GA Cosmetology key terms

Using an EPA-registered chemical to destroy most harmful microorganisms on tools and surfaces, except bacterial spores. Salons disinfect implements after each client and follow label contact time.

A process that destroys all microorganisms, including spores, usually with heat, steam, or pressure. It is used for items that may contact blood or broken skin.

Cleaning with soap, water, or detergent to remove visible dirt and debris. It is the first step before disinfection and does not kill all germs by itself.

Treating all blood and body fluids as if they carry disease. This means gloves, handwashing, and careful handling of sharps and contaminated items for every client.

Microorganisms in blood or body fluids that can cause disease, including hepatitis B and HIV. Cosmetologists must prevent exposure and know the salon's exposure-control procedures.

A manufacturer's document describing a product's hazards, safe use, first aid, and storage. Salons keep sheets available for the chemicals they use.

Tiny single-celled organisms that can cause infection. Harmful bacteria are controlled by handwashing, cleaning, and using the correct disinfectant at the correct strength.

A very small infectious agent that reproduces inside living cells and causes illnesses such as hepatitis and HIV. Viruses are not affected by antibiotics and require proper disinfection.

Plant-like organisms such as molds and yeasts that can cause skin and nail infections, including ringworm. They grow in warm, moist conditions and spread by contact.

A scale from 0 to 14 that measures acidity and alkalinity. Hair and skin are slightly acidic, and products that are too alkaline or acidic can damage them.

A chemical reaction that adds oxygen or removes electrons. In hair color and permanent waves it changes bonds and develops the result; in disinfection it helps kill germs.

A pocket in the skin that surrounds the hair root and supplies it with blood and nutrients. Each follicle grows one hair and can be affected by disease or damage.

How well hair absorbs and holds moisture, based on the condition of its cuticle. Low porosity resists moisture, while high porosity absorbs quickly but loses it easily.

The ability of hair to stretch and return to its normal length without breaking. Good elasticity means strong protein bonds; poor elasticity means fragile hair.

The first section of hair cut that sets the length and shape for later sections. A stylist follows the guideline to keep the haircut balanced.

The angle at which hair is held away from the head while cutting. Low elevation keeps weight; high elevation creates layers and removes weight.

The direction hair is combed or positioned before cutting or styling. It controls how the hair falls and where weight and movement appear in the finished look.

A small skin test of a color or chemical product done 24 to 48 hours before a service. It checks for an allergic reaction; a positive result means do not proceed.

A test on a small piece of the client's hair to see how a color, lightener, or relaxer will work. It helps predict timing and results.

A hydrogen peroxide product mixed with hair color or lightener to start the color reaction. Its strength determines how much the hair lightens.

A strong product that straightens curly hair by breaking bonds in the hair's cortex. It requires a patch test, strand test, and careful timing to avoid damage.

A product used after a relaxer or permanent wave to stop chemical processing and rebuild the hair's disulfide bonds. It helps the hair hold its new shape.

The visible, hard part of the nail that protects the nail bed. It is made mostly of keratin and can show ridges, spots, or other signs of health.

The area at the base of the nail where new nail cells are produced. Damage to the matrix can cause permanent nail deformity.

The pale, half-moon shape at the base of the nail plate. It is the visible part of the nail matrix and may change with illness or injury.

A fungal infection of the nail that can cause thickening, discoloration, and separation from the nail bed. It is contagious and should be referred to a physician.

A classification of skin as normal, dry, oily, or combination based on oil production and moisture. It guides the choice of cleansers, masks, and moisturizers.

Removing dead skin cells from the surface with a scrub, enzyme, or acid. It can smooth and brighten skin, but overuse can irritate it.

Removing comedones or debris from pores during a facial, usually after softening the skin. Proper technique and sanitation are required to avoid injury or infection.

A plugged pore filled with oil and dead skin cells; a blackhead is open and a whitehead is closed. It is a common skin condition, not a disease.

A confidential card or file that notes a client's services, products used, reactions, and contact information. It helps provide consistent service and protects the salon legally.

A printed or digital list of the salon's services with descriptions and prices. It helps clients choose and keeps pricing consistent.

The amount added to the cost of a product or service to set its selling price. It must cover expenses and provide profit.

The Occupational Safety and Health Administration, a federal agency that sets workplace safety rules. Salons follow OSHA standards for chemical safety, bloodborne pathogens, and hazard communication.

Designing tools and work habits to fit the body and reduce strain. In salons it includes proper chair height, posture, and tool handling to prevent injury.

The state board that licenses barbers, cosmetologists, nail technicians, estheticians, and salons in Georgia. It enforces sanitation, education, and practice rules.

A credential issued by the Georgia board that allows a person to perform cosmetology services after meeting training and exam requirements. It must be renewed and displayed.

A license issued by the Georgia board for a business location to offer cosmetology services. It requires compliance with sanitation and supervision rules.

Required training hours that licensees complete to renew their license and stay current. Georgia rules specify the number and type of hours.

A process that lets a licensed cosmetologist from another state apply for a Georgia license based on their existing credentials. The board reviews eligibility and may require extra steps.