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NM Esthetician practice questions

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Question 1Infection Control, Sanitation, and Safety

Sanitation is best described as which of the following?

  1. Destroying all microbial life, including bacterial spores
  2. Removing visible soil and reducing microorganisms on a surface Correct answer.
  3. Killing most pathogenic organisms on nonporous surfaces
  4. Heating metal implements to a high temperature

Explanation

Sanitation is the lowest level of infection control and focuses on removing visible soil while reducing the number of microorganisms. Disinfection kills most pathogens on nonporous surfaces, and sterilization destroys all microbial life, including spores.

Question 2Infection Control, Sanitation, and Safety

What is the minimum recommended time for lathering hands with soap and water?

  1. 5 seconds
  2. 20 seconds Correct answer.
  3. 60 seconds
  4. 10 seconds

Explanation

Handwashing should include vigorous lathering for at least 20 seconds, covering all surfaces of the hands and wrists. Shorter times may not adequately remove transient microorganisms.

Question 3Infection Control, Sanitation, and Safety

Which product should be used to disinfect nonporous implements between clients?

  1. UV light cabinet
  2. Rubbing alcohol
  3. EPA-registered hospital-grade disinfectant Correct answer.
  4. Soap and water

Explanation

Nonporous implements must be cleaned and then disinfected with a product labeled as an EPA-registered hospital-grade disinfectant. The label directions, including contact time, must be followed.

Question 4Infection Control, Sanitation, and Safety

Which item can be safely sterilized in a steam autoclave?

  1. A cotton towel
  2. A plastic shampoo cap
  3. Stainless steel tweezers Correct answer.
  4. A wooden spatula

Explanation

Steam autoclaves use heat and pressure to sterilize items that can withstand those conditions, such as stainless steel implements. Heat-sensitive or porous items may be damaged or may not be reliably sterilized.

Question 5Infection Control, Sanitation, and Safety

After applying an EPA-registered disinfectant to a surface, what should you do?

  1. Rinse the surface with water
  2. Wipe it off immediately
  3. Dry the surface with a cloth
  4. Allow it to remain wet for the label contact time Correct answer.

Explanation

Disinfectants need to remain wet on the surface for the contact time stated on the label to achieve the claimed kill. Wiping immediately or rinsing too soon can reduce effectiveness.

Question 6Infection Control, Sanitation, and Safety

What is the first step when cleaning a blood spill on the floor?

  1. Mop the area with hot water
  2. Put on gloves and absorb the spill with a disposable towel Correct answer.
  3. Sweep the spill with a broom
  4. Spray the area with air freshener

Explanation

Blood spills require standard precautions: wear gloves, absorb the spill with disposable material, disinfect the area with an EPA-registered disinfectant, and dispose of waste properly. Sweeping or mopping first can spread contamination.

Question 7Infection Control, Sanitation, and Safety

When should an esthetician change gloves?

  1. Only when they are visibly soiled
  2. Between products used on the same client
  3. Between clients and after contact with contaminated items Correct answer.
  4. At the end of each workday

Explanation

Gloves are single-use and must be changed between clients and whenever they contact contaminated surfaces or items. Gloves should also be changed if torn or visibly soiled.

Question 8Infection Control, Sanitation, and Safety

What is the primary purpose of a Safety Data Sheet (SDS)?

  1. To prove that a product is organic
  2. To provide hazard, handling, and first-aid information Correct answer.
  3. To replace the product label
  4. To list client testimonials

Explanation

An SDS provides information about a chemical product's hazards, safe handling, storage, and emergency first-aid measures. It is part of workplace safety compliance and should be readily available.

Question 9Infection Control, Sanitation, and Safety

Universal precautions require estheticians to do which of the following?

  1. Wear gloves only during surgical procedures
  2. Disinfect hands with bleach after every service
  3. Treat all blood and body fluids as potentially infectious Correct answer.
  4. Treat only visible blood as infectious

Explanation

Universal precautions mean that all blood and body fluids are treated as potentially infectious, regardless of whether blood is visible. This approach helps prevent transmission of bloodborne pathogens.

