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NBTE Cosmetology NID study materials
NBTE Cosmetology NID study resources

NBTE Cosmetology NID practice questions

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Question 1Cosmetology (NID programme content - domains not enumerated in source)

In a professional facial treatment, which skin analysis step is performed immediately after cleansing the client's face?

  1. Steaming the face for ten minutes
  2. Applying the massage medium
  3. Applying the finishing moisturiser
  4. Assessing the skin under magnification and good light Correct answer.

Explanation

Skin analysis follows cleansing because the skin must be free of make-up and surface oil before texture, pores and lesions can be judged accurately. Magnification and good lighting allow the therapist to select appropriate products and to identify contraindications before any treatment product is applied.

Question 2Cosmetology (NID programme content - domains not enumerated in source)

Which ingredient is classified as a physical (particulate) sunscreen agent?

  1. Oxybenzone
  2. Avobenzone
  3. Zinc oxide Correct answer.
  4. Octinoxate

Explanation

Zinc oxide is a mineral particle that sits on the skin surface and reflects and scatters UV radiation, which is why it is described as a physical sunscreen. The other three named agents are organic filters that absorb UV radiation within the skin.

Question 3Cosmetology (NID programme content - domains not enumerated in source)

A client's hair is described as having a compact cuticle and a naturally low pH. Which hair type does this describe?

  1. Damaged hair
  2. Fine hair
  3. Resistant hair Correct answer.
  4. Over-porous hair

Explanation

Resistant hair has a tightly closed cuticle that limits the penetration of water and chemicals, and it is often naturally acidic. This is why resistant hair usually needs a stronger alkaline product or a pre-softening step before a chemical service.

Question 4Cosmetology (NID programme content - domains not enumerated in source)

Which of the following is the correct order of the three growth phases of a hair follicle?

  1. Anagen, catagen, telogen Correct answer.
  2. Catagen, anagen, telogen
  3. Telogen, catagen, anagen
  4. Anagen, telogen, catagen

Explanation

The follicle cycles through anagen (active growth), catagen (transitional regression) and telogen (resting phase before shedding). Knowing this sequence helps the therapist explain normal shedding of 50 to 100 hairs per day to clients.

Question 5Cosmetology (NID programme content - domains not enumerated in source)

Which nail structure is the visible portion of the matrix that extends from under the proximal nail fold?

  1. Eponychium
  2. Free edge
  3. Lunula Correct answer.
  4. Hyponychium

Explanation

The lunula is the pale, half-moon area at the base of the nail plate and represents the visible part of the matrix. Because it is living tissue responsible for nail plate production, pressure or trauma to this area can permanently distort nail growth.

Question 6Cosmetology (NID programme content - domains not enumerated in source)

Which layer of the skin contains the sweat glands, sebaceous glands, hair follicles and sensory nerve endings?

  1. Basal layer
  2. Stratum corneum
  3. Hypodermis
  4. Dermis Correct answer.

Explanation

The dermis is the connective tissue layer that houses glands, follicles, blood vessels and nerve endings, and it provides the skin its strength and elasticity. The epidermis above it has no blood vessels, while the hypodermis is mainly fat and connective tissue.

Question 7Cosmetology (NID programme content - domains not enumerated in source)

What is the primary purpose of patch testing a tint or oxidative hair colour product before a client's first application?

  1. To check the final colour result
  2. To improve colour deposit
  3. To shorten the processing time
  4. To identify a possible allergic reaction before full application Correct answer.

Explanation

A patch test exposes a small area of skin to the product so that a sensitisation or allergic response can be detected before the full service. It does not predict the colour result and must be carried out within the manufacturer's stated time frame before each new client or product.

Question 8Cosmetology (NID programme content - domains not enumerated in source)

Which massage movement is performed with the palms or fingers applying light, rhythmic pressure in a circular motion without losing contact with the skin?

