Cosmetology Practice Test 2026 Question Answers [English Version]

Last Updated on June 30, 2026

We have designed a free Cosmetology Practice Test 2026 for you. It consists of 110 Questions and Answers in Quiz form [English Version], which is ideal for Cosmetology test preparation.

The cosmetology exam consists of two parts, each assessing a cosmetologist’s knowledge and skill in various topics relevant to their work. The written multiple-choice and hands-on practical tests are included, although some states do not require the practical portion.

The 100 questions on the Cosmetology Exam are divided into several content areas that match those you studied in your cosmetology course. Passing the test means you have the knowledge required of an entry-level cosmetologist.

Cosmetology Practice Test 2026 Question Answers

Most written examinations for cosmetologists cover four general areas: N Scientific Concepts, Hair Care and Services, Skin Care and Services, and Nail Care and Services.

Cosmetology Practice Test [English Version]

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1) After stopping the service, what should a cosmetologist do immediately during a blood exposure incident?

A) Wear gloves to protect against blood contact

B) Dispose of contaminated items in a single bag

C) Apply an antiseptic with bare hands

D) Clean the injured area without using gloves

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2) To ensure the safety of the client, what measure should a cosmetologist prioritize in the event of a blood exposure?

A) Disposing of contaminated implements in a marked box

B) Utilizing a specialized biohazard containment unit

C) Offering prompt and appropriate wound care

D) Implementing a strict quarantine protocol

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3) In cosmetology, what is the main characteristic of organic substances?

A) Ability to burn

B) Inorganic composition

C) Lack of carbon content

D) Natural and healthy

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4) In hair products, what is the primary function of ammonium hydroxide?

A) Create exothermic reactions

B) Raise the pH

C) Act as a surfactant

D) Form stable emulsions

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5) What is the role of high-frequency current that benefits acne-prone skin?

A) Creating bold color combinations

B) Softening sebum

C) Germicidal effect

D) Stimulating blood flow

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6) Which disorder can cause hair to break off and lead to uneven lengths?

A) Seborrheic dermatitis

B) Scabies

C) Telogen effluvium

D) Trichorrhexis nodosa

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7) In hair design, why is it appropriate to first practice a new design on a mannequin head?

A) Mannequins have better hair

B) Mannequins are cheaper

C) It saves time

D) To avoid design mistakes

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8) What is the main function of the facial nerve divisions, as per cosmetology knowledge?

A) Control of neck muscles

B) Control of facial expression muscles

C) Control of arm muscles

D) Control of scalp muscles

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9) Before performing nail services, why is it essential for cosmetologists to record a client’s medical history?

A) To understand the client's occupation

B) To assess the client's preferred nail colors

C) To determine the client's favorite services

D) To identify potential contraindications or risks

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10) What crucial function do humectants perform in hair care, in the realm of cosmetology principles?

A) Absorb moisture or promote moisture retention

B) Provide color to the hair

C) Enhance shampoo fragrance

D) Increase shampoo viscosity

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11) When evaluating the pH of non-aqueous products, especially those used on hair or skin with water, which of the following techniques are utilized?

A) Mix with oil

B) Mix with distilled water

C) Mix with vinegar

D) Mix with alcohol

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12) Which of the following prevents excessive current from passing through a circuit in electrical equipment?

A) Circuit breaker

B) Fuse

C) Grounding

D) Two-prong plug

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13) The specialized ligaments near the edges of the nail bed and matrix bed serve to:

A) Hold the nail in place

B) Produce nail cells

C) Increase nail thickness

D) Create the nail grooves

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14) In a cosmetology setting, what significant advantage does the use of single-use items offer?

A) Eliminating the need for sanitation measures

B) Reducing salon waste and environmental impact

C) Simplifying tool maintenance procedures

D) Maximizing the lifespan of tools

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15) In cosmetology, what is the purpose of using a rat-tail comb?

A) Detangling hair

B) Creating curls

C) Hair teasing

D) Sectioning hair

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16) What product or service is the most suitable for a client with nail ridges seeking a smoother nail surface?

A) Acrylic sculpting

B) Gel polish application

C) Nail oil treatment

D) Nail buffer

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17) What bone contributes to forming the inner corner of the eye?

A) Nasal bone

B) Lacrimal bone

C) Maxilla bone

D) Zygomatic bone

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18) What specifically characterizes the product known as “dry shampoo” in cosmetology terminology?

