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Key Facts: Befähigungsprüfung Kosmetik Exam

€0

Fee for 1st & 2nd Attempt at Modules 1–3 and Unternehmerprüfung (Federally Funded Since 2024)

WKO Meisterprüfungsstellen Gebührenordnung

Level 6

NQR / EQF Qualification Level for Austrian Trade Competence (Befähigungsprüfung)

Nationaler Qualifikationsrahmen (NQR) Österreich

5 Modules

Examination Structure (Practical, Oral, Written Theory & Formulation, Trainer, Business)

WKO Befähigungsprüfungsordnung Kosmetik

BGBl. II 262/2008

Austrian Statutory Hygiene Regulation for Foot Care, Cosmetology & Massage

Bundesgesetzblatt für die Republik Österreich

§ 94 Z 42

Regulated Trade Classification of Kosmetik in the Austrian Trade Code (GewO 1994)

Gewerbeordnung 1994 (GewO 1994)

(EC) 1223/2009

EU Cosmetics Regulation Governing Cosmetic Product Safety, INCI Labelling & PIF

European Parliament & Council Regulation

pH 5.5

Physiological Average pH Value of the Skin Acid Mantle (Hydrolipid Film)

Dermatological Physiology Standard

28 Days

Average Epidermal Turnover Time from Basal Layer Mitosis to Desquamation

Cutaneous Histology Standard

The Austrian Befähigungsprüfung Kosmetik is the NQR Level 6 trade competence qualification administered by WKO Meisterprüfungsstellen across 5 modules covering dermatology, cosmetic chemistry, apparative esthetics, hygiene, and trade law.

Sample Befähigungsprüfung Kosmetik Practice Questions

Try these sample questions to test your Befähigungsprüfung Kosmetik exam readiness. Each question includes a detailed explanation. Start the interactive quiz above for the full 100+ question experience with AI tutoring.

1Which layer of the human epidermis is composed of actively dividing columnar stem cells attached to the basement membrane, responsible for continuous epidermal renewal?

A.Stratum basale (Basal layer / Stratum germinativum)

B.Stratum spinosum (Prickle cell layer)

C.Stratum granulosum (Granular layer)

D.Stratum corneum (Horny layer)

Explanation: The stratum basale (or stratum germinativum) is the deepest single-cell layer of the epidermis. Keratinocyte stem cells undergo mitotic division here and migrate upward through the differentiating layers.

2What is the average physiological cell renewal and transit time (epidermal turnover time) of a keratinocyte from the basal layer to final desquamation in a young adult?

A.Approximately 28 days (approx. 4 weeks)

B.Approximately 7 days (1 week)

C.Approximately 90 days (3 months)

D.Approximately 365 days (1 year)

Explanation: Under normal physiological conditions, keratinocytes take roughly 14 days to migrate from the stratum basale to the stratum corneum, and another 14 days to traverse the stratum corneum before shedding, totaling approximately 28 days.

3Which enzyme plays the key rate-limiting catalytic role in melanocytes by converting the amino acid L-tyrosine into dopaquinone during melanogenesis?

A.Tyrosinase

B.Catalase

C.Amylase

D.Collagenase

Explanation: Tyrosinase is a copper-containing enzyme in melanosomes that catalyzes the first two critical steps of melanin synthesis: the hydroxylation of L-tyrosine to L-DOPA and the oxidation of L-DOPA to dopaquinone.

4What is the primary biological function of Langerhans cells located in the stratum spinosum of the epidermis?

A.Antigen presentation and immune surveillance (Dendritic immune cells)

B.Synthesis of dark melanin granules for UV photoprotection

C.Secretion of sebum into the hair follicle canal

D.Rapid mechanoreception of light touch

Explanation: Langerhans cells are bone marrow-derived dendritic antigen-presenting cells residing in the stratum spinosum. They capture cutaneous antigens and migrate to regional lymph nodes to initiate T-cell immune responses.

