NM Esthetician study plan

Define and contrast cleaning, sanitizing, disinfecting, and sterilizing, and state which is required for each type of esthetic tool and surface

Classify at least 25 salon items as porous/non-porous and single-use/reusable, then assign the correct decontamination step to each

List the EPA-registered disinfectant label requirements (contact time, dilution, efficacy claims) and describe how to mix and store solutions correctly

Explain the chain of infection and name at least three points where an esthetician can break it during a facial

Demonstrate the correct sequence for handwashing and for donning/doffing gloves, and identify when glove changes are mandatory

Summarize the standard precautions, contraindication, and client-screening rules that apply before any treatment begins

Describe the layers of the skin, the function of each, and the cell turnover timeline from basal layer to desquamation

Identify at least 15 facial bones and muscles and state how muscle action affects treatment and product application

Explain the function of sebaceous and sudoriferous glands, melanocytes, and the acid mantle in barrier health

Differentiate the Fitzpatrick skin types and predict each type's response to waxing, exfoliation, and light-based services

Describe the ABCD and other warning signs used to identify a possible malignant lesion and state the required esthetician response

Compare dehydration, oiliness, sensitivity, and aging as conditions versus skin types, and list the observable indicators of each

Conduct a scripted intake conversation covering medications, allergies, pregnancy, recent aesthetic procedures, and sun exposure

Recognize the contraindications and medication classes (retinoids, blood thinners, photosensitizers, Accutane) that require deferral or modification

Write treatment plans that connect a stated client concern to skin analysis findings, modality choices, and an at-home regimen

Practice documentation of consent, patch tests, and adverse reactions using objective, non-diagnostic language

Sequence a basic facial in the correct order, from pre-cleanse through massage, extractions, mask, and finishing products

Explain the mechanism, indications, and contraindications for cleansing, exfoliation, extractions, and massage modalities

Compare hard and soft wax, sugaring, and threading by hair growth cycle, skin type suitability, and risk profile

List the pre- and post-care instructions and the specific contraindications that apply to facial waxing

Describe the use of electrical modalities, chemical exfoliants, and light therapy, including safety limits and esthetician scope of practice

Select and sequence makeup products by skin type, undertone, and face shape, and justify each choice

Match lash and brow services to client suitability and list the patch test and sanitation requirements for each

Incorporate retail and service pricing, rebooking, and client record-keeping into a repeatable post-service routine

Distinguish the esthetician's scope of practice from medical services and identify when to refer out

Apply state licensing, sanitation, and business rules to scenarios involving record retention, consent, and advertising claims

Re-derive the anatomy and skin-condition facts most often missed on practice questions using spaced review

Calculate service cost, markup, and break-even for a single treatment room

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

Re-teach every domain scoring below 80% by rewriting the missed concepts in your own words

Rehearse the sanitation and contraindication decisions that appear in almost every scenario question

Build a one-page final review sheet of numbers, timelines, and hard rules you must recall cold