CMP Cheat Sheet 2026

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

1. In color theory, tertiary colors are formed by: → Mixing a primary color with an adjacent secondary color
2. How long should clients wait before applying nail polish after a pedicure? → Until nails are dry
3. During a consultation, a client reveals a recent pedicure caused a fungal infection elsewhere. What is the priority action? → Inspect the client's nails and refer to a physician if infection is still present
4. Which technique is used to create a watercolor nail art effect on toenails? → Using very sheer, highly thinned polish and letting colors bleed together
5. Under most state regulations, how frequently must nail salon licenses be renewed? → Every year or two years
6. What does SOAP stand for in the context of pedicure client records? → Subjective, Objective, Assessment, Plan
7. A client requests a 'muted' coral polish. Which technique achieves this effect? → Mix the coral with its complementary color or gray
8. When performing a lower leg and foot massage during a pedicure, which stroke is used to knead and compress muscle tissue? → Petrissage
9. Which footwear recommendation should be given to clients who have just received a pedicure with regular nail polish? → Wear open-toed sandals or flip-flops for at least 1–2 hours to allow polish to fully dry
10. Which layer of skin contains the blood vessels and nerve endings that must be avoided when removing callused tissue? → Dermis
11. What is the medical term for a bunion? → Hallux valgus
12. Which waterborne pathogen is of particular concern in pedicure foot baths due to its ability to form biofilms in plumbing systems? → Mycobacterium fortuitum
13. What is a common aftercare product for foot health? → Foot creams and oils
14. A client presents with excessive sweating of the feet. This condition is known as: → Hyperhidrosis
15. Which nail enhancement product is created by combining a liquid monomer with a powder polymer? → Acrylic
16. What is the primary purpose of friction massage when applied around the nail fold and cuticle area? → To stimulate blood flow and loosen adherent dead tissue
17. Habit-tic deformity of the nail is most commonly caused by: → Repetitive picking or rubbing of the proximal nail fold by the client
18. Which skin layer contains the Langerhans cells responsible for immune defense? → Stratum spinosum
19. Which business structure provides the most personal liability protection for a solo nail salon owner? → Limited Liability Company (LLC)
20. A salon owner wants to improve online reputation. Which action has the greatest impact? → Actively request reviews from satisfied clients and respond professionally to all feedback
21. What is a needs assessment in CMP Anatomy of Skin & Hair practice? → Identifying gaps between current conditions and desired outcomes
22. A pedicure client develops redness and swelling 48 hours after a chemical service. This timeline MOST likely indicates: → An allergic contact dermatitis response
23. How do regulations differ from standards in CMP practice? → Regulations are legally binding; standards are typically voluntary
24. When a nail technician moves from one state to another, what process allows them to obtain a license without retaking the full exam? → Reciprocity
25. Which of the following best describes 'saturation' in color theory? → The intensity or purity of a color
26. A state board inspector arrives during business hours. What is the salon's legal obligation? → Allow immediate access and cooperation with the inspection
27. A nail plate that is excessively thin, soft, and bends easily is called: → Hapalonychia
28. The 'C-curve' of a nail enhancement refers to: → The lateral curvature from side wall to side wall viewed from the tip
29. Which of the following is a CONTRAINDICATION that requires a pedicure to be postponed? → Active athlete's foot (tinea pedis)
30. What is evidence-based practice in CMP Anatomy of Skin & Hair? → Integrating research evidence with expertise and client needs