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CO Cosmetology practice questions

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Question 1Barbering

Which tool is designed specifically to thin bulk from the interior of a haircut while leaving the perimeter length intact?

  1. Wide-tooth comb
  2. Taper shears
  3. Razor
  4. Thinning shears Correct answer.

Explanation

Thinning shears have one cutting blade and one comb-like blade, so they remove a portion of hair from inside a section without shortening the overall length. They are the standard tool when a barber needs to reduce weight and add mobility. Razors and taper shears cut differently and are used for other effects.

Question 2Barbering

A client requests a fade that starts at the skin at the nape and gradually blends into longer hair near the crown. Which clipper technique best produces this result?

  1. Using a single guard for the entire head
  2. Cutting every guard length at the same elevation
  3. Cutting only against the grain with no guard
  4. Working guards in ascending lengths upward with overlapping strokes Correct answer.

Explanation

A fade is built by establishing the shortest length at the perimeter and progressively using longer guards as you move up the head, overlapping each pass so no hard lines remain. This graduated overlapping is what creates the seamless blend. A single guard length produces a uniform, non-faded result.

Question 3Barbering

In a traditional taper cut, where is the shortest hair located?

  1. At the perimeter hairline Correct answer.
  2. At the parietal ridge
  3. At the occipital bone
  4. At the crown

Explanation

A taper shortens hair progressively toward the perimeter, so the shortest length sits at the hairline and lengthens as it moves up. The crown and parietal areas retain more length in a taper. This graduated shortening at the edge is the defining feature of the cut.

Question 4Barbering

A straight razor shave should be performed with the blade held at approximately what angle to the skin?

  1. About 10 degrees
  2. About 60 degrees
  3. About 90 degrees
  4. About 30 degrees Correct answer.

Explanation

A shallow angle near 30 degrees lets the blade slice hair close to the skin while minimizing the chance of scraping or cutting the epidermis. Angles that are too flat tend to skip over lather and hair, while steep angles increase irritation and nicks. Controlled tension and short strokes complete the technique.

Question 5Barbering

Which lather characteristic is most important before beginning a hot towel straight razor shave?

  1. A dry, stiff lather that stays in place
  2. A thick, wet lather that holds moisture against the skin Correct answer.
  3. A thin, watery lather applied sparingly
  4. A lather made only with cold water

Explanation

Shaving lather must be wet and cushioning so the blade glides and the hair stays softened. Moisture held against the skin reduces friction and irritation. Dry or sparse lather increases the risk of razor burn and nicks.

Question 6Barbering

Which stroke direction is used when shaving the upper lip area with a straight razor for most clients?

  1. Sideways across the grain
  2. In small circles over the lip
  3. Downward with the grain Correct answer.
  4. Upward against the grain

Explanation

The upper lip is generally shaved downward with the grain first because the skin is thin and sensitive and the hair grows downward there. Against-the-grain passes may be added only if the skin tolerates it. Circular or sideways strokes over the lip risk nicking the philtrum and nostrils.

Question 7Barbering

A client with a contagious fungal infection of the scalp arrives for a haircut. What is the correct barbering response?

  1. Proceed after applying a disinfectant to the scalp
  2. Proceed with the service using a fresh cape
  3. Proceed but avoid clipper work
  4. Decline the service and refer the client for medical treatment Correct answer.

Explanation

Contagious scalp conditions such as fungal infections must not be serviced in the barbershop because of the risk of transmission to the barber, other clients, and equipment. The client should be referred to a physician and return only after the condition has been treated. Applying disinfectant is a medical act and does not make the service safe.

Question 8Barbering

Which of the following is the standard method for disinfecting non-porous clipper blades between clients?

  1. Wiping with a dry towel
  2. Immersing in an EPA-registered hospital-grade disinfectant after cleaning Correct answer.
  3. Rinsing with hot water only
  4. Spraying with hairspray and brushing off

Explanation

Blades must first be cleaned of hair and debris, then fully contacted with an EPA-registered hospital-grade disinfectant for the label's stated contact time. Cleaning before disinfection is essential because debris shields microorganisms. Dry wiping or water rinsing does not kill pathogens.

Question 9Barbering

Which statement best describes the purpose of a patch test before applying an oxidative hair color?