  1. Tapotement
  2. Vibration
  3. Petrissage
  4. Effleurage Correct answer.

Explanation

Effleurage is a smooth, gliding movement that maintains continuous contact and is used to begin and end a facial or body massage. It warms the tissues and aids product absorption, while kneading, tapping and shaking describe other distinct movements.

Question 9Cosmetology (NID programme content - domains not enumerated in source)

A client with oily skin and open comedones requests a facial. Which product type should the therapist select to soften and loosen the comedones?

  1. A barrier repair balm
  2. A heavy occlusive night cream
  3. A rich oil-based cleanser
  4. A keratolytic exfoliant containing salicylic acid Correct answer.

Explanation

Salicylic acid is lipid-soluble and penetrates the follicle to help break down the keratin plug inside a comedo, making it appropriate for oily, comedone-prone skin. Occlusive and oil-rich products would add to follicular congestion rather than relieve it.

Question 10Cosmetology (NID programme content - domains not enumerated in source)

During a virgin relaxer service, why is the relaxer cream applied to the mid-lengths and ends before the scalp area?

  1. Because the ends are always more resistant than the scalp
  2. Because the mid-lengths must be rinsed first
  3. Because the scalp area processes fastest due to body heat and should be applied last Correct answer.
  4. Because the ends need less product to straighten

Explanation

The scalp area processes faster because body heat accelerates the chemical reaction, so applying it last prevents over-processing and scalp irritation. The mid-lengths and ends are usually more resistant and need the longer processing time.

Question 11Cosmetology (NID programme content - domains not enumerated in source)

A client's hair is 4 cm of new growth of natural level 5 and previously lightened ends at level 9. Which application approach best avoids breakage during a colour correction?

  1. Apply the colour to the mid-lengths and ends first, then to the new growth Correct answer.
  2. Apply lightener from root to tip in one application
  3. Apply a high-volume developer to the ends only
  4. Apply the darkest shade over the entire head to equalise the colour

Explanation

The lighter, more porous ends process faster, so colouring them first with a gentler formula and then applying the root formula avoids over-processing the fragile mid-lengths and ends. Working root to tip with lightener risks severe damage on already-lightened hair.

Question 12Cosmetology (NID programme content - domains not enumerated in source)

Which pre-service step is essential before applying a chemical exfoliant to a client who has been using a topical retinoid?

  1. Apply a warm compress for fifteen minutes
  2. Discontinue the retinoid for an appropriate period and assess skin sensitivity Correct answer.
  3. Increase the exfoliant concentration to speed results
  4. Apply the exfoliant immediately after waxing

Explanation

Retinoids thin the stratum corneum and increase sensitivity, so they should be paused for the period recommended by the manufacturer before chemical exfoliation. This reduces the risk of irritation, burning and post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation.

Question 13Cosmetology (NID programme content - domains not enumerated in source)

Which condition is a contraindication for a standard facial massage?

  1. Contagious conjunctivitis Correct answer.
  2. Mild dehydration of the stratum corneum
  3. Slightly oily T-zone
  4. Fine lines around the eyes

Explanation

Contagious conditions such as conjunctivitis must be excluded because massage can spread infection to the therapist and to other clients. Dehydration, oiliness and fine lines are cosmetic concerns that massage can address rather than contraindications.

Question 14Cosmetology (NID programme content - domains not enumerated in source)

Which statement correctly describes the relationship between developer volume and hydrogen peroxide concentration in oxidative hair colour?

  1. 40-volume developer contains about 3% hydrogen peroxide
  2. 20-volume developer contains about 9% hydrogen peroxide
  3. 30-volume developer contains about 12% hydrogen peroxide
  4. 10-volume developer contains about 3% hydrogen peroxide Correct answer.

Explanation

Developer volume corresponds to the percentage of hydrogen peroxide in the solution, with 10 volume being approximately 3%. Each additional 10 volume adds roughly 3% peroxide, so 20 volume is about 6% and 40 volume about 12%.

Question 15Cosmetology (NID programme content - domains not enumerated in source)

In a manicure, which step is performed to prevent the cuticle from adhering to the nail plate before pushing it back?