A) Water-based hair treatment

B) Styling gel

C) Oil and grease remover

D) Chemical relaxer

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19) Why do cosmetologists use a hair roller with a blow-dryer in hairstyling?

A) Creates textured styles

B) Changing hair structure

C) Adds shine to the hair

D) Precision sectioning

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20) During lightening virgin hair, what is used to protect the scalp during lightening?

A) Towels

B) Foil

C) Cotton

D) Plastic clips

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21) What is the main reason that clients with head lice should be refused beauty treatment with precautions?

A) Contamination is unpreventable

B) Lice can't be fully eradicated

C) Lice can cause allergic reactions

D) Home treatments are ineffective

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22) In a disinfection container, why is the total immersion of implements, including handles, crucial?

A) Enhances cleaning

B) Saves disinfectant solution

C) Speeds up disinfection

D) Fulfills EPA requirements

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23) In a Material Safety Data Sheet (MSDS), which of the following must be included?

A) Marketing claims

B) Safe handling procedures

C) Product price

D) Expiration date

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24) Why should a cosmetologist ask about a client's medications during a consultation?

A) Determine skincare routine

B) Identify allergies

C) Avoid contraindications

D) Assess skin conditions

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25) For return services, why is it essential to quick consultation?

A) To update client records

B) To prevent misunderstandings

C) To discuss payment

D) To schedule future appointments

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26) For most hair-cutting procedures, which comb is mainly used that has fine and wide teeth?

A) Tail comb

B) Wide-tooth comb

C) Styling or cutting comb

D) Barber comb

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27) When deciding on the perfect hairstyle for a client, what should a certified cosmetologist do?

A) Personal preference

B) Lifestyle, face shape, and hair type

C) Trendiness

D) Client's age

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28) In cosmetology, how should disinfectants be mixed?

A) Add water to disinfectant

B) Pour disinfectant over hands

C) Mix with other chemicals first

D) Mix according to label instructions

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29) In the context of hairstyling, what does asymmetrical balance involve?

A) Equal volume on both sides

B) Uneven visual weight

C) Mirror image halves

D) Same length on both sides

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30) To prevent issues with acrylic nail enhancements, why is regular maintenance crucial?

A) Enhances color vibrancy

B) Reduces application time

C) Prevents lifting and cracking

D) Adds extra shine

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31) In terms of hair strength, which type of side bond contributes significantly to its resilience?

A) Peptide bonds

B) Salt bonds

C) Hydrogen bonds

D) Disulfide bonds

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32) In perm wrapping, what is the function of end papers?

A) Add fragrance

B) Increase heat

C) Control hair ends

D) Provide color

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33) Considering the options, what is thinned down and removed from the acrylic nail during the process of rebalancing?

A) Thinning the nail, removing the apex

B) Thinning the entire nail, removing cuticle

C) Thinning the free edge, removing polish

D) Thinning apex, removing polish

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34) To deal with disinfectants, what is an important safety tip?

A) Using bare hands

B) Direct skin contact

C) Mixing with water first

D) Pouring over hands

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35) Which of the following is the primary role of an Electric Facial Epilator?

A) Removes makeup

B) Promotes lymphatic drainage

C) Pulls out hair from the root

D) Cleanses the face

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36) When a manicurist has only one set to use, how should they prepare implements?

A) Use without cleaning

B) Clean and disinfect after use

C) Have at least two complete sets

D) Sterilize before each use

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37) While using multi-use tools, how can cosmetologists effectively prevent cross-contamination?

A) Storing tools in a humid environment

B) Using tools without cleaning between clients

C) Rinsing tools with lukewarm water

D) Cleaning and disinfecting tools between clients

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38) When applying a perm solution, why is it crucial to wear gloves?

A) Avoids skin contact with chemicals

B) Speeds up the application process

C) Prevents product wastage

D) Enhance grip on perm rods

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39) In melted paraffin or wax, which of the following manicures involves dipping hands?

A) Paraffin Manicure

B) French Manicure

C) Acrylic Manicure

D) Hot Oil Manicure

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40) In the context of safeguarding the skin from harmful sun exposure, what is the main function of oxybenzone in sun protection products?

A) Contribute color variations for product aesthetics

B) Actively absorb and mitigate UV rays to prevent skin damage

C) Enhance fragrance for a pleasant scent

D) Supply moisture to keep the skin hydrated

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41) During cosmetology procedures, what step should a practitioner take before returning to a service after sustaining a cut?

