NE Cosmetology study plan

Label a blank diagram of the hair follicle, labeling at least 8 structures (bulb, papilla, medulla, cortex, cuticle, sebaceous gland, arrector pili, root sheath) from memory with 90% accuracy

Define and correctly use 25 key trichology terms (anagen, telogen, catagen, hair density, porosity, elasticity, cortex, medulla) in a self-written glossary

Explain the three growth cycles and identify which cycle permits chemical services, citing two reasons why

Describe the layers of the hair shaft and predict how each layer reacts to water, heat, and alkaline solutions

Differentiate the four hair porosity levels and write the wet/dry test procedure for each

Compare the three hair texture categories and match each to an appropriate combing, drying, and product strategy

Analyze at least 6 client scenarios (e.g., overprocessed, fine and oily, coarse and dry) and write a hair-care recommendation for each

Identify the composition of hair (carbon, oxygen, hydrogen, nitrogen, sulfur) and explain the role of the disulfide, salt, and hydrogen bonds

Explain the pH scale and predict how acidic versus alkaline products affect the cuticle and scalp

Sequence the wet styling, blow-drying, and thermal styling procedures and list the tool and product used at each step

Demonstrate and describe at least 4 thermal styling techniques (blow-dry with brush, flat iron, curling iron, hot rollers) including temperature ranges by hair type

Diagram the three-section parting and explain why section size affects service outcome

Explain the chemistry of permanent waving (reduction with thioglycolate, disulfide bond breakage, neutralization/oxidation) in a written summary

Classify the three relaxer types (sodium hydroxide, lithium hydroxide, guanidine hydroxide) and state the hair type and precautions for each

Calculate processing-time variables and list at least 5 reasons a relaxer or wave may underprocess or overprocess

Outline the patch test, strand test, and client-consultation steps required before any chemical service

Explain the hair color wheel, level system (1-10), and developer volumes and predict the outcome of at least 8 color formulations

Differentiate temporary, semipermanent, and permanent color and state the action mechanism of each

Describe the procedure for a virgin bleach application and a root retouch, including why retouches avoid overlapping previously lightened hair

List at least 6 contraindications for color services and the corrective action for each

Label the structures of the natural nail and identify the growth and health signs that require referral to a physician

Sequence a complete manicure and pedicure and list the sanitation step required between every client

Compare the five nail shapes and select the appropriate shape for at least 4 hand and finger types

Describe the three skin types, the basic facial procedure, and the contraindications for facial massage and exfoliation

Explain the difference between disinfection and sterilization and identify which implements require which

Define the Nebraska cosmetology license types, renewal cycle, and continuing education requirement, and verify each against the current Nebraska statute and board rules

Classify at least 10 salon items as single-use, disinfectable, or requiring sterilization, and state the correct product contact time

Explain the difference between cleaning, disinfection, and sterilization and identify the EPA-registered hospital disinfectant requirement for implements

List at least 6 safety hazards in the salon (slip, burn, chemical, electrical, ergonomic) and the prevention step for each

Describe the Nebraska rules on client records, sanitation inspections, and unlicensed practice, noting penalties

Complete a timed 100-question mixed practice exam under exam conditions and score 80% or better

Review every missed item and write a one-sentence correction for each, tagging it to its domain

Re-drill the two weakest domains with 20 targeted questions each

Recite the sanitation and Nebraska law one-sheet from memory with 90% accuracy