  1. Applying a base coat
  2. Applying cuticle oil and soaking the fingers in warm water Correct answer.
  3. Buffing the free edge
  4. Filing the nail plate surface

Explanation

Warm water soaking with a cuticle softener or oil softens the cuticle so it can be gently pushed back without tearing living tissue. Filing or buffing the plate does not soften the cuticle and does not prepare it for pushing.

Question 16Cosmetology (NID programme content - domains not enumerated in source)

Which factor most directly determines the processing time of a depilatory cream?

  1. The client's hair colour
  2. The length of the client's hair
  3. The ambient humidity of the room
  4. The chemical strength and formulation of the product Correct answer.

Explanation

Depilatory creams break down hair keratin through chemical action, so processing time depends on the strength and formulation of the active ingredient as stated by the manufacturer. Hair colour and length do not determine how quickly the thioglycolate breaks the keratin bonds.

Question 17Cosmetology (NID programme content - domains not enumerated in source)

Which of the following best explains why a paraffin wax treatment is beneficial for dry, arthritic hands?

  1. It disinfects the skin surface
  2. It provides controlled heat that increases circulation and softens the skin Correct answer.
  3. It removes the nail plate's surface layers
  4. It exfoliates the stratum corneum deeply

Explanation

Paraffin wax delivers gentle, sustained heat that dilates blood vessels, improves circulation and softens dry skin while the oil component conditions the surface. It is not an exfoliant, a disinfectant or a nail-plate treatment.

Question 18Cosmetology (NID programme content - domains not enumerated in source)

Which practice best protects against cross-contamination when using a nail file on multiple clients?

  1. Wiping the file on a towel between clients
  2. Replacing or disinfecting single-use files between clients Correct answer.
  3. Storing the file in the manicure bowl
  4. Using the same file until it wears out

Explanation

Files are porous and cannot be reliably disinfected, so they must be single-use and replaced between clients or disposed of after use. Wiping, soaking or reusing them does not eliminate microbial contamination.

Question 19Cosmetology (NID programme content - domains not enumerated in source)

A client with a cool, pale skin tone and blue undertones is best matched with which foundation undertone?

  1. Neutral olive
  2. Cool pink Correct answer.
  3. Deep bronze
  4. Warm golden

Explanation

Cool skin undertones with blue or pink hues are best balanced by a foundation with a cool pink undertone, which harmonises with the natural colouring. Warm golden or bronze shades would contrast and make cool skin appear ashy.

Question 20Cosmetology (NID programme content - domains not enumerated in source)

What is the correct action when a client reports a burning sensation during a chemical peel?

  1. Cover the area with a warm towel
  2. Continue the treatment and reassure the client
  3. Stop the treatment immediately and remove the product Correct answer.
  4. Add more product to dilute the sensation

Explanation

A burning sensation indicates possible irritation or a chemical burn, so the treatment must stop at once and the product removed according to the manufacturer's instructions. Continuing, diluting with more product or applying heat can worsen tissue damage.

Question 21Cosmetology (NID programme content - domains not enumerated in source)

Which hair shaft structure is responsible for the hair's natural colour?

  1. The cuticle
  2. The cortex Correct answer.
  3. The follicle
  4. The medulla

Explanation

Melanin pigment granules are distributed in the cortex, the thickest layer of the hair shaft, and their type and quantity determine the natural colour. The medulla is a central core of soft cells and the cuticle is the outer protective layer.

Question 22Cosmetology (NID programme content - domains not enumerated in source)

A client has a round face shape and wants to create the illusion of length. Which contouring strategy should the makeup artist use?

  1. Highlight the jawline on both sides
  2. Shade the forehead and chin heavily
  3. Shade the sides of the face and highlight the centre of the forehead and chin Correct answer.
  4. Highlight the widest part of the cheeks

Explanation

Shading the sides of the face narrows the width while highlighting the centre of the forehead and chin draws the eye vertically, creating the illusion of length. Highlighting the widest cheek area would emphasise roundness instead.

