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NABTEB Cosmetology study materials
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NABTEB Cosmetology practice questions

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Question 1Occupational Health, Safety and Hygiene in the Salon

A cosmetology apprentice is about to sweep hair clippings from the salon floor. Which piece of personal protective equipment is most appropriate for this specific task?

  1. Closed work shoes with non-slip soles
  2. A dust mask covering the nose and mouth Correct answer.
  3. A disposable apron tied at the waist
  4. A face shield worn over the eyes and mouth

Explanation

Sweeping generates airborne hair dust and fine particles that can be inhaled, so respiratory protection such as a dust mask is the priority control. Eye and body protection do not stop inhalation, and non-slip shoes protect against slips rather than dust. The hazard being controlled determines which PPE is selected.

Question 2Occupational Health, Safety and Hygiene in the Salon

In a salon, which practice is the correct way to handle a client who has an open cut on the scalp before a chemical service?

  1. Postpone the service until the skin has healed Correct answer.
  2. Apply the chemical quickly to reduce contact time
  3. Proceed with the service after wiping the cut with water
  4. Cover the cut with a cotton pad and continue

Explanation

Broken skin allows chemicals such as relaxers and dyes to enter the body and cause irritation or systemic harm, and it is also more vulnerable to infection. The safe rule is to defer any chemical service until the scalp has healed. Water alone does not create a protective barrier, and speed does not remove the risk.

Question 3Occupational Health, Safety and Hygiene in the Salon

What is the primary reason for washing hands with soap and running water before and after every client in a salon?

  1. To remove the smell of hair products from the hands
  2. To break the chain of cross-contamination between clients Correct answer.
  3. To keep the nails looking clean for the client
  4. To soften the skin of the hands before styling

Explanation

Hands are the most common vehicle for transferring microorganisms between clients, tools and surfaces. Handwashing with soap and running water interrupts this transmission route. Cosmetic and comfort reasons are secondary and do not justify the procedure on health grounds.

Question 4Occupational Health, Safety and Hygiene in the Salon

A bottle of salon disinfectant is labelled as a tuberculocidal product. Which statement best describes what this means for salon use?

  1. It sterilises tools by destroying all bacterial spores
  2. It only cleans visible dirt and does not kill microorganisms
  3. It kills Mycobacterium tuberculosis and is classed as a hospital-grade disinfectant Correct answer.
  4. It is a mild antiseptic suitable for use on broken skin

Explanation

Tuberculocidal activity is used as a benchmark because the tubercle organism is comparatively hard to kill; products that achieve it are regarded as hospital-grade disinfectants. Such products are for surfaces and implements, not for skin. Sterilisation is a higher process that destroys all microbial life including spores.

Question 5Occupational Health, Safety and Hygiene in the Salon

After a blood spill on the salon floor, what is the correct sequence of action?

  1. Mop with water, then apply a fragrance spray
  2. Put on gloves, absorb the spill, clean, then disinfect the area Correct answer.
  3. Sprinkle powder over the spill and sweep it later
  4. Wipe with a dry paper towel and resume work

Explanation

Blood is a potential source of bloodborne pathogens, so gloves must be worn before contact. The area is then cleaned of organic matter and disinfected, because disinfectants work poorly in the presence of blood or dirt. Simply wiping or masking the spill leaves infectious material behind.

Question 6Occupational Health, Safety and Hygiene in the Salon

Which of the following best explains why a salon should keep a Material Safety Data Sheet, now often called a Safety Data Sheet, for each chemical product?

  1. It lists the retail price and shelf life of the product
  2. It proves the product has been approved for sale in the country
  3. It gives hazard, first-aid and handling information for the product Correct answer.
  4. It confirms the product has passed a skin allergy test

Explanation

A Safety Data Sheet communicates the hazards of a substance and how to store, handle and respond to exposure, which supports safe salon practice. It is not a marketing or approval certificate. Staff should know where the sheets are kept and how to read them.

Question 7Occupational Health, Safety and Hygiene in the Salon

A stylist develops red, itchy patches on the hands and wrists after several months of working with shampoos and colour products. What is the most likely occupational explanation?

