ND Cosmetology study plan

Define the chain of infection and identify the six links with one salon example for each link

Classify salon tools as single-use, reusable porous, or reusable nonporous and match each class to an approved disinfection or sterilization method

Differentiate cleaning, sanitizing, disinfection, and sterilization using state board terminology

Explain how bacteria, viruses, fungi, and parasites differ in transmission and in the products that inactivate them

List the safety and health standards that govern salon practice, including employer hazard communication and blood exposure handling

Describe the structure and growth cycle of hair, skin, and nails well enough to explain why chemical services behave differently on each

Identify the bones, muscles, and nerves of the head, face, neck, and hands that affect service safety and massage technique

Compare the properties of water, surfactants, and pH as they apply to shampooing, conditioning, and skin cleansing

Explain the basics of electricity and light therapy as they apply to salon equipment safety

Match common skin and scalp disorders to whether a cosmetologist may serve the client or must refer out

Perform draping and client protection setups for wet, dry, and chemical services without cross-contamination

Demonstrate the four basic haircutting sections and the parting patterns used for uniform and graduated cuts

Execute blunt, graduated, and layered cuts on a mannequin while holding consistent elevation and tension

Select shears, razors, and clippers appropriately and describe their maintenance and disinfection needs

Explain the hair analysis factors that change a cut or style plan, including density, texture, porosity, and growth patterns

Demonstrate shampooing, scalp massage, and conditioning with correct pressure, water temperature, and product selection

Execute blow-dry styling and thermal iron work with proper tension, sectioning, and heat protection

Build updo and braiding foundations that hold shape without excess pinning or product

Explain hair and scalp analysis findings in client-friendly language and tie each to a recommended service

Identify the safety limits for thermal tools and the signs of heat or tension damage

Explain the color wheel and the law of color as the basis for formulating and correcting tone

Calculate developer strength, mixing ratios, and processing times for permanent, demi-permanent, and semi-permanent color

Perform a patch test and strand test and document the results before a color service

Describe the chemistry of relaxers, waves, and curl re-forming, including the role of the reducing agent and neutralizer

Diagnose at least five common color and texture failures and write the corrective service plan for each

Apply a single-process color and a foil highlight on a mannequin using correct sectioning and saturation

Demonstrate a relaxer or wave service on a mannequin with correct base control, timing, and neutralizing

Explain the risks of overlapping services and how to test for compatibility before a chemical service

Describe how to handle an adverse reaction, including stopping the service, rinsing, and documenting

Compare aftercare recommendations for color-treated and chemically textured hair

Perform a skin analysis and select facial products by skin type and condition

Demonstrate facial cleansing, exfoliation, massage movements, mask application, and moisturizing in the correct order

Identify skin conditions that require referral and the scope limits on esthetic services in a cosmetology license

Execute a basic manicure and pedicure with correct nail shaping, cuticle care, and massage technique

Apply nail product and polish with proper sanitation between clients, including tool immersion and hand-washing protocol

Outline the business skills a licensed cosmetologist needs, including booth rental versus commission, pricing, and record keeping

Summarize the state board rules on licensing, sanitation inspections, and scope of practice

Describe professional ethics and the client communication habits that reduce liability

Complete two full-length timed practice exams and review every missed item by domain

Build a personal weak-area list and schedule review sessions for the final week before the exam