Question 23Cosmetology (NID programme content - domains not enumerated in source)

A client's hair has been over-processed and now feels mushy when wet. Which treatment approach is most appropriate?

  1. Use a protein reconstructor followed by a moisturising conditioner Correct answer.
  2. Apply a high-lift colour to seal the cuticle
  3. Apply a strong alkaline shampoo to restore body
  4. Apply a relaxer to rebuild the structure

Explanation

Mushy, over-processed hair has lost internal protein and moisture, so a protein reconstructor temporarily fills gaps in the cortex and should be followed by a moisturising conditioner to restore elasticity. Further chemical or alkaline treatment would increase damage rather than repair it.

Question 24Cosmetology (NID programme content - domains not enumerated in source)

Why is the direction of hair growth important when performing a leg wax?

  1. Applying wax against the growth direction reduces pain
  2. Hair grows in random directions on all clients
  3. The direction has no effect on the result
  4. Applying and removing wax in the direction of growth prevents follicle damage and ingrown hairs Correct answer.

Explanation

Wax should be applied in the direction of hair growth and removed against it, which supports the hair exiting the follicle cleanly and reduces the risk of breakage and ingrown hairs. Working against the growth pattern during application increases trauma to the follicle.

Question 25Cosmetology (NID programme content - domains not enumerated in source)

A client with a history of keloid scarring requests eyebrow waxing. What is the most appropriate professional response?

  1. Apply a chemical depilatory instead without further assessment
  2. Proceed with waxing because the brow area does not scar
  3. Decline waxing in the area and offer an alternative such as tweezing or threading Correct answer.
  4. Proceed with a higher wax temperature to reduce treatment time

Explanation

Clients prone to keloid scarring are at risk of raised scar formation after trauma to the skin, so waxing should be avoided in favour of a less traumatic method. Tweezing or threading limits trauma to the follicle and reduces the risk of keloid formation.

Question 26Cosmetology (NID programme content - domains not enumerated in source)

Which skin type is characterised by a shiny appearance across the entire face, enlarged pores and a tendency to develop comedones?

  1. Oily skin Correct answer.
  2. Dry skin
  3. Normal skin
  4. Sensitive skin

Explanation

Oily skin results from overactive sebaceous glands and shows generalised shine, visibly enlarged pores and a predisposition to comedones and acne. Dry skin instead looks tight and flaky with small pores, while normal skin has balanced sebum with no persistent shine.

Question 27Cosmetology (NID programme content - domains not enumerated in source)

In the NID programme, the term 'effleurage' refers to which category of massage movement?

  1. Pinching and lifting of tissue
  2. Light stroking and gliding movements Correct answer.
  3. Circular pressure with the thumb pads
  4. Fast tapping and hacking movements

Explanation

Effleurage is the family of smooth, gliding stroking movements used to begin and end a massage and to link other movements. Tapping, hacking, pinching and firm thumb pressure belong to percussion, petrissage and friction respectively.

Question 28Cosmetology (NID programme content - domains not enumerated in source)

Which nail shape is created by filing the free edge straight across and rounding only the corners?

  1. Coffin
  2. Almond
  3. Squoval Correct answer.
  4. Stiletto

Explanation

A squoval nail has a straight-across free edge with softened, rounded corners, combining a square and oval look. Almond and stiletto shapes taper to a point, and coffin is filed straight with sharply angled sides.

Question 29Cosmetology (NID programme content - domains not enumerated in source)

Which product is applied to the hair before shampooing to remove heavy product build-up and mineral deposits?

  1. Moisturising conditioner
  2. Leave-in serum
  3. Clarifying shampoo Correct answer.
  4. Heat protectant spray

Explanation

Clarifying shampoo contains stronger surfactants that strip residue, hard-water minerals and styling product from the cuticle. Conditioners and serums are applied after cleansing and add coating rather than removing build-up.

