KS Cosmetology study plan

Define and distinguish disinfection, sterilization, and sanitation, and state which level of control is required for each type of implement and surface in a salon.

List the EPA-registered hospital disinfectants used in salons and describe the label contact time and dilution requirements for each.

Explain the difference between porous and nonporous implements and demonstrate the correct handling sequence for each.

Identify the four types of pathogens of concern (bacteria, fungi, viruses, parasites) and give one salon-relevant example of each.

Describe standard precautions, handwashing protocol, and the correct use of gloves and PPE during a service.

Label a diagram of the hair follicle, sebaceous gland, arrector pili, and dermal papilla and state the function of each.

Classify hair types by texture, density, porosity, and elasticity and match each to an appropriate shampoo and conditioner recommendation.

Explain the structure of the hair shaft (cuticle, cortex, medulla) and connect each layer to a specific service outcome.

Describe the causes and appropriate salon responses for dandruff, seborrheic dermatitis, and dry scalp, including when to refer out.

Demonstrate the steps of a scalp massage and a basic shampoo and conditioning service in correct order.

Identify the four basic haircut shapes and explain how elevation, distribution, and projection create each.

Describe the correct use and safety handling of shears, razors, clippers, and thinning shears.

Explain the lines of the head (apex, occipital, parietal ridge, nape) and use them to describe sectioning for a uniform-layer cut.

Sequence the steps of a blunt one-length cut and a graduated cut, including subsectioning and cross-checking.

Describe how to texturize and blend a men's taper and a fade using clipper guards and shear-over-comb.

Explain the color wheel, law of color, and how underlying pigment affects the final result in tinting and lightening.

Calculate developer volume to lift ratio and predict the level of lift for at least five scenarios.

Describe the patch test, strand test, and predisposition test requirements and when each is performed.

Differentiate temporary, semipermanent, demipermanent, and permanent color by molecular size and action.

Explain the chemistry of lighteners, including on-scalp versus off-scalp products, and list the safety rules for each.

Describe the physical and chemical phases of permanent waving and what happens to disulfide bonds in each.

Explain the purpose of the thio relaxer, neutralizer, and the role of pH in each step.

Match rod size, wrapping direction, and base placement to the desired curl pattern and explain the expected outcome.

List the safety and contraindication rules for permanent waves and relaxers, including prior chemical services and scalp condition.

Describe the relaxer application sequence for a virgin retouch and the corrective steps for under- and over-processing.

Demonstrate and describe the foundational blow-dry technique, including sectioning, tension, and nozzle angle.

Explain thermal styling safety, including temperature selection by hair type and the use of thermal protectants.

Describe the steps for an updo or formal style and the pinning and balance principles that keep it secure.

Select finishing products by hold level and explain the role of each in a finished style.

Re-verify the disinfection protocol for styling tools and station setup between clients.

Identify nail structures and disorders, and list the conditions that require referral rather than service.

Describe the steps and safety rules for a basic manicure, pedicure, and polish application, including tool sanitation between clients.

Identify skin types and the steps of a basic facial, including cleansing, exfoliation, massage, and masking.

Describe contraindications for facial services and the correct response when one is present.

Explain the safe use and disposal of nail and skin products, including monomer, acetone, and wax.

Complete a timed full-length practice exam and score each domain separately.

Re-study the two lowest-scoring domains until practice scores reach at least 80% in each.

Recite from memory the safety and contraindication rules for each chemical service.

Review the disinfection rules one final time and confirm the contact times and product classes.