  1. It sets the processing time
  2. It checks for an allergic reaction to the product Correct answer.
  3. It determines the final color result
  4. It measures the developer volume needed

Explanation

A patch test is a small application of the color product, usually behind the ear or on the inner elbow, observed for signs of allergic reaction before the full service. It does not predict color outcome, developer strength, or timing. Documenting the result protects both client and barber.

Question 10Barbering

A client's hair is at level 6 and the barber wants to achieve a level 9 result using permanent color. What is required?

  1. A 10-volume developer
  2. A 30-volume developer Correct answer.
  3. A 20-volume developer
  4. A color-depositing shampoo

Explanation

Lifting three levels with permanent color generally requires a 30-volume developer to provide sufficient lightening. A 20-volume developer lifts roughly one to two levels, and 10 volume deposits with little or no lift. A color-depositing shampoo cannot lift three levels.

Question 11Barbering

Which stage of hair growth is the resting phase in which the hair is shed?

  1. Catagen
  2. Anagen
  3. Telogen Correct answer.
  4. Keratin phase

Explanation

Telogen is the resting phase, at the end of which the hair is shed and replaced. Anagen is the active growth phase and catagen is the transitional phase. There is no keratin phase in the cycle.

Question 12Barbering

Which layer of the hair shaft is responsible for the strength and elasticity of the hair?

  1. Cuticle
  2. Medulla
  3. Cortex Correct answer.
  4. Follicle

Explanation

The cortex makes up the bulk of the hair shaft and contains the keratin bundles that give hair its strength and elasticity. The cuticle is the protective outer layer, and the medulla is a central core that may be absent. The follicle is the structure in the skin that produces the hair.

Question 13Barbering

A client has coarse, curly hair and wants a close, blended fade. Which approach best supports a clean result?

  1. Use a clipper-over-comb technique with careful guard transitions Correct answer.
  2. Use a razor on the entire head
  3. Cut the hair dry only
  4. Cut the hair wet with a single guard

Explanation

Coarse, curly hair can leave visible lines if transitions are abrupt, so clipper-over-comb work with careful guard changes allows the barber to blend the fade gradually. Dry cutting alone can leave uneven patches, and a razor is not appropriate for the full head in this context. Gradual transitions are key.

Question 14Barbering

Which technique is used to hold hair between the fingers and cut it parallel to the fingers?

  1. Shear-over-comb
  2. Freehand clipper cutting
  3. Blunt cutting Correct answer.
  4. Elevation cutting

Explanation

Blunt cutting holds the hair between the fingers and cuts straight across, creating a solid line. Shear-over-comb uses a comb to lift hair for the shears. Freehand clipper cutting and elevation cutting describe other approaches. Blunt cutting is the technique that produces a clean, squared line.

Question 15Barbering

Which statement best describes the purpose of cross-checking a haircut?

  1. To verify balance by cutting in a different direction than the original sectioning Correct answer.
  2. To make the hair easier to shampoo
  3. To increase the amount of texture in the cut
  4. To shorten the processing time of a chemical service

Explanation

Cross-checking means re-examining the haircut by cutting or combing in a direction different from the original sectioning, which reveals uneven areas that were hidden. It ensures balance and symmetry before the client leaves the chair. It has nothing to do with chemical timing, shampooing, or adding texture.

Question 16Barbering

A barber is shaping a beard and wants to remove length while keeping a soft, natural edge at the cheek line. Which tool is most appropriate?

  1. Thinning shears
  2. Beard trimmer with a guard Correct answer.
  3. Outliner trimmer
  4. Straight razor

Explanation

A beard trimmer with a guard removes bulk and length while leaving a soft, natural edge at the cheek line. An outliner is designed for sharp detail lines, and a straight razor is used for a clean shave, not for softening a beard edge. Thinning shears reduce density rather than shorten the beard.

Question 17Barbering

Which of the following best describes the direction of hair growth on the neck below the jawline?

  1. Generally downward toward the collar Correct answer.
  2. Always upward toward the chin
  3. Always in a circular pattern
  4. Sideways toward the ears

Explanation

Hair on the neck below the jawline generally grows downward toward the collar, which is why shaving with the grain there follows a downward stroke. Growth patterns can vary, so the barber should observe the client's hair direction. Circular and sideways patterns are not typical in this area.

Question 18Barbering

A client with a round face shape wants a cut that creates the appearance of more length. Which approach best supports this goal?

  1. Adding a wide, heavy fringe across the forehead
  2. Adding volume at the sides and temples
  3. Cutting the hair to one uniform length all over
  4. Building height at the crown and keeping the sides close Correct answer.

