Alabama State Board Of Cosmetology – Theory Practice Exam

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• What does hair elasticity refer to?
• Why is disinfection important in a cosmetology setting?
• Cosmetologists are allowed to perform which action on the eponychium?
• What is the connection between hair structure and its health largely dependent on?
• What is the fold of skin that overlaps the side of the nail called?
• Which disinfectant is appropriate for stopping the takeover of the host cell's reproductive function?
• Which type of nerve fibers react to heat, cold, touch, pressure, and pain?
• What is the medical term for prickly heat, characterized by small red vesicles and itchy skin?
• SDS contains how many categories of information?
• What is a necessary step to ensure safety after dealing with a blood spill?
• Which part of the nail grows the fastest?
• Which hairstyle practice was common among African civilizations to convey status?
• What is the water content range of a healthy nail?
• What is the characteristic shape of koilonychia?
• What is the term for the unintentional transfer of bacteria or other microorganisms that can cause harm?
• What is the purpose of a base coat in nail services?
• Which density and texture combination would create the MOST volume in a hairstyle?
• Which layer of the epidermis provides strength and flexibility to the skin?
• Which type of bacteria are usually responsible for causing skin infections?
• What is the bacterial skin infection characterized by isolated pustules that become crusted and can rupture?
• What product would you use to prevent polish from staining the nail bed?
• Which layer of skin is slightly thickened and lies beneath the free edge of the nail plate?
• Which glands are responsible for lubricating the skin and preserving the softness of the hair?
• Which regulatory authority legally requires companies to share information on their cosmetic products?
• Which is the FIRST step in disinfecting implements?
• In ancient societies, what was the primary reason for using adornments in hair styling?
• Which of the following machines have two positive electrodes called an anode?
• What historical period brought prosperity to the United States, influencing beauty trends?
• What does the cytoplasm primarily consist of?
• What is the correct procedure for disposing of materials used in a blood spill?
• Which sequence correctly identifies the layers of skin and fat from the outermost layer to the innermost layer?
• What statement is true regarding fungal infections like tinea?
• What condition is characterized by tiny pits or severe roughness on the surface of the nail plate?
• What unique property do keratin-filled cysts, known as milia, possess?
• What skin condition involves excessive oil production and is often associated with acne?
• How often should capes and linens be laundered?
• The loss of color in patches of skin due to a lack of melanin is known as what?
• Which vitamin is known to be important for proper repair of the skin and promotes the production of collagen?
• What causes a grayish build-up on the hair?
• What is the main focus of infection control in a salon environment?
• Which is the appropriate treatment for eye irritation?
• Which hair condition is characterized by high porosity?
• What pH level is required for chemicals to penetrate a healthy cuticle hair layer?
• What is the process by which bacteria grow to their largest size and then divide into two new cells?
• What is the name of the independent federal agency that coordinates programs aimed at reducing pollution?
• What is referred to as the white area at the base of the nail plate?
• What is a common treatment option for nail psoriasis?
• During which dynasty did Chinese aristocrats first use a tinted mixture to color their nails?
• Which health condition requires a salon professional to take extra precautions?
• What should be done immediately after a client allergy reaction?
• Which product would likely be used to prevent the spread of germs on environmental surfaces?
• What term describes hair that forms in a circular pattern on the crown of the head?
• What is a key benefit of using sterilization in a salon?
• What should be used to remove polish from nails?
• Which part of the nail is primarily responsible for its protective function?
• Ancient people around the world primarily used animal hide for which purpose?
• What is the MINIMUM recommendation for properly disinfecting a foot spa?
• On which finger does nail growth typically occur at a slower rate?
• During the Renaissance, women aimed to appear more intelligent by doing what?
• What type of bond is mostly responsible for the strength and structure of hair?
• What is the first step in the blood spill procedure?
• What is the primary function of OSHA?
• Which term describes the outermost layer of the skin?
• Which of the following accurately describes dyschromias?
• What term refers to abnormal colorations of the skin that accompany many skin disorders and systemic disorders?
• Which of the following helps soften tissues, making it more accepting of moisturizers and other treatment products?
• Eggshell nails are characterized by which of the following?
