Cosmetology State Board Exam Practice Test Questions & Answers

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Cosmetology State Board Exam Practice Test Questions & Answers - Quiz

Prepare confidently for the Cosmetology State Board Exam with our comprehensive practice test questions and answers. This quiz offers a curated selection of questions and detailed answers. Designed to mimic the exam format, it covers essential topics from hair care to skincare, nails, and regulations. Test your knowledge, identify areas of improvement, and reinforce your grasp of key concepts. Whether you're a student completing your training or a professional seeking to refresh your skills, this practice test provides invaluable insights.

Navigate through scenarios that mirror real-world salon situations, assessing your expertise in techniques, safety protocols, and client interactions. Unlock your Read morepotential by gaining confidence in your abilities and refining your understanding of cosmetology principles. With this practice test, you'll fine-tune your readiness, ensure a smooth test-taking experience, and increase your chances of success on the Cosmetology State Board Exam. Equip yourself with the knowledge and competence necessary to excel in the cosmetology field by embracing the learning opportunity provided by this practice test.


Cosmetology State Board Practice Questions and Answers

  • 1. 

    Which hair portion absorbs chemical wave solution faster?

    • A.

      At crown

    • B.

      At scalp

    • C.

      Where hair porosity is greatest

    • D.

      Where hair density is greatest

    Correct Answer
    C. Where hair porosity is greatest
    Explanation
    Hair porosity refers to the ability of hair to absorb and retain moisture and chemicals. When it comes to a chemical wave solution, the portion of hair with the highest porosity will absorb the solution faster compared to other areas. This is because high porosity hair has a more open cuticle layer, allowing the solution to penetrate more easily. Therefore, the correct answer is where hair porosity is greatest.

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  • 2. 

    How is the hair if the cuticle is slightly raised and accepts color products easily?

    • A.

      Normal

    • B.

      Resistant

    • C.

      Fine

    • D.

      Coarse

    Correct Answer
    A. Normal
    Explanation
    If the cuticle is slightly raised and accepts color products easily, it indicates that the hair is in a healthy condition. The cuticle is the outermost layer of the hair shaft and acts as a protective barrier. When the cuticle is raised, it allows color products to penetrate easily, resulting in better color absorption. This is typically seen in normal hair, which is neither too fine nor too coarse. Resistant hair would have a tightly closed cuticle, making it difficult for color products to penetrate. Fine hair would have a very thin cuticle, while coarse hair would have a thick and rough cuticle.

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  • 3. 

    How should the hair be before giving a chemical wave?

    • A.

      It should be slightly dampened.

    • B.

      It should be brushed vigorously.

    • C.

      It should be given a cream rinse.

    • D.

      It should be analyzed and shampooed

    Correct Answer
    D. It should be analyzed and shampooed
    Explanation
    Before giving a chemical wave, the hair should be analyzed and shampooed. This is important because analyzing the hair helps to determine its condition and the appropriate products and techniques to use during the chemical wave process. Shampooing the hair beforehand removes any dirt, oil, or product buildup, ensuring that the chemicals can penetrate the hair effectively. This step also helps to create a clean and healthy foundation for the chemical wave, resulting in better results and minimizing potential damage to the hair.

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  • 4. 

    What is advisable to give if you want to add strength and body to damaged hair?

    • A.

      Massage treatment

    • B.

      Hair analysis

    • C.

      Permanent wave

    • D.

      Conditioning treatment

    Correct Answer
    D. Conditioning treatment
    Explanation
    A conditioning treatment is advisable to give if you want to add strength and body to damaged hair. Conditioning treatments are designed to nourish and moisturize the hair, providing it with the necessary nutrients to repair and strengthen the damaged strands. These treatments can help restore the hair's natural moisture balance, improve elasticity, and add body and volume to the hair. By using a conditioning treatment, you can effectively improve the overall health and appearance of damaged hair.

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  • 5. 

    In cosmetology, which ingredient is primarily responsible for the oxidizing action in hair coloring products that enables the hair dye to develop and bind to the hair?

    • A.

      Ammonia

    • B.

