CHS exam in one place: the exam format, every topic to study, real practice questions with explanations, flashcards, and full-length practice tests. Free, no sign-up needed.
📋 CHS Exam Format at a Glance
📚 CHS Topics to Study (69)
✍️ Sample CHS Questions & Answers
1. Why is proper hydration important for hair health?
Proper hydration is essential for maintaining the hair's elasticity and strength. When hair is adequately hydrated, it is more pliable and less prone to becoming dry, brittle, and breaking. Hydration helps the hair cuticle lie flat, which retains moisture, improves shine, and protects the inner cortex from damage.
2. When a state cosmetology license is placed on inactive or retired status, the licensee is permitted to:
An inactive license means the holder has waived the right to practice professionally until the license is reactivated and meets current renewal requirements.
3. A client's hair has been colored dark brown (level 3) for years. She now wants platinum blonde. What must the stylist explain?
Going from dark permanent color to platinum typically requires multiple controlled lightening sessions to avoid severe breakage and maintain hair integrity.
4. What is the purpose of a client consultation?
A client consultation is a critical initial step in any salon service, serving as a detailed discussion between the stylist and the client. Its primary purpose is to thoroughly understand the client's desired outcome, lifestyle, hair history, and any concerns they may have. This allows the stylist to recommend appropriate services and products, ensuring client satisfaction and realistic expectations.
5. What is the term for colors created by mixing a primary and its adjacent secondary color?
Tertiary colors are produced by mixing a primary color with an adjacent secondary color, such as red-orange or blue-green.
6. Under most state cosmetology laws, which of the following requires a salon to immediately notify the state board?
A change in ownership typically triggers a requirement to apply for a new establishment license or update the existing one with the state board.