• Which term best defines a crusted rupture of pus-filled lesions?
• All of the following are toners EXCEPT?
• What is the most commonly forgotten step in the wet styling process?
• Which civilization is recognized for using hairstyles as symbols of tribal traditions?
• What is the LAST step of cleansing a client's skin before waxing?
• What is an important consideration when using a chemical peel on a client?
• Which nail condition can be associated with severe stress or trauma?
• What is the term for the covalent bond formed between amino acids?
• In which part of the cell does mitosis occur?
• What is one of the steps performed during an acrylic maintenance procedure?
• Which term describes a small, solid, raised lesion on the surface of the skin?
• How long does it typically take for a natural fingernail to be replaced?
• Which hair styling tool was also invented by Max Factor?
• In which area would you start a relaxer retouch application?
• What is the technical term for beaded hair?
• Which layer of the epidermis is also known as the basal cell layer responsible for the production of new epidermal skin cells?
• Which of the following colors will result in a shortened processing time when using a lightener on grey hair?
• What method did Victorian women use to enhance their natural color?
• Who invented the world's first ammonia-free hair color in 1985?
• Which is a natural hairstylist technique for the braiding of extensions?
• Which of the following structures contains nerves, lymph, and blood vessels?
• What term is used to describe head lice?
• What is a common cause of surfaced stains on nails?
• Which of the following procedures must be done FIRST for a shampoo service?
• What is the best hairstyle for individuals with a round facial shape?
• Which form of hepatitis is considered the most difficult to kill on a surface?
• During which historical period did women begin to shave their hairlines to enhance their appearance?
• Which of the following structures is responsible for nail growth?
• What is the abnormal condition caused by skin stretching due to nail plate pressure called?
• Which type of bacteria is associated with causing strep throat?
• What is an itchy, swollen lesion that typically lasts only a few hours called?
• What term refers to an opening, groove, or split in the skin?
• Which hair condition is often caused by a lack of moisture?
• What is the lowest part of the hair strand known as?
• Which of the following is used to clean the area during a blood spill response?
• Who is recognized for building a personal cosmetics factory by the Dead Sea?
• What is another name for bitten nails?
• When performing a basic permanent wrap, the hair should be divided into how many sections?
• The medulla of the hair is primarily made up of what type of cells?
• Which sanitizing agent is often recommended for cleaning non-porous surfaces in a salon?
• Which of the following devices uses steam to sterilize equipment and deactivate bacteria, viruses, fungi, and spores?
• What is the highest level of decontamination used for implements in the salon?
• What structure is vital for hair nutrition during the growth phase?
• Which massage movement can be painful or dangerous if performed without proper training?
• All of the following are determined by a strand test in a color service EXCEPT?
• What is often a visible sign of trichorrhexis nodosa?
• All of the following are true when testing the temperature of wax except?
• Which tool is most recommended for new cutters to effectively remove excess bulk from hair?
• Which of the following is the decontamination method for blood or other infectious material on items?
• What term describes abnormal colorations of the skin that are often associated with various skin and systemic disorders?
• What contributes to dandruff formation on the scalp?
• Which are considered cool makeup colors for dark skin when applying makeup?
• What term describes spherical bacteria that grow in pairs, such as those causing pneumonia?
• Which term best describes the small red bumps seen in inflammatory conditions of the skin?
• Which cosmetic ingredient is known for its ability to soothe inflamed skin?
• Which of the following is NOT considered a facial shape?
• Which type of nerve fibers regulate the secretion of perspiration and sebum?
• Where are hair follicles typically not found?
• What could happen if relaxers are used incorrectly?
• What connects bone to bone in the body?
• Blue fingernails are usually indicative of a lack of what in the red blood cells?
• What is the term for the dense, active protoplasm found in the center of the cell?
• Which of the following promotes safe chemical handling in a salon environment?
• What is the portion of living skin that supports the nail plate called?
• What is the main ingredient in true acid and acid balanced waving lotions?
• What are benign, keratin-filled cysts that can appear just under the epidermis without a visible opening called?
• What is the term for the separation and falling off of a nail plate from the nail bed?
• In which area of the scalp would you typically find a whorl?
• Which government agency can issue fines for salons that do not have MSDSs available during business hours?