Question 10Infection Control, Sanitation, and Safety

Which client condition is a contraindication for a facial treatment?

  1. Dry, flaky skin
  2. Mature skin with fine lines
  3. Open, weeping, or infected skin lesion Correct answer.
  4. Skin with light makeup

Explanation

Open, weeping, or infected lesions are contraindications because treatment could worsen the condition or spread infection. Clients should be referred for medical evaluation before service.

Question 11Infection Control, Sanitation, and Safety

How should hot wax be tested before application?

  1. On the client's cheek
  2. By smelling it
  3. By timing exactly 10 minutes
  4. On the inner wrist of the esthetician Correct answer.

Explanation

Hot wax should be tested on the esthetician's inner wrist before application to check that the temperature is safe. Wax that is too hot can burn the client's skin.

Question 12Infection Control, Sanitation, and Safety

Which practice reduces the risk of electrical shock near water?

  1. Removing ground prongs from plugs
  2. Touching cords with wet hands
  3. Using extension cords across wet floors
  4. Using GFCI-protected outlets and inspecting cords for damage Correct answer.

Explanation

Ground-fault circuit interrupter outlets and regular cord inspection reduce shock risk in wet areas. Electrical equipment should be kept away from water and damaged cords should be removed from service.

Question 13Infection Control, Sanitation, and Safety

What is a limitation of UV light cabinets for implements?

  1. They require no cleaning before use
  2. They do not reliably sterilize and do not replace disinfection Correct answer.
  3. They sterilize all bacterial spores
  4. They work only on metal implements

Explanation

UV cabinets do not reliably sterilize implements and are not a substitute for cleaning and chemical disinfection. Implements must still be cleaned and disinfected according to accepted procedures.

Question 14Infection Control, Sanitation, and Safety

How should disinfected implements be stored?

  1. In a sink
  2. In a clean, covered container Correct answer.
  3. In a drawer with soiled linens
  4. In an esthetician's pocket

Explanation

Disinfected implements should be stored in a clean, covered container to prevent recontamination before use. They should be kept separate from soiled items.

Question 15Infection Control, Sanitation, and Safety

What best describes quaternary ammonium disinfectants?

  1. Low-level disinfectants effective against many bacteria but not spores Correct answer.
  2. Fumigants used to treat entire rooms
  3. High-level sterilants that reliably kill spores
  4. Products that need no dilution or label review

Explanation

Quaternary ammonium compounds are low-level disinfectants that are effective against many bacteria but not against bacterial spores. They must be used according to label directions, including dilution and contact time.

Question 16Infection Control, Sanitation, and Safety

Who should be offered the hepatitis B vaccination under OSHA?

  1. Only managers
  2. Only receptionists
  3. All clients
  4. Employees with occupational exposure to blood or body fluids Correct answer.

Explanation

OSHA requires that employers offer the hepatitis B vaccination to employees who have occupational exposure to blood or other potentially infectious materials. The vaccination is offered at no cost to the employee.

Question 17Infection Control, Sanitation, and Safety

How should used razor blades be discarded?

  1. In a recycling bin
  2. In regular trash
  3. In a puncture-resistant sharps container Correct answer.
  4. In a cloth towel

Explanation

Used blades are sharps and must be placed in a puncture-resistant sharps container to prevent injury and exposure. They should never be placed loose in regular trash.

Question 18Infection Control, Sanitation, and Safety

What is the correct response to a wet floor in the treatment area?

  1. Wait until the end of the day to mop
  2. Ignore it if the spill is small
  3. Cover it with a towel
  4. Clean it immediately and post a wet-floor sign Correct answer.

Explanation

Spills should be cleaned up immediately and a wet-floor sign should be posted to warn others while the area is wet. Prompt action reduces slip-and-fall injuries.

Question 19Infection Control, Sanitation, and Safety

How should flammable products be handled in the treatment room?

  1. Keep them away from open flame and heat sources Correct answer.
  2. Store them near a heater
  3. Use them near an open flame
  4. Leave their caps off during use

Explanation

Flammable products must be kept away from open flames, sparks, and heat sources and should be stored according to the label. Caps should be kept closed when products are not in use.

