Cosmetologist Licensure Exam Practice

Cosmetologist Licensure Exam Practice Test Questions And Correct Answers (Verified Answers) Plus Rationales 2026 Q&A | Instant Download Pdf

• Which of the following layers of the skin contains nerve endings and

sweat glands?

• Epidermis
• Dermis
• Stratum corneum
• Subcutaneous layer

Rationale: The dermis is the inner layer of the skin that contains blood

vessels, nerves, sweat glands, and hair follicles.

• What is the main purpose of the Material Safety Data Sheet (MSDS)?
• To list salon service prices
• To describe customer complaints
• To provide safety information about products 1 / 4

• To display employee contact details

Rationale: MSDS provides information about handling, storage, and safety

measures for chemicals used in the salon.

3. The technical term for split ends is:

• Alopecia
• Trichoptilosis
• Hypertrichosis
• Canities

Rationale: Trichoptilosis refers to the splitting of hair ends due to

mechanical or chemical damage.

• Which muscle extends from the chest to the side of the chin and lowers

the lower jaw and lip?

• Frontalis
• Occipitalis
• Platysma
• Temporalis

Rationale: The platysma muscle helps in depressing the lower jaw and lip,

expressing sadness or horror.

• / 4

• What type of bacteria are round-shaped and appear singly or in groups?
• Cocci
• Bacilli
• Spirilla
• Diplococci

Rationale: Cocci are spherical bacteria that can form pairs, clusters, or

chains.

6. The pH scale measures:

• Temperature
• Density
• Acidity or alkalinity
• Viscosity

Rationale: The pH scale ranges from 0 to 14 and measures how acidic or

alkaline a substance is.

• What is the first step in performing a client consultation?
• Greet the client and introduce yourself
• Recommend products
• Record services
• Begin the service

Rationale: Establishing rapport through greeting builds trust and sets a

professional tone for the consultation. 3 / 4

• Which part of the hair structure contains melanin pigment?
• Cuticle
• Cortex
• Medulla
• Follicle

Rationale: The cortex provides hair strength and color through melanin

granules.

• Which of the following is the most effective method of sterilization?
• Disinfectant soak
• Autoclave
• UV cabinet
• Alcohol wipe

Rationale: Autoclaves use pressurized steam to destroy all forms of

microbial life, including spores.

10. The study of small living organisms is called:

• Dermatology
• Microbiology
• Physiology
• Myology
• / 4