NM Cosmetology study guide
NM Cosmetology · Work through your exam, one topic at a time.
The New Mexico cosmetology license is the credential the New Mexico Board of Barbers and Cosmetologists issues to candidates who have completed the required training hours and passed the licensure examination. It authorizes you to perform hair, skin, and nail services for the public in a licensed New Mexico salon. The NM Cosmetology study guide has 8 sections and about 2,651 words.
01Scientific Concepts and Infection Control
Domain 1, Scientific Concepts and Infection Control , tests the biology, chemistry, and microbiology that sit behind every service, plus the sanitation rules that protect clients and licensees. Expect questions on cleaning versus disinfection, implement handling, contagious conditions, and safe work practices under New Mexico Board rules.
363 words, about 2 min02Hair Care and Treatments
Domain 2, Hair Care and Treatments , tests hair structure, growth, scalp conditions, and the professional selection of shampoos, conditioners, and treatments. The exam expects you to match product chemistry and service technique to the client’s hair properties rather than recommend products by habit.
323 words, about 2 min03Haircutting and Hair Shaping
Domain 3, Haircutting and Hair Shaping , tests sectioning, elevation, guide placement, tension, and the geometry that determines a finished shape. The exam favors questions where a small change in elevation or overdirection changes the entire silhouette.
326 words, about 2 min04Hair Coloring and Chemical Texturing
Domain 4, Hair Coloring and Chemical Texturing , tests color theory, developer selection, patch and strand testing, relaxers, perms, and neutralization. The exam expects safe formulation, not just a color name.
344 words, about 2 min05Skin Care and Facial Treatments
Domain 5, Skin Care and Facial Treatments , tests skin analysis, cleansing and exfoliation, massage, masks, extraction safety, and contraindications. The exam focuses on recognizing when a cosmetic facial must stop and become a referral.
326 words, about 2 min06Nail Care and Manicuring
Domain 6, Nail Care and Manicuring , tests nail anatomy, manicure and pedicure procedure, implement safety, and recognition of nail disorders. The exam repeatedly checks whether you protect living tissue and prevent cross-contamination.
328 words, about 2 min07Salon Business
Domain 7, Salon Business , tests pricing, product cost, inventory, recordkeeping, legal structure, insurance, and client retention. The exam expects practical math and the difference between markup and profit margin.
306 words, about 2 min08Ethics and New Mexico Law
Domain 8, Ethics and New Mexico Law , tests licensing, scope of practice, sanitation compliance, client rights, advertising, and professional conduct under the New Mexico Barbers and Cosmetologists Act and Board rules. The exam expects you to know that a license authorizes a defined scope, not unlimited beauty services.
335 words, about 2 min