• What is the growth phase in the hair cycle where new hair shafts are created?
• What is an elevation of skin containing pus called?
• Which layer below the nail plate helps provide nourishment?
• For what purpose are head blocks primarily best used in cosmetology?
• Which of the following describes a medical treatment method for scalp issues?
• What is a benefit of using non-acetone remover?
• What does the term onychosis refer to?
• What is henna commonly used for?
• What did ancient Chinese aristocrats apply to their nails to signify status?
• What is the FIRST step if you get blood or other potentially infectious materials in your eyes, nose, mouth, or on broken skin?
• Which of the following is the first step in properly cleaning a spa foot bath?
• What is a common cause of contact dermatitis in cosmetology?
• Why do tuberculocidal disinfectants require special handling?
• What type of disinfectants has a high pH and can cause skin irritation or burns?
• All of the following prevent burns while waxing EXCEPT?
• What layer of the epidermis marks the transition between the deeper, metabolically active strata and the dead cells of the more superficial strata?
• Light therapy is applied to the skin for all the following purposes EXCEPT?
• Which of the following is the FIRST step in responding to a blood exposure incident?
• Which of the following is the last step in preparing a client's skin for waxing on the face?
• What is the study of hair and its diseases called?
• Which agency publishes the guidelines known as Standard Precautions?
• What is the primary skin benefit of applying moisturizing products?
• What is the primary purpose of a color filler?
• What is the scientific term for knotted hair?
• Chemical safety includes all of the following EXCEPT?
• What chemical process involves destroying most harmful organisms on surfaces?
• What is the term for the darkening of the fingernails or toenails?
• Paronychia is primarily associated with what type of infection?
• All of the following can be a side effect of crash dieting and anorexia EXCEPT?
• Onycholysis is defined as lifting of the nail plate from the nail bed without shedding, typically starting at which area?
• In which scenario is it critical to use proper PPE (Personal Protective Equipment)?
• What is the primary purpose of using a disinfectant in a salon?
• In ancient Rome, which of the following was a common indicator of one's social class?
• What are the various classifications of hair types based on texture?
• What is the meaning of hepatitis?
• Which of the following should be used to treat an allergy of the skin?
• What is the main benefit of using a toner in skincare?
• What haircut technique focuses on pointing the scissors toward the hair ends instead of into them?
• Which of the following implements is NOT used for a basic manicure?
• Which is a place used for storing disinfected tools and implements in the salon?
• Which term describes the art of styling, nail technology, and esthetics?
• What does the term "whorl" refer to in hair growth?
• Which set of guidelines must employers follow to protect their workers from hazards?
• Which term describes a spiral or coil shape?
• Which cutting technique involves cutting all of the hair at a 90-degree elevation to achieve uniform length?
• What is the phase of hair growth characterized by the breakdown and change of hair growth?
• What is an ingrown nail scientifically referred to as?
• Which of the following is used to remove bonded wefts from the hair?
• What is a small membrane-bound sac that functions in moving products into, out of, and within a cell called?
• Which type of bacteria has a spiral or corkscrew shape, responsible for diseases like lyme disease?
• Which of the following conditions is characterized by small, fluid-filled sacs on the skin?
• What is a key benefit of Vitamin C in skin health?
• Which historical figure is known for her extravagant beauty rituals involving henna?
• What is the whitish, half-moon shape at the base of the nail?
• What was kohl makeup originally made from?
• How long does it generally take for toenails to be fully replaced?
• Which hair structure is often characterized by a whorl pattern?
• What does a normal, healthy nail surface look like?
• Which of the following facial shapes resembles an upside-down triangle?
• What is true regarding the products EPA registration?
• Which of the following is a phase of the hair growth cycle?
• Which of the following would you use for dramatically lighter hair color?
• What type of hair is typically softer and finer, commonly found on infants?
• All of the following are reasons to perform a strand test EXCEPT:
• In terms of skin structure, which of these is primarily responsible for sensation?
• What does the term "exfoliation" refer to in skincare?
• All of the following are foundations for cornrows EXCEPT?
• What can be a sign of dehydration or damage to nails?
• Which of the following is NOT a characteristic of tinea?
