Florida Cosmetology Licensing Exam flashcards

Immediate medical attention for burns affecting only the outer layer of skin (epidermis), characterized by redness and pain.

• Primary action is cooling with cool running water.
• Avoid ice, butter, or tight dressings.
• Seek medical attention if severe or covers a large area.

Memory trick: Cool the Burn, Don't Cover it Tight.

The process of thoroughly cleaning and then immersing multi-use, non-porous tools in an EPA-registered disinfectant for the required contact time to destroy most harmful microorganisms.

• Remove all visible debris first
• Use EPA-registered disinfectant
• Follow manufacturer's contact time

Memory trick: Clean, Immerse, Time – the reliable rhyme for implement hygiene.

The professional and ethical obligation of a cosmetologist to decline service to a client presenting with a contagious condition that could be spread in the salon.

• Protects other clients and salon staff.
• Must be handled discreetly and politely.
• Service can resume after treatment and clearance.

Memory trick: See a bug, say 'not today,' then treat and play.

Proper methods for discarding non-hazardous materials and general refuse generated in a cosmetology salon.

• Includes hair clippings, paper towels, used cotton, etc.
• Requires covered trash receptacles.
• Separation from biohazard or chemical waste is essential.

Memory trick: Hair goes in the Hooded bin, not the Hazard bin.

Chemical solutions approved by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) for use in hospitals and other healthcare settings, effective against a broad spectrum of bacteria, viruses, and fungi, and required for salon disinfection.

• EPA approval required
• Effective against broad pathogens
• Mandatory for salon use on surfaces
• Used on hard, non-porous surfaces

Memory trick: To be 'EPA-Approved', your disinfectant must be 'Hospital-Proven'.

The safety procedure for handling any container of liquid or substance that lacks a proper label, requiring it to be treated as hazardous until identified or safely disposed of.

• Always assume unknown substances are hazardous.
• Do not taste, smell, or touch.
• Seek identification or professional disposal.

Memory trick: Unknown bottle, danger's call, identify or dispose, save us all.

The mandatory refusal of service to clients exhibiting signs of contagious diseases to prevent transmission within the salon.

• Applies to fungal, bacterial, and viral infections.
• Protects client, cosmetologist, and public health.
• Requires polite explanation and referral to medical professional.

Memory trick: Visible Virus? Veto the Visit, Vicariously.

An engineering control designed to capture and remove airborne contaminants at or near their source before they can spread into the general workplace air.

• Crucial for services involving strong chemical fumes.
• Protects cosmetologist and client respiratory health.
• More effective than general room ventilation for source control.

Memory trick: Catch Fumes at the Source, Stay Safe.

A standardized document that provides detailed information about hazardous chemicals, including identification, hazards, composition, safe handling, storage, emergency procedures, and disposal.

• Required by OSHA for all hazardous products.
• Must be readily accessible to all employees.
• Contains 16 sections of information.

Memory trick: SDS Shows Safety Data Simply.

A standardized document that provides detailed health and safety information about hazardous chemical products.

• Mandated by OSHA for all hazardous chemicals.
• Includes 16 sections covering hazards, handling, first aid, etc.
• Must be readily accessible to all employees.

Memory trick: SDS: Safety Details, Simply Delivered.

Cosmetologists are legally obligated to refuse service to clients presenting with visible signs of contagious conditions, infections, or open wounds to prevent the spread of disease.

• Applies to skin infections, nail infections, and other communicable diseases.
• Protects the client, cosmetologist, and other clients.
• Cosmetologists cannot diagnose or treat medical conditions.

Memory trick: Infected? Inform, Isolate, Inquire, Ignore Not.

The professional obligation to refuse service to a client presenting with visible signs of a contagious, infectious, or inflammatory condition that could be spread or worsened by the service, and to recommend medical consultation.

• Protect client and salon staff
• Prevent spread of infection
• Refer to medical professional
• Mandatory by regulations

Memory trick: When facing a 'Pus Problem', 'Politely Postpone' and point to the 'Physician's Path'.

The proper method for disposing of materials contaminated with blood or other potentially infectious materials (OPIM) to prevent disease transmission.

• Requires a red biohazard bag.
• Container must be puncture-resistant and leak-proof.
• Must be labeled with the biohazard symbol.

Memory trick: Red bags for biohazards, safety for all.

Immediate emergency procedures to follow when hazardous chemicals come into contact with the eyes.

• Flush eyes with lukewarm water for 15-20 minutes.
• Seek immediate medical attention after flushing.
• Do not rub eyes or apply neutralizing agents unless specifically instructed by medical personnel.