  1. A vitamin deficiency caused by standing for long hours
  2. Contact dermatitis caused by repeated exposure to salon chemicals Correct answer.
  3. A fungal infection caught from a client's comb
  4. A burn from the salon hairdryer

Explanation

Prolonged contact with surfactants, dyes and other chemicals commonly causes irritant or allergic contact dermatitis on the hands. The pattern of redness and itching at contact sites supports this. It is an occupational skin disease and should be reported and assessed.

Question 8Occupational Health, Safety and Hygiene in the Salon

Which action best protects both the stylist and the client when performing a relaxer service?

  1. Rinsing the product out with the client's head tilted back
  2. Working in a closed room to keep the smell away from others
  3. Wearing gloves and following the manufacturer's timing and instructions Correct answer.
  4. Applying the product with bare hands for better control

Explanation

Relaxers are strongly alkaline and can burn skin and eyes, so gloves and strict adherence to manufacturer instructions are essential controls. Bare-hand application increases exposure. Ventilation should be improved rather than reduced, and eye protection during rinsing prevents chemical injury.

Question 9Occupational Health, Safety and Hygiene in the Salon

Why must salon work surfaces and shampoo bowls be cleaned and disinfected between clients?

  1. To prevent the build-up of hair colour stains
  2. To remove pathogens deposited by previous clients Correct answer.
  3. To satisfy the client that the salon looks busy
  4. To improve the shine of the salon furniture

Explanation

Surfaces touched by clients and staff can carry bacteria, fungi and viruses that transfer to the next person. Cleaning removes soil and disinfection reduces pathogens, breaking the chain of indirect contact transmission. Appearance and stain control are not the health reason.

Question 10Occupational Health, Safety and Hygiene in the Salon

A nail technician is filing a client's nails and fine dust is visible in the air. Which control is most effective at source?

  1. Wearing a wristwatch to keep track of time
  2. Wiping the table with a dry cloth afterwards
  3. Using a local exhaust ventilation unit at the work station Correct answer.
  4. Opening the window slightly at the end of the day

Explanation

Local exhaust ventilation captures dust and vapour at the point of generation before it enters the breathing zone, which is the most effective engineering control. General ventilation and cleaning afterwards are useful but act later. The hierarchy of controls favours removing the hazard at source.

Question 11Occupational Health, Safety and Hygiene in the Salon

Which statement about the storage of salon chemicals is correct?

  1. Products should be kept in their original labelled containers in a cool, locked area Correct answer.
  2. Bleach and ammonia products should be stored together for convenience
  3. Flammable products are best stored near a heat source to keep them dry
  4. Decanted products may be kept in unlabelled drink bottles

Explanation

Original labelled containers preserve safety information and prevent misidentification, while a cool, locked area limits unauthorised access and heat exposure. Mixing incompatible chemicals such as bleach and ammonia can release toxic gas. Decanting into food or drink containers is a well-known poisoning hazard.

Question 12Occupational Health, Safety and Hygiene in the Salon

What is the correct first-aid response when a client gets shampoo or a mild chemical splash in the eye?

  1. Flush the eye with clean running water for at least 15 minutes and seek medical help Correct answer.
  2. Ask the client to keep the eye closed until the stinging stops
  3. Apply a soothing eye cream and continue the service
  4. Rub the eye firmly with a tissue to remove the product

Explanation

Eye splashes require immediate and prolonged irrigation with clean running water to dilute and remove the chemical, followed by medical assessment. Rubbing can abrade the cornea and spread the chemical. Creams and waiting allow continued tissue damage.

Question 13Occupational Health, Safety and Hygiene in the Salon

Which of these is the most reliable way to reduce the risk of slipping on a wet salon floor?

  1. Cleaning spills immediately and displaying a wet-floor sign Correct answer.
  2. Wearing smooth-soled fashion shoes while working
  3. Placing a small towel over the wet patch
  4. Asking clients to walk slowly and carefully

Explanation

Prompt cleaning removes the hazard, and warning signs alert people while the floor is still wet. The hierarchy of controls favours eliminating the slip hazard rather than relying on behaviour. Smooth soles reduce grip and increase the risk.

Question 14Occupational Health, Safety and Hygiene in the Salon

A salon uses an autoclave for metal implements. What does autoclaving achieve that ordinary chemical disinfection does not?