Question 20Infection Control, Sanitation, and Safety

Why is a patch test performed before a tint or color service?

  1. To identify a potential allergic reaction before full application Correct answer.
  2. To sterilize the skin
  3. To improve the final color
  4. To shorten the service time

Explanation

A patch test helps identify a possible allergic reaction before the product is applied to a larger area. If a reaction occurs, the service should not proceed.

Question 21Infection Control, Sanitation, and Safety

What is the correct practice for towels and linens?

  1. Reuse them if they are not visibly soiled
  2. Store clean and dirty linens together
  3. Use clean linens for each client and store them separately Correct answer.
  4. Wash them with disinfectant only once a month

Explanation

Clean linens should be used for each client, and clean and dirty linens must be stored separately to prevent cross-contamination. Laundering should follow the manufacturer's instructions.

Question 22Infection Control, Sanitation, and Safety

What should be done with a porous item that cannot be disinfected between clients?

  1. Wipe it with water only
  2. Store it in a drawer for later use
  3. Discard it after a single use Correct answer.
  4. Use it only on dry skin

Explanation

Porous items that cannot be cleaned and disinfected should be treated as single-use and discarded after use. Reusing them risks cross-contamination.

Question 23Infection Control, Sanitation, and Safety

Why must a disinfectant be diluted exactly as the label instructs?

  1. Stronger is always safer
  2. Water makes the product sterile
  3. Dilution has no effect on effectiveness
  4. Incorrect dilution can reduce killing power or cause harm Correct answer.

Explanation

Disinfectants are formulated to work at a specific dilution and contact time. Using too little may reduce killing power, while using too much may be unsafe or damaging.

Question 24Infection Control, Sanitation, and Safety

How can product contamination in a jar be prevented?

  1. Blow on the product to remove excess
  2. Use a clean spatula each time and avoid double-dipping Correct answer.
  3. Double-dip the same spatula
  4. Touch the jar rim with fingers

Explanation

Using a clean spatula and avoiding double-dipping prevents microorganisms from being introduced into the product. Disposable or properly cleaned spatulas should be used.

Question 25Infection Control, Sanitation, and Safety

How does allergic contact dermatitis differ from irritant contact dermatitis?

  1. It appears only on the feet
  2. It is always caused by heat
  3. It is immune-mediated and may worsen with repeated exposure Correct answer.
  4. It never requires medical care

Explanation

Allergic contact dermatitis is an immune-mediated reaction that can worsen with repeated exposure to an allergen. Irritant contact dermatitis is a direct-damage reaction and is not immune-mediated.

Question 26Infection Control, Sanitation, and Safety

Which statement best describes the difference between sanitation and disinfection?

  1. Sanitation destroys all bacterial spores, while disinfection only removes visible soil and debris.
  2. Sanitation is used only on skin, while disinfection is used only on surfaces and tools.
  3. Sanitation reduces microbes; disinfection destroys most microbes on nonporous items. Correct answer.
  4. Sanitation and disinfection describe the same process and may be used interchangeably.

Explanation

Sanitation is a cleaning process that lowers the number of microorganisms on a surface, while disinfection uses an EPA-registered product to destroy most disease-causing organisms on nonporous items. Only sterilization destroys bacterial spores. The two processes are not interchangeable, and sanitation applies to tools and surfaces as well as skin.

Question 27Infection Control, Sanitation, and Safety

What is the minimum recommended lathering time when washing hands with soap and water?

  1. 60 seconds of lathering
  2. 5 seconds of lathering
  3. 10 seconds of lathering
  4. 20 seconds of lathering Correct answer.

Explanation

Routine handwashing should involve lathering with soap and water for at least 20 seconds, covering palms, backs of hands, between fingers, and under nails. Hands are then rinsed and dried with a disposable towel. Shorter times do not allow adequate removal of transient microorganisms.

Question 28Infection Control, Sanitation, and Safety

Why must an implement be scrubbed with soap and water before it is placed in disinfectant?

