AR Cosmetology study plan
AR Cosmetology · Give each week a clear focus.
8 weeks · About 6 hours per week
Scientific Concepts (theory and practical application of cosmetology sciences)
Define and correctly spell 60 core anatomy and physiology terms (cells, tissues, skeletal, muscular, nervous systems) from memory
Diagram the layers of the skin and label at least 8 structures on a blank outline
Explain the pH scale and classify 10 given substances as acid, neutral, or alkaline
Match each of the three main skin types and their subtypes to the correct cosmetic chemistry term
Your checkpoint
A self-made 50-question quiz on anatomy and chemistry, scored at 80% or higher without notes
Scientific Concepts (theory and practical application of cosmetology sciences)
Describe the composition and function of hair, including the three layers of the hair shaft and the growth cycle phases
Identify the three types of side bonds in hair and state which chemical services break each one
Summarize the principles of electricity (conductors, insulators, galvanic/thermal/mechanical) and list 5 electrical safety rules
Explain the basics of sanitation science, including the difference between cleaning, disinfection, and sterilization
Your checkpoint
A one-page reference sheet mapping each side bond to the services that break it, plus a 10-item electricity safety checklist
Hair Care and Hair Services (haircutting, styling, chemical services, hair coloring)
Demonstrate and describe the four basic haircutting sections and the elevation/angle system used for each
List the standard haircutting tools and state the purpose and safety rule for each
Explain the wet and dry styling principles, including the role of heat and tension in thermal styling
Identify the hair types and textures and match each to an appropriate styling technique
Your checkpoint
A written step-by-step procedure for one blunt cut and one layered cut, including sectioning, elevation, and safety notes
Hair Care and Hair Services (haircutting, styling, chemical services, hair coloring)
Compare the three categories of hair lighteners (oil, cream, powder) by strength and use
Explain the color wheel, level system (1-10), and the difference between temporary, semi-permanent, and permanent color
Describe the patch test and strand test procedures and when each is required
Outline the chemical texture service process, including consultation, test curl, processing, and neutralizing
Your checkpoint
A color and chemical service decision chart that maps a client scenario to a product type, developer volume, and processing step
Skin Care and Facial Services (esthetics, skin analysis, facial treatments)
Perform and document a skin analysis using the standard categories (skin type, condition, oiliness, pore size)
Sequence the steps of a basic facial and state the purpose of each product used
Identify contraindications and conditions that require referral rather than treatment
Explain the principles of massage movements and their order in a facial
Your checkpoint
A completed sample client consultation and skin analysis form with a recommended facial protocol
Nail Care and Nail Services (manicuring, pedicuring, artificial nails)
Describe the structure of the nail and identify at least 8 parts on a blank diagram
List the steps of a basic manicure and a basic pedicure in correct order
Explain the difference between a nail disorder and a nail disease and give 3 examples of each
Outline the safe application and removal process for one artificial nail enhancement type
Your checkpoint
A labeled nail anatomy diagram plus side-by-side step lists for manicure and pedicure, checked against your textbook
Salon Business, Safety, and Arkansas Law (sanitation, infection control, regulations, professional practices)
State the Arkansas rules on sanitation, disinfection, and implement storage as they apply to a salon
Explain the difference between a bacterial infection, a viral infection, and a fungal infection and the standard precautions for each
Describe the requirements for salon licensing, individual licensing, and continuing education in Arkansas
Identify the elements of professional ethics and client confidentiality in a salon setting
Your checkpoint
A 20-item Arkansas law and sanitation practice test, scored at 85% or higher
Scientific Concepts (theory and practical application of cosmetology sciences) & Hair Care and Hair Services (haircutting, styling, chemical services, hair coloring) & Skin Care and Facial Services (esthetics, skin analysis, facial treatments) & Nail Care and Nail Services (manicuring, pedicuring, artificial nails) & Salon Business, Safety, and Arkansas Law (sanitation, infection control, regulations, professional practices)
Review all five domains using a timed full-length practice exam and record the score
Re-study the two lowest-scoring domains until practice scores reach 80% or higher
Create a one-page summary sheet of the highest-yield facts for each domain
Recite the Arkansas sanitation and licensing rules from memory without notes
Your checkpoint
A timed full-length practice exam score report plus a completed one-page summary sheet for all five domains
Milestones
Week 2: Score 80% or higher on a 40-question Domain 1 practice set covering anatomy, chemistry, hair structure, and electricity
Week 4: Score 80% or higher on a 40-question Domain 2 practice set and correctly explain two chemical service procedures aloud without notes
Week 6: Score 80% or higher on combined Domain 3 and Domain 4 practice sets and complete both the skin analysis form and nail diagram from memory
Week 8: Score 80% or higher on a timed full-length practice exam with no domain below 75%