  1. It removes hair and sebum from the tools
  2. It sterilises by destroying all microorganisms including spores Correct answer.
  3. It makes the metal tools shinier and easier to use
  4. It replaces the need for handwashing in the salon

Explanation

Autoclaving uses pressurised steam at high temperature to sterilise, killing all microbial life including bacterial spores that many disinfectants cannot destroy. Cleaning must still precede sterilisation, and hand hygiene remains essential. Sterilisation and disinfection are different levels of microbial control.

Question 15Occupational Health, Safety and Hygiene in the Salon

What is the main health risk of using a hairdryer with a damaged, taped electrical cord in a wet salon area?

  1. Faster drying of the client's hair
  2. Increased noise levels in the salon
  3. Electric shock from exposed conductors combined with water Correct answer.
  4. Reduced airflow from the dryer

Explanation

Damaged insulation exposes live conductors, and water or wet hands greatly increase the severity of electric shock. Electrical equipment in wet areas must be inspected and faulty items taken out of use. The other effects are minor compared with electrocution risk.

Question 16Occupational Health, Safety and Hygiene in the Salon

Why should aerosol hairspray and other flammable products be kept away from open flames and hot styling tools?

  1. They can discolour the client's hair
  2. Their vapours can ignite and cause a flash fire Correct answer.
  3. They make the tools rust more quickly
  4. They lose their fragrance when warmed

Explanation

Aerosol propellants and many solvents are flammable, and their vapours can ignite near a flame, cigarette or hot tool. This can cause a flash fire and serious burns. Storage and use should avoid ignition sources and ensure ventilation.

Question 17Occupational Health, Safety and Hygiene in the Salon

A salon worker complains of headaches and dizziness whenever strong chemical treatments are done in a poorly ventilated back room. What is the most appropriate first step?

  1. Ignore the symptoms because they are common in salons
  2. Ask the worker to hold her breath during treatment
  3. Give the worker a painkiller and continue the service
  4. Increase ventilation and review product use before continuing work Correct answer.

Explanation

Headache and dizziness in a poorly ventilated space are warning signs of solvent or vapour exposure. The correct response is to improve ventilation and reassess the products and procedures before further exposure. Masking symptoms with medication leaves the hazard in place.

Question 18Occupational Health, Safety and Hygiene in the Salon

Which client should a cosmetologist refer for medical advice before a chemical hair service?

  1. A client with a history of severe allergic reaction to hair dye Correct answer.
  2. A client who has had a cold in the past week
  3. A client who has recently changed shampoo
  4. A client who prefers a shorter styling time

Explanation

A previous severe allergic reaction indicates sensitisation and risk of a life-threatening reaction on re-exposure, so patch testing and medical advice are needed. Recent colds, styling preferences and shampoo changes are not contraindications to chemical services.

Question 19Occupational Health, Safety and Hygiene in the Salon

What is the purpose of a patch test before applying a hair dye to a client for the first time?

  1. To confirm the client's preferred shade
  2. To check how long the colour will last
  3. To detect a possible allergic reaction before full application Correct answer.
  4. To decide which developer strength to use

Explanation

A patch test applies a small amount of product to the skin to reveal sensitisation or allergy before the full treatment. This reduces the risk of a severe reaction during the service. It does not test colour durability, developer choice or shade preference.

Question 20Occupational Health, Safety and Hygiene in the Salon

A salon is reviewing its waste disposal. Which item requires special handling rather than ordinary bin disposal?

  1. Empty shampoo bottles rinsed clean
  2. Swept hair clippings from the floor
  3. Blood-stained cotton wool from a cut Correct answer.
  4. Paper appointment cards

Explanation

Items contaminated with blood are potentially infectious and must be handled as clinical or hazardous waste according to local rules, not placed in general refuse. Clean hair, rinsed containers and paper are ordinary waste. Correct segregation protects cleaners and the public.

Question 21Occupational Health, Safety and Hygiene in the Salon

Which statement correctly distinguishes cleaning from disinfection in salon practice?

  1. Cleaning removes visible soil while disinfection reduces pathogens on a surface Correct answer.
  2. Disinfection is only needed when a client complains
  3. Cleaning kills all microorganisms while disinfection removes dirt
  4. Cleaning and disinfection are the same process under different names

Explanation

Cleaning physically removes dirt, oils and organic matter, while disinfection uses chemicals to reduce or destroy pathogens. Disinfection works best after cleaning because organic soil can inactivate disinfectants. They are complementary steps, not synonyms.

