AK Cosmetology key terms

Placing a cape, towel, or neck strip around a client's shoulders and neck to protect clothing and skin before a service begins. Proper draping also keeps hair clippings and chemical products off the client.

A short conversation before a service in which you assess the client's hair, scalp, and history, clarify what they want, and confirm the plan. It helps prevent misunderstandings and identifies conditions that may limit a service.

The number of hairs growing per square inch on the scalp, described as thin, medium, or thick. Density affects how much product to use and how long a chemical service may take.

The diameter of an individual hair strand, described as fine, medium, or coarse. Texture influences how quickly hair absorbs chemicals and how much tension or heat it can tolerate.

The ability of hair to absorb and hold moisture, determined by the condition of the cuticle. Porous hair takes in products quickly and may need gentler formulations; low-porosity hair resists absorption.

The natural direction in which hair grows from the scalp, such as a cowlick or whorl. Cutting and styling must work with the pattern rather than against it to avoid gaps or uneven results.

A haircut in which the ends are cut straight across at one length, creating a solid line. It requires even tension and clean sections so both sides match.

A small application of a chemical product to the skin, usually behind the ear or in the elbow crease, done before a service to check for an allergic reaction. Results are read after the time the manufacturer specifies.

A test performed on a small section of the client's hair with the actual product to predict timing, strength, and outcome before a chemical service. It helps avoid overprocessing or underprocessing.

The period a chemical product must remain on the hair to complete its action, as stated by the manufacturer. Timing starts when the last section is applied and must be monitored, not guessed.

Damage that occurs when hair is exposed to a chemical product too long or at too strong a concentration, leaving it dry, brittle, or overly porous. It can cause breakage and may be irreversible.

A chemical product, usually containing sodium hydroxide or another alkaline agent, that straightens curly or wavy hair by breaking and reforming its bonds. It requires careful timing and scalp protection.

A hydrogen peroxide solution mixed with hair color to lift the natural pigment and deposit the new color. Its volume strength determines how much lift occurs.

The visible, hard portion of the nail that sits on the nail bed and protects the fingertip. Its condition affects how products adhere and how services should be performed.

The thin layer of skin at the base of the nail plate that seals the nail and protects the matrix from infection. It should be softened and gently pushed back, never cut away.

The area of tissue beneath the nail root where new nail cells are produced. Damage to the matrix can permanently change the shape or growth of the nail.

A visible abnormality of the nail such as ridges, discoloration, or separation, which may signal injury or illness. A cosmetologist may not diagnose or treat such conditions and should refer the client.

Removing dirt, oil, and makeup from the skin with a product suited to the client's skin type. It is the first step of most facial services and prepares the skin for further treatment.

The classification of skin as normal, dry, oily, or combination based on its oil and moisture balance. Choosing products by skin type helps avoid irritation and poor results.

Removing dead cells from the skin's surface with a gentle scrub, enzyme, or acid product. It leaves skin smoother and brighter, but overuse can cause irritation.

Reducing the number of germs on surfaces and tools to a safe level by cleaning and using a low-level disinfectant. It is the routine standard for items that do not contact blood or broken skin.

Using an EPA-registered product at the correct dilution and contact time to destroy most harmful organisms on nonporous implements. It is required for tools that may contact skin or bodily fluids.

A process that destroys all microbial life, including spores, usually through heat or pressure in an autoclave. It is used for items that may contact broken skin.

Treating all blood and body fluids as if they carry infectious disease, and using barriers such as gloves and proper handling for every client. It protects both the worker and the public.

The body system made up of skin, hair, nails, and glands, which forms the outer covering and barrier of the body. Cosmetology services act directly on this system.

The repeating phases in which hair grows, rests, and sheds from the follicle. Understanding the cycle explains why some shedding is normal and why growth cannot be forced.

A condition or circumstance that makes a service unsafe or inadvisable, such as broken skin, infection, or a recent chemical burn. Recognizing one means refusing or postponing the service and referring the client.

The Alaska state board that licenses and regulates cosmetologists, barbers, and related practitioners. It sets and enforces standards for training, examinations, and practice.

The official credential issued by the state that allows a person to legally perform cosmetology services. Practicing without a current license is a violation of Alaska law.

The range of services a licensed cosmetologist is trained and legally permitted to perform. Working outside that range, such as diagnosing disease, is prohibited.

Required ongoing training that licensees complete to renew their credential and stay current. It keeps skills and safety knowledge up to date throughout a career.

The standards of honesty, confidentiality, and respect that guide a practitioner's conduct with clients and coworkers. Ethical behavior builds trust and protects the reputation of the profession.