MA Cosmetology study plan

Label a blank head diagram from memory with the five reference points, four corners, and seven standard cutting sections, then state which section governs each elevation angle.

Build a one-page comparison chart that matches each of the four basic cut types (solid form, graduated, increase-layer, uniform-layer) to its elevation, finger angle, subsection size, and distribution.

List the three stages of the hair growth cycle and the three layers of the hair shaft, and state which layer every chemical service must reach to work.

Sequence the full infection-control routine from hand washing through final tool storage, and sort a list of 20 salon items into 'immerse in hospital-grade disinfectant,' 'spray/wipe,' and 'single-use discard only.'

Execute one 90-degree graduated cut and one 180-degree uniform-layer cut on a mannequin, writing out elevation, subsection size, and distribution before each cut and checking the finished result against a 10-point rubric.

Differentiate elevation from overdirection and generate two written examples of each with the resulting weight line described.

Construct a texturizing table covering point cutting, notching, slicing, and chipping that lists the tool, the effect on the weight line, and one situation where each should not be used.

Convert three written consultations (face shape, growth pattern, cowlick location, density) into step-by-step cutting plans that name the section, elevation, and finishing technique.

Reproduce the color wheel from memory and predict the outcome of every primary-plus-secondary pairing, including the neutralization pair used to cancel each unwanted tone.

Calculate developer strength against lift: for five target scenarios, state the volume needed, the maximum levels of lift, and the underlying pigment exposed.

Order the patch test and strand test procedures step by step, and state for which services and client histories each one is required.

Decode ten haircolor labels by identifying base level, tonal value, grey-coverage capability, mixing ratio, and whether the product can lift or only deposit.

Convert five natural-level client requests into full formulas that include the target level, the needed neutralization, and the expected exposed underlying pigment.

Explain disulfide-bond chemistry in writing: name the bonds broken by thioglycolate acid perms, by ammonium bisulfite, and by hydroxide relaxers, and describe how each is reformed or neutralized.

Sequence a complete relaxer service from consultation and scalp protection through smoothing, rinse timing, neutralization, and post-service conditioning, with no steps out of order and no notes visible.

Compare thio and hydroxide relaxers on pH, active ingredient, application speed, and contraindications, including why a thio relaxer must not be applied over hydroxide-relaxed hair.

Describe relaxer retouch rules: when to schedule, how to avoid overlap, and what to do when a scalp abrasion is present on service day.

Distinguish the three common perm tool patterns (booked/9-section, brick-lay, spiral) by rod placement and the resulting curl direction, and sketch each pattern on paper.

Set a temperature safety chart for blow dryers, curling irons, flat irons, pressing combs, and hot rollers that names the safe range for fine, medium, and coarse-resistant hair and the hair condition each range is contraindicated for.

Explain how nozzle angle and tension control volume versus smoothness in a blow-dry, and demonstrate both outcomes on a mannequin while narrating each pass.

Name the parts of a thermal iron and describe the wrap technique for a basic curl, a reverse curl, and a ripple, stating the effect of each on direction and root lift.

Match six shampoo categories (clarifying, balancing, moisturizing, medicated, volumizing, color-protecting) to the hair and scalp conditions each serves, and state one misuse for each.

Sequence the shampoo service from draping and patch test through scalp massage, rinse, towel dry, and finishing, and list five contraindications that would stop a scalp massage.

Explain the pH scale and describe how shampoo and conditioner pH affects cuticle layering, then place five product types on the scale with correct approximate values.

Differentiate surface, penetrating, and protein conditioners by the hair layer each affects and the condition each is indicated for, giving two examples of each.

Draw and label the layers of the skin and its appendages from memory, then list the six functions of the skin.

Classify the four main skin types plus two common skin conditions and select the appropriate cleansing, exfoliation, mask, and moisturizing step for each.

Sequence a basic facial from consultation and skin analysis through cleansing, exfoliation, massage, mask, and finishing products, with time estimates and five contraindications that end or modify the service.

Distinguish effleurage, petrissage, tapotement, friction, and vibration by hand movement and state the physiological effect and the contraindication for each.

Label the nail unit from memory: nail plate, nail bed, matrix, lunula, cuticle, eponychium, hyponychium, free edge, sidewall, and nail folds, and state which structure governs nail growth.

Sort 20 nail and skin conditions into 'serve with precautions' and 'refer to a physician,' with one line of written reasoning for each placement.

Sequence a basic manicure and a basic pedicure as separate lists, covering shaping, cuticle care, massage, base coat, polish application, and drying, and note where each differs for a client with diabetes.

Explain monomer and polymer chemistry, UV gel curing, and the ventilation, MSDS, and skin-sensitivity precautions required when using nail enhancements.

Build a one-page summary of the Massachusetts licensing and sanitation rules that govern cosmetology practice, citing the regulation numbers, and verify every entry against the current state licensing board text before finalizing.

Recite the required response to a blood or body-fluid exposure, from stopping the service through cleanup, disinfection, disposal, and documentation.

List the record-keeping and labeling duties a licensed professional owes for disinfectant solutions, implements, and single-use supplies, and state the consequence of each failure.

Take two full-length timed 100-question practice exams under exam conditions and rework every missed item into a corrected note card grouped by domain.