KY Barber study plan

Define and distinguish cleaning, disinfection, and sterilization, and state which level of decontamination each barbering tool and surface requires

Identify the pathogens of concern in barbershops (hepatitis B and C, HIV, staph, ringworm, herpes) and state the transmission route and the control measure that blocks each one

List the steps for blood exposure response and for handling a client with a known infection or a visible scalp lesion

Map the layers of skin (epidermis, dermis, subcutaneous) and the hair follicle structures (bulb, papilla, sebaceous gland, arrector pili) to the services that act on them

Explain the three growth cycles (anagen, catagen, telogen) and predict how each affects a chemical service decision

Demonstrate the correct sequence for disinfecting clippers, shears, combs, and capes, including pre-cleaning, immersion vs. wipe, and storage

Read a disinfectant label and record its EPA registration number, dilution, and contact time, then verify your shop's products meet Kentucky board requirements

Explain safe handling and disposal rules for sharps, single-use blades, and chemical waste

Describe ergonomic and electrical safety practices that prevent common barber injuries

Outline the shop safety checklist a barber should complete at open and close

Identify the reference points, angles, and sectioning patterns used for a blunt, graduated, and layered cut

Match the four basic haircutting forms to head shape and hair growth patterns, and explain the elevation each requires

Sequence a shampoo and scalp massage service, including client consultation, water temperature, and product selection by scalp type

Distinguish scalp conditions that barbers may treat (dandruff, dry scalp, oiliness) from those that require referral (ringworm, psoriasis, open lesions)

Explain the purpose and safe use of a scalp treatment and a conditioner in relation to hair porosity

Execute and self-critique at least six haircuts across the four basic forms, recording elevation, section size, and tool for each

Demonstrate shear-over-comb, clipper-over-comb, and freehand clipper work with correct hand position and blade angle

Explain taper and fade progression, including guide creation and blending zones

Describe how to correct a cut that is too short in one area or uneven at the perimeter

Summarize beard and neckline finishing as it relates to the haircut outline

List the steps of a straight-razor shave in order, from consultation and skin prep through hot towel, lather, strokes, cold towel, and aftercare

Demonstrate razor grip, stroke direction, and stretching technique for the cheeks, jaw, neck, chin, and upper lip

Identify contraindications for shaving (skin irritation, moles, acne, recent chemical peel) and state the correct response

Design a beard shape by face type, including cheek line, neckline placement, and symmetry checks

Explain the sanitation requirements specific to razors, strops, brushes, and moustache tools

Explain the chemistry of permanent waving (reduction, shaping, oxidation) and predict the outcome of wrapping pattern, rod size, and processing time

Compare relaxer types (lye, no-lye, thio) and state the purpose of base cream, smoothing, and neutralization

Describe the hair color wheel, developer volumes, and the difference between temporary, semipermanent, and permanent color

Perform and document a patch test and strand test, and explain when each is required

List the most common chemical service failures (overprocessing, underprocessing, scalp burn, uneven color) with cause and prevention

State Kentucky barber licensing requirements: application, required hours, examination, license renewal cycle, and continuing education obligations

Summarize shop licensing, inspection, and sanitation standards as they apply to a working barber

Explain the scope of practice for a licensed barber versus an apprentice or an unlicensed person, including what services may and may not be performed

Describe the disciplinary process and common violations that lead to fines, suspension, or revocation

Locate the current Kentucky barber statutes and board regulations and note where to verify any figure you are unsure of

Draft a client consultation script that covers hair history, scalp health, expectations, and consent for chemical services

Explain professional ethics scenarios: pricing transparency, confidentiality, refusing a service, and handling a complaint

Outline basic shop management tasks: inventory control, appointment scheduling, and record keeping for chemical services

Complete two full-length timed practice exams and analyze every missed item by domain

Re-drill your three weakest domains using your own notes and deliverable sheets from weeks 1 through 7