Question 30Cosmetology (NID programme content - domains not enumerated in source)

Which muscle is responsible for raising the eyebrow, producing a surprised expression?

  1. Masseter
  2. Occipitofrontalis Correct answer.
  3. Orbicularis oculi
  4. Platysma

Explanation

The occipitofrontalis has a frontal belly that lifts the brows and wrinkles the forehead. The orbicularis oculi closes the eye, the masseter closes the jaw, and the platysma tenses the neck.

Question 31Cosmetology (NID programme content - domains not enumerated in source)

Why must a nail technician avoid over-filing the sidewalls of the natural nail during a manicure?

  1. It changes the client's blood type
  2. It removes the nail matrix
  3. It permanently stops nail growth
  4. It thins the nail plate and weakens the free edge Correct answer.

Explanation

Excessive filing of the sidewalls reduces nail plate thickness and leaves the free edge unsupported, so it splits and breaks easily. The matrix lies under the proximal nail fold and is not reached by sidewall filing, and growth rate is unaffected.

Question 32Cosmetology (NID programme content - domains not enumerated in source)

Which term describes the removal of a client's unwanted body hair using a cream that chemically breaks down keratin?

  1. Laser reduction
  2. Depilation Correct answer.
  3. Epilation
  4. Electrolysis

Explanation

Depilation removes hair at or just below the skin surface, as with chemical depilatory creams. Epilation, electrolysis and laser removal all act at or below the follicle to remove hair with the root.

Question 33Cosmetology (NID programme content - domains not enumerated in source)

Which cosmetic ingredient is added to a cleanser to help dissolve excess sebum and makeup?

  1. A preservative
  2. A humectant
  3. A surfactant Correct answer.
  4. A sunscreen filter

Explanation

Surfactants lower surface tension so oils and debris lift into water and rinse away, which is the core action of a cleanser. Humectants attract water, sunscreen filters absorb UV, and preservatives protect against microbial growth.

Question 34Cosmetology (NID programme content - domains not enumerated in source)

A client with very dry, flaky skin books a facial. Which cleansing product should the therapist select?

  1. A creamy, non-foaming cleanser Correct answer.
  2. A foaming gel cleanser for oily skin
  3. A granular scrub cleanser
  4. An alcohol-based astringent wipe

Explanation

Creamy non-foaming cleansers use emollients and mild surfactants that clean without stripping the already compromised barrier. Foaming gels and astringents remove more oil and worsen dryness, and granules add mechanical irritation to flaky skin.

Question 35Cosmetology (NID programme content - domains not enumerated in source)

During a facial, a client's skin becomes red and warm after application of a hydroxy acid product. What is the most appropriate immediate action?

  1. Remove the product, rinse with cool water and discontinue the acid Correct answer.
  2. Continue and document the redness after the service
  3. Apply more acid to speed up the result
  4. Cover the area with a heavy occlusive mask

Explanation

Redness and warmth indicate irritation or a reaction, so the acid must be removed at once and the skin cooled and rinsed. Adding more acid or occluding it intensifies the reaction, and continuing the service risks further damage.

Question 36Cosmetology (NID programme content - domains not enumerated in source)

Which developer strength should be used with a permanent colour when the goal is minimal lift and deposit on previously coloured hair?

  1. 20 volume (6%)
  2. 30 volume (9%)
  3. 10 volume (3%) Correct answer.
  4. 40 volume (12%)

Explanation

Low-volume developer such as 10 volume provides deposit with minimal lightening, which suits previously coloured hair. Higher volumes increase lift and ammonia activity and are used when significant lightening is required.

Question 37Cosmetology (NID programme content - domains not enumerated in source)

A client's natural hair is level 3 and she wants a warm medium brown result at level 5. Which colouring approach is most suitable?