Explanation

Height at the crown draws the eye vertically, while close sides prevent widening, which together elongate a round face. Volume at the sides and a heavy fringe add horizontal width and make the face appear rounder. A uniform length does not create vertical emphasis.

Question 19Barbering

Which product is best suited to provide a firm, high-shine hold for a slicked-back look?

  1. Sea salt spray
  2. Matte clay
  3. Pomade Correct answer.
  4. Dry shampoo

Explanation

Pomade provides firm hold with a glossy finish, making it the classic choice for a slicked-back style. Matte clay gives texture with a low-shine finish, and sea salt spray adds volume and grit rather than a firm hold. Dry shampoo is a cleansing product, not a styling finish.

Question 20Barbering

Which of the following is the primary purpose of a neck strip during a haircut?

  1. To hold the cape closed around the neck
  2. To protect the client's clothing from clippings
  3. To provide a barrier between the client's skin and the cape Correct answer.
  4. To sanitize the clippers

Explanation

A neck strip creates a barrier between the client's skin and the cape, which is a sanitation requirement because capes are reused. It also keeps hair from contacting the skin directly. It is not a clothing protector, a clipper sanitizer, or the closure mechanism for the cape.

Question 21Barbering

A barber notices a client's scalp has small, red, raised bumps with pus after a recent shave. What is the most appropriate action?

  1. Stop the service and refer the client to a physician Correct answer.
  2. Apply a styling product to cover the bumps
  3. Shave over the area again to clear it
  4. Apply a hot towel and continue the service

Explanation

Red, raised bumps with pus may indicate a bacterial infection or folliculitis, which is contagious and outside the barber's scope to treat. The safe response is to stop the service and refer the client to a physician. Continuing to shave or covering the area risks spreading infection and worsening irritation.

Question 22Barbering

Which statement correctly describes the relationship between pH and the hair cuticle during a chemical service?

  1. pH has no effect on the cuticle
  2. Neutral-pH products always lighten hair
  3. Low-pH products permanently straighten hair
  4. High-pH products swell and open the cuticle Correct answer.

Explanation

High-pH products cause the cuticle to swell and lift, allowing chemicals to enter the cortex during coloring or relaxing. Low-pH products help close and smooth the cuticle. pH strongly influences how the cuticle behaves, so it is central to chemical services.

Question 23Barbering

Which of the following best explains why a barber should not use a razor on a client with a known bleeding disorder without medical clearance?

  1. Razors cannot cut wet hair
  2. Razors are difficult to sanitize
  3. Razors remove too much length
  4. The risk of cuts and prolonged bleeding is elevated Correct answer.

Explanation

A razor can cause small cuts, and a client with a bleeding disorder may bleed excessively or heal slowly, so medical clearance is needed before proceeding. Razors can be properly sanitized, and they do cut wet hair. The concern is client safety, not length removal.

Question 24Barbering

Which landmark is used to separate the front from the back when sectioning hair for a haircut?

  1. Occipital bone
  2. Nape
  3. Parietal ridge Correct answer.
  4. Apex

Explanation

The parietal ridge is the widest curve of the head and is used to divide the front from the back during sectioning. The occipital bone marks the back of the skull, the apex is the top center, and the nape is the lower back of the neck. Knowing these landmarks supports consistent sections.

Question 25Barbering

A barber is evaluating a finished fade and notices a faint dark band between two guard lengths. Which correction best resolves the issue?

  1. Recut the entire head with a shorter guard
  2. Apply styling product to hide the band
  3. Cut the band with scissors only
  4. Blend the transition with a guard slightly longer than the band and use clipper-over-comb Correct answer.

Explanation

A dark band usually means a step between guard lengths was not blended, so reworking the transition with a slightly longer guard and clipper-over-comb softens the line. Recutting the whole head with a shorter guard removes too much length. Styling product and scissors alone do not fix the underlying transition.

Question 26Barbering

A barber is preparing a fresh razor for a shave and needs to confirm the blade angle that gives the closest, safest cut on the cheek. Which angle is standard?

  1. About 60 degrees to the skin surface
  2. About 30 degrees to the skin surface Correct answer.
  3. About 90 degrees to the skin surface
  4. About 15 degrees to the skin surface

Explanation

A straight razor is held at roughly 30 degrees to the skin so the blade edge contacts the hair without digging into the epidermis. Flatter angles drag and skip, while steeper angles scrape the skin and invite nicks. Consistent angle control is the foundation of a safe, close shave.

