Key Takeaways
- Review infection control procedures, especially disinfection times and bloodborne pathogen protocols.
- Memorize the hair level system (1-10) and underlying pigment contributions.
- Know the three main bonds in hair: hydrogen, salt, and disulfide.
- Understand contraindications for chemical services, including patch test requirements.
- Build confidence by focusing on what you know rather than worrying about what you do not.
Last updated: January 2026
Final Review Checklist
Use this section for your final review before the exam. These are the most frequently tested concepts and must-know facts consolidated for quick reference.
Key Facts to Memorize
Infection Control Essentials
| Fact | What to Remember |
|---|---|
| Disinfectant contact time | 10 minutes minimum |
| Patch test timing | 48 hours before service |
| Levels of decontamination | Cleaning < Sanitization < Disinfection < Sterilization |
| Bloodborne pathogens | Hepatitis B, Hepatitis C, HIV |
| Most contagious BBP | Hepatitis B (survives on surfaces up to 1 week) |
Hair Structure
| Structure | Function |
|---|---|
| Cuticle | Outer protective layer (shingle-like scales) |
| Cortex | Contains melanin, bonds, gives strength and elasticity |
| Medulla | Innermost layer (may be absent in fine hair) |
| Keratin | Protein hair is made of |
Hair Growth Cycle
| Phase | Description | Duration (Scalp Hair) |
|---|---|---|
| Anagen | Active growth | 2-6 years |
| Catagen | Transition | 2-3 weeks |
| Telogen | Resting | 3-4 months |
Quick Reference Tables
pH Scale
| pH Value | Classification | Examples |
|---|---|---|
| 0-6.9 | Acidic | Hair/skin (4.5-5.5), lemon juice, vinegar |
| 7.0 | Neutral | Pure water |
| 7.1-14 | Alkaline | Relaxers, perm solutions, soap |
Hair Color Levels and Underlying Pigments
| Level | Color Description | Underlying Pigment |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Black | Red |
| 2 | Darkest brown | Red |
| 3 | Dark brown | Red |
| 4 | Medium brown | Red-orange |
| 5 | Light brown | Orange |
| 6 | Dark blonde | Orange-yellow |
| 7 | Medium blonde | Yellow-orange |
| 8 | Light blonde | Yellow |
| 9 | Very light blonde | Pale yellow |
| 10 | Lightest blonde | Pale yellow |
Color Wheel Neutralization
| Unwanted Tone | Neutralize With |
|---|---|
| Red | Green |
| Orange | Blue |
| Yellow | Violet |
| Green | Red |
| Blue | Orange |
| Violet | Yellow |
Must-Know Formulas and Percentages
Elevation and Cutting
| Elevation | Result | Haircut Type |
|---|---|---|
| 0 degrees | One length, no layers | Solid form/blunt |
| 45 degrees | Graduation, beveled | Graduated bob |
| 90 degrees | Uniform layers | Square layers |
| 180 degrees | Longer layers on top | Long layers |
Chemical Services
| Service | Main Active Chemical | Bond Affected |
|---|---|---|
| Permanent wave | Ammonium thioglycolate | Disulfide |
| Lye relaxer | Sodium hydroxide | Disulfide |
| No-lye relaxer | Calcium hydroxide/guanidine | Disulfide |
| Hydrogen peroxide | Oxidizer | Melanin (color) |
Developer (Peroxide) Volumes
| Volume | Lift Capability | Common Use |
|---|---|---|
| 10 volume (3%) | Deposit only, no lift | Toners, depositing color |
| 20 volume (6%) | 1-2 levels lift | Standard permanent color |
| 30 volume (9%) | 2-3 levels lift | High-lift, gray coverage |
| 40 volume (12%) | 3-4 levels lift | High-lift color only |
Common Exam Topics Summary
Most Frequently Tested Areas
- Infection Control - Disinfection procedures, bloodborne pathogens
- Sanitation vs. Disinfection vs. Sterilization - Know the differences
- Hair Color Theory - Levels, underlying pigments, neutralization
- Chemical Service Safety - Patch tests, contraindications
- Hair and Skin Anatomy - Structures and functions
- Hair Cutting Elevations - 0, 45, 90, 180 degrees
- Chemical Bonds - Hydrogen, salt, disulfide
- Skin Types - Fitzpatrick scale, conditions, contraindications
Commonly Confused Terms
| Term 1 | Term 2 | Key Difference |
|---|---|---|
| Sanitization | Disinfection | Sanitization reduces, disinfection kills |
| Anagen | Telogen | Anagen is growth, telogen is rest |
| Moral hazard | Morale hazard | (Not cosmetology - but good general knowledge!) |
| Eumelanin | Pheomelanin | Brown/black vs. red/yellow pigment |
| Virgin hair | Tinted hair | No chemical treatment vs. previously colored |
| Base cream | Neutralizer | Protection vs. bond rebuilding |
Confidence-Building Tips
Remember This
- You have prepared for this. Trust your training and study.
- Most candidates pass. The exam tests basic competency, not perfection.
- Your first instinct is usually right. Don't second-guess without good reason.
- You know more than you think. Anxiety makes it feel otherwise.
- One question at a time. Don't think about the whole exam at once.
Positive Affirmations for Exam Day
- "I am prepared for this exam."
- "I have studied the material and practiced the skills."
- "I can handle any question that comes my way."
- "I will stay calm and focused throughout the exam."
- "I am ready to succeed and begin my cosmetology career."
Final Night Routine
- Light review only - Just key facts, no new material
- Prepare everything - Clothes, supplies, documents ready
- Set multiple alarms - Don't risk oversleeping
- Eat a good dinner - Nutritious but not heavy
- Relaxation activity - Something enjoyable and calming
- Early bedtime - 7-8 hours of sleep minimum
- Positive visualization - Picture yourself succeeding
Morning of Exam
- Eat breakfast - Protein and complex carbs for sustained energy
- Light review - Only if it helps (skip if it causes anxiety)
- Allow extra time - For traffic, parking, unexpected delays
- Arrive early - 30-60 minutes before scheduled time
- Stay positive - You are ready for this!
You Are Ready!
You have studied the material, practiced the skills, and prepared for this moment. Trust yourself, stay calm, and show the examiners what you know.
Good luck on your exam! Your cosmetology career awaits.
Loading diagram...
Test Your Knowledge
What is the minimum disinfectant contact time required for most EPA-registered disinfectants?
A
B
C
D
Test Your Knowledge
Which color on the color wheel neutralizes orange tones?
A
B
C
D
Test Your Knowledge
What is the natural pH range of hair and skin?
A
B
C
D
Test Your Knowledge
Which phase of the hair growth cycle is the active growth phase?
A
B
C
D
Test Your Knowledge
How many hours before a chemical service should a patch test be performed?
A
B
C
D
Congratulations!
You've completed this section
Continue exploring other exams