VA Esthetician study plan

Label the layers of the epidermis and dermis and state at least one function of each

List the six functions of the skin (protection, sensation, thermoregulation, excretion, secretion, absorption) and give an example of each

Distinguish normal, dry, oily, and combination skin by visible characteristics and oil/water balance

Define pH and the acid mantle and state the pH range of healthy skin

Explain basic chemistry vocabulary: element, compound, suspension, emulsion, surfactant, and solution

Classify at least 10 skin conditions (dehydration, oiliness, hyperpigmentation, aging, sensitivity, acne) and match each to appropriate ingredient categories

Explain the function of at least 15 cosmetic ingredients, grouping them as humectants, emollients, occlusives, exfoliants, or sunscreen actives

Compare the Fitzpatrick skin types and state how type influences treatment selection and waxing/light-based service precautions

Identify at least 8 contraindications that require deferral or medical referral rather than treatment

Describe how to conduct a client consultation and skin analysis, including the questions to ask and what to document

Sequence a complete basic facial from consultation through closing, naming the purpose of each step

Differentiate mechanical from chemical exfoliation and state indications, contraindications, and expected client response for each

Describe at least five classic facial massage movements and the direction and pressure used for each

Adapt a basic facial for sensitive and acne-prone skin by changing products, exfoliation, and massage

Explain how to select and apply masks (clay, gel, cream, sheet) based on skin type and treatment goal

Differentiate cleaning, sanitizing, disinfecting, and sterilizing, and give one example of a product or process for each

Interpret an EPA-registered hospital disinfectant label, including dilution, contact time, and required safety equipment

Summarize Virginia esthetician licensure requirements (training hours, examination, licensure, renewal) directly from the Board's statutes and regulations

Identify scope-of-practice boundaries by listing at least 6 services an esthetician may perform and 4 that are outside scope

Describe Board rules on shop licensure, license posting, and sanitation inspection recordkeeping

Outline the Board's complaint, disciplinary, and appeal process in sequence

Explain advertising and consumer-protection rules that apply to an esthetician and a licensed shop

Apply standard precautions and infection-control procedures to at least 5 written scenario questions

Identify electrical, chemical, and fire hazards in a treatment room and state the corrective action for each

Explain safe handling, storage, and disposal of chemicals and implements used in skin care services

Label the hair structure and the stages of hair growth and state which stage waxing targets

List at least 10 contraindications and precautions for waxing, including retinoid use, recent exfoliation, diabetes, and compromised skin

Sequence a brow, lip, underarm, and lower-leg waxing service with correct wax temperature, patch test, and skin tensioning

Select hard wax versus soft wax for a given area and justify the choice

State post-wax care instructions and the sanitation rules for waxing, including no double dipping and spatula handling

Match at least 5 face shapes to correct contour and highlight placement

Apply color theory to select corrective makeup for redness, sallowness, and dark circles

Outline the steps, patch test requirements, and contraindications for brow/lash tinting and eyelash extension services

Describe sanitation for makeup and lash services, including spatula use, disposable wands, and brush cleaning frequency

List eye-area safety precautions and at least 4 situations in which service must be refused or referred

Complete a full-length 150-question mock exam under timed conditions

Build a domain-by-domain error log and rank the two weakest domains

Re-drill the two weakest domains using flashcards and re-written notes until recall reaches 90%

Recite Virginia licensure, scope-of-practice, and sanitation rules from memory without notes

Review disinfection contact times, waxing contraindications, and lash/brow contraindications one final time