Question 27Barbering

During a taper fade, a barber wants to create a soft shadow line at the temple. Which tool and technique combination best produces that effect?

  1. Freehand clipper work using the corner of the blade Correct answer.
  2. Razor cutting with a straight razor against the growth
  3. Clipper-over-comb with a detachable blade held flat
  4. Scissor-over-comb with a cutting comb and blending shears

Explanation

A shadow line is a soft transition, and freehand work with the corner of the blade lets the barber fade gradually without a hard edge. Clipper-over-comb with a flat blade creates a heavier line, and shears leave too much length. Keeping the blade corner light and moving upward in small increments controls the density of the shadow.

Question 28Barbering

A barber is choosing a comb for a client with thick, tightly coiled hair and wants to detangle before cutting. Which comb is most appropriate?

  1. A fine-toothed tail comb
  2. A wide-toothed styling comb Correct answer.
  3. A flat-top clipper comb
  4. A barber comb with medium teeth

Explanation

A wide-toothed comb separates coils with minimal pulling, which is why it is the standard choice for detangling thick, curly textures. Narrow teeth force the hair to bunch and can break strands or cause discomfort. Detangling before cutting also keeps the sectioning even.

Question 29Barbering

A client requests a flat top. Which cutting approach produces the characteristic level plane on top?

  1. Elevate the top hair 90 degrees and cut with the natural growth
  2. Cut the top hair wet and let it dry without checking
  3. Cut the top hair against a comb held parallel to the floor Correct answer.
  4. Point-cut the top hair with the growth to reduce weight

Explanation

A flat top requires the top to be cut as a level plane, so the comb is held parallel to the floor and the clippers or shears follow it. Cutting at 90 degrees elevation follows the curve of the head and produces a rounded shape. Checking the plane from the front and side ensures symmetry.

Question 30Barbering

Which term describes the technique of holding hair taut between the index and middle fingers and cutting it to the length of those fingers?

  1. Freehand clipper cutting
  2. Razor-over-comb
  3. Finger-and-shear cutting Correct answer.
  4. Clipper-over-comb

Explanation

Finger-and-shear cutting uses the fingers as a guide, with the hair held between them and cut to the finger length. It gives the barber a consistent reference for uniform length and is common on top sections. The technique is sometimes called cutting to the fingers.

Question 31Barbering

A barber is applying a hot towel to a client's face before a shave. What is the main purpose of this step?

  1. To numb the skin so the shave is painless
  2. To soften the beard and relax the follicles Correct answer.
  3. To disinfect the skin before the razor touches it
  4. To raise the hair cuticle for a closer cut

Explanation

Heat and moisture soften the keratin of the beard and relax the tissue, which lets the razor cut more smoothly. A hot towel also improves client comfort and helps lather adhere. Disinfection and numbing are not functions of a hot towel.

Question 32Barbering

A client with sensitive skin tends to get razor burn on the neck. Which post-shave step best reduces irritation?

  1. Re-shave the area to remove remaining stubble
  2. Rinse with cold water and apply a soothing balm Correct answer.
  3. Apply an alcohol-based astringent liberally
  4. Apply a heavy oil and cover with a hot towel

Explanation

Cold water closes the pores and calms the skin, and a soothing balm without alcohol supports the skin barrier after shaving. Alcohol astringents strip moisture and worsen irritation on sensitive skin. Re-shaving an irritated area compounds the trauma.

Question 33Barbering

Which facial landmark is used to divide the head into the front and nape sections when establishing a baseline haircut?

  1. The external occipital protuberance
  2. The apex
  3. The occipital bone
  4. The parietal ridge Correct answer.

Explanation

The parietal ridge marks the widest part of the head and serves as the dividing line between the top/front and the sides/nape. Barbers use it to place horizontal and vertical section lines consistently. The apex is the highest point of the head, not a dividing line.

Question 34Barbering

A barber is texturizing the ends of a client's thick hair to reduce bulk and blend layers. Which technique is most appropriate?

  1. Notching with the tips of the shears at the ends
  2. Cutting a blunt line across the perimeter
  3. Slicing with the shears parallel to the hair shaft Correct answer.
  4. Clipper-over-comb on the top section

Explanation

Slicing runs the shears along the hair shaft to remove weight and blend layers without shortening the perimeter. Notching removes chunks and can leave visible steps, while blunt cutting adds bulk. Slicing is done with the shear blade partially open and controlled.