Question 22Occupational Health, Safety and Hygiene in the Salon

A stylist notices that a disinfectant solution in a jar has become cloudy and contains hair and debris. What is the best action?

  1. Add more water to dilute the cloudiness
  2. Use the solution only for tools that look clean
  3. Top up the jar with fresh disinfectant and keep using it
  4. Discard the solution, clean the jar and prepare a fresh batch Correct answer.

Explanation

Organic matter such as hair and debris inactivates disinfectant and makes it ineffective. The solution must be discarded and the container cleaned before a fresh batch is made according to the label. Diluting or topping up does not restore efficacy.

Question 23Occupational Health, Safety and Hygiene in the Salon

A salon owner wants to reduce ergonomic injury among stylists who stand all day. Which combination of measures is most appropriate?

  1. Higher heels to improve posture
  2. Skipping breaks to reduce total standing time
  3. Longer shifts so staff finish work sooner
  4. Anti-fatigue mats, adjustable chairs and regular posture breaks Correct answer.

Explanation

Ergonomic injury from prolonged standing and awkward postures is reduced by supportive flooring, adjustable equipment and frequent changes of position. Longer shifts and skipped breaks increase cumulative strain. Footwear should provide comfort and support, not raise the heel.

Question 24Occupational Health, Safety and Hygiene in the Salon

Which of the following best explains why salon staff should be trained in the safe use of chemicals rather than relying only on warning labels?

  1. Training allows staff to ignore the manufacturer's instructions
  2. Labels are removed once a product is opened
  3. Training enables staff to assess risk, use controls and respond to exposure Correct answer.
  4. Labels are always written in a foreign language

Explanation

Training develops the competence to identify hazards, apply controls such as gloves and ventilation, and respond correctly to spills or exposure. Labels are important but cannot cover every situation or ensure safe behaviour. Manufacturer instructions must always be followed.

Question 25Tools, Equipment and Salon Implements: Identification, Use and Maintenance

A cosmetology student is setting up a workstation and needs to identify the implement used to protect the client's clothing during a shampoo and haircut service. Which item is designed specifically for this purpose?

  1. A neck strip
  2. A towel turban
  3. A cutting cape Correct answer.
  4. A styling apron

Explanation

A cutting cape is the garment fastened around the client's neck to cover the clothing and prevent hair, water, and product from reaching it during cutting, shampooing, and chemical services. Neck strips and towels serve hygiene or drying functions rather than full clothing protection.

Question 26Tools, Equipment and Salon Implements: Identification, Use and Maintenance

During a manicure, the technician must remove product residue from the surface of metal nippers between clients. Which practice best maintains both the tool and salon hygiene standards?

  1. Soak the nippers in acetone overnight and air-dry
  2. Scrub the nippers with a stiff wire brush and store them dry
  3. Wipe with a dry tissue and return to the drawer
  4. Clean with a soft brush, disinfect, then store in a closed container Correct answer.

Explanation

Metal implements should be cleaned of debris with a soft brush, then fully immersed in an approved disinfectant for the labelled contact time before being stored in a clean, closed container. Abrasive or solvent treatments damage the metal and do not substitute for proper disinfection.

Question 27Tools, Equipment and Salon Implements: Identification, Use and Maintenance

A stylist notices that the blades of a pair of haircutting shears have become slightly misaligned and are pulling the hair. What is the most appropriate action?

  1. Replace the finger rest and resume cutting
  2. Oil the pivot and keep using the shears
  3. Loosen the tension screw and continue cutting
  4. Send the shears to a professional sharpener for servicing Correct answer.

Explanation

Misaligned or dull blades that pull hair require professional servicing, including sharpening and re-tensioning by a qualified sharpener. Attempting to adjust the pivot or merely oiling will not correct blade alignment and may worsen the damage.

Question 28Tools, Equipment and Salon Implements: Identification, Use and Maintenance

Which electrical safety feature should a professional check on a hood hair dryer before seating a client under it?

