MD Esthetician study plan

Classify at least 20 salon tools, implements, and surfaces into the correct infection-control tier (sanitation, disinfection, or sterilization) based on how they contact the client.

Identify the EPA-registered hospital-grade disinfectant categories used in Maryland salons and record the label contact time for each.

Diagram the chain of infection and name at least two break points an esthetician controls at each link.

Sequence the steps of proper handwashing, glove use, and single-use supply handling from setup through cleanup.

Summarize the Maryland Board of Cosmetology scope of practice for estheticians and list at least six acts that fall outside that scope.

Outline Maryland licensure requirements, renewal cycle, and continuing education obligations for estheticians.

Explain the salon safety requirements for SDS access, bloodborne pathogen exposure response, and client record handling.

Apply the correct response to three written salon scenarios involving a scope-of-practice or safety violation.

Label the layers of the skin, appendages, and at least eight facial muscles from memory and state one function of each.

Describe the purpose and contraindications of each basic facial massage manipulation (effleurage, petrissage, tapotement, friction, vibration).

Sequence a full basic facial from consultation and cleansing through massage, masking, and finishing products with realistic timing.

Select appropriate cleansing and exfoliation methods for oily, dry, and sensitive skin presentations.

Differentiate the four main skin types from skin conditions and justify each classification using observable characteristics.

Distinguish contagious skin disorders and diseases from non-contagious ones and state the correct action for each (treat, refer, or decline service).

Compile at least 15 contraindications to facial services and link each to its underlying reason.

Match Fitzpatrick skin types to expected treatment response and risk of post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation.

Classify at least 30 cosmetic ingredients by primary function (humectant, emollient, occlusive, exfoliant, surfactant, preservative, active).

Explain the pH scale and predict how low-pH and high-pH products affect the acid mantle and skin barrier.

Compare AHA and BHA exfoliants by mechanism, typical concentration range, and client-suitability differences.

Match each ingredient category to the skin type or condition it best serves and the condition it may aggravate.

Compare soft wax, hard wax, and sugaring by composition, application temperature, removal technique, and appropriate treatment area.

Assemble a waxing contraindication and pre/post-care checklist covering medications, skin conditions, and recent cosmetic treatments.

Describe the basic mechanism and client-selection criteria for laser/IPL hair removal and microdermabrasion, and identify which of these an esthetician may and may not perform under Maryland scope.

Restate the disinfection and double-dipping rules that apply to wax pots, spatulas, and reusable implements.

Apply color theory to select foundation, concealer, and blush shades for three written client profiles.

Structure a client consultation that captures skin history, allergies, medications, lifestyle, and service expectations.

Explain retail pricing, service markups, and basic recordkeeping math used in a small esthetic practice.

Justify product recommendations in a retail setting using ingredient function and client skin analysis.

Complete two full-length timed practice exams under test-day conditions.

Categorize every missed item by domain and identify the three weakest domains from the results.

Re-drill missed content using flashcards and targeted re-reading until each weak domain reaches 85% or higher on a re-quiz.

Recite the highest-yield safety, law, and contraindication facts from memory without notes.