MT Cosmetology case studies

MT Cosmetology · Put your knowledge to work in context.

The Montana cosmetology credential is a state-issued license that lets you legally perform hair, skin, and nail services for paying clients in Montana. It is for students finishing an approved cosmetology program and for out-of-state licensees seeking Montana licensure through endorsement. The MT Cosmetology case studies are 5 cases and about 3,732 words.

The Cowlick, the Box Dye, and the 45-Minute Pixie

Danielle, 27, books a 45-minute appointment and brings a photo of a tapered pixie with a 3-inch textured top and a disconnected undercut at the nape. Her hair: fine strand diameter, medium density, straight at the nape, with a strong clockwise crown whorl about 3 cm left of center and a forward growth pattern at both temples.

746 words, about 4 min 2

Relaxer Six Weeks Ago, Highlights in Two and a Half Hours

Keisha, 34, is booked for a 2.5-hour appointment. She wants all-over "honey" highlights at level 8; her base is a natural level 3.

755 words, about 4 min 3

Lip Wax, Adapalene, and a Cold Sore Ten Days Ago

Alana, 41, books a 30-minute lip-and-brow wax before a work event in three days. On the intake form she writes that she started adapalene 0.3% gel three weeks ago and used a 30% glycolic acid home peel four days ago.

698 words, about 3 min 4

The Dropped Nipper and the Foot Spa on a Saturday

Saturday, 2 p.m., a six-station salon with three manicure tables. You are the senior licensee on the floor.

772 words, about 4 min 5

The Owner's Shortcuts and a Montana License on the Wall

You are six months into your first cosmetology license in Montana, working at a 10-chair salon. On a busy Friday the owner asks you to: (a) let the unlicensed front-desk receptionist "just shampoo and apply toner" during the rush, at $3 per service bonus; (b) add dermaplaning to the menu using #10 surgical blades the owner bought online, with a 20-minute video as training; (c) perform a "quick trim" on a raised, dark mole on a client's scalp before his haircut; and (d) skip documenting a patch test because "nobody checks." The owner also says, "Montana has no continuing education, so you don't need to read the rules." The receptionist is eager.

761 words, about 4 min