  1. The length of the timer dial
  2. The brand name on the housing
  3. The rating of the thermostat and the condition of the cord Correct answer.
  4. The colour of the power cord

Explanation

Before use, the operator should verify that the thermostat and cord are intact and correctly rated, since faulty wiring or overheating creates fire and shock hazards. Cosmetic details such as cord colour or brand do not indicate electrical safety.

Question 29Tools, Equipment and Salon Implements: Identification, Use and Maintenance

A blow-dryer attachment that concentrates airflow into a narrow stream for smoothing and directing hair is called a:

  1. Comb attachment
  2. Concentrator nozzle Correct answer.
  3. Pik
  4. Diffuser

Explanation

A concentrator nozzle narrows the airflow so it can be aimed precisely at a section of hair for smoothing and directional styling. A diffuser spreads the air, a comb attachment detaches for combing, and a pik lifts and stretches curly hair.

Question 30Tools, Equipment and Salon Implements: Identification, Use and Maintenance

A salon uses a UV steriliser cabinet for combs and brushes. Which statement correctly describes the role of this equipment?

  1. It disinfects all implements including porous items
  2. It reduces microbial load but is not a substitute for cleaning and disinfection Correct answer.
  3. It removes product residue from the tools
  4. It sterilises metal shears completely

Explanation

UV cabinets are supplementary devices that can reduce surface microbial load on pre-cleaned items, but they do not replace cleaning or chemical disinfection and cannot penetrate soil or porous materials. Tools must first be cleaned and disinfected by an approved method.

Question 31Tools, Equipment and Salon Implements: Identification, Use and Maintenance

Which tool is used to section and hold hair in place while a colour service is being applied?

  1. A round brush and bobby pins
  2. A vent brush and hair pins
  3. A cutting comb and thinning shears
  4. A tail comb and sectioning clips Correct answer.

Explanation

A tail comb parts and isolates sections of hair, and sectioning clips hold those sections securely while colour or other product is applied. Brushes and shears are styling or cutting tools and are not used for holding sections during application.

Question 32Tools, Equipment and Salon Implements: Identification, Use and Maintenance

A cosmetologist is choosing a comb for detangling wet, fine hair without causing breakage. Which comb design is most suitable?

  1. A wide-toothed comb with smooth, rounded teeth Correct answer.
  2. A fine-toothed tail comb
  3. A metal styling comb
  4. A small barber comb

Explanation

A wide-toothed comb with smooth, rounded teeth glides through wet hair with less tension, reducing the risk of breakage on delicate hair. Fine-toothed or metal combs create drag and can snag wet strands.

Question 33Tools, Equipment and Salon Implements: Identification, Use and Maintenance

Which of the following best describes the correct way to store clean, disinfected brushes in a salon?

  1. Bristle-down in a disinfectant bath until use
  2. In a closed, clean container with bristles protected and handles upright or flat Correct answer.
  3. Lying flat in an open drawer with used tools
  4. Wrapped tightly in a towel on the trolley

Explanation

Clean brushes should be kept in a clean, closed container with the bristles protected so they keep their shape and remain free of contamination. Storing them with used tools or in disinfectant indefinitely damages bristles and compromises hygiene.

Question 34Tools, Equipment and Salon Implements: Identification, Use and Maintenance

A hairdresser needs to lift and straighten very curly or coarse hair while blow-drying. Which blow-dryer attachment is designed for this task?

  1. A diffuser
  2. A pik Correct answer.
  3. A soft brush attachment
  4. A concentrator nozzle

Explanation

A pik has long teeth that reach through dense, curly hair to lift and straighten it while directing warm air to the roots. Concentrators and diffusers serve different styling purposes and do not perform this lifting action.

Question 35Tools, Equipment and Salon Implements: Identification, Use and Maintenance

Which statement correctly distinguishes cleaning from disinfection of salon implements?

  1. Disinfection is only needed for porous items
  2. Cleaning and disinfection are the same process
  3. Cleaning removes visible soil, while disinfection destroys most pathogenic micro-organisms on cleaned surfaces Correct answer.
  4. Disinfection removes hair and product residue

Explanation

Cleaning physically removes visible soil such as hair and product, while disinfection uses an approved chemical agent to destroy most pathogenic micro-organisms on items that have already been cleaned. Disinfection does not work effectively on soiled tools.