Question 35Barbering

Which statement best describes the difference between a taper and a fade?

  1. A taper is always done with shears, while a fade uses only clippers
  2. A fade leaves a visible hard line, while a taper blends completely
  3. A taper removes bulk on top, while a fade shapes the neckline
  4. A taper shortens gradually at the perimeter, while a fade blends to the skin Correct answer.

Explanation

A taper gradually shortens hair at the perimeter but leaves visible length, whereas a fade reduces the hair down to the skin over a transition zone. Both can be done with clippers and both are blending techniques. The distinction lies in how far the length is reduced.

Question 36Barbering

A barber notices the client's hair has a strong odor and feels gummy near the scalp after a chemical service. What is the most likely cause?

  1. The relaxer was not completely rinsed from the hair Correct answer.
  2. The hair was over-moisturized before the service
  3. The client used a sulfate-free shampoo recently
  4. The hair was cut with dull shears

Explanation

Residual relaxer continues to process and leaves hair gummy and odorous, which signals incomplete rinsing. The barber should rinse thoroughly and assess the scalp before proceeding. Over-moisturizing and shampoo choice do not produce this chemical residue.

Question 37Barbering

Which of the following is the correct procedure for draping a client for a haircut?

  1. Place the neck strip over the cape and fasten at the back
  2. Place the neck strip, then the cape over it, fastening at the back Correct answer.
  3. Place the cape first, then the neck strip on top
  4. Place the towel under the cape and skip the neck strip

Explanation

The neck strip goes against the skin first and the cape is fastened over it, so the cape does not touch the client directly and hair is contained. This order protects both the client and the cape. Fastening at the back keeps the drape secure and comfortable.

Question 38Barbering

A barber is disinfecting a straight razor between clients. Which step is essential before the razor is stored?

  1. Clean the blade of debris, then submerge the blade in an approved disinfectant for the labeled contact time Correct answer.
  2. Rinse the blade with hot water and return it to the case
  3. Immerse the entire razor in disinfectant for 10 minutes
  4. Wipe the blade with a dry cloth only

Explanation

Disinfectants only work on surfaces free of hair, skin, and product, so the blade must be cleaned first and then kept wet for the full labeled contact time. Skipping either step leaves pathogens viable. The razor should be dried and stored only after disinfection is complete.

Question 39Barbering

Which of the following best explains why a barber should keep the shear blade closed when not cutting?

  1. Closed blades keep the tension screw from loosening
  2. Closed blades prevent hair from entering the pivot
  3. Closed blades cut more accurately on the next section
  4. Closed blades protect the edge and reduce accidental cuts Correct answer.

Explanation

A closed shear keeps the cutting edges protected from knocks and prevents accidental nicks to the client or the barber. Shear edges are fragile and can be damaged by contact with hard surfaces. Proper storage in a holster or case reinforces the habit.

Question 40Barbering

A client asks for a beard trim and has a mole on the jawline. What is the safest approach?

  1. Trim over the mole with the clipper blade flat
  2. Shave directly over the mole to keep the line even
  3. Cut the hair over the mole with the corner of the shears, avoiding the mole itself Correct answer.
  4. Apply a hot towel and use a straight razor over the mole

Explanation

Moles and raised lesions should be avoided with sharp tools, so the barber works around them with the shear corner and never drags a blade across them. Nicking a mole can cause bleeding and infection risk. The barber should note the lesion and refer the client if it looks unusual.

Question 41Barbering

Which of the following describes the correct direction to stroke a straight razor on the neck below the jawline?

  1. Sideways across the growth
  2. Downward with the growth Correct answer.
  3. In small circles over the area
  4. Upward against the growth

Explanation

Hair on the neck below the jawline generally grows downward, so the razor strokes downward with the growth for comfort and a closer cut. Shaving against the growth on the neck increases irritation risk. A second pass, if needed, is done gently after re-lathering.

Question 42Barbering

A barber wants to check whether a finished haircut is balanced on both sides. Which method is most reliable?

  1. View the client from the front and from both profiles Correct answer.
  2. Ask the client to feel the sides with their hands
  3. Comb the hair forward and compare the sides
  4. Check the length only at the crown

Explanation

Comparing the front and both profiles lets the barber see asymmetry in length, weight, and line placement. A single viewpoint hides differences on the opposite side. Cross-checking from multiple angles is the standard finishing step.