Memory trick: When chemicals hit, Flush, Flush, Flush! Then Find a Doctor.

Containers used for hazardous waste in a salon must be closed, leak-proof, and clearly labeled to safely contain dangerous materials, prevent spills, protect from exposure, and avoid cross-contamination.

• Prevents accidental contact and inhalation.
• Protects against environmental contamination.
• Ensures proper identification for specialized disposal.

Memory trick: Closed Containers Keep Contaminants Contained.

To maintain sterility, implements that have undergone sterilization must be stored in conditions that protect them from contamination, such as dry, airtight, labeled containers or dedicated sterile storage units.

• Crucial for preventing re-contamination post-sterilization.
• Storage containers must be clean, dry, and provide a barrier to environmental pathogens.
• UV sterilizer units are often used for maintaining sterile implements.

Memory trick: Sterile Stays Safe in Sealed Storage.

Porous items, due to their absorbent and textured nature, cannot be adequately disinfected or sterilized and must be discarded after a single use to maintain hygiene and prevent disease transmission.

• Examples include cotton balls, emery boards, wooden cuticle pushers.
• Disposed of immediately after use.
• Helps prevent the spread of bacteria, fungi, and viruses.

Memory trick: Porous Puffs Prevent Proper Purging.

If a cosmetologist observes a suspicious skin lesion (e.g., irregular mole, open sore that won't heal), they must not perform services on or near the area and must refer the client to a medical professional for diagnosis.

• Cosmetologists cannot diagnose.
• Referral to doctor is mandatory for suspicious lesions.
• Prioritize client health and safety.

Memory trick: When in doubt, point it out (to a doctor)!

The professional obligation to decline or reschedule a service if a client presents with an active, potentially contagious, or inflammatory skin condition that could be worsened or spread by the service.

• Prioritize client health and safety
• Prevent spread of infection
• Recommend medical consultation

Memory trick: When facing active skin issues, 'No-Go' is the professional's flow.

Before disinfecting any non-porous implement, it must be thoroughly cleaned with soap and water to remove all visible debris and organic material.

• Essential first step in disinfection process.
• Removes organic matter that can inactivate disinfectants.
• Ensures disinfectant efficacy.

Memory trick: Clean Before You Soak, or Your Disinfectant's a Joke!

The safe and regulated method for discarding contaminated or potentially contaminated sharp objects to prevent needlestick injuries and transmission of bloodborne pathogens.

• Used for needles, razors, broken glass, etc.
• Requires a puncture-resistant, leak-proof container.
• Container must be labeled as 'Biohazard' or 'Sharps Waste'.

Memory trick: Sharps go in a Safe, Sealed, Specific Spot.

The process of thoroughly cleaning non-porous tools to remove debris, followed by immersion in an EPA-registered disinfectant for a specific contact time, to kill most bacteria, fungi, and viruses.

• Three-step process: clean, disinfect, store.
• Must use an EPA-registered disinfectant.
• Contact time is critical and must follow manufacturer's instructions.

Memory trick: Clean, Soak, Store, Stay Safe.

The immediate steps taken to mitigate harm and provide comfort to a client experiencing an adverse reaction to a product during a cosmetology service.

• Remove the product immediately.
• Rinse affected area with cool water.
• Assess the severity of the reaction.
• Seek medical attention if severe.

Memory trick: Remove, rinse, react, then rest and relax.

The specific duration that an implement or surface must remain visibly wet with a disinfectant solution to ensure the product's efficacy in destroying target microorganisms.

• Crucial for effective disinfection.
• Always follow manufacturer's label instructions.
• Commonly 10 minutes for many salon-grade disinfectants.

Memory trick: Ten minutes in the bath, stops all germs in their path!

Guidelines for cosmetologists on how to handle various skin lesions encountered during services, emphasizing safety and scope of practice.

• Never extract or treat inflamed lesions, especially those with pus.
• Avoid direct contact with open or suspected contagious lesions.
• Refer client to a medical professional for diagnosis and treatment if concerned.

Memory trick: Pustules? Pass 'em by, Protect the Client's Skin.

When an open lesion (cut, wound, or sore) is discovered on a client during a service, the cosmetologist must stop the service, take precautions against infection, and refuse to perform services on or near the affected area.

• Open lesions are contraindications for service.
• Risk of pathogen transmission is high.
• Cosmetologists cannot diagnose or treat wounds.

Memory trick: Lesion? Look, Limit, Leave Alone.

