ID Cosmetology flashcards

32 cards. Read the term and the definition here. The deck at the top of this page is optional.

Cuticle

The outermost layer of the hair, made of overlapping transparent scales that protect the cortex and control porosity and shine. Chemical services must lift it to enter.

Anagen phase

The active growth stage of the hair cycle, lasting roughly two to seven years. About 90 percent of scalp hair is in this phase at any time.

Disinfection

A process that uses an EPA-registered hospital-grade product to kill most pathogenic organisms on nonporous implements. It requires cleaning first and full label contact time.

Standard precautions

Infection control practice treating all blood and body fluids as infectious. It requires gloves, handwashing, and proper disposal for every client, regardless of known health status.

Developer volume

The strength of hydrogen peroxide used with color. Volume 10 deposits only, 20 lifts one level, 30 lifts two to three, and 40 lifts three to four levels.

Elevation

The angle at which hair is held from the head during cutting. Zero degrees builds a solid form, 90 creates uniform layers, and 180 produces long layers.

Disulfide bond

A strong chemical bond between sulfur atoms in the cortex. Perms and relaxers break it with reducing agents, and neutralizers re-form it in the new shape.

Complementary colors

Pairs opposite on the color wheel, such as blue and orange or violet and yellow. They neutralize each other, which is the basis for toning unwanted warmth.

Nail matrix

The area under the proximal nail fold where new nail cells are produced. Damage to the matrix permanently affects the shape and growth of the nail plate.

Eponychium

The living skin at the base of the nail plate that seals the nail fold. It should be pushed back gently and never cut during a routine manicure.

Onychomycosis

A fungal infection of the nail plate that causes thickening, discoloration, and separation. It is a contraindication for nail services and requires referral to a physician.

Skin barrier

The outermost epidermal layer, which retains water and blocks irritants. Its acidic pH near 4.5 to 5.5 supports beneficial flora and should be preserved.

Idaho DOPL

The Division of Occupational and Professional Licenses, which oversees the Idaho Board of Cosmetology. It issues licenses, adopts rules, and investigates complaints against licensees.

Scope of practice

The services a license legally permits. Performing outside it, such as treating an infection, is a violation that can lead to fines, suspension, or revocation.

SDS

The Safety Data Sheet supplied with a chemical product. It lists hazards, first aid, and handling requirements and must be accessible in the salon.

Gross profit

Revenue minus the cost of goods sold. It measures service and retail profitability before operating expenses such as rent, utilities, and wages are subtracted.

Patch test

A small application of color or chemical product 24 to 48 hours before the service to detect allergy. The result must be documented before proceeding.

Open-ended question

A question that invites a detailed answer, such as asking what a client likes about their current style. It reveals goals that yes-or-no questions miss.

Informed consent

Explaining a service's risks, alternatives, and cost before starting, then documenting the client's agreement. It protects both the client and the licensee.

Reflective listening

Paraphrasing the client's words back to confirm understanding. It reduces miscommunication about length, color, price, and maintenance before the service begins.

Elasticity test

Stretching a wet strand to judge bond strength. Hair that snaps quickly is weak, so lightening or perming may cause breakage and should be delayed.

Porosity

The hair's ability to absorb and retain moisture, rated low, normal, or high. High porosity absorbs quickly and loses moisture fast, needing gentler chemical services.

Base the scalp

Applying protective cream along the hairline and partings before a relaxer. It shields skin from hydroxide and reduces irritation and chemical burns.

Strand test

Processing a small section of hair with the intended formula to preview timing and result. It is required before corrective color and questionable chemical services.

Pedicure contraindication

A condition that makes a service unsafe, such as diabetes with poor circulation or an active infection. Refer the client rather than risk injury.

Facial massage direction

Movements that follow muscle and lymph flow away from the center of the face. They avoid pressure on arteries and inflamed or acne-covered areas.

Handwashing requirement

Soap and water washing before and after every client and after restroom use. Hand sanitizer does not replace it when hands are visibly soiled.

Contact time

The period an implement must remain fully submerged in disinfectant, as stated on the label. Shortening it means the item is not properly disinfected.

Salon license posting

Idaho rules require licenses to be displayed where clients can see them. Practicing on an expired license is a violation subject to discipline.

Student supervision

Idaho requires a licensed instructor to oversee student services in a licensed school. Students may not charge clients or work independently.

Conflict resolution

Listening without defending, acknowledging the concern, restating the agreed service, and offering a remedy within policy. Document the outcome afterward.

Professional boundaries

Maintaining appropriate touch, language, and relationships with clients. Confidentiality and respectful distance protect both the client and the licensee's license.