5What is the average physiological pH value of the cutaneous acid mantle (hydrolipid film) on the surface of healthy human facial skin?

A.pH 4.5 to 5.5 (Slightly acidic)

B.pH 7.4 (Neutral physiological blood pH)

C.pH 8.5 to 9.5 (Strongly alkaline)

D.pH 1.0 to 2.0 (Strongly acidic gastric range)

Explanation: Healthy skin maintains a slightly acidic surface pH between 4.5 and 5.5, created by lactic acid from sweat, free fatty acids from sebum, and amino acids from keratin breakdown. This acidic environment inhibits pathogenic bacterial colonization (e.g., Staph. aureus).

6Which structural protein represents the most abundant fibrous component of the extracellular matrix in the human reticular dermis, providing tensile strength and mechanical resistance?

A.Collagen Type I

B.Elastin

C.Keratin Type K10

D.Hyaluronic acid

Explanation: Type I collagen makes up approximately 80–85% of total dermal collagen in adult skin (with Type III making up 10–15%). It forms dense, interwoven triple-helical fiber bundles that provide mechanical tensile strength.

7Which unbranched glycosaminoglycan in the dermal ground substance has the extraordinary capacity to bind up to 1,000 times its own molecular weight in water, maintaining dermal volume and turgor?

A.Hyaluronic acid (Hyaluronsäure)

B.Chondroitin sulfate

C.Heparin

D.Fibronectin

Explanation: Hyaluronic acid is a high-molecular-weight anionic glycosaminoglycan capable of binding vast amounts of water molecules, creating high viscoelasticity and hydration turgor in the extracellular matrix.

8What is Transepidermal Water Loss (TEWL / Transepidermaler Wasserverlust) and what does an elevated TEWL measurement indicate?

A.The passive diffusion of water vapor from the dermis through the epidermis to the outside atmosphere; an elevated value indicates an impaired stratum corneum permeability barrier

B.The active excretion of liquid sweat from eccrine glands during heat stress

C.The absorption of water from cosmetic emulsions into the systemic bloodstream

D.The rate of sebaceous lipid synthesis by holocrine glands

Explanation: TEWL measures the continuous passive evaporation of water vapor through the stratum corneum (expressed in g/h/m²). An elevated TEWL indicates disruption of the intercellular lipid bilayers (ceramides, cholesterol, free fatty acids) and impaired barrier integrity.

9By which secretory mechanism do human sebaceous glands (Talgdrüsen) release sebum into the hair follicle infundibulum?

A.Holocrine secretion (The entire cell disintegrates to release its lipid contents)

B.Merocrine / Eccrine secretion (Exocytosis via vesicles without cell loss)

C.Apocrine secretion (Pinching off of the apical cytoplasm)

D.Endocrine secretion (Direct diffusion into fenestrated capillary blood)

Explanation: Sebaceous glands are holocrine glands. Sebocytes accumulate lipid droplets, mature, and eventually rupture and disintegrate completely, releasing the cellular mixture as sebum (Talg).

10What is the approximate physiological molar ratio of the three key intercellular lipid classes in the healthy stratum corneum barrier (Elias brick-and-mortar model)?

A.1 : 1 : 1 ratio of Ceramides, Cholesterol, and Free Fatty Acids

B.10 : 1 : 0.1 ratio of Phospholipids, Triglycerides, and Squalene

C.1 : 5 : 20 ratio of Ceramides to Mineral Oils and Petrolatum

D.Pure 100% Ceramides with zero cholesterol or fatty acids

Explanation: The extracellular lipid lamellae surrounding corneocytes consist of an equimolar (roughly 1:1:1) ratio of ceramides (approx. 50% by weight), cholesterol (approx. 25%), and long-chain free fatty acids (approx. 15%), forming impermeable orthorhombic crystalline sheets.