      Hydrogen peroxide

    • C.

      Ethanolamine

    • D.

      P-phenylenediamine

    Correct Answer
    B. Hydrogen peroxide
    Explanation
    Hydrogen peroxide is the key oxidizing agent used in many hair coloring products. Its primary role is to open the cuticle of the hair so that the dye can penetrate into the cortex. Once inside, hydrogen peroxide helps to initiate the chemical reaction that leads to the development of color molecules, which are then bound within the hair fiber. This action not only allows for permanent color changes but also ensures the longevity of the color in the hair.

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  • 6. 

    Which of the following determines the texture of the hair?  

    • A.

      Porosity

    • B.

      Elasticity

    • C.

      Diameter

    • D.

      Density

    Correct Answer
    C. Diameter
    Explanation
    The texture of the hair is determined by its diameter. Hair can have a fine or coarse texture depending on the thickness of its individual strands. Fine hair has a smaller diameter, while coarse hair has a larger diameter. The diameter of the hair affects how it feels and behaves, such as how easily it can be styled or how prone it is to frizz. Porosity, elasticity, and density are other factors that can affect the condition and appearance of the hair, but they do not directly determine its texture.

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  • 7. 

    What will it do if a temporary color rinse is applied to normal hair?

    • A.

      Coat the cuticle layer

    • B.

      Coat the medulla layer

    • C.

      Penetrate the cuticle

    • D.

      Penetrate the medulla

    Correct Answer
    A. Coat the cuticle layer
    Explanation
    If a temporary color rinse is applied to normal hair, it will coat the cuticle layer. This means that the color rinse will create a layer on the outermost part of the hair shaft, which is the cuticle. This coating will temporarily change the color of the hair without penetrating deeper layers such as the medulla.

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  • 8. 

    Why is it necessary to apply an antiseptic to tweezed areas during arching?

    • A.

      To open pores

    • B.

      To eliminate pain

    • C.

      To avoid infection

    • D.

      To remove dead skin

    Correct Answer
    C. To avoid infection
    Explanation
    Applying an antiseptic to tweezed areas during arching is necessary to avoid infection. When tweezing, the hair follicles are being pulled out, creating tiny open wounds on the skin. These open wounds can easily become a breeding ground for bacteria, leading to infections. By applying an antiseptic, it kills or inhibits the growth of bacteria, reducing the risk of infection and promoting proper healing of the skin.

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  • 9. 

    Which of the following instruments should be used to slither a client's hair?

    • A.

      Razor

    • B.

      Shears

    • C.

      Clippers

    • D.

      Thinning shears

    Correct Answer
    B. Shears
    Explanation
    Shears should be used to slither a client's hair. Shears are a type of scissors specifically designed for cutting hair. They have two blades with sharp edges that glide against each other to create a clean and precise cut. Slithering is a technique used to create texture and remove bulk from the hair by cutting small sections at different lengths. Razors, clippers, and thinning shears are not suitable for slithering as they have different cutting mechanisms and purposes.

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  • 10. 

    It is necessary to use a conditioner-filler during a chemical relaxer retouch service? Why?

    • A.

      Because it coats and seals the relaxer into the hair.

    • B.

      Because it allows deeper penetration of relaxer into the hair shaft.

    • C.

      Because it helps even the porosity.

    • D.

      Because it increases neutralizing time.

    Correct Answer
    C. Because it helps even the porosity.
    Explanation
    Using a conditioner-filler during a chemical relaxer retouch service is necessary because it helps even the porosity of the hair. Porosity refers to the hair's ability to absorb and retain moisture, and uneven porosity can lead to uneven results during the relaxer process. The conditioner-filler helps to fill in any gaps or inconsistencies in the hair shaft, ensuring that the relaxer is applied and processed evenly. This helps to achieve a more uniform and consistent result, resulting in smoother and more manageable hair.

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  • 11. 

    What manicure is suggested for dry cuticles and brittle nails?

    • A.

      Oil

    • B.

      Machine

    • C.

      Regular

    • D.

