NJ Cosmetology study materials
NJ Cosmetology study resources

NJ Cosmetology flashcards

NJ Cosmetology · Build recall with a focused review session.

32 cards. Read the term and the definition here. The deck at the top of this page is optional.

Elevation
The angle at which a hair section is held away from the head during cutting; it controls length distribution and the amount of layering.
Blunt haircut
A cut in which all hair is cut at the same length with zero elevation, creating a solid perimeter and a strong weight line.
Point cutting
A texturizing technique that cuts into the ends with the points of the shears to soften a line and blend weight.
Cowlick
A hair growth pattern in which hair stands up or swirls from the scalp; it affects parting, cutting control, and styling direction.
Relaxer
A chemical service that straightens curly or coily hair by breaking disulfide bonds; the process must be followed by neutralization.
Neutralizer
An oxidizing solution applied after a relaxer or perm that rebuilds disulfide bonds and stops the chemical processing action.
Patch test
A small skin test of a product performed 24 to 48 hours before a service to detect an allergic reaction.
Strand test
A test on a small section of hair before a chemical service to predict processing time, strength, and final result.
Developer volume
The concentration of hydrogen peroxide in hair color; 10, 20, 30, and 40 volume equal 3, 6, 9, and 12 percent.
Law of color
The color theory that primary colors mix to form secondary colors and complementary colors neutralize unwanted tones in hair color.
Fill
A preliminary color application that replaces missing pigment before hair is darkened or toned, preventing muddy or green results.
Off-scalp lightener
A lightening product applied away from the scalp, often used when scalp sensitivity or maximum lift is a concern.
Surfactant
A molecule with a water-loving head and an oil-loving tail that lifts oils and debris from hair so water can rinse them away.
Clarifying shampoo
A stronger shampoo that removes product buildup and minerals; it can strip color and moisture if used too often.
Humectant
An ingredient that attracts and holds water in hair or skin, helping to maintain moisture and flexibility.
Nail matrix
The living area at the base of the nail that produces nail plate cells; injury to it can permanently affect nail growth.
Paronychia
An infection or inflammation of the tissue around the nail fold; it causes redness, swelling, and tenderness and requires referral.
Disinfectant
An EPA-registered chemical product that kills most pathogens on nonporous implements after they have been cleaned.
Fitzpatrick scale
A classification of skin types I through VI based on response to ultraviolet exposure; it guides sun protection and treatment caution.
Effleurage
A light, gliding massage stroke used at the beginning and end of a facial or body massage to promote relaxation.
Comedone
A clogged pore, either a blackhead or whitehead; suitable comedones may be extracted during a facial when skin is not inflamed.
Sterilization
A process that destroys all microorganisms, including bacterial spores, and is required for critical implements that penetrate skin.
SDS
A Safety Data Sheet that provides hazard, handling, and emergency information for a chemical product; it must be accessible in the salon.
Double dipping
Reinserting a used applicator or brush into a product container, which contaminates the remaining product and is prohibited.
Critical item
An implement that penetrates skin or contacts blood or body fluids; it must be sterilized after use.
NJ Board of Cosmetology
The New Jersey state board within the Division of Consumer Affairs that licenses and regulates cosmetology and hairstyling practice.
Shop license
A New Jersey credential required for a salon premises; it must be current, displayed, and is not transferable.
License transfer
Lending, borrowing, or selling a professional license; this is prohibited because a license is individual and non-transferable.
Contagious condition
A disease that can be transmitted by contact; a licensee must refuse service and refer the client for medical care.
Revenue
Income a business receives from services and retail sales, calculated as price multiplied by quantity sold.
Profit
The amount remaining after all fixed and variable expenses are subtracted from a business's total revenue.
Client consultation
A pre-service discussion and record of the client's needs, hair history, contraindications, and expected result before a service begins.