  1. Soap sterilizes the implement completely, so disinfection becomes unnecessary.
  2. Organic debris can block the disinfectant from contacting the entire surface. Correct answer.
  3. Scrubbing with soap removes the need to use a disinfectant on the tool.
  4. Soap chemically activates the disinfectant so it works faster and stronger.

Explanation

Blood, oil, skin cells, and product residue can shield microorganisms and prevent the disinfectant from reaching the implement surface. Cleaning with soap and water must always precede disinfection. Disinfectants are formulated to work on clean surfaces, not on heavy organic soil.

Question 29Infection Control, Sanitation, and Safety

Which item must be discarded after one client because it cannot be effectively disinfected?

  1. Stainless steel tweezers
  2. Wooden brow spatula Correct answer.
  3. Glass mixing bowl
  4. Metal comedone extractor

Explanation

Porous materials such as wood absorb moisture, oils, and microorganisms and cannot be reliably cleaned and disinfected between clients. Items made of wood, paper, cotton, or foam are treated as single-use. Nonporous metal and glass items can be cleaned and disinfected when handled correctly.

Question 30Infection Control, Sanitation, and Safety

What should an esthetician confirm on the label of a disinfectant intended for salon implements?

  1. That it can be mixed with other disinfectants to widen its range
  2. That it has an EPA registration number and a hospital-grade claim Correct answer.
  3. That it is packaged in a clear container for easy visibility
  4. That it contains added fragrance to cover the chemical odor

Explanation

A salon disinfectant should carry an EPA registration number and a hospital-grade claim, which indicates activity against a broad range of pathogens. The product must then be used exactly as the label directs. Fragrance, packaging color, and mixing products are not measures of efficacy.

Question 31Infection Control, Sanitation, and Safety

A disinfectant label specifies a 10-minute contact time. What does this require?

  1. The implement may be removed after being dipped for 10 seconds.
  2. The disinfectant solution must be replaced every 10 minutes of use.
  3. The implement should be rinsed under running water for 10 minutes.
  4. The item must remain fully submerged for the full 10 minutes. Correct answer.

Explanation

Contact time is the period an item must stay in continuous contact with the disinfectant for the product to achieve its labeled kill claims. Removing an implement early can leave viable pathogens on the surface. The item must be fully submerged for the entire time stated on the label.

Question 32Infection Control, Sanitation, and Safety

Which statement about sterilization is accurate?

  1. Sterilization is required only for items that touch intact skin.
  2. Sterilization destroys all microorganisms, including spores. Correct answer.
  3. Sterilization removes visible debris using soap and water.
  4. Sterilization is the same process as sanitation but takes longer.

Explanation

Sterilization is the highest level of microbial control and destroys all microorganisms, including bacterial spores. It is used for items that must be completely free of viable organisms and is typically performed with an autoclave or other validated method. Cleaning and disinfection are separate, lower-level processes.

Question 33Infection Control, Sanitation, and Safety

When should the disinfectant solution in an implement jar be replaced?

  1. Whenever a new client enters the salon for a service
  2. Only after the solution becomes cloudy or contains visible debris from tools
  3. Once a month, regardless of how many clients were served
  4. At the interval stated on the product label or when visibly soiled Correct answer.

Explanation

Disinfectant solutions lose strength over time and become contaminated with organic debris and diluted by wet implements. The product label specifies how often the solution must be changed. It should also be replaced whenever it is visibly dirty, since soil reduces effectiveness.

Question 34Infection Control, Sanitation, and Safety

Why should bleach never be combined with an ammonia-based cleaner?

  1. The combination permanently stains salon surfaces.
  2. The mixture loses all of its cleaning ability.
  3. The mixture becomes too thick to pour safely.
  4. The combination releases toxic chloramine gas. Correct answer.

Explanation

Mixing bleach with ammonia produces chloramine gas, which can cause severe respiratory irritation and injury. Cleaning chemicals should be used one at a time, according to label directions, with adequate ventilation. Products should never be combined unless the label specifically allows it.

Question 35Infection Control, Sanitation, and Safety

How should a working amount of disinfectant be kept at the station?