      Antiseptic

    Correct Answer
    A. Oil
    Explanation
    Oil is suggested for dry cuticles and brittle nails because it helps to moisturize and nourish the cuticles and nails, improving their condition. Oil can penetrate the skin and nails, providing hydration and preventing further dryness and brittleness. Regular use of oil can help to strengthen the nails and promote healthy cuticles.

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  • 12. 

    Where are nerves and blood vessels found?

    • A.

      Nail bed

    • B.

      Plate

    • C.

      Lunula

    • D.

      Cuticle

    Correct Answer
    A. Nail bed
    Explanation
    Nerves and blood vessels are found in the nail bed. The nail bed is the area beneath the nail plate where the nail is attached to the skin. It is rich in blood vessels and nerve endings, which provide nourishment and sensation to the nail.

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  • 13. 

    Which of the following is the peak of a finger wave?

    • A.

      Line

    • B.

      Trough

    • C.

      Ridge

    • D.

      C-shape

    Correct Answer
    C. Ridge
    Explanation
    The peak of a finger wave refers to the highest point or crest in the wave pattern. It is the part where the hair is lifted and shaped upwards, creating a ridge-like formation. The ridge is the correct answer because it accurately describes this characteristic of a finger wave.

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  • 14. 

    What tendency does the hair have during the processing time in chemical waving?

    • A.

      To expand

    • B.

      To harden

    • C.

      To contract

    • D.

      To circulate

    Correct Answer
    A. To expand
    Explanation
    During the processing time in chemical waving, the hair tends to expand. This is because the chemical solution used in the process breaks down the protein bonds in the hair, allowing it to be reshaped. As the bonds are broken, the hair becomes more flexible and expands, allowing it to take on the desired shape or curl.

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  • 15. 

    It is made of cells, blood, calcium carbonate, and calcium phosphate?

    • A.

      Nerves

    • B.

      Teeth

    • C.

      Bones

    • D.

      Tendons

    Correct Answer
    C. Bones
    Explanation
    Bones are made up of cells, blood vessels, and minerals such as calcium carbonate and calcium phosphate. These minerals give bones their strength and hardness. Nerves, on the other hand, are not made up of cells, blood, or these specific minerals. Teeth also contain calcium phosphate, but they do not have blood vessels or cells. Tendons are made up of collagen fibers and do not contain cells, blood, or these minerals. Therefore, bones are the only option that fits all the given components.

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  • 16. 

    Disulfide bonds are broken by the:

    • A.

      Shampooing process

    • B.

      Winding process

    • C.

      Chemical wave solution

    • D.

      Neutralizing solution

    Correct Answer
    C. Chemical wave solution
    Explanation
    Chemical wave solutions are used in hair perming processes to break the disulfide bonds in the hair. These bonds are responsible for the hair's natural shape and structure. By breaking the disulfide bonds, the hair can be reshaped and styled into a new form. Shampooing, winding, and neutralizing solutions do not typically involve the use of chemicals that can break disulfide bonds.

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  • 17. 

    Which are tint removers designed to remove?

    • A.

      Natural pigment

    • B.

      Temporary colors

    • C.

      Artificial pigment

    • D.

      Conditioner build-up

    Correct Answer
    C. Artificial pigment
    Explanation
    Tint removers are specifically designed to remove artificial pigment from the hair. This means that they are effective in removing hair dyes or colorants that have been applied to the hair. These products work by breaking down the artificial color molecules, allowing them to be washed out of the hair. Tint removers are not intended to remove natural pigment, temporary colors, or conditioner build-up.

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  • 18. 

    A client with ____________ nail conditions should be referred to a physician:

    • A.

      Blue nails

    • B.

      White spots

    • C.

      Onychophagy

    • D.

      Onychomycosis

    Correct Answer
    D. Onychomycosis
    Explanation
    Onychomycosis is a fungal infection of the nails that can cause discoloration, thickening, and crumbling of the nails. It is a more serious condition compared to the other options listed. Blue nails can be a sign of poor circulation or a lung disorder, white spots can be caused by trauma or a fungal infection, and onychophagy refers to nail-biting. However, onychomycosis requires medical attention and treatment from a physician.