  1. Apply a level 5 warm brown with 20 volume developer Correct answer.
  2. Apply a level 9 ash blonde with 40 volume developer
  3. Apply a toner at level 10 with 10 volume developer
  4. Apply a level 2 black with 10 volume developer

Explanation

A level 5 warm brown with 20 volume lifts two levels and deposits the desired warmth in one step. Ash blonde would lighten far too much and cool the tone, while level 2 darkens and level 10 toner is far lighter than the target.

Question 38Cosmetology (NID programme content - domains not enumerated in source)

Which property of the hair cuticle allows conditioning treatments to smooth the hair surface?

  1. The follicle's blood supply
  2. Pigment granules embedded in the cortex
  3. Overlapping scales that lie flatter when coated Correct answer.
  4. The medulla's hollow core

Explanation

The cuticle is made of overlapping scales that lift when hair is damaged and lie flat when smoothed by conditioning agents. Pigment sits in the cortex, the medulla is a central core, and the follicle blood supply is below the scalp surface.

Question 39Cosmetology (NID programme content - domains not enumerated in source)

A client requests a full-leg wax but has visible sunburn with blistering on the shins. What is the correct professional decision?

  1. Wax only the blistered areas with hard wax
  2. Postpone the wax on the affected area until the skin has healed Correct answer.
  3. Apply a numbing cream and proceed as planned
  4. Wax over the blisters using a low-temperature wax

Explanation

Waxing over burned or blistered skin risks tearing the compromised epidermis, infection and scarring, so the service is deferred until healing. Low-temperature wax, numbing cream or hard wax do not make damaged skin safe to treat.

Question 40Cosmetology (NID programme content - domains not enumerated in source)

Which makeup product should be used to set a cream foundation and reduce shine on a combination skin client?

  1. A liquid highlighter
  2. A translucent loose powder Correct answer.
  3. A setting spray with dewy finish
  4. A cream blush

Explanation

Translucent loose powder sets cream foundation and controls shine without adding colour. Cream blush adds pigment, liquid highlighter increases shine, and a dewy setting spray adds moisture rather than reducing shine.

Question 41Cosmetology (NID programme content - domains not enumerated in source)

A client with a warm, golden skin tone and yellow undertones wants a natural foundation match. Which undertone should the foundation have?

  1. Yellow or golden Correct answer.
  2. Cool blue
  3. Pink or rosy
  4. Neutral grey

Explanation

Warm skin with yellow undertones is matched with a yellow or golden foundation so the base blends rather than contrasting. Pink, blue and grey undertones are cool and would look ashy or mask-like on warm skin.

Question 42Cosmetology (NID programme content - domains not enumerated in source)

A client asks for a pedicure but has a thickened, discoloured nail with debris under the free edge. What is the appropriate action?

  1. Proceed with a full pedicure and file the nail thin
  2. Soak the foot and cut into the nail plate
  3. Apply a nail polish to conceal the discolouration
  4. Refer to a healthcare professional and avoid treating the nail Correct answer.

Explanation

Thickening, discolouration and subungual debris can indicate a fungal or other medical condition that requires diagnosis and treatment by a clinician. A cosmetologist should not thin, cut into or conceal a potentially infected nail.

Question 43Cosmetology (NID programme content - domains not enumerated in source)

Which step should be performed first when shaping a set of acrylic extensions to the desired length?

  1. Buff the surface with a fine buffer
  2. Apply top coat to seal the surface
  3. Apply cuticle oil around the nail
  4. File the free edge to length with a coarse file Correct answer.

Explanation

Reducing length with a coarse file comes before refining shape and surface, because subsequent steps depend on the final length. Top coat, fine buffing and cuticle oil are finishing steps performed after shaping.

Question 44Cosmetology (NID programme content - domains not enumerated in source)

Which factor most strongly determines how long a chemical depilatory cream should remain on the skin?

  1. The room temperature alone
  2. The client's preferred fragrance
  3. The client's hair colour
  4. The manufacturer's stated timing for that formulation Correct answer.