  1. In a labeled container with the product name and hazard warning Correct answer.
  2. In any unmarked spray bottle stored under the sink for quick access
  3. In a clean food or drink container with a tight-fitting lid
  4. In a paper cup that is thrown away at the start of each day

Explanation

Secondary containers must be labeled with the product name and appropriate hazard information so anyone in the salon can identify the contents and risks. Unlabeled containers invite misuse and accidental exposure. Chemicals should never be placed in food or drink containers.

Question 36Infection Control, Sanitation, and Safety

After removing gloves following a facial, what hand hygiene step is required?

  1. Apply lotion only and move on to the next client.
  2. Nothing, because the gloves protected the hands completely.
  3. Wash hands with soap and water or use hand sanitizer. Correct answer.
  4. Rinse hands with disinfectant solution and dry them.

Explanation

Gloves can have tiny defects and can contaminate the hands during removal, so hand hygiene is required after glove removal. Hands should be washed with soap and water or cleaned with an appropriate hand sanitizer. Gloves supplement but do not replace handwashing.

Question 37Infection Control, Sanitation, and Safety

An esthetician with a small cut on her finger gets client blood on her glove during a facial. What is the correct response?

  1. Remove the glove, squeeze the wound, and continue the facial without reporting.
  2. Wipe the glove with alcohol and pull a second glove over the contaminated one.
  3. Rinse the contaminated glove with disinfectant and finish the facial service.
  4. Stop, remove gloves, wash the cut with soap and water, bandage, and report. Correct answer.

Explanation

A blood exposure involving broken skin requires stopping the service, removing contaminated gloves, and washing the wound with soap and water. The cut should then be covered with a bandage and the exposure reported according to the facility's exposure control plan. Continuing to work with contaminated gloves risks further exposure.

Question 38Infection Control, Sanitation, and Safety

Which statement correctly distinguishes an antiseptic from a disinfectant?

  1. Antiseptics are used on skin; disinfectants are used on surfaces and tools. Correct answer.
  2. Disinfectants are formulated to be safe on broken skin, while antiseptics are not.
  3. Antiseptics must be EPA-registered for use on salon tools, but disinfectants need not be.
  4. Antiseptics are stronger than disinfectants and can destroy bacterial spores.

Explanation

Antiseptics are formulated for application to living tissue, such as skin, to reduce microorganisms. Disinfectants are formulated for inanimate surfaces and implements and are not intended for use on skin. The two product categories have different regulatory requirements and safety profiles.

Question 39Infection Control, Sanitation, and Safety

A metal extractor falls to the floor during a service. What must be done before it is used again?

  1. Wipe it with a paper towel and keep using it on the same client.
  2. Dip it briefly in disinfectant, blot it dry, and keep using it.
  3. Clean it with soap and water, then disinfect for the labeled time. Correct answer.
  4. Rinse it under hot running water and place it back on the tray.

Explanation

An implement that contacts the floor is contaminated and must be removed from service until it is cleaned and then disinfected according to the product label. A quick wipe, brief dip, or hot-water rinse does not satisfy the required cleaning and contact time. The item should not be reused on any client until reprocessed.

Question 40Infection Control, Sanitation, and Safety

What is the role of an ultrasonic cleaner in implement care?

  1. It replaces the need for a hospital-grade disinfectant.
  2. It coats implements with a protective antimicrobial film.
  3. It loosens and removes debris before disinfection. Correct answer.
  4. It sterilizes implements by killing all bacterial spores.

Explanation

An ultrasonic cleaner uses high-frequency sound waves to loosen and remove debris from hard-to-reach areas of implements. It is a cleaning step that must be followed by disinfection; it does not sterilize. It also does not replace a hospital-grade disinfectant or leave an antimicrobial coating.

Question 41Skin Sciences and Skin Analysis

Which epidermal layer forms the outermost, fully keratinized barrier of the skin?