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  • 19. 

    Scalp manipulations should not be performed when _________________.

    • A.

      Abrasions are present.

    • B.

      Henna is to be applied.

    • C.

      The hair has been tinted.

    • D.

      The hair has recently been brushed.

    Correct Answer
    A. Abrasions are present.
    Explanation
    Scalp manipulations should not be performed when abrasions are present because the act of manipulating or massaging the scalp can further irritate or worsen the existing abrasions. Abrasions are open wounds on the skin, and any kind of manipulation can introduce bacteria or cause bleeding, leading to infection or further damage. It is important to allow the abrasions to heal before performing any scalp manipulations to ensure the safety and well-being of the individual.

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  • 20. 

    The shortest processing time in chemical waving is usually required for which type of hair?

    • A.

      Fine

    • B.

      Coarse

    • C.

      Resistant

    • D.

      Lightened

    Correct Answer
    D. Lightened
    Explanation
    Lightened hair requires the shortest processing time in chemical waving because it has already undergone a chemical process to lighten the color. The hair cuticles are more porous and receptive to chemical treatments, allowing for faster and more effective processing. Fine, coarse, and resistant hair types may require longer processing times as they are less porous and may require more time for the waving solution to penetrate and reshape the hair structure.

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  • 21. 

    What may frequent shampooing with highly alkaline shampoo cause the hair to become?

    • A.

      Dry

    • B.

      Oily

    • C.

      Curly

    • D.

      Thick

    Correct Answer
    A. Dry
    Explanation
    Frequent shampooing with highly alkaline shampoo can cause the hair to become dry. Alkaline shampoos have a high pH level, which can strip the hair of its natural oils and moisture. This can lead to dryness, brittleness, and breakage of the hair strands. It is important to use a shampoo that is pH balanced and suitable for your hair type to maintain its health and moisture.

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  • 22. 

    Which layer of the skin is primarily responsible for producing new skin cells?

    • A.

      Epidermis

    • B.

      Dermis

    • C.

      Subcutaneous layer

    • D.

      Hypodermis

    Correct Answer
    A. Epidermis
    Explanation
    The epidermis is the outermost layer of the skin and is primarily responsible for producing new skin cells. This layer continuously generates new cells through a process called keratinization. The cells in the epidermis move up to the surface, where they eventually shed off, allowing for the renewal of the skin. The dermis and subcutaneous layer (hypodermis) provide structural support and insulation but do not produce new skin cells.

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  • 23. 

    What should be done to protect a sensitive scalp during a relaxer treatment?

    • A.

      Apply a protective base.

    • B.

      Use a mild shampoo.

    • C.

      Apply a conditioner to hair.

    • D.

      Use astringent on the scalp.

    Correct Answer
    A. Apply a protective base.
    Explanation
    To protect a sensitive scalp during a relaxer treatment, it is important to apply a protective base. This is because a relaxer treatment involves the use of chemicals that can be harsh on the scalp and cause irritation or burns. Applying a protective base creates a barrier between the scalp and the relaxer, minimizing the risk of damage. It is not necessary to use a mild shampoo or apply a conditioner during the relaxer treatment, as their main purpose is to cleanse and condition the hair, not protect the scalp. Using an astringent on the scalp is also not recommended, as it can further irritate the sensitive skin.

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  • 24. 

    High elevation in hair cutting is used for what?

    • A.

      Add bulk

    • B.

      Thin hair

    • C.

      Create layers

    • D.

      Establish guidelines

    Correct Answer
    C. Create layers
    Explanation
    High elevation in hair cutting is used to create layers. When cutting hair with high elevation, the hair is lifted away from the head and cut at an angle, resulting in shorter layers on top and longer layers underneath. This technique adds movement and texture to the hair, creating a layered look. It is commonly used to add volume and dimension to the hair, giving it a more dynamic and versatile style.

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  • 25. 

    What is the function of keratin?

    • A.

      It protects the skin from injury.

    • B.

      It nourishes the connective tissue.

