BTEB Beautician Exam key terms

The process of reducing the number of germs on tools and surfaces to a level considered safe by public health standards. It is less thorough than sterilisation and is done before and after each client.

A method that destroys all microorganisms, including bacterial spores, on an implement. It is required for items that may contact broken skin or blood and is carried out with approved equipment such as an autoclave.

Using a chemical agent to kill or inactivate most harmful microorganisms on hard surfaces and non-porous tools. It sits between cleaning and sterilisation in strength and needs correct dilution and contact time to work.

The transfer of germs from one person, tool or surface to another. In a salon it happens through shared towels, uncleaned brushes, dirty hands or splashes, and it is prevented by proper hygiene routines.

A machine that sterilises metal tools using high-pressure steam at a set temperature and time. Staff must follow the manufacturer's cycle instructions and keep records showing each load was processed correctly.

Items worn to protect the worker and client from contact with blood, chemicals or germs, such as disposable gloves, aprons and eye protection. It must be used correctly and replaced when torn or soiled.

A document supplied with a chemical product that lists its hazards, safe handling, first-aid measures and storage requirements. Staff should be able to find and understand it for every product used in the salon.

A small application of a product, usually tint or colour, on a hidden area of skin to check for an allergic reaction before full treatment. Results are read after a set waiting period and recorded in the client's notes.

Any condition, medication or circumstance that makes a treatment unsafe or unwise for a client. Identifying these during consultation protects the client and may mean adapting, delaying or refusing a service.

The structured conversation before a treatment in which the beautician asks about the client's health, goals and expectations, checks for contraindications, and agrees on the service to be carried out.

A client's clear agreement to a treatment after being told what it involves, its likely results, risks and alternatives. Consent must be given freely and recorded, and it can be withdrawn at any time.

A confidential document holding a client's details, treatment history, patch test results and consent. It supports safe repeat treatments and must be stored securely in line with data protection rules.

The duty to keep a client's personal and health information private and to share it only with those who need it for their care. Gossiping about clients or leaving records visible breaches this duty.

The limits that keep the working relationship between beautician and client appropriate and focused on the service. They cover touch, personal disclosure, gifts, social contact and avoiding favouritism or exploitation.

Behaving in a reliable, respectful and competent way that reflects well on the salon. It includes punctuality, clean appearance, honest advice, keeping skills current and taking responsibility for mistakes.

Giving full attention to a client, noticing both words and tone, and confirming understanding by summarising or asking questions. It helps uncover real concerns and prevents misunderstandings about the service.

The thin outer layer of the skin that forms the body's main barrier against water loss, germs and injury. It contains no blood vessels and its outer cells are constantly shed and replaced.

The thicker layer beneath the epidermis that holds collagen, elastin, blood vessels, nerves, hair follicles and glands. Its condition affects skin firmness, healing and how products and massage are absorbed.

The outermost part of the epidermis, made of flattened dead cells bound by lipids. It controls water loss and is the layer that exfoliation and moisturising products mainly act on.

A small gland usually attached to a hair follicle that releases sebum onto the skin. Overactivity contributes to oily skin and acne, while underactivity contributes to dryness.

A classification of skin based on its oil and water balance, commonly normal, dry, oily or combination. Correct identification guides product choice and treatment planning.

A temporary or ongoing state that changes how skin looks or behaves, such as dehydration, sensitivity, acne or pigmentation. Unlike skin type it may be treatable, adaptable or a reason to avoid certain services.

Removing dead cells from the skin's surface by mechanical or chemical means to leave it smoother and brighter. Overuse can damage the barrier, so frequency and method must suit the client's skin.

The repeating stages of growth, transition and rest that every hair follicle passes through. Understanding the cycle explains why waxing or epilation gives longer-lasting results than cutting.

The active growth stage of the hair cycle, when the hair is firmly anchored and growing from the follicle. Hair is strongest in this phase, which affects timing and results of hair removal.

A pocket in the skin from which a hair grows, supplied by a tiny blood vessel and often a sebaceous gland. Its health and position determine hair texture, oiliness and how removal is carried out.

The ability of hair to absorb and hold moisture, linked to the state of its outer layer. High porosity absorbs quickly but loses moisture easily, so product choice and treatment differ from low porosity hair.

The tough outer covering of a hair strand made of overlapping scales. When the scales lie flat the hair looks shiny and feels smooth; lifting or damage makes it rough and prone to breakage.

An immune reaction to a substance that is harmless to most people, causing redness, swelling, itching or breathing difficulty. In the salon it may be triggered by tints, adhesives, fragrances or latex.

Arranging the workspace, tools and body position to reduce strain and injury during work. Good practice includes an adjustable chair, correct bed height and keeping frequently used items within easy reach.

Safely lifting, moving or supporting loads by hand, such as stock boxes or equipment. Correct technique uses the legs, keeps the load close and avoids twisting, reducing the risk of back injury.

A careful look at what in the workplace could cause harm, how likely and how serious it is, and what controls are needed. It is recorded, reviewed and shared with staff so hazards are managed.

The heat level of melted wax, which must be checked before use to avoid burns while staying warm enough to apply thinly. It is tested on the therapist's wrist or with a thermometer.

A planned sequence of cleansing, toning and moisturising suited to the client's skin, performed morning and evening. Teaching a simple, realistic routine supports home care between professional treatments.

Product and habit guidance given to a client to maintain results between appointments. It should be clear, realistic and matched to the client's skin, budget and lifestyle, with written notes where helpful.

The named strokes used in facial and body treatments, such as effleurage, petrissage and tapotement, each with a set direction, pressure and purpose. They are chosen to suit the client and treatment aim.

Preparing the treatment area with clean linen, arranged tools, correct lighting, waste disposal and privacy before the client arrives. A well-set station saves time, reduces infection risk and looks professional.

A product applied after shampooing to smooth the hair's outer layer, reduce tangling and improve moisture and shine. It is usually rinsed out and should be matched to hair type and condition.