Question 36Tools, Equipment and Salon Implements: Identification, Use and Maintenance

A cosmetologist is preparing a pedicure station and needs a tool to push back the cuticle and clean under the free edge. Which implement is designed for this?

  1. A cuticle pusher and curette Correct answer.
  2. Nail clippers and a file
  3. A cuticle nipper and a spatula
  4. A buffer block and a brush

Explanation

A cuticle pusher gently moves the eponychium back, and a curette has a curved edge for cleaning debris from under the free edge. Clippers, files, and buffers perform different functions and do not clean under the nail.

Question 37Tools, Equipment and Salon Implements: Identification, Use and Maintenance

A round brush used for blow-drying has begun to shed bristles and the barrel is bent. What is the correct professional response?

  1. Soak it in water to straighten the barrel
  2. Replace the brush, since damaged tools risk snagging and injury Correct answer.
  3. Wrap tape around the bent section and keep using it
  4. Trim the loose bristles and continue using it

Explanation

A damaged round brush with loose bristles or a bent barrel can snag hair, cause breakage, and injure the client, so it should be replaced. Improvised repairs do not restore safe function and can worsen the hazard.

Question 38Tools, Equipment and Salon Implements: Identification, Use and Maintenance

Which piece of salon equipment is designed to provide a steady, controlled supply of heat for accelerating the action of chemical relaxers or colour developers?

  1. A hooded dryer with a thermostat Correct answer.
  2. A steamer
  3. A curling iron
  4. A thermal cap

Explanation

A hooded dryer with a thermostat delivers controlled, even heat over the whole head to accelerate chemical processing. A steamer adds moisture, a curling iron is a styling tool, and a thermal cap uses retained body heat rather than a controlled external supply.

Question 39Tools, Equipment and Salon Implements: Identification, Use and Maintenance

Before disinfecting a set of metal cuticle nippers, the technician must first complete which step?

  1. Immerse them directly in disinfectant while still soiled
  2. Place them in the UV cabinet
  3. Wash them with soap and water and dry them thoroughly Correct answer.
  4. Wipe them with a dry cloth and store them

Explanation

Reusable implements must be cleaned of all visible soil with soap and water and dried before immersion in disinfectant, because organic matter prevents the disinfectant from reaching the surface. Skipping cleaning leaves the tool inadequately disinfected.

Question 40Tools, Equipment and Salon Implements: Identification, Use and Maintenance

A cosmetologist is selecting a towel for wrapping a client's wet hair after shampooing. Which property matters most for this use?

  1. High absorbency and adequate size to wrap the head Correct answer.
  2. A very thin, lightweight weave
  3. A dark colour that hides stains
  4. A decorative embroidered border

Explanation

A towel for wrapping wet hair should be highly absorbent and large enough to wrap the head securely so excess water is drawn from the hair. Decorative or colour features do not affect function, and a very thin weave absorbs poorly.

Question 41Tools, Equipment and Salon Implements: Identification, Use and Maintenance

A salon has a pair of electric clippers that overheat during use. What is the safest professional action?

  1. Switch to a higher speed setting to cool the motor
  2. Loosen the blade screws and keep cutting
  3. Continue using them and cool the blade with water
  4. Discontinue use and have the clippers inspected and repaired Correct answer.

Explanation

Overheating indicates a fault in the motor or wiring and creates burn and fire risks, so the clippers should be taken out of service and inspected by a qualified technician. Improvised cooling or adjustment does not address the underlying fault.

Question 42Tools, Equipment and Salon Implements: Identification, Use and Maintenance

Which tool is specifically designed to protect the client's skin from burns during a hot-oil or heated-wax service?

  1. A thermal mitt or heat-resistant pad Correct answer.
  2. A manicure brush
  3. A neck strip
  4. A spatula

Explanation

A thermal mitt or heat-resistant pad is used to shield the client's skin and the operator's hands from heat during hot-oil or heated-wax treatments. Spatulas apply product, neck strips protect the cape line, and manicure brushes are for nails.

Question 43Tools, Equipment and Salon Implements: Identification, Use and Maintenance

A cosmetologist is deciding how to transport freshly disinfected metal implements from the disinfectant tray to the workstation. Which method best preserves the disinfected state?