A) Cleaning all affected surface areas

B) Sealing contaminated items in double bags

C) Disinfecting the work surface

D) Applying an antiseptic with an applicator

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42) What type of hair is typically smooth, glossy, and the least challenging to handle?

A) Straight Hair

B) Curly Hair

C) Coily/Kinky Hair

D) Wavy Hair

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43) In client care, what role does knowledge of anatomy play for cosmetologists?

A) Guides medical treatments

B) Enhances artistic skills

C) Determines suitable services

D) Recommends specific hairstyles

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44) While using dirty salon tools and equipment on clients, what are its disadvantages?

A) Positive reviews

B) Increased profits

C) Harm and infection

D) Trendy hairstyles

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45) In the formation of the elbow joint by the articulation, which bone joins with the humerus?

A) Carpals

B) Metacarpals

C) Ulna

D) Radius

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46) Concerning its functional purpose in skincare products, what role does benzophenone serve?

A) Provide color

B) Prevent UV degradation

C) Improve texture

D) Enhance fragrance

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47) In cosmetology settings, how does the use of electric clippers differ from hair irons?

A) Changing hair structure

B) Wet hair styling

C) Achieving closer cuts

D) Creating textured styles

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48) What is a characteristic feature of vellus hair, as per the knowledge of cosmetology?

A) Absence of a medulla

B) Typically found on the scalp

C) Coarse and pigmented

D) Presence on the legs and arms

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49) In cosmetology, why is it necessary to follow MN Rule 2105.0375, subparts 3 and 4 for hair or color brushes?

A) Achieves closer cuts

B) Adds shine to the hair

C) Ensures proper cleaning and disinfection

D) Precision sectioning

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50) Before providing treatment, what step can a cosmetologist take for clients with skin conditions?

A) Use stronger products

B) Use stronger products

C) Ignore the condition

D) Request a medical note

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51) In the context of ingrown hairs, which layer of skin is primarily affected by the inflammatory obstruction?

A) Papillary layer

B) Dermis

C) Epidermis

D) Hypodermis

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52) In a cosmetology setting, what is the primary function of a linen towel during a hair color application?

A) Creates volume in hairstyles

B) Enhances hair color absorption

C) Ensures hygiene and safety

D) Adds comfort to the client

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53) When blow-drying hair, what is the primary purpose of using a vent brush in cosmetology?

A) Accelerates drying time

B) Precision parting

C) Adds shine to the hair

D) Detangles wet hair

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54) What crucial role does a protective neck strip serve to fulfill within the draping process?

A) Create a fashionable look

B) Protect the client's neck

C) Improve service precision

D) Enhance client comfort

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55) For hair coloring services, why is preview testing essential?

A) To assess pre-treatment needs

B) To choose the right shampoo

C) To enhance scalp health

D) To evaluate styling preferences

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56) Which bacterial life stage contains spores that can tolerate drought and unfavorable temperatures?

A) Reproductive stage

B) Spore-forming stage

C) Dormant stage

D) Inactive stage

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57) Concerning the impact on hair characteristics, what is the key role of alkalis in cosmetology products?

A) Harden the hair

B) Promote combustion

C) Soften and swell hair

D) Increase acidity

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58) What area of the scalp is commonly affected in female pattern hair loss, leading to a “Christmas Tree” pattern?

A) Occipital region

B) Vertex crown

C) Parietal region

D) Frontal hairline

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59) When dealing with disinfectants in cosmetology, which safety precaution is important?

A) Store disinfectants within reach of children

B) Apply disinfectant directly to the skin

C) Wear gloves and safety glasses

D) Mix water into the disinfectant

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60) By which sense organs, sensory nerves transmit impulses?

A) Muscles

B) Brain

C) Glands

D) Spinal cord

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61) Considering the following options, which nail condition might restrict but not necessarily prevent a nail service?

A) Severe psoriasis of the nail

B) Paronychia

C) Brittle nail syndrome

D) Nail separation (onycholysis)

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62) In hair relaxing, what is the primary purpose of hydroxide neutralization?

A) Involves oxidation

B) Rebuilds disulfide bonds

C) Deactivates alkaline residues

D) Increases pH

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63) In what way does the texture of fine hair influence the procedure of hair color processing?

A) Processes color slower

B) Processes color faster

C) Reacts unpredictably

D) Requires more color

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64) In the context of abnormal diffuse hair loss during the growth phase, when is the support of a physician crucial for patients?