    • C.

      It gives flexibility to the nail.

    • D.

      It forms the foundation of all tough tissue.

    Correct Answer
    D. It forms the foundation of all tough tissue.
    Explanation
    The function of keratin is It forms the foundation of all tough tissue. Keratin is a fibrous protein that is a fundamental component of various protective tissues in the body, including the skin, hair, nails, and the outermost layer of the epidermis. It provides structural strength and rigidity to these tissues, forming the basis for their protective function. While keratin plays a role in protecting the skin, it is not primarily responsible for nourishing connective tissue, providing flexibility to the nails, or protecting the skin from injury. Its primary function is to provide structural integrity to the mentioned tissues.

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  • 26. 

    What should metal implements be disinfected with?

    • A.

      Antibacterial soap

    • B.

      2% boric acid

    • C.

      Hospital grade solution

    • D.

      Hydrogen peroxide

    Correct Answer
    C. Hospital grade solution
    Explanation
    Metal implements should be disinfected with a hospital grade solution because it is specifically designed to kill a wide range of microorganisms, including bacteria, viruses, and fungi. This solution is more effective in eliminating harmful pathogens compared to antibacterial soap or hydrogen peroxide. Boric acid, on the other hand, is not commonly used as a disinfectant for metal implements. Therefore, a hospital grade solution is the most appropriate choice for disinfecting metal implements.

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  • 27. 

    What is the pH of sodium hydroxide?

    • A.

      2.5 to 3.5

    • B.

      5.5 to 6.5

    • C.

      8.5 to 9.5

    • D.

      10.5 to 11.5

    Correct Answer
    D. 10.5 to 11.5
    Explanation
    Sodium hydroxide is a strong base, so it dissociates completely in water to produce hydroxide ions (OH-). The pH scale measures the concentration of hydrogen ions (H+), so in a basic solution, the concentration of hydroxide ions is high and the concentration of hydrogen ions is low. A pH range of 10.5 to 11.5 indicates a highly alkaline solution, which aligns with sodium hydroxide being a strong base.

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  • 28. 

    What is hair primarily composed of?

    • A.

      Calcium

    • B.

      Keratin

    • C.

      Cortisone

    • D.

      Magnesium

    Correct Answer
    B. Keratin
    Explanation
    Hair is primarily composed of keratin. Keratin is a tough, fibrous protein that is responsible for the strength and structure of hair. It forms the outer layer of the hair shaft and provides protection and elasticity. Keratin is also found in other parts of the body, such as the skin and nails. Calcium, cortisone, and magnesium are not the primary components of hair.

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  • 29. 

    Pre-lightening the hair is usually necessary when using a:

    • A.

      Toner

    • B.

      Metallic tint

    • C.

      One process tint

    • D.

      Temporary color

    Correct Answer
    A. Toner
    Explanation
    Pre-lightening the hair is usually necessary when using a toner because toners are used to neutralize unwanted tones in the hair, such as brassiness or yellowing. In order for the toner to effectively work and achieve the desired result, the hair needs to be pre-lightened to a certain level. This allows the toner to properly deposit the desired color and counteract any unwanted tones, resulting in a more balanced and natural-looking hair color.

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  • 30. 

    Which of the following condition would prevent cosmetologist from performing a service on a client?

    • A.

      Psoriasis

    • B.

      Pityryasis capitus

    • C.

      Tinea capitus

    • D.

      Hypertrychosis

    Correct Answer
    C. Tinea capitus
    Explanation
    Tinea capitus is a fungal infection that affects the scalp and hair shafts. It can cause hair loss, itching, and inflammation. Since it is contagious, a cosmetologist would not be able to perform a service on a client with tinea capitus to prevent the spread of the infection to other clients. Psoriasis, pityriasis capitus, and hypertrichosis do not pose the same risk of contagion and would not prevent a cosmetologist from performing a service.

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  • Current Version
  • Sep 28, 2024
    Quiz Edited by
    ProProfs Editorial Team
  • Aug 09, 2011
    Quiz Created by
    Laila Loca
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