About the Befähigungsprüfung Kosmetik Exam

The Befähigungsprüfung Kosmetik is the competence examination that opens the regulated trade of Kosmetik (Schönheitspflege) under § 94 Z 42 GewO 1994 in Austria — the trade excluding piercing and tattooing, which are examined separately. It is set by the Bundesinnung der Fußpfleger, Kosmetiker und Masseure, administered by the Meisterprüfungsstellen of the Austrian Economic Chambers, has run under a new Prüfungsordnung since 1 September 2023, and was assigned to Level 6 of the National Qualifications Framework on 13 September 2023 — the same level as a bachelor's degree. Since 22 August 2024 holders of a Befähigungsprüfung in the designated handwerksähnliche trades, cosmetology among them, may also carry a Meister designation before their name and have it entered in official documents. Preparation covers cutaneous biology, dermatological conditions, cosmetic chemistry under EU Regulation (EC) No 1223/2009, active-ingredient mechanisms, apparative treatments from galvanic current to ultrasound and radiofrequency, cosmetic lymph drainage, and the hygiene rules of BGBl. II Nr. 262/2008. This practice bank is an English-language multiple-choice study adaptation of a German-language, heavily practical examination: it is not an official translation, it does not simulate the exam format, and it cannot replace supervised practice of the treatments assessed in Modul 1.

Assessment

Five modules under the Kosmetik (Schönheitspflege)-Befähigungsprüfungsordnung (in force 1 September 2023), assigned to NQR level 6 on 13 September 2023. The trade scope examined expressly excludes piercing and tattooing, which have their own Prüfungsordnungen. Modul 1 Praktische Prüfung: Teil A 'Basisgesichtsbehandlung mit Maniküre' (classic facial treatment including neck, nape and décolleté, brow and lash tinting with shaping, converting a day make-up into an evening make-up, and a manicure); Teil B in three subjects — 'Spezielle Gesichtsbehandlungen mit erweiterter Hand- und Armpflege', 'Lymphdrainage für die Kosmetik', and 'Spezielle Körperbehandlungen und dekorative kosmetische Behandlungen'. Modul 2 Mündliche Prüfung: Teil A a technical discussion at apprenticeship-final level, Teil B 'Fachliche Kompetenzen mündlich', taken before the full commission. Modul 3 'Fachliche Kompetenzen schriftlich', covering client consultation, skin assessment, cosmetic lymph drainage, hair removal, slimming, firming and body treatments, workplace preparation and reprocessing, consumables procurement and waste disposal. Modul 4 Ausbilderprüfung under §§ 29a ff BAG or the Ausbilderkurs under § 29g BAG. Modul 5 Unternehmerprüfung. Modules may be sat in any order and individually; a relevant Lehrabschlussprüfung is credited against Modul 1 Teil A and Modul 2 Teil A.

Time Limit

Modul 1: 2 h / max 3 h (Teil A) plus 3 h / max 4 h, 20 / max 30 min and 3 h / max 4 h (Teil B); Modul 2: 15–20 min plus 30–40 min; Modul 3: 5 h / max 7 h

Passing Score

School grade scale 'Sehr gut' (1) to 'Nicht genügend' (5); every subject must achieve at least 'Genügend' (4)

Exam Fee

Free for the 1st and 2nd attempt at every module including the Unternehmerprüfung (federally funded since 1 Jan 2024, retroactive to 1 Jul 2023); Allgemeine Prüfungsordnung fees apply from the 3rd attempt (WKO Meisterprüfungsstellen / Bundesinnung der Fußpfleger, Kosmetiker und Masseure)

Befähigungsprüfung Kosmetik Exam Content Outline

25% of this practice bank

Anatomy, Histology & Physiology of the Skin (Somatologie & Hautphysiologie)

Cellular biology of keratinocytes, melanocytes, Langerhans cells, Merkel cells, basement membrane zone, collagen and elastin fiber synthesis in the dermis, glycosaminoglycans, transepidermal water loss (TEWL), and sebaceous lipogenesis.

