Milady Cosmetology Cheat Sheet 2026

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

1. What is the primary function of texturizing shears? → To remove bulk without shortening the length
2. What is the primary function of the stratum corneum layer of the epidermis? → To act as the body's primary protective barrier.
3. A stylist is performing a layered haircut and elevates a section of hair straight out from the head at a 90-degree angle. What is the result of this technique? → Uniform layers of equal length throughout the section.
4. Approximately how many hairs does the average human scalp contain? → 100,000-150,000
5. Before applying a sodium hydroxide relaxer, a cosmetologist must NOT perform which of the following steps? → Shampoo the hair
6. Which of the following is NOT part of the central nervous system? → Peripheral nerves
7. Which type of hair lightener is generally used for off-scalp applications like foiling or balayage and comes in a thicker consistency that expands less? → Clay lightener
8. A client presents with skin that appears shiny and has large pores, yet they complain of a tight, uncomfortable feeling. Which condition is most likely present? → Oily skin that is also dehydrated.
9. What is the simplest form of chemical matter that cannot be broken down into a simpler substance without loss of identity? → Element
10. Which scalp massage movement uses a light, gentle stroking motion and is typically used to begin and end a scalp treatment? → Effleurage
11. What is the ideal temperature setting for styling tools on fine or damaged hair? → 250–300°F (120–150°C)
12. What is the average number of hairs lost per day that is considered normal for a healthy adult? → 50-100 hairs
13. A stable physical mixture of two or more substances is a(n): → Solution
14. What is the primary function of the sebaceous glands? → Secrete sebum
15. How long should tools be submerged in an EPA-registered disinfectant? → As specified by the manufacturer
16. What is the technical term for bitten nails? → Onychophagy
17. What is the primary purpose of a UV or LED bonding gel in a gel enhancement system? → To increase adhesion to the natural nail
18. Which type of alopecia results in permanent hair loss due to the destruction and scarring of hair follicles? → Cicatricial alopecia
19. What is the proper way to handle a blood exposure incident in the salon? → Stop the service, put on gloves, and follow the blood exposure procedure.
20. When tweezing, in which direction should the hair be pulled? → In the direction of hair growth
21. What is the primary purpose of performing a professional scalp treatment in a salon? → To cleanse and stimulate the scalp to promote healthy hair growth
22. Which phase of the hair growth cycle is the active growth phase during which new hair cells are produced? → Anagen
23. A metal pusher should be used carefully to avoid damaging which part of the nail unit? → Nail matrix
24. Which of the following haircutting techniques creates soft layers? → Point cutting
25. The maintenance service to fill in the new growth of a nail enhancement is commonly called a: → Rebalance or Fill
26. Which condition causes patchy, non-scarring hair loss and is believed to be an autoimmune disorder? → Alopecia areata
27. Polymerization is the chemical reaction that creates polymers. In the context of nail enhancements, this process is also known as: → Curing or hardening
28. The two principal actions in permanent waving are: → Physical and chemical
29. When performing a one-color UV gel enhancement service, what is the immediate next step after properly applying the base or bonding gel layer? → Cure the gel under a UV or LED lamp as per manufacturer's directions.
30. When using shears, what is the primary purpose of the finger tang or pinky rest? → To provide balance and control by giving the little finger a resting place.