  1. Stratum basale
  2. Stratum spinosum
  3. Stratum corneum Correct answer.
  4. Stratum granulosum

Explanation

Epidermal cells mature as they migrate from the basal layer toward the surface. By the time they reach the outermost layer they have flattened, lost their nuclei, and become keratinized corneocytes that form the protective barrier.

Question 42Skin Sciences and Skin Analysis

Which cells located in the basal layer synthesize melanin pigment?

  1. Merkel cells
  2. Langerhans cells
  3. Keratinocytes
  4. Melanocytes Correct answer.

Explanation

Melanocytes reside along the basal layer and produce melanin, which is then transferred to surrounding keratinocytes to shield their nuclei from ultraviolet radiation.

Question 43Skin Sciences and Skin Analysis

Which protein fiber gives skin the ability to stretch and rebound to its original shape?

  1. Elastin Correct answer.
  2. Collagen
  3. Sebum
  4. Keratin

Explanation

Elastin is a coiled, rubber-like protein in the dermis that allows tissue to stretch and recoil. Collagen provides tensile strength, while keratin is a protective surface protein.

Question 44Skin Sciences and Skin Analysis

The acid mantle of healthy skin typically falls within which pH range?

  1. 4.5 to 5.5 Correct answer.
  2. 1.0 to 2.0
  3. 6.5 to 7.5
  4. 2.0 to 3.0

Explanation

Healthy skin surface pH is mildly acidic, generally between about 4.5 and 5.5. This acidity supports the barrier, limits growth of pathogens, and helps maintain normal flora.

Question 45Skin Sciences and Skin Analysis

Which layer lies beneath the dermis and consists primarily of adipose tissue?

  1. Stratum lucidum
  2. Papillary dermis
  3. Subcutaneous layer Correct answer.
  4. Basement membrane

Explanation

The subcutaneous layer, also called the hypodermis, sits below the dermis and is composed mainly of fat and connective tissue. It cushions the body, insulates against heat loss, and stores energy.

Question 46Skin Sciences and Skin Analysis

Which gland produces the watery sweat responsible for cooling the body?

  1. Apocrine gland
  2. Sebaceous gland
  3. Ceruminous gland
  4. Eccrine gland Correct answer.

Explanation

Eccrine glands are distributed over most of the body and secrete a watery fluid onto the skin surface, where evaporation produces cooling. They are the principal glands of thermoregulation.

Question 47Skin Sciences and Skin Analysis

A client's entire face is shiny with enlarged pores in all areas. Which skin type does this describe?

  1. Dry
  2. Normal
  3. Oily Correct answer.
  4. Combination

Explanation

Oily skin shows excess shine and enlarged pores across all facial areas because sebaceous activity is elevated throughout. Dry skin appears tight or flaky, and combination skin is oily only in the T-zone.

Question 48Skin Sciences and Skin Analysis

In a healthy adult, complete epidermal cell turnover from the basal layer to shedding takes approximately how long?

  1. 3 to 5 days
  2. 14 to 21 days
  3. 7 to 10 days
  4. 28 days Correct answer.

Explanation

The epidermis renews itself in roughly 28 days in a healthy adult, as cells divide in the basal layer, mature while migrating upward, and finally desquamate from the surface.

Question 49Skin Sciences and Skin Analysis

A client has pale white skin, blue eyes, freckles, and reports always burning and never tanning. Which Fitzpatrick phototype is this?

  1. Type III
  2. Type I Correct answer.
  3. Type IV
  4. Type II

Explanation

Fitzpatrick Type I describes very fair skin that burns easily and does not tan, and it carries the greatest risk of ultraviolet injury. Higher types show progressively more pigment and greater tanning ability.

Question 50Skin Sciences and Skin Analysis

Which set of findings most strongly suggests an impaired skin barrier?

  1. Enlarged pores with midday shine across the face
  2. Increased transepidermal water loss with tightness and stinging Correct answer.
  3. Thickened stratum corneum with reduced product absorption
  4. Uniform pigmentation with good turgor and quick rebound

Explanation

A compromised barrier allows water to escape more readily, raising transepidermal water loss and producing tightness, stinging, and reactivity. These signs point to intercellular lipid disruption rather than to sebaceous activity.