25% of this practice bank

Dermatopathology, Skin Typology & Diagnostic Anomalies (Dermatologie & Hautbeurteilung)

Clinical diagnosis of lipid-dry vs dehydrated skin, seborrheic skin states, comedogenic acne stages, rosacea staging (erythematotelangiectatic, papulopustular, phymatous), hyperpigmentation mechanisms, vascular anomalies (couperose, telangiectasia), and contraindications.

20% of this practice bank

Cosmetic Chemistry, Ingredients & Formulation (Kosmetische Chemie & INCI)

EU Cosmetics Regulation (EC) No 1223/2009 compliance, Annex restrictions, formulation of O/W and W/O creams, liposomes, nanocarriers, chemical exfoliants (glycolic, lactic, salicylic acid pH and pKa values), retinoids, antioxidants, and preservatives.

20% of this practice bank

Apparative Cosmetics, Techniques & Treatments (Apparative Kosmetik & Behandlung)

Direct current iontophoresis (anaphoresis vs cataphoresis polarities), alternating high-frequency glass electrodes (ozone generation), ultrasound phonophoresis frequency selection (1 MHz vs 3 MHz), micro-needling needle configurations, and lymphatic drainage pathways.

10% of this practice bank

Hygiene, Austrian Trade Law & Salon Economics (Hygiene-VO & Gewerberecht)

Austrian hygiene mandate BGBl. II Nr. 262/2008, disinfection schedules, trade scope under § 94 Z 42 GewO 1994, boundaries with medical dermatology, staff training records, pricing formulas, and salon administration.

How to Pass the Befähigungsprüfung Kosmetik Exam

What You Need to Know

Passing score: School grade scale 'Sehr gut' (1) to 'Nicht genügend' (5); every subject must achieve at least 'Genügend' (4)
Assessment: Five modules under the Kosmetik (Schönheitspflege)-Befähigungsprüfungsordnung (in force 1 September 2023), assigned to NQR level 6 on 13 September 2023. The trade scope examined expressly excludes piercing and tattooing, which have their own Prüfungsordnungen. Modul 1 Praktische Prüfung: Teil A 'Basisgesichtsbehandlung mit Maniküre' (classic facial treatment including neck, nape and décolleté, brow and lash tinting with shaping, converting a day make-up into an evening make-up, and a manicure); Teil B in three subjects — 'Spezielle Gesichtsbehandlungen mit erweiterter Hand- und Armpflege', 'Lymphdrainage für die Kosmetik', and 'Spezielle Körperbehandlungen und dekorative kosmetische Behandlungen'. Modul 2 Mündliche Prüfung: Teil A a technical discussion at apprenticeship-final level, Teil B 'Fachliche Kompetenzen mündlich', taken before the full commission. Modul 3 'Fachliche Kompetenzen schriftlich', covering client consultation, skin assessment, cosmetic lymph drainage, hair removal, slimming, firming and body treatments, workplace preparation and reprocessing, consumables procurement and waste disposal. Modul 4 Ausbilderprüfung under §§ 29a ff BAG or the Ausbilderkurs under § 29g BAG. Modul 5 Unternehmerprüfung. Modules may be sat in any order and individually; a relevant Lehrabschlussprüfung is credited against Modul 1 Teil A and Modul 2 Teil A.
Time limit: Modul 1: 2 h / max 3 h (Teil A) plus 3 h / max 4 h, 20 / max 30 min and 3 h / max 4 h (Teil B); Modul 2: 15–20 min plus 30–40 min; Modul 3: 5 h / max 7 h
Exam fee: Free for the 1st and 2nd attempt at every module including the Unternehmerprüfung (federally funded since 1 Jan 2024, retroactive to 1 Jul 2023); Allgemeine Prüfungsordnung fees apply from the 3rd attempt

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Befähigungsprüfung Kosmetik Study Tips from Top Performers

1Master the polarity rules of galvanic iontophoresis: negatively charged products (like alkaline desincrustation solutions) must be placed under the negative pole (cathode) for anaphoresis, while positively charged active serums are infused under the positive pole (anode) for cataphoresis.