A) Telogen effluvium

B) Trichorrhexis nodosa

C) Anagen effluvium

D) Androgenetic alopecia

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65) What role does blood circulation play to impact skin elasticity?

A) Regulates makeup application

B) Provides nutrients to nails

C) Influences skin elasticity

D) Determines hair thickness

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66) Commonly, which therapy is used for Central Centrifugal Cicatricial Alopecia, including the application of substances like corticosteroids, doxycycline, and intralesional injections?

A) Hot Oil Treatment

B) Phototherapy

C) Aromatherapy

D) Topical Corticosteroids

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67) What kind of wave incorporates AMP or MEA and is less favored due to producing weak perms?

A) Low-pH waves

B) Exothermic waves

C) Ammonia-free waves

D) Thio-free waves

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68) In cosmetology settings, why is it necessary to wear gloves when handling chemical products?

A) To create curls in the hair

B) To showcase professionalism

C) To prevent contamination

D) To enhance creativity

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69) Known for its tight curls or coils, what specific challenges are commonly associated with Type 4 hair?

A) Frizz, shrinkage, and dryness

B) Excessive thickness

C) Curl definition

D) Lack of shine

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70) Which skin disorder causes the hips, thighs, and buttocks to seem dimpled?

A) Cellulite

B) Hyperpigmentation

C) Stretch marks

D) Rosacea

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71) What must be done after using a hair roller, and how does it work in styling hair?

A) Heats and straightens; discard after one use

B) Curls without heat; wipe with a damp cloth

C) Adds shine; disinfect after each use

D) Curls with heat; store without cleaning

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72) In a salon setting, what is the key objective of having a shampoo station?

A) Providing a designated area for hair washing

B) Displaying salon aesthetics

C) Minimizing salon costs

D) Facilitating hairstyling competitions

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73) What is the purpose of storing wigs in individual clean and disinfected containers?

A) Promotes a hygienic environment

B) Facilitates easier cleaning

C) Enhances styling precision

D) Prevents tangling

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74) When adding a preservative to a cosmetic product with hair, which of the following aspects is crucial?

A) Texture enhancement

B) Color stability

C) pH range effectiveness

D) Fragrance compatibility

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75) What is the main component of the outermost layer of the epidermis, which is continually shed and replaced?

A) Sebum

B) Collagen

C) Melanin

D) Keratin

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76) The muscles behind the ear, at the base of the skull, are affected by which nerve?

A) Marginal mandibular nerve

B) Buccal nerve

C) Posterior auricular nerve

D) Temporal nerve

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77) From the given options, what is the main purpose of contouring and highlighting in makeup application?

A) Hiding facial flaws

B) Enhancing good features

C) Creating natural looks

D) Adding color variety

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78) What is the main role of increased circulation that benefits the skin during facial steaming?

A) Boosts oxygen supply

B) Reduces collagen production

C) Promotes acne

D) Causes dryness

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79) Considering the following options, which factor is important for a comprehensive client analysis before starting a nail service?

A) Payment options

B) Salon's location history

C) Nail art preferences

D) Understanding nail conditions

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80) In the nail care industry, what could be the potential consequence of ignoring ergonomic challenges?

A) Decreased client satisfaction

B) Enhanced nail polish application

C) Positive impact on nail art designs

D) Increased efficiency

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81) What distinguishes total contraindications from relative contraindications when assessing contraindications?

A) Duration

B) Frequency

C) Progression

D) Severity

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82) For reducing dandruff or relieving scalp conditions, which type of shampoo suits best?

A) Conditioning shampoo

B) Clarifying shampoo

C) Balancing shampoo

D) Medicated shampoo

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83) In cosmetology, what is the purpose of using non-absorbent coverings on chairs, and how does it contribute to infection control procedures?

A) Preventing contamination

B) Minimizing equipment costs

C) Facilitating easy storage

D) Enhancing client comfort

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84) In the salon, for discarding disposable contaminated objects, what kind of method is recommended?

A) Single-bagging

B) Triple-bagging

C) Double-bagging

D) Placing directly in the trash bin

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85) A bacteria that grows and reproduces is adapted to warm and moist conditions, which bacterial phase is involved?

A) Mitotic stage

B) Inactive stage

C) Active stage

D) Dormant stage

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86) What is the main objective of utilizing chemical hair relaxing?

A) Enhance curls

B) Introduce waves

C) Straighten or smooth hair

D) Add volume

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87) How can hair cause to become dry and brittle?

