OH Cosmetology key terms

A process that destroys most harmful microorganisms on hard, nonporous surfaces and tools using an EPA-registered product. It does not reliably kill bacterial spores.

The complete destruction of all microorganisms, including bacterial spores, on an object. In salons it is typically done with an autoclave for tools that can tolerate heat and pressure.

The lowest level of infection control: cleaning surfaces and tools with soap or detergent and water to remove dirt and reduce germs. It is done before disinfection or sterilization.

Bacteria that cause disease. In cosmetology they matter because contaminated tools, hands, or water can spread them to clients if proper infection control is not followed.

A tiny infectious agent that can only reproduce inside a living host cell. Viruses such as hepatitis and HIV are not affected by antibiotics and require proper disinfection and hand hygiene.

Plant-like organisms that include molds and yeasts. Some cause skin and nail infections, such as ringworm and athlete's foot, which can spread through contaminated tools or surfaces.

A scale from 0 to 14 that measures how acidic or alkaline a substance is. Seven is neutral; lower numbers are acidic and higher numbers are alkaline. Hair and skin have a preferred pH range.

A molecule with one end that attracts water and one end that attracts oil or dirt. Shampoos and cleansers use surfactants to lift oils and debris so they can be rinsed away.

An infection-control approach in which all blood and body fluids are treated as potentially infectious. It includes wearing gloves and washing hands before and after contact with clients.

A standardized document that gives safety information about a chemical product, including hazards, safe handling, first aid, and disposal. Salons must keep SDS information available for products used.

A device that uses steam under pressure to sterilize tools. It is used for items that can withstand heat and moisture, such as metal implements, and kills spores that disinfectants may not.

The outermost layer of a hair strand, made of overlapping scale-like cells. A healthy cuticle lies flat and protects the cortex; damage makes hair rough, porous, and dull.

The middle and thickest layer of a hair strand. It contains keratin and melanin and gives hair its strength, elasticity, and natural color; chemical services act mainly here.

A strong fibrous protein that is the main building block of hair, skin, and nails. Its condition affects hair strength, elasticity, and how well hair withstands chemical services.

The active growth phase of the hair growth cycle, when cells in the follicle divide and new hair is formed. Most scalp hair is in this phase at any given time.

The resting phase of the hair growth cycle, ending with shedding of the old hair. Stress, illness, or hormonal changes can push more hairs into this phase and cause temporary thinning.

A chemical product that straightens curly or wavy hair by breaking the disulfide bonds in the hair's cortex. It requires careful timing and a neutralizing step to rebuild the bonds.

A product applied after a relaxer to stop the chemical action and rebuild the hair's disulfide bonds. It helps return hair to a normal pH and leaves the straightened shape in place.

A hydrogen peroxide solution used with hair color or lightener to develop color and lift natural pigment. Its volume determines the strength of the oxidation and the amount of lift.

A small test of a product on the skin, usually behind the ear or in the elbow crease, to check for an allergic reaction before a full color or chemical service.

The outermost layer of the skin. It contains no blood vessels and is made of cells that constantly renew; it acts as the body's first barrier against infection and water loss.

The layer of skin beneath the epidermis. It contains blood vessels, nerves, hair follicles, and glands, and it gives skin strength and elasticity.

Glands in the skin that secrete sebum, an oily substance that lubricates skin and hair. Overactive glands can contribute to oily skin and acne.

The removal of dead skin cells from the surface of the skin. It can be done mechanically or chemically and helps skin look smoother and brighter, but overuse can irritate skin.

A six-category scale that describes how different skin types respond to ultraviolet light, from very fair to deeply pigmented. It helps estheticians choose safe treatment and sun-protection recommendations.

Sun Protection Factor: a number that indicates how well a sunscreen protects against UVB rays compared with unprotected skin. Higher SPF gives more protection, but reapplication is still needed.

The visible hard part of the nail that rests on the nail bed. It is made mostly of keratin and protects the sensitive nail bed underneath.

The area under the cuticle at the base of the nail where new nail cells are produced. Damage to the matrix can permanently affect the shape and growth of the nail.

A fungal infection of the nail that can cause thickening, discoloration, and separation of the nail plate. It is contagious and should be referred to a physician; tools must be disinfected.

Inflammation or infection of the tissue around the nail, often causing redness, swelling, and pain. It can result from torn cuticles or improper manicuring and may need medical care.

A liquid applied to the natural nail before artificial nail products to improve adhesion and control moisture. Proper use helps extensions stay in place and reduces lifting.

A self-employed salon worker who rents space and is responsible for their own taxes, insurance, and schedule. The salon does not withhold taxes or control the details of their work.

Insurance that protects a cosmetologist or salon against claims of injury or damage arising from services. It is important for covering legal costs and client medical claims.

A confidential record of a client's services, products used, formulations, and any reactions or allergies. It helps provide consistent service and documents what happened if a problem arises.

The state agency that licenses cosmetologists, estheticians, manicurists, and salons in Ohio and enforces the laws and rules for the industry.

The specific services and tasks a licensed professional is legally allowed to perform under their license type. Working outside it can lead to discipline and puts clients at risk.

A license issued by the state that allows a salon to operate legally. It requires compliance with sanitation, safety, and facility rules and must be kept current.

A state regulation that sets requirements for cleaning and disinfecting tools, equipment, and work areas in salons. Following it helps prevent the spread of infections between clients.