AK Cosmetology study guide
AK Cosmetology · Work through your exam, one topic at a time.
The Alaska Cosmetology Examination is the licensing test administered for the Alaska Board of Barbers and Hairdressers. Passing it is one of the requirements for earning a cosmetology license to practice in Alaska, so it is written for students finishing an approved cosmetology program and for licensed professionals from other jurisdictions seeking Alaska licensure. The AK Cosmetology study guide has 7 sections and about 1,891 words.
01Hair Care and Hairdressing
Candidates must know hair structure (cuticle, cortex, medulla), the three growth phases (anagen, catagen, telogen), and how pH, temperature, and water affect the hair shaft. Understand shampoo and conditioner chemistry (surfactants, cationic conditioning agents), the difference between a physical and chemical change to the hair, and the tools of the trade: shears, razor, clippers, thermal irons, blow-dryer.
295 words, about 1 min02Chemical Services: Permanent Waving, Relaxing, Coloring
Permanent waves and relaxers both break disulfide bonds; thio-based waves and sodium hydroxide or guanidine relaxers differ in pH and strength. Neutralizers rebuild bonds (oxidize), while relaxers require no neutralizer but need thorough rinsing and a stabilizing shampoo.
300 words, about 2 min03Nail Care and Services
Know nail anatomy: nail plate, nail bed, matrix, lunula, cuticle (eponychium), hyponychium, free edge, and sidewalls. Understand nail growth (faster in summer, on the dominant hand, and in younger clients; slower with age and poor circulation).
262 words, about 1 min04Skin Care and Esthetics
Know skin structure (epidermis, dermis, subcutaneous), the layers of the epidermis (stratum corneum, granulosum, spinosum, basale), and functions of sebaceous and sudoriferous glands. Understand skin types (normal, dry, oily, combination, sensitive) and Fitzpatrick skin types for sun and treatment risk.
240 words, about 1 min05Sanitation, Disinfection, and Safety
Know the three levels: sanitation (cleaning, lowers count), disinfection (kills most pathogens on hard nonporous surfaces), and sterilization (destroys all microorganisms including spores). Know which EPA-registered disinfectant is appropriate, contact time, and the difference between porous and nonporous implements.
260 words, about 1 min06Anatomy, Physiology, and Disorders of Hair and Skin
Know the skeletal, muscular, and nervous systems as they relate to the head, face, and hands (cranium, facial bones, muscles of expression and mastication, nerves such as the trigeminal and facial). Know the circulatory and lymphatic systems, glands, and the integumentary system.
264 words, about 1 min07Alaska Laws, Rules, and Professional Ethics
Know Alaska's regulatory framework for cosmetology: the Board of Barbers and Hairdressers, licensing and renewal requirements, scope of practice, sanitation and establishment standards, and continuing education. Understand the difference between a license and a permit, the requirement to display your license, and the rules for apprentices and students.
270 words, about 1 min