NY Barber study materials
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NY Barber flashcards

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

Cowlick
A circular hair growth pattern (whorl) in which hair stands up from the scalp; it must be cut against its natural fall to lie flat.
Traveling guide
A cutting guide in which each newly cut section becomes the reference for the next section, allowing length to change gradually across the head.
Stationary guide
A fixed section of hair that is not cut and serves as the length reference for all other sections throughout the haircut.
Elevation angle
The angle at which hair is held away from the head before cutting; 0 degrees is blunt, 45 graduated, 90 layered, and 180 long-layered.
Cross-checking
Cutting the same section of hair in the opposite direction to verify that lengths match and the blend is even before finishing.
Thinning shears
Shears with notched blades that remove bulk and weight from hair without shortening the overall length of the section.
Clipper guard sizes
Numbered attachments that control cut length; number 1 equals 1/8 inch, and each higher number adds another 1/8 inch.
Razor angle
The angle at which a straight razor is held to the skin, about 30 degrees; steeper angles nick and flatter angles irritate.
Shave preparation order
Cleanse the face, apply a hot towel, apply lather, shave with the grain, re-lather, shave across the grain, then finish with a cold towel.
Neckline placement
The line where a beard ends on the neck, placed about one finger width above the Adam's apple for a natural appearance.
Hot towel contraindication
Hot towels should not be applied to clients with rosacea, sensitive skin, or recent chemical peels; lukewarm compresses are used instead.
Shaving contraindications
Moles, warts, abrasions, sunburn, and skin infections must be avoided during shaving; the razor is worked around these areas.
Aftershave function
Astringent toners tighten pores and disinfect, while moisturizers restore the skin barrier after shaving removes surface oils.
Disinfection
The process of killing most microorganisms on surfaces and implements using an EPA-registered hospital-grade product following label contact time.
Sterilization
A process that destroys all microorganisms, including bacterial spores, on an object; it is stronger than disinfection.
Porous items
Materials such as towels, cotton, and neck strips that absorb liquids and cannot be disinfected; they must be discarded after one use.
Blood exposure procedure
Stop the service, glove up, clean and cover the wound, then disinfect all contaminated surfaces and implements before continuing.
Hand washing duration
Washing with soap and warm running water for at least 20 seconds, scrubbing between fingers and under nails, then drying with a disposable towel.
Safety Data Sheet
A document required for each chemical product in the shop that lists hazards, safe handling, and first-aid measures.
Hair cuticle
The outermost protective layer of the hair shaft, made of overlapping scales that control shine and resistance to chemical services.
Hair cortex
The middle layer of the hair shaft containing pigment and the bonds that give hair its strength, elasticity, and curl.
Anagen phase
The active growth phase of the hair cycle, lasting two to six years, during which new hair is produced in the follicle.
Telogen phase
The resting phase of the hair cycle, lasting about three months, after which the hair is shed and replaced.
Epidermis
The outermost layer of skin; it contains no blood vessels and serves as the body's first barrier against infection.
Mandible
The lower jawbone; it forms the lower face and is a key landmark for beard design and facial massage.
Masseter muscle
The muscle that raises the lower jaw during chewing; it lies at the angle of the jaw and is used in facial massage.
Sebaceous glands
Glands in the skin that secrete sebum; overactivity causes oily skin and acne, while underactivity causes dryness.
Facial nerve
Cranial nerve VII, which controls the muscles of facial expression; injury can cause facial drooping and asymmetry.
New York barber licensing
Barbering in New York is licensed and regulated by the Division of Licensing Services within the Department of State.
Shop license requirement
A New York barber shop must hold a current shop license, display it, and have a licensed barber on duty during services.
Unlicensed practice
Performing barbering services for compensation without a valid New York license is prohibited and subject to fines or other penalties.
License renewal
A New York barber license must be renewed before its expiration date; practicing on an expired license is a violation.