Exam Content Breakdown

Understanding how the cosmetology exam is weighted helps you allocate your study time effectively. The NIC exam covers four major content domains with the largest emphasis on hair care services.

Content Domain Distribution

The NIC cosmetology written exam content is distributed as follows:

Exam Content Structure

The exam is approximately 60% service procedures and 40% science:

• Service Procedures (60%): Practical application of techniques
• Science/Theory (40%): Understanding the "why" behind procedures

1. Scientific Concepts (35%)

This domain covers the foundational science knowledge required for safe cosmetology practice:

Infection Control & Safety

• Microbiology: Bacteria, viruses, fungi, parasites
• Sanitation and disinfection procedures
• Sterilization methods
• OSHA and EPA regulations
• Bloodborne pathogens protocols
• Universal precautions

Anatomy & Physiology

• Hair structure: Cortex, medulla, cuticle
• Skin structure: Epidermis, dermis, subcutaneous
• Nail anatomy: Nail plate, nail bed, matrix
• Muscles and bones of head, face, and hands
• Nervous system basics for services

Chemistry

• pH scale and its importance in products
• Chemical bonds (side bonds, disulfide bonds)
• Chemical reactions in services
• Product chemistry (shampoos, conditioners, chemicals)
• Water chemistry and its effects

2. Hair Care & Services (45%)

The largest content area covers all aspects of hair services:

Consultation & Analysis

• Client consultation techniques
• Hair and scalp analysis
• Contraindications for services
• Documentation and record keeping

Haircutting

• Sectioning and subsectioning
• Cutting techniques: Blunt, graduated, layered, texturizing
• Elevation and over-direction
• Tool selection and maintenance
• Safety procedures

Styling Services

• Wet styling: Finger waves, pin curls, roller sets
• Thermal styling: Flat iron, curling iron, blow drying
• Finishing techniques: Updos, braiding, extensions
• Product selection and application

Chemical Services

• Permanent waving: Alkaline, acid, exothermic waves
• Chemical relaxers: Hydroxide, thio relaxers
• Hair coloring: Temporary, semi, demi, permanent
• Lightening/bleaching: Decolorization processes
• Corrective coloring: Color correction procedures

3. Skin Care & Services (10%)

This domain covers basic esthetics within the cosmetology scope:

Facial Services

• Skin analysis and types
• Facial procedures and massage
• Mask and treatment applications
• Contraindications for facial services

Hair Removal

• Waxing techniques (soft and hard wax)
• Tweezing and threading basics
• Safety and sanitation for hair removal
• Contraindications for waxing

Makeup Application

• Color theory for makeup
• Face shapes and corrective techniques
• Product selection and application
• Sanitation for makeup tools

4. Nail Care & Services (10%)

This domain covers manicure and pedicure services:

Manicure Services

• Nail structure and anatomy
• Manicure procedures
• Nail shaping techniques
• Polish application
• Nail enhancements (tips, wraps, acrylics, gels)

Pedicure Services

• Pedicure procedures
• Foot and leg massage
• Callus treatment (within scope)
• Sanitation requirements

Nail Product Chemistry

• Monomer and polymer chemistry
• UV/LED gel chemistry
• Product safety and ventilation
• Allergic reactions and sensitivities