IN Cosmetology study plan
IN Cosmetology · Give each week a clear focus.
8 weeks · About 7 hours per week
Chemical Texture Services
Diagram the three phases of a relaxer service (swelling, diffusion, fixation) and label what happens to the hair at each phase
Differentiate hydroxide relaxers from thio/ammonium thioglycolate relaxers by active ingredient, pH range, and neutralization requirement
Sequence the 10 steps of a virgin relaxer application in correct order, including base control and scalp protection
List at least six contraindications and safety checks that must be performed before any chemical texture service
Calculate expected processing variables for three client scenarios (resistant, fine, previously colored hair) and justify each adjustment
Your checkpoint
A one-page chemical texture reference sheet (pH ranges, active ingredients, neutralization rules) plus a closed-book 25-question self-quiz scored at 85% or higher
Hair Coloring
Explain the hair color level system from 1 to 10 and place six swatches or described hair samples at the correct level
Match developer volume (10, 20, 30, 40) to its lift capability and list which volume is used for deposit-only vs. high-lift
Apply color wheel principles to name the correct corrective tone for six unwanted-color scenarios (brass, green, ash, orange)
Outline the patch test, strand test, and allergy/sensitivity screening steps required before a color service
Distinguish temporary, semi-permanent, demi-permanent, and permanent color by molecule size, penetration, and lift ability
Your checkpoint
A completed color formulation worksheet with 10 written client scenarios, each showing target level, developer choice, processing time, and corrective reasoning
Haircutting & Hair Styling
Identify the four basic haircutting sections and the lines, angles, and elevations that produce one-length, graduated, layered, and square cuts
Demonstrate on a mannequin (or describe step by step) a blunt one-length cut and a 45-degree graduated cut with consistent subsectioning
Explain the purpose and correct use of texturizing shears, razors, and clippers, including when each is contraindicated
Classify the five basic styling tools and match each to its thermal or wet-setting technique
Describe the three parts of a blow-dry (parting, wrapping, shaping) and the safety distance for thermal irons on each hair texture
Your checkpoint
A written walkthrough of two complete haircuts (subsection map, elevation, cutting line per section) plus a scored self-check of tool-and-technique matching at 90% accuracy
Indiana Laws and Administrative Rules
Locate and summarize the Indiana cosmetology licensing statute and administrative rules governing scope of practice and licensure
State the Indiana requirements for sanitation, disinfection procedures, and shop/salon inspection standards cited in rule
Identify Indiana rules on licensee display of license, continuing education, and renewal cycles
Describe the Indiana penalties and disciplinary actions for unlicensed practice and sanitation violations
Translate five rules into plain-language 'what I must do on the floor' action statements
Your checkpoint
A two-page Indiana law fact sheet covering licensing, sanitation, renewal, and discipline, verified against the official state source, plus a 20-question law quiz at 90% or higher
Infection Control and Safety
Differentiate cleaning, disinfection, and sterilization and state which is required for implements, surfaces, and linens
Classify at least ten specific items as single-use, reusable-nondisposable, or porous and state the correct handling for each
List the EPA-registered disinfectant label requirements: contact time, dilution, and proper storage
Demonstrate the correct sequence for handwashing and for handling an exposure incident such as a cut or blood spill
Identify the signs of bacterial, viral, and fungal infections and the conditions that require a client to be rescheduled
Your checkpoint
A completed infection-control checklist for a full salon workday (open, between clients, close) plus a scored safety scenario set of 15 items at 90% or higher
Hair Styling & Hair and Scalp Care
Perform or write out the draping, shampooing, and scalp massage sequence, including massage contraindications
Identify the hair and scalp conditions (dandruff, seborrheic dermatitis, tinea, alopecia) that limit or prohibit service
Explain the hair growth cycle and how pH, moisture, and protein balance affect hair condition and styling results
Describe the four basic styling categories (thermal, wet, roller, updos) and select the appropriate one for three given client profiles
Describe how to analyze hair texture, density, porosity, and elasticity and record the findings on a consultation card
Your checkpoint
Three completed client consultation cards with hair/scalp analysis, recommended styling method, and contraindication screening notes, plus a 20-item scalp and hair care quiz at 85%
Nail Care and Services & Skin Care and Services
Describe the nail structure and identify which diseases and disorders of the nail require referral rather than service
Sequence a basic manicure and pedicure with the sanitation steps between each stage, including implement disinfection
Explain skin structure (epidermis, dermis layers), skin types, and the difference between a facial treatment and a medical service
List the contraindications for facial massage, exfoliation, and waxing, including the use of retinoids and recent chemical peels
Match cleansers, toners, exfoliants, and moisturizers to three given skin types or conditions
Your checkpoint
A written service protocol for one manicure and one basic facial, each with step number, product type, sanitation action, and contraindication check, plus a 25-question combined quiz at 85%
Professional Practices and Business
Describe the elements of a professional resume, portfolio, and job-search strategy for an entry-level cosmetology position
Explain the difference between booth rental and commission/employee compensation and list the tax and record-keeping implications of each
Apply basic retail math to calculate a product markup, service price, and weekly revenue goal
Outline the client record-keeping, confidentiality, and informed-consent practices required in a salon setting
State the professional communication and conflict-resolution steps for a dissatisfied-client situation
Your checkpoint
A one-page business starter plan (pricing, compensation model, record-keeping, and retail math calculations) plus a full-length timed practice exam across all 10 domains scored at 80% or higher with an error log of every missed item
Milestones
Week 3: Score 85% or higher on a 30-item quiz covering chemical texture services, hair coloring, and haircutting; any missed item is logged with the correct concept written out in your own words
Week 4: Score 90% or higher on the Indiana law quiz and confirm every law fact sheet statement matches the official state statute or rule; mid-point cumulative mock exam at 75% or higher
Week 6: Complete all infection-control, hair and scalp, and styling deliverables and score 85% or higher on a 40-item cumulative exam over weeks 1-6 domains
Week 7: Complete both service protocols and pass the combined nail and skin quiz at 85%; all remaining weak domains identified and listed for week 8 review
Week 8: Score 80% or higher on a full-length timed practice exam covering all 10 domains, with no domain below 70% and a written error log of every missed question