  1. Carry them loose in a pocket
  2. Return them to the disinfectant only when needed
  3. Place them on a clean, covered tray or in a closed container Correct answer.
  4. Wrap them in a used towel

Explanation

Disinfected implements should be transferred on a clean, covered tray or in a closed container so they do not contact contaminated surfaces before use. Loose or towel-wrapped transport reintroduces contamination.

Question 44Tools, Equipment and Salon Implements: Identification, Use and Maintenance

Which item is classified as a porous implement in the salon and therefore requires a different handling approach from metal tools?

  1. A nail file or emery board Correct answer.
  2. A pair of tweezers
  3. Stainless steel shears
  4. A metal cuticle pusher

Explanation

Nail files and emery boards are porous and cannot be reliably disinfected once used, so they are typically discarded or given to the client rather than reused. Metal implements such as shears, pushers, and tweezers can be cleaned and disinfected.

Question 45Hairdressing and Hair Care (shampooing, conditioning, styling, cutting, chemical services)

Which shampoo pH range best preserves the hair's natural acid mantle during routine washing?

  1. 4.5 to 5.5 Correct answer.
  2. 9.0 to 10.5
  3. 2.0 to 3.0
  4. 7.0 to 8.0

Explanation

Hair and scalp sit naturally in a mildly acidic range, so a shampoo near pH 4.5 to 5.5 keeps the cuticle layers lying flat and closed. Strongly alkaline or strongly acidic products disturb that mantle, leaving hair rough and prone to breakage.

Question 46Hairdressing and Hair Care (shampooing, conditioning, styling, cutting, chemical services)

During a scalp massage before shampooing, which movement direction is recommended?

  1. Circular movements made with the fingertips Correct answer.
  2. Rapid tapping with the flat of the hand only
  3. Back-and-forth rubbing with the fingernails
  4. Downward dragging with the palms

Explanation

Fingertip circular movements stimulate blood flow to the scalp without scratching the skin or tangling the hair. Fingernails and heavy dragging can damage the scalp and are avoided in professional massage.

Question 47Hairdressing and Hair Care (shampooing, conditioning, styling, cutting, chemical services)

A client with very oily hair and an oily scalp should be advised to shampoo how often?

  1. Twice a month with a hot oil treatment
  2. Daily or every other day Correct answer.
  3. Once every two weeks
  4. Only when the hair visibly smells

Explanation

Oily scalps produce excess sebum that quickly makes hair lank, so frequent washing, daily or every other day, keeps the scalp clean and the hair fresh. Stretching the interval allows oil to build up and can worsen the appearance.

Question 48Hairdressing and Hair Care (shampooing, conditioning, styling, cutting, chemical services)

Which ingredient in a conditioner mainly smooths the cuticle and reduces static?

  1. Sodium chloride
  2. Hydrogen peroxide
  3. Cationic surfactants Correct answer.
  4. Anionic surfactants

Explanation

Cationic surfactants carry a positive charge that binds to the negatively charged, damaged areas of hair, smoothing the cuticle and neutralising static. Anionic surfactants are cleansing agents and hydrogen peroxide is a bleaching agent, not a conditioning one.

Question 49Hairdressing and Hair Care (shampooing, conditioning, styling, cutting, chemical services)

Which comb is most suitable for detangling wet, curly hair without excessive breakage?

  1. A metal teasing comb
  2. A wide-toothed comb Correct answer.
  3. A small bristle brush
  4. A fine-toothed tail comb

Explanation

Wet hair is fragile, and a wide-toothed comb glides through curls with minimal pulling, reducing breakage. Fine teeth, metal teeth and tight bristles tug on tangles and snap the hair.

Question 50Hairdressing and Hair Care (shampooing, conditioning, styling, cutting, chemical services)

When blow-drying hair, holding the dryer nozzle pointing down the hair shaft helps to do what?

  1. Open the cuticle for volume
  2. Smooth the cuticle and add shine Correct answer.
  3. Lighten the hair colour
  4. Set a permanent wave

Explanation

Directing airflow downward, from root to tip, lays the cuticle flat so light reflects evenly and the hair looks smooth and shiny. Pointing the nozzle upward lifts the cuticle and creates a rougher surface.