Question 43Barbering

Which of the following best describes the purpose of thinning shears in a men's haircut?

  1. To create a hard line at the nape
  2. To remove bulk without changing the overall length Correct answer.
  3. To shorten the perimeter line
  4. To blend a fade to the skin

Explanation

Thinning shears have teeth that cut only a portion of the hair, reducing bulk while leaving length largely intact. They are used in the interior to soften weight and improve movement. They are not designed for perimeter lines or skin fades.

Question 44Barbering

A barber is mixing a powder lightener for a client's hair. Which practice best protects the hair during processing?

  1. Mix with a high-volume developer and apply to dry hair
  2. Mix to a creamy consistency and check the hair every few minutes Correct answer.
  3. Apply to wet hair to dilute the lightener
  4. Cover with plastic and leave until the color looks right

Explanation

A creamy mix stays where it is placed and processes evenly, and frequent checks let the barber stop before damage occurs. Lightener continues to act as long as it is on the hair, so visual monitoring is essential. Wet hair dilutes the product and gives unpredictable lift.

Question 45Barbering

A client's hair is very fine and limp, and the barber wants a cut that adds fullness. Which approach supports that goal?

  1. Apply a heavy pomade to weigh the hair down
  2. Cut the perimeter short and add short layers on top Correct answer.
  3. Use heavy texturizing throughout the top
  4. Cut a blunt perimeter and keep layers long

Explanation

A shorter perimeter with short layers on top removes weight and lets the hair stand up, which creates fullness in fine hair. Heavy texturizing or heavy product weighs fine hair down. Blunt perimeters on limp hair emphasize flatness.

Question 46Barbering

Which of the following is the standard holding position for a straight razor during a shave?

  1. Blade open at 45 degrees with the handle resting on the wrist
  2. Blade closed and held like a comb
  3. Blade open at 180 degrees with the handle in the palm
  4. Blade open at about 90 degrees with the handle between the fingers Correct answer.

Explanation

The razor is opened to roughly 90 degrees so the handle sits between the fingers and the thumb controls the blade. This grip gives balance and fine control of angle. A closed razor cannot cut, and extreme openings reduce control.

Question 47Barbering

A barber is shaping a mustache and wants a crisp, symmetrical line above the lip. Which tool is best for this detail?

  1. A wide-toothed comb alone
  2. Thinning shears
  3. A straight razor used with light strokes Correct answer.
  4. A large clipper with a guard

Explanation

A straight razor with light, controlled strokes gives the cleanest line for small facial details like the mustache. It allows the barber to follow a precise edge without the bulk of a clipper. Guards and thinning shears are too coarse for a crisp lip line.

Question 48Barbering

Which of the following best explains why barbers should avoid sharing combs between clients without disinfection?

  1. Combs lose their teeth with frequent use
  2. Combs change the hair's pH
  3. Combs absorb water and become soft
  4. Combs can transfer fungi, bacteria, and lice between clients Correct answer.

Explanation

Combs contact the scalp and hair and can carry pathogens, including fungal spores and lice, from one client to the next. Disinfecting non-porous combs after each client breaks that chain of transmission. Physical wear is not the reason for the rule.

Question 49Barbering

A barber is evaluating a client's scalp and sees dry, flaky patches with a silvery scale along the hairline. What is the most appropriate action?

  1. Refer the client to a physician and avoid irritating the area Correct answer.
  2. Shave the area to remove the flakes
  3. Treat the area with a medicated shampoo and proceed with the cut
  4. Apply a hot towel and scrub the scales off

Explanation

Silvery scaling along the hairline can indicate a medical condition such as psoriasis, which is outside the barber's scope. The safe response is to refer to a physician and avoid aggravating the skin. Barbers do not diagnose or treat scalp disease.

Question 50Barbering

Which of the following best describes the correct way to hold clippers for a taper on the side of the head?

  1. Blade flat against the head with the teeth pointing up
  2. Blade held upside down with the cord over the shoulder
  3. Blade perpendicular to the head with the flat side leading
  4. Blade angled with the teeth pointing down and the corner leading Correct answer.

Explanation

For a taper, the clipper is angled so the teeth point in the cutting direction and the corner leads, which gives control near the perimeter. Keeping the blade flat against the head removes too much length at once. Consistent angling is what produces a smooth transition.