IA Cosmetology study plan

Define the scope of cosmetology practice, including infection control, client safety, and professional standards, and list the core sciences that support hair, skin, and nail services

Identify the layers of the hair shaft, the growth cycle stages, and the chemical bonds that determine curl, strength, and response to services

Explain the pH scale and how acidic and alkaline products affect the hair cuticle and skin barrier

Map the exam blueprint percentages to a weekly study schedule that reserves the most hours for the two heaviest domains

Describe the anatomy and physiology of the skin, including the epidermis, dermis, and subcutaneous layers, and relate each layer to a treatment decision

Compare the structure and function of the hair follicle, sebaceous glands, and sweat glands

Explain the principles of sanitation, disinfection, and sterilization, and classify tools and implements by the level of decontamination they require

Recognize the signs of common skin and scalp disorders and conditions that require referral rather than service

Differentiate shampoo and conditioner types by formulation and hair need, and select the correct product for fine, coarse, color-treated, and oily hair

Describe the draping, sectioning, and parting procedures used for wet styling and blow-drying

Explain the thermal and mechanical principles behind blow-drying, thermal styling, and curling-iron work, including heat protection and safety limits

Demonstrate the steps of a basic wet set and a blow-dry finish on a mannequin or practice model

Explain the chemistry of permanent waving and chemical relaxing, including the role of reducing agents, neutralizers, and processing time

Compare temporary, semi-permanent, and permanent hair color and describe how developers and lighteners change the hair

Apply the law of color to predict the result of mixing and correcting color

Identify the safety and patch-test requirements that precede chemical services and the signs of an adverse reaction

Describe the structure and function of the skin barrier and explain how cleansing, exfoliation, and moisturizing affect it

Classify skin types and conditions and select appropriate cleansing, toning, and moisturizing steps for each

Explain the purpose and precautions of facial massage, masks, and basic extraction procedures

Identify the active ingredients common in professional skin care products and state one benefit and one caution for each

Explain the principles of hair removal by waxing and tweezing, including contraindications, sanitation, and aftercare

Describe the structure of the natural nail, including the matrix, plate, bed, and surrounding tissue, and relate each part to service safety

Identify nail disorders and diseases that must be referred and distinguish them from conditions a nail technician may service

Explain the required sanitation and disinfection practices for implements, surfaces, and hand washing in nail services

Describe the procedure for a basic manicure and pedicure, including shaping, cuticle care, massage, and polish application

Explain the chemistry and application steps for acrylic and gel enhancements, including monomer and polymer handling and curing

List the safety precautions for nail enhancement products, including ventilation, skin contact, and product compatibility

Outline the steps for safe removal of enhancements and repair of a damaged nail plate

Review all four domains using a single consolidated outline built from earlier weekly deliverables

Complete a timed practice set weighted to the exam percentages and analyze errors by domain

Re-teach the three weakest concepts aloud or in writing without notes

Confirm exam-day logistics, allowed materials, and a final review schedule for the last 48 hours