2Understand the depth penetration and frequency relationship in cosmetic ultrasound: 1 MHz frequency penetrates deeper into dermal/subcutaneous tissues, while 3 MHz frequency is absorbed in superficial epidermal and papillary dermal layers.

3Memorize the epidermal layers from deep to superficial: stratum basale (germinativum), stratum spinosum, stratum granulosum, stratum lucidum (palms and soles only), and stratum corneum.

4Differentiate acne vulgaris grades: Grade I (comedonal acne without inflammation), Grade II (papulopustular acne with mild erythema), Grade III (severe pustular acne with nodules), and Grade IV (cystic/nodulocystic acne - absolute medical referral contraindication).

5Review the chemical properties of hydroxy acids: glycolic acid (smallest molecular size alpha-hydroxy acid, rapid penetration, water-soluble) versus salicylic acid (lipophilic beta-hydroxy acid, keratolytic, penetrates into sebum-rich sebaceous follicles).

6Calculate salon treatment costs: determine product usage costs, device depreciation, practitioner hourly labour cost, salon overhead surcharge percentage, and 20% Austrian sales tax (Umsatzsteuer).

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Befähigungsprüfung Kosmetik in Austria?

The Befähigungsprüfung Kosmetik is the state-regulated master trade competence examination in Austria for the craft of beauty and skin care (Kosmetik / Schönheitspflege), governed by § 94 Z 42 of the Gewerbeordnung 1994. Administered by the WKO Meisterprüfungsstellen, it confers the legal right to operate an independent esthetics business, perform advanced apparative treatments, and train apprentices. It is rated at Level 6 of the National Qualifications Framework (NQR Level 6).

What are the 5 modules of the Austrian Kosmetik Befähigungsprüfung?

The examination comprises 5 modules: Modul 1 is the comprehensive practical examination on client models (skin diagnosis, deep cleansing, apparative electro-cosmetics, facial manual lymph drainage, tinting, depilation, and evening/glamour make-up); Modul 2 is the oral examination in somatology, dermatology, and hygiene; Modul 3 is the written theoretical and cosmetic chemistry paper; Modul 4 is the Ausbilderprüfung (trainer exam); and Modul 5 is the Unternehmerprüfung (business exam).

What cosmetic chemistry standards are tested in the Austrian examination?

Candidates must demonstrate in-depth knowledge of the European Cosmetics Regulation (EC) No 1223/2009, INCI nomenclature, emulsion chemistry (HLB values, emulsifiers), active cosmetic agents (retinol, AHA/BHA chemical peels, peptides, antioxidants), sun protection factors (UV-A and UV-B filter mechanisms), and safety assessments.

What apparative electro-cosmetic methods are examined?

Candidates are tested on galvanic direct current (anaphoresis for desincrustation and cataphoresis for active infusion), high-frequency ozone therapy, low-frequency stimulation, 1 MHz and 3 MHz ultrasound sonophoresis, diamond microdermabrasion, and the safety precautions for radiofrequency and optical radiation devices.

How much does the Austrian Kosmetik Befähigungsprüfung cost?

Since 1 January 2024, with retroactive effect to 1 July 2023, the federal government covers the examination fee for the first and second attempt at any module of a Meister- or Befähigungsprüfung, including the Unternehmerprüfung, and also covers room and setup costs for those attempts; candidates pay only for the materials they bring themselves. Third and subsequent attempts are billed under the Allgemeine Prüfungsordnung (BGBl. II Nr. 110/2004), and failing to appear without an accepted withdrawal reason counts as an attempt.

How does this practice bank adapt the Austrian Kosmetik exam?

The official Austrian exam involves full practical client treatments, formulation essays, and oral examinations before a master commission. This practice bank provides an English-language MCQ study adaptation focused on dermatological theory, cosmetic chemistry, apparative physics, infection control under BGBl. II Nr. 262/2008, and Austrian statutory trade law.