Mixed Deck — All Cosmetology Topics Flashcards

Which of the following is the correct way to store disinfected implements?

Answer: In a closed, clean, labeled container or cabinet

After disinfection, implements must be stored in a closed, clean, and dry container or cabinet to prevent recontamination before their next use.

What is the proper order of steps when decontaminating reusable salon tools?

Answer: Clean, then disinfect

Tools must first be cleaned to remove all visible debris and contaminants, and then disinfected so the disinfectant can properly contact all surfaces of the implement.

To neutralize unwanted brassy orange tones in lightened hair, a colorist should use a toner containing:

Answer: Blue or violet tones

Blue and violet tones are complementary to orange and yellow on the color wheel, so they neutralize brassiness in lightened hair.

Onychomycosis is the technical term for:

Answer: Fungal infection of the nail

Onychomycosis is a fungal infection of the nail plate and/or nail bed, causing discoloration, thickening, and brittleness of the affected nails.

What is the outermost layer of the epidermis called?

Answer: Stratum corneum

The stratum corneum is the outermost layer of the epidermis, composed of dead, flattened keratinocytes that form a protective barrier for the skin.

What is the main difference between a statute and a regulation in cosmetology law?

Answer: A statute is a law passed by the legislature; a regulation is a rule established by the state board to implement that law

Statutes are laws enacted by the state legislature that establish the overall framework for cosmetology regulation, while regulations are the detailed rules created by the state board to carry out those laws.

The process of removing dead skin cells from the surface of the skin is called:

Answer: Exfoliation

Exfoliation is the process of removing dead skin cells from the surface, either mechanically (scrubs) or chemically (AHA/BHA), to reveal fresher skin beneath.

Complementary colors on the color wheel are colors that are:

Answer: Directly opposite each other on the color wheel

Complementary colors sit directly opposite each other on the color wheel and neutralize each other when mixed.

Practicing cosmetology without a valid license is considered:

Answer: Illegal and can result in fines and penalties

In all US states, practicing cosmetology without a valid license is illegal and can result in fines, cease-and-desist orders, and other legal penalties.

What does the term 'free edge' refer to in nail anatomy?

Answer: The portion of the nail plate that extends beyond the fingertip

The free edge is the portion of the nail plate that extends past the hyponychium and the tip of the finger, which is the part that is shaped and filed.

What is the purpose of a patch test (predisposition test) before a haircolor service?

Answer: Check for allergic reaction to the color

A patch test (also called an allergy or predisposition test) is performed 24–48 hours before a color service to detect any allergic reaction to aniline derivative dyes.

An ingrown toenail is the condition known as:

Answer: Onychocryptosis

Onychocryptosis is the medical term for an ingrown nail, where the nail plate grows into the surrounding soft tissue, causing pain, redness, and swelling.

Demi-permanent (deposit-only) color differs from permanent color primarily because it uses:

Answer: A very low-volume hydrogen peroxide developer

Demi-permanent color uses a low-volume (5–10) hydrogen peroxide developer instead of the stronger developer in permanent color, so it deposits without significant lift.

Which nail condition is characterized by the nail plate separating and splitting into layers at the free edge?

Answer: Onychoschizia

Onychoschizia (nail splitting or lamellar dystrophy) describes the horizontal splitting or layering of the nail plate at the free edge, often caused by dehydration or chemical exposure.

A 'color filler' is most often used on hair that has been:

Answer: Over-processed and is lacking natural underlying pigment

Color filler replenishes missing contributing pigment in over-processed or previously lightened hair so that the new color result is even and true-to-tone.

How does permanent hair color deposit color into the hair?

Answer: It opens the cuticle and deposits color into the cortex

Permanent hair color uses an alkaline agent to swell and open the cuticle, allowing oxidative dye molecules to penetrate and develop color in the cortex.

The inner layer of the hair shaft that provides strength and elasticity is the:

Answer: Cortex

The cortex is the middle layer of the hair shaft and contains the melanin and fibrous proteins that give hair its strength, elasticity, and color.

What ingredient in a sunscreen physically blocks UV rays by sitting on top of the skin?

Answer: Zinc oxide

Zinc oxide is a physical (mineral) sunscreen ingredient that reflects and scatters UV radiation on the skin's surface rather than absorbing it chemically.

A cosmetologist who shares client personal information without consent may violate:

Answer: Client confidentiality and privacy regulations

Client information shared during consultations is confidential, and disclosing it without consent can violate professional ethics rules and potentially privacy regulations.

What is the term for the natural fall of the hair from its root, determined by the follicle angle?

Answer: Natural fall

Natural fall refers to the direction hair flows when it is combed straight down from the scalp, following the angle of the hair follicle.