• Which makeup artist developed a product that became popular with movie stars for its durability under studio lights?
• What is the watery fluid called that surrounds the nucleus and is essential for cell growth and reproduction?
• What is the name of the fungal infection commonly known as ringworm?
• What is the outermost layer of hair called?
• Which substance is commonly used in the process of sugaring?
• Which ingredient is primarily used in traditional waving lotions?
• What component makes up the structure of hair aside from proteins?
• Unlike healthy hair, healthy nails are not __________ periodically.
• Which type of scalp treatment should be used if there is a deficiency of natural oils on the scalp and hair?
• What is the technical term for dandruff?
• During hand washing, how long should you brush your nails and the nail folds with a disinfected nail brush?
• What is the term for a physician who specializes in diagnosing and treating disorders of the skin?
• Which phase of the hair growth cycle is known as the resting phase?
• Mitosis is the process of cell reproduction that results in the formation of what?
• Which term refers to a tuft of hair that stands straight up?
• Which process does not require oxygen?
• Which active ingredient in a relaxer has a pH of 9.6-10.0?
• What is the term for a small, cone-shaped elevation at the base of the hair follicle filled with blood vessels?
• What should ALWAYS be done during a proper cross-checking?
• When using a chemical relaxer, which of the following must you avoid using?
• What are visible depressions running across the width of the natural nail plate called?
• Which type of dye is known for being semi-permanent and gentle on all hair types?
• What two proteins provide strength, form, and flexibility to the skin?
• Understanding the effects of which factor is crucial in creating desired shaping in haircuts?
• What should be done when a client is suspected of having pubic lice?
• What is the term for a noninfectious, inflammatory skin disease characterized by redness, blisters, scabs, and itching?
• Which layer of the hair serves as protective armor for the inner layers?
• What describes an allergic reaction generated by repeated exposure to a chemical or substance?
• What is the general outline of a style called?
• What is the best recommendation for applying acrylic fingernail products?
• All of the following are color units of measurement EXCEPT?
• What shape do cocci bacteria have?
• Which of the following statements about the anagen phase of hair growth is INCORRECT?
• What should the stylist look for during a scalp analysis for chemical procedures?
• Which of the following should be used when massaging the client's scalp during a scalp massage?
• Which guideline is NOT a tip for the clipper-over-comb technique?
• The UV gel should avoid contact with all the following EXCEPT?
• Which proportion of the client should you take into consideration when styling their hair?
• What type of hair condition does trichorrhexis nodosa indicate?
• Which of the following should you offer a client, for draping, when waxing underarms?
• What kind of infection does the term "tinea" typically refer to?
• Which service is typically recommended for correcting overly dark color?
• Which type of nerve fibers are distributed to the arrector pili muscles attached to the hair follicles?
• What type of skin is more prone to dehydrated conditions?
• Which of the following is a larger blister containing a watery fluid?
• Which of the following best describes cross-contamination?
• Which of the following is used to make artificial eyelashes adhere or stick to the client's lash line?
• Which of the following is NOT regulated by OSHA?
• Which condition could be determined during a scalp evaluation on a client who has brittle hair and red papules at the hair follicle openings?
• What is the NEXT step that occurs after the scalp has been thoroughly shampooed?
• What is the term for the tissue that adheres directly to the natural nail plate and can be removed with gentle scraping?
• What is a common cause of hair damage from chemical treatments?
• All of the following are TRUE about the telogen phase of hair growth EXCEPT?
• Which type of hair removal is advantageous for removing hair even if it is only 1/8-inch long?
• What condition refers to fungal infections of the nail?
• Which civilization is known for cultivating beauty in an extravagant fashion?
• All of the following results can be achieved in the use of demi-permanent color EXCEPT?
• How would you describe a cowlick in hair?
• What type of bond occurs between a slightly positive hydrogen atom and a slightly negative atom?
• What are dry, sulfur-yellow, cup-like crusts on the scalp called?
• Which term describes any organism of microscopic or submicroscopic size?
• Which type of infection is confined to a particular part of the body and appears as a lesion containing pus?
• What contagious skin disease is transmitted by the itch mite?
• What is the oily secretion produced by the sebaceous glands?