A) Well-functioning glands

B) Regular hair brushing

C) Proper diet

D) Lack of protein and vitamins

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88) What are antidandruff products designed to do, and how is dandruff caused?

A) Environmental factors; soothe the scalp

B) Dryness and itchiness; promote tingling effect

C) Fungus called malassezia; control dandruff

D) Hair texture; restore moisture

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89) Individuals who haven't undergone a patch test—why is performing hair care treatments on them prohibited?

A) Compliance with laws

B) Treatment protocol

C) Results of treatment

D) Emergency contact details

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90) From the given options, what is a key ingredient in effective moisturizers for older, dry skin?

A) Aloe vera

B) Hydrogen peroxide

C) Petroleum jelly

D) Alcohol

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91) Due to dry skin or small cuts, which condition contains the living skin around the nail plate splitting and tearing?

A) Hangnail

B) Onychophagy

C) Ridges

D) Onychia

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92) Regarding hair color products, shampoos, chemical hair texturizers, and styling aids, which field of chemistry focuses on substances containing carbon?

A) Analytical chemistry

B) Inorganic chemistry

C) Organic chemistry

D) Physical chemistry

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93) While the client is holding the electrode, what method involves applying scalp manipulations during a scalp treatment?

A) Kneading technique

B) Violet ray application

C) High-frequency treatment

D) Indirection method

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94) What is the primary disadvantage of the bonding method?

A) Long application time

B) Limited styling options

C) High cost

D) Potential slippage

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95) For fine hair, how does the fusion method differ from bonding and tracking?

A) More expensive

B) Less comfortable

C) Requires certification

D) Creates bulk at the base

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96) During a facial treatment, why is it essential for a cosmetologist to utilize a special cleanser for eye makeup removal?

A) Smells better

B) Reduces cleansing time

C) Enhances facial relaxation

D) Prevents damage to the eyes

97 / 109

97) Due to hidden oil, which type of emulsion does not feel as greasy?

A) Oil-in-water

B) Gel-in-water

C) Water-in-oil

D) Suspension

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98) In regulating disinfectants used in salons, what main purpose does the Environmental Protection Agency have?

A) Regulating salon hours

B) Licensing and ensuring the safety of disinfectants

C) Approving cosmetic ingredients

D) Setting fashion trends

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99) During temporary hair removal, what is the main purpose of applying a moist, warm towel before shaving?

A) Promoting hair regrowth

B) Enhancing the shaving cream's fragrance

C) Softening the targeted area

D) Reducing irritation

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100) In both men and women, which disorder can cause gradual hair thinning due to hair thinning?

A) Alopecia areata

B) Traction alopecia

C) Androgenetic alopecia

D) Telogen effluvium

101 / 109

101) In braiding, what is important to maintain hair health?

A) 6 to 8-week touch-ups

B) Weekly washing

C) Regular styling changes

D) Monthly trimming

102 / 109

102) For having spa treatments, why is the knowledge of the circulatory system important?

A) Helps in hair coloring techniques

B) Minimizes risks during massages

C) Prevents allergic reactions to makeup

D) Determines skin exfoliation frequency

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103) From the following options, what is the comparison of pH of pure water to the average pH of hair and skin?

A) Neutral

B) More alkaline

C) More acidic

D) Highly volatile

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104) Which specific classification features tight coils or kinks consistently extending from roots to ends among different types of hair?

A) Type 2 - Wavy

B) Type 1 - Straight

C) Type 4 - Coily/Kinky

D) Type 3 - Curly

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105) To produce specific outcomes for clients, what basic skill is important for a cosmetologist?

A) Scalp treatments

B) Nail art

C) Hairstyling

D) Hair coloring

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106) Which of the following skin types has good circulation, tends towards dryness on the cheeks, and medium pores?

A) Oily skin

B) Dry skin

C) Sensitive skin

D) Combination/normal skin

107 / 109

107) From the following options, which service is best when a client wants a long-lasting manicure for an upcoming vacation?

A) Basic polish application

B) Gel nail polish

C) Acrylic nail extensions

D) French manicure

108 / 109

108) In cosmetology practice, what role do Material Safety Data Sheets (MSDS) play?

A) Ensure client satisfaction

B) Communicate hazards and precautions

C) Offer product discounts

D) Provide styling tips

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109) During the confirmation of the diagnosis, what is the key scalp pathology finding in lichen planopilaris?

A) Papilla inflammation

B) Sebaceous gland stimulation

C) Lymphocytic infiltrate

D) Hair follicle hyperactivity

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