LA Cosmetology study plan

Define the four types of hair (straight, wavy, curly, tightly coiled) and give one styling implication for each.

Explain the three layers of the hair shaft (cuticle, cortex, medulla) and match each to a practical service concern.

List the five stages of hair growth (anagen, catagen, telogen, exogen, kenogen) in order with approximate durations.

Describe the difference between a patch test and a strand test, including when each is performed.

Identify three scalp and hair conditions that require a physician referral and state why each is contraindicated for chemical service.

Differentiate shampoo types (clarifying, balancing, moisturizing, medicated) by surfactant strength and intended use.

Sequence a complete shampoo and conditioning service, including client protection and water temperature rationale.

Demonstrate the four basic blow-dryer strokes and the two brush types used for each.

Describe the three phases of thermal styling (damp, dry, cool set) and the heat-protection principle behind each.

Explain the difference between disinfection and sterilization and classify three salon implements into each category.

Identify the four basic haircutting sections and the corresponding distribution and elevation for each.

Explain the difference between a blunt, graduated, layered, and long-layered cut in terms of elevation and tension.

Demonstrate the safe handling of shears, razors, and clippers, including proper body mechanics.

Describe the four texturizing techniques (point cutting, notching, slicing, channel cutting) and their visual effect.

List three client factors (growth pattern, density, texture) that modify a haircut plan and state the adjustment for each.

Explain the color wheel and the law of color (primary, secondary, tertiary) and predict the outcome of two color corrections.

Differentiate temporary, semi-permanent, demi-permanent, and permanent color by molecule size and penetration depth.

Describe the role of developer volume (10, 20, 30, 40) and calculate a basic lift-and-deposit formulation.

Sequence a virgin-application permanent color service, including patch test, strand test, and scalp protection.

Identify three signs of a chemical burn or allergic reaction and state the immediate response for each.

Explain the chemistry of a relaxer (hydroxide vs. thio) and the role of the pH scale in processing.

Describe the neutralization step and why it is non-negotiable after a relaxer service.

Differentiate a relaxer, a texturizer, and a curl (perm) in terms of bond disruption and reformer.

Demonstrate the five basic nail shapes and the filing direction that protects the nail plate.

List the steps of a basic manicure and identify the infection-control checkpoints in each.

Describe the structure of the nail (plate, bed, matrix, cuticle, lunula) and match each to a service risk.

Explain the difference between a pedicure and a medical pedicure and list three contraindications for each.

Identify the three skin types (normal, dry, oily) and the three skin conditions (dehydrated, sensitive, acne) and recommend a basic regimen for each.

Sequence a basic facial, including cleansing, exfoliation, extractions, massage, and masking, with sanitation at each step.

Explain the Fitzpatrick scale and its use in selecting treatment intensity and sun protection.

Label the major bones of the skull and face and state one service relevance for each.

Describe the three main muscles of mastication and the two muscles of facial expression most relevant to massage.

Explain the pH scale and give the approximate pH of skin, hair, shampoo, and a relaxer.

Summarize the Louisiana cosmetology law requirements for licensure, renewal, and continuing education.

List the salon sanitation and safety rules in Louisiana, including disinfection, labeling, and client records.

Complete two full-length timed practice exams and record your score by domain.

Review every missed question and write a one-sentence correction for each.

Rehearse the Louisiana law cheat sheet until you can reproduce it from memory.

Re-demonstrate the weakest practical skill (haircut, color, or manicure) under timed conditions.

Build a final one-page summary sheet of the ten facts you are most likely to forget.