NM Cosmetology study plan

Define microbiology vocabulary (bacteria, viruses, fungi, parasites) and classify each organism by type and typical salon-relevant example

Distinguish disinfection, sterilization, and sanitation, and state which implements and surfaces require which level of control

Explain the difference between cleaning and disinfecting, and list the contact-time and dilution facts that determine whether a disinfectant actually works

Demonstrate correct handwashing and glove use sequence, and list when gloves must be changed during a service

Identify the signs of bacterial, viral, and fungal infections that require a client to be referred out rather than served

Describe how bloodborne pathogens and contagious conditions are transmitted in a salon and the specific precautions that break each route

Explain New Mexico-relevant safety obligations: Material Safety Data Sheet/SDS access, labeling of secondary containers, and safe storage of chemicals

Summarize electricity and equipment safety: grounding, GFCI use, cord inspection, and what to do when a tool fails

Diagram the hair shaft layers, follicle structure, and growth cycle, and connect each structure to a service decision

Classify hair by texture, density, porosity, and elasticity, and explain how each property changes product choice and processing time

Match shampoo and conditioner types to hair and scalp conditions, including clarifying, moisturizing, and medicated categories

Identify scalp and hair disorders (dandruff, seborrheic dermatitis, alopecia types, tinea) and state which are serviceable versus refer-out

Identify the parts and angles of shears, clippers, and razors, and explain the safety and maintenance rules for each

Describe the four basic haircutting sections and the lines (horizontal, vertical, diagonal) and how each affects the resulting shape

Explain elevation, distribution, and guideline types, and predict the effect of changing one variable on the finished cut

Outline the sequence of a blunt cut, a graduated cut, and a layered cut from sectioning through cross-checking

Explain the color wheel, level system, and the difference between base and tone, and use them to predict a color result

Distinguish temporary, semipermanent, and permanent color by action and penetration, and state when each is appropriate

Describe the chemistry of lightening and the role of developer volume, processing time, and the strand test

Explain the patch test, preliminary strand test, and client consultation steps required before a color or chemical service

Explain the chemical and physical changes in a permanent wave and a relaxer, and list the safety checks required before each

Compare the structure and function of the skin layers and identify which layer each facial treatment targets

Select cleansing, exfoliating, and masking products by skin type and explain contraindications for each

List the steps and hygiene requirements of a basic facial, from draping and skin analysis through massage and finishing

Identify nail and skin structures of the hand and arm, and describe diseases and disorders that require referral

Sequence a basic manicure and a basic pedicure, including implement setup, sanitation between clients, and polish application

Summarize New Mexico licensing and salon rules: licensure categories, sanitation requirements, inspection expectations, and scope of practice

Apply business fundamentals: pricing, service and retail mix, client records, and professional ethics including confidentiality

Review all seven domains using missed-question logs from weeks 1 through 7 and re-teach the weakest three topics

Complete two full-length timed practice exams and record domain-level scores for each

Drill infection control and New Mexico law facts to automatic recall, since they carry the highest combined weight

Build a final one-page cheat sheet of formulas, levels, angles, and legal limits for last-week review