Explanation

Depilatory creams contain thioglycolates that break disulfide bonds in keratin, and each formulation has a tested contact time that must be followed to avoid chemical burns. Hair colour and fragrance preference do not change the chemistry, and room temperature is not a substitute for the label timing.

Question 45Cosmetology (NID programme content - domains not enumerated in source)

Why is a patch test particularly important before a client's first application of a para-phenylenediamine (PPD) based colour?

  1. PPD only affects clients with grey hair
  2. PPD is used only on the eyebrows
  3. PPD is inactivated by oxygen
  4. PPD can trigger an allergic sensitisation that may worsen with each exposure Correct answer.

Explanation

PPD is a known contact allergen, and sensitisation can develop or intensify after repeated exposure, so a patch test identifies reactors before a full application. It is not limited to grey-haired clients, is not inactivated by oxygen, and is used on the scalp and hair rather than the eyebrows.

Question 46Cosmetology (NID programme content - domains not enumerated in source)

A client with a cool, fair complexion and blue eyes wants a bold lip colour for an evening event. Which choice best complements her undertone?

  1. A warm orange-red
  2. A blue-based berry or plum Correct answer.
  3. A yellow-based coral
  4. A golden bronze

Explanation

Cool undertones harmonise with blue-based shades such as berry, plum and blue-red, which make fair cool skin look clear. Warm orange, coral and bronze shades pull yellow and can make cool skin appear sallow.

Question 47Cosmetology (NID programme content - domains not enumerated in source)

A client's hair feels gummy and stretches when wet after repeated bleaching. Which treatment principle should guide the therapist?

  1. Blow-dry at high heat to seal the cuticle
  2. Rebuild protein and moisture balance before any further chemical service Correct answer.
  3. Apply another lightener to even the tone
  4. Shampoo with a clarifying product daily

Explanation

Gummy, stretchy wet hair indicates loss of cortical integrity, so protein and moisture must be restored before any further chemical processing. Additional lightener, clarifying shampoo and high heat all cause further damage to compromised hair.

Question 48Cosmetology (NID programme content - domains not enumerated in source)

A client with a round face requests makeup that creates the illusion of length. Which contouring approach is most suitable?

  1. Shade the sides of the face and temples, highlight the centre of the face Correct answer.
  2. Shade the forehead centre and chin, highlight the cheekbones
  3. Shade the jawline only, highlight the temples
  4. Shade the cheekbones and nose, highlight the jawline

Explanation

Shading the sides and temples narrows the face, while highlighting the centre draws the eye vertically and lengthens the appearance. Shading the forehead centre or jawline alone does not create the same elongating effect, and highlighting the jawline widens the face.

Question 49Cosmetology (NID programme content - domains not enumerated in source)

A client's scalp shows redness, small pustules and tenderness after a relaxer service. Which action is most appropriate for the therapist?

  1. Stop the service, rinse thoroughly and refer for medical assessment Correct answer.
  2. Reapply relaxer to the irritated areas
  3. Apply a scalp oil and proceed with styling
  4. Apply a neutralising shampoo and continue the service

Explanation

Redness, pustules and tenderness suggest a chemical burn or infection that requires stopping the service, thorough rinsing and medical referral. Continuing, oiling over the area or reapplying relaxer would worsen the injury.

Question 50Cosmetology (NID programme content - domains not enumerated in source)

An acne-prone client wants a facial. Which combination of products best supports the treatment goal without over-drying the skin?

  1. A foaming cleanser, a high-strength glycolic peel and no moisturiser
  2. A creamy cleanser, heavy occlusive oil and a rich night cream
  3. A gentle foaming cleanser, salicylic acid exfoliant and a light non-comedogenic moisturiser Correct answer.
  4. An alcohol astringent, a granular scrub and a clay mask left on for 30 minutes

Explanation

Mild cleansing, a keratolytic such as salicylic acid and a light non-comedogenic moisturiser control oil and pores without stripping the barrier. Heavy occlusives, prolonged clay masking and high-strength peels without moisturiser either clog pores or over-dry and irritate the skin.