MI Cosmetology key terms

A process that uses chemical products to destroy most harmful microorganisms on nonporous surfaces and tools, but does not kill bacterial spores. Tools must be cleaned before they are disinfected.

The complete destruction of all microbial life, including bacterial spores, usually achieved with an autoclave using high-pressure steam. It is required for items that contact broken skin or blood.

A standardized document supplied with a professional product that lists its ingredients, hazards, first-aid steps, and safe handling instructions. Keep one on file for every chemical used in the salon.

A scale from 0 to 14 that measures how acidic or alkaline a substance is. A pH of 7 is neutral; lower numbers are acidic and higher numbers are alkaline.

A direct electrical current used in facial treatments. One polarity pushes water-soluble products into the skin; the reverse polarity draws impurities out during treatments such as desincrustation.

The deeper, living layer of the skin beneath the epidermis. It contains blood vessels, nerves, hair follicles, and sebaceous glands, and it supplies nutrients to the epidermis.

A tube-shaped pocket in the skin that surrounds the hair root and anchors the hair. The follicle's shape determines whether hair grows straight, wavy, or curly.

The middle and thickest layer of a hair strand, made of elongated keratinized cells. It gives hair its strength, elasticity, and most of its natural color.

The ability of hair to absorb and hold moisture, determined largely by the condition of the cuticle. Low-porosity hair resists moisture; high-porosity hair absorbs and loses it quickly.

A test performed on a small section of hair before or during a chemical service to check how the hair is reacting. The results guide timing and product strength.

A small amount of product applied to the skin, usually behind the ear or in the elbow crease, 24 to 48 hours before a service, to check for an allergic reaction.

A chemical product that straightens curly or wavy hair by breaking bonds in the cortex. Relaxers are highly alkaline and require careful timing and protection of the scalp.

A relaxer that uses ammonium thioglycolate at an alkaline pH to break disulfide bonds and straighten hair. It must be followed by a neutralizer to rebuild the bonds.

A hydrogen peroxide solution that supplies the oxygen needed to develop permanent hair color and to lighten natural pigment. Its strength is measured in volumes.

The angle at which hair is held away from the head while it is cut. Elevation controls how much length is layered or graduated in the finished shape.

The number of hair strands per square inch of scalp. Density affects how much hair there is to work with and how a finished style will look.

A six-point classification of skin type based on how skin responds to sun exposure and how easily it tans or burns. It helps predict sensitivity during treatments.

An oily substance produced by the sebaceous glands that lubricates skin and hair and helps keep them waterproof. Excess sebum contributes to oily skin and clogged pores.

The removal of dead cells from the skin's surface, either mechanically with scrubs or chemically with acids and enzymes. It leaves skin smoother and brighter.

Describes a product or ingredient that tends to clog pores and can contribute to acne. Estheticians choose non-comedogenic products for clients who are prone to breakouts.

The careful removal of comedones or congestion from a pore, usually after softening the skin with warm steam. It must be done gently to avoid damage or scarring.

A galvanic treatment that softens and removes hardened oil and debris from the skin using an alkaline product and negative current. It is often performed before extractions.

The hard, visible part of the nail made of keratinized cells that sits on the nail bed. It protects the tip of the finger or toe.

The area at the base of the nail where new cells are produced. It is responsible for nail growth, and injury to it can permanently change nail shape.

A fungal infection of the nail that causes thickening, discoloration, and separation from the nail bed. It is contagious and should be referred to a physician.

The lifting or separation of the nail plate from the nail bed, often caused by trauma, aggressive filing, or infection. It leaves a whitish space under the nail.

Inflammation or infection of the tissue around the nail, causing redness, swelling, and pain. It can result from cuts, torn cuticles, or overly aggressive nail work.

The Michigan Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs, the state agency that licenses and regulates cosmetology professionals and salons. It handles applications, renewals, inspections, and complaints.

The Michigan board of appointed members that advises the state licensing agency on cosmetology rules, licensing standards, and disciplinary matters affecting the profession.

The set of services a licensed professional is legally trained and permitted to perform. Working outside it can result in loss of license and puts clients at risk.

A salon, school, or other facility that holds a state license to provide cosmetology services. Services generally must be performed in a licensed facility by a licensed or permitted person.

A conversation before a service in which the professional assesses the client's hair, skin, or nails, discusses goals, and reviews the service, products, and price.

The client's agreement to a service after being told what it involves, its risks, expected results, and alternatives. Documenting consent protects both the client and the professional.

The professional duty to keep a client's personal information and records private and to share them only when the client authorizes it or the law requires.