MD Cosmetology study guide
MD Cosmetology · Work through your exam, one topic at a time.
The Maryland Cosmetology License Examination is the credentialing pathway for people who want to work as licensed cosmetologists in Maryland, covering hair care and hairdressing, esthetics and skin care, nail technology and manicuring, infection control and safety, and Maryland cosmetology law and regulations. This page is an independent study resource built for candidates preparing for that licensing exam. The MD Cosmetology study guide has 5 sections and about 1,459 words.
01Hair Care and Hairdressing: Structure, Services, and Chemical Safety
The hair shaft has three layers: the cuticle (overlapping protective scales), the cortex (the bulk of the fiber, holding pigment and tensile strength), and the medulla (a central core that may be absent in fine hair). Growth cycles are anagen (active, roughly 2–6 years), catagen (transition, about 2–3 weeks), and telogen (resting/shedding, about 3–4 months).
325 words, about 2 min02Esthetics and Skin Care: Assessment, Facial Services, and Contraindications
The epidermis is the outer barrier; the dermis contains collagen, elastin, nerves, and blood vessels; the subcutaneous layer stores fat. Fitzpatrick types I–VI estimate sun response and guide treatment intensity.
264 words, about 1 min03Nail Technology and Manicuring: Anatomy, Services, and Client Safety
The nail plate sits over the nail bed. The matrix produces the plate; the lunula is the visible portion of the matrix.
299 words, about 1 min04Infection Control, Sanitation, and Safety: Breaking the Chain of Infection
Pathogens include bacteria, viruses, fungi, and parasites. Bloodborne viruses such as hepatitis B, hepatitis C, and HIV spread through blood and body fluids.
276 words, about 1 min05Maryland Cosmetology Law and Regulations: Licensure, Salons, and Enforcement
The Maryland Board of Cosmetologists, within the Maryland Department of Labor, licenses cosmetologists, senior cosmetologists, master cosmetologists, estheticians, and nail technicians. Licensing requires meeting age and education requirements, completing approved training hours, and passing the required examinations.
295 words, about 1 min