NABTEB Cosmetology study guide
NABTEB Cosmetology · Work through your exam, one topic at a time.
NABTEB Cosmetology is a trade subject within the National Business and Technical Examinations Board (NABTEB) system, which awards certificates to candidates in Nigeria's technical and vocational examinations. It suits students in technical colleges, apprentices in salons, and practising beauticians who want a recognised, examinable qualification covering the full range of salon work rather than a single skill. The NABTEB Cosmetology study guide has 9 sections and about 2,467 words.
01Occupational Health, Safety and Hygiene in the Salon
This section examines salon hazards, infection control and the duty to protect clients, staff and the public. Questions cover cleaning, disinfection and sterilisation, hand hygiene, chemical handling, electrical and fire safety, waste disposal and ergonomics.
304 words, about 2 min02Tools, Equipment and Salon Implements: Identification, Use and Maintenance
You must identify salon tools, explain their use and state how to maintain them safely. Expect shears, clippers, combs, brushes, dryers, hood dryers, steamers, trolleys, stools, capes and towels.
291 words, about 1 min03Hairdressing and Hair Care
This section covers shampooing, conditioning, styling, cutting and chemical services. The exam checks hair structure, pH, product selection, sectioning, elevation and safe chemical processing.
274 words, about 1 min04Barbering and Men's Grooming
This domain covers clipper work, fades, beard shaping, shaving, moustache work, hot towels and aftershave care. The exam tests direction of hair growth, guard numbers, blade angle and sanitation.
292 words, about 1 min05Nail Technology and Manicure/Pedicure Services
This section examines nail anatomy, disorders, manicure and pedicure procedure, massage, polish application and tool hygiene. It also tests when to refuse service and refer a client.
275 words, about 1 min06Skin Care, Facial Treatments and Make-up
This domain covers skin types, facial sequencing, massage, masks, extraction, contraindications and make-up application. It checks hygiene, product selection and colour theory.
252 words, about 1 min07Cosmetology Science: Anatomy, Physiology, Chemistry and Cosmetic Products
This section links basic anatomy, physiology and chemistry to salon work. Expect skin and hair structure, bones and muscles, pH, solutions, emulsions and product ingredients.
274 words, about 1 min08Salon Business, Client Care, Ethics and Entrepreneurship
This domain covers pricing, record keeping, client consultation, confidentiality, ethics, law and small-business planning. Questions test professional judgement as well as arithmetic.
241 words, about 1 min09Practical Trade Practice and Professional Conduct
This section assesses practical salon behaviour: setting up, preparing the client, working safely, timing, communication, aftercare and professional conduct during a trade test. Prepare the workstation before the client arrives: clean trolley, disinfected tools, clean towels, PPE and waste bin.
264 words, about 1 min