• What natural materials were pigments traditionally made from?
• What condition, also known as agnail, involves the living tissue surrounding the nail plate splitting or tearing?
• Which component of the skin is primarily responsible for its hydration and elasticity?
• Which bone is known as the inner and larger bone of the forearm located on the side of the little finger?
• What distinctive result occurs when burning a human hair wig?
• What branch of science focuses on the study of the muscular system?
• What is the first step in responding to a blood exposure incident?
• Sterilization is the ONLY type of cleaning that will kill which of the following?
• Which of the following types of hair removal uses a caustic alkali preparation?
• What is the characteristic shape of bacilli bacteria?
• What is the proper way to wash hands?
• Which of the following is an example of two primary colors based on the color wheel?
• When disinfecting a whirlpool foot spa, how long must you circulate the disinfectant?
• Which elements primarily make up human hair along with carbon, oxygen, and hydrogen?
• Before a chemical relaxer, what is NOT necessary to evaluate about the hair?
• Which technique will reduce tip blending time?
• What is the living skin at the base of the natural nail plate covering the matrix area called?
• What hair color would a middle-class woman in ancient Rome typically choose to indicate her status?
• What is the thinnest layer of the skin called?
• Which of the following steps is not required before and after each client of the day?
• What process eliminates many or all microorganisms, except for bacterial spores, from inanimate objects?
• All of the following are information contained on a Material Safety Data Sheet EXCEPT?
• What is the purpose of the cuticle in nail structure?
• In terms of nail anatomy, what is primarily responsible for nail growth?
• How long can dandruff typically last?
• Which of the following is a characteristic of a wax burn with some redness and irritation, but no blisters?
• What does onychomycosis refer to?
• When nails become overly dry and brittle, this condition is often referred to as?
• Which of the following factors is NOT determined during the client consultation based on their needs and desires?
• What is the recommended technique for applying color to grey hair for best results?
• Cuticle moisturizers are designed for which parts of the nail structure?
• What are UVA rays commonly known as due to their deep-penetrating ability?
• Which condition is described by the presence of white spots on the nails?
• What are leukonychia spots commonly caused by?
• What type of hair almost never has a medulla?
• What is the part of the nail plate that extends over the tip of the finger or toe?
• What is the outermost layer of the epidermis called?
• A flat, colored spot on the skin is known as what?
• What should be done immediately after applying a bandage in the blood spill procedure?
• Which actress, alongside Gloria Swanson, popularized matching nail polish trends in the 1930s?
• In ancient Rome, the color of a woman's hair was often a reflection of what?
• What is the technical term for gray hair?
• What term refers to the complete destruction of all forms of microbial life?
• Which term refers to a small rounded projection on the skin?
• What condition can be characterized by hair loss or thinning?
• What can a cowlick in hair styling indicate?
• Which of the following statements is true regarding normal hair growth?
• What condition is characterized by a lump of red tissue growing from the nail bed?
• All of the following have insufficient structure to color EXCEPT?
• What structure in the skin or scalp contains the hair root?
• In the Middle Ages, colored makeup was commonly applied to which part of the face by women?
• Which of the following hair conditions resists color?
• Which of the following bacteria could be responsible for severe infections like blood poisoning?
• What is the term for the anatomical feature that assists in holding the nail plate to surrounding structures?
• Which type of bacteria forms clusters resembling grapes?
• In which dynasty did the color gold and silver become symbols of royal status?
• What is the thin layer of tissue that attaches the nail plate to the nail bed known as?
• How often should tools used in a salon be disinfected?
• When using a chemical relaxer, it changes the shape of the hair by breaking down which bonds?
• What effect on the body is associated with the endocrine system?
• What is the name of the small, involuntary muscle at the base of the hair follicle?
• During which period were haircutting and hairstyling first recorded to be practiced?
• Trumpet nail results from increased crosswise curvature of the nail plate causing what effect?
• A mature strand of human hair consists of which two principal parts?
• What hydrogen peroxide developer is used for high lift color?
• Extended exposure to salon products without proper precautions can affect all of the following epithelial issues EXCEPT?
• Disinfectants sold and used in the United States must carry which registration number?