The professional and regulatory requirement to decline performing cosmetology services on clients with active, open wounds (cuts, sores, abrasions) to prevent infection, protect client health, and ensure salon safety.

• Open wounds are contraindications
• Risk of infection spread (client/cosmetologist)
• Mandatory refusal of service
• Reschedule until healed

Memory trick: An 'Open Cut' means 'Cosmetology Cannot Come Until Cleared'.

An emergency eyewash station is mandated by OSHA in workplaces where employees are at risk of eye exposure to corrosive materials or other chemicals that can cause immediate and severe eye injury.

• Required for corrosive chemicals, not just irritants.
• Must deliver a continuous flow of water for at least 15 minutes.
• Must be easily accessible within 10 seconds (approx. 55 feet) of the hazard.

Memory trick: Corrosive Chemicals Call for Clean Eye Care.

The proper disposal of single-use items that are not contaminated with blood or other potentially infectious materials into a general, covered waste receptacle.

• Single-use items
• Not contaminated with blood
• General trash in covered bin

Memory trick: If it's not bloody, it's just 'Regular Rubbish'.

Measures taken to prevent injury or illness when working with hazardous chemicals, primarily focusing on personal protection and proper handling.

• Always wear appropriate PPE.
• Follow manufacturer's instructions for mixing and use.
• Ensure adequate ventilation.

Memory trick: Protect yourself first, then follow instructions carefully.

A type of disinfectant commonly used in salons for cleaning and sanitizing non-porous surfaces and implements, effective against bacteria, fungi, and some viruses.

• EPA-registered hospital disinfectants
• Effective on hard, non-porous surfaces
• Commonly used in cosmetology settings

Memory trick: Quats are the 'Quat-essential' choice for salon hygiene.

A standardized procedure to follow when a client or cosmetologist experiences a cut or blood exposure, designed to prevent the spread of bloodborne pathogens.

• Immediately stop service and don gloves.
• Clean and dress the wound.
• Clean and disinfect all contaminated surfaces and tools.
• Dispose of contaminated materials properly.

Memory trick: Stop, Glove, Clean, Cover, Clean Up.

Protocols for protecting clients' clothing and skin from hair, chemicals, and contaminants during cosmetology services, emphasizing the use of clean barriers.

• Always use a clean cape for each client.
• A neck strip or clean towel must be used as a barrier.
• Capes must not directly touch the client's skin.

Memory trick: Fresh drape, clean neck, no skin contact, perfect check!

A sterilization method that uses high-pressure saturated steam at elevated temperatures to kill all forms of microbial life, including bacterial spores.

• Most effective method for sterilization.
• Uses steam under pressure.
• Commonly used for heat-resistant, reusable implements.

Memory trick: Steam under pressure, totally clean, no more spores, what a scene!

The critical procedures for handling and storing implements that have undergone sterilization (e.g., via autoclave) to ensure they remain free of all microorganisms until their intended use.

• Handle with gloves
• Store in sterile, airtight packaging
• Protects against recontamination

Memory trick: For sterile tools, 'Gloves and a Sealed Grave' keep them safe and brave.

Disposable gloves are a crucial form of PPE used to prevent direct contact with chemicals, bodily fluids, and to avoid cross-contamination between clients and service providers.

• Must be worn for services involving chemical exposure or potential contact with broken skin/bodily fluids.
• Should be single-use and disposed of after each client.
• Protect both the professional and the client.

Memory trick: Gloves Guard Germs and Goo.

Chemical products that have been evaluated and approved by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) for their effectiveness in killing specific microorganisms on non-porous surfaces.

• Must have an EPA registration number.
• Label specifies efficacy against bacteria, viruses, and fungi.
• Required for cleaning and disinfecting salon surfaces and multi-use tools.

Memory trick: EPA's seal means it's Safe for Surfaces.

The proper method of keeping sterilized implements free from recontamination until their next use.

• Must be stored in a clean, closed container.
• Container should be labeled with sterilization date.
• Protects against airborne pathogens and contact contamination.

Memory trick: Keep it Clean, Closed, and Labeled to Last.

The practice of discarding items designed for one-time use or porous materials immediately after a single client service to prevent cross-contamination.

• Cannot be disinfected or reused.
• Includes cotton balls, pads, tissues, emery boards, wooden spatulas.
• Dispose in a covered trash receptacle.

Memory trick: If it's porous or one-and-done, toss it in the bin, job done!

The mandatory process of cleaning and disinfecting all multi-use implements after each client service to prevent cross-contamination.

• Applies to all non-porous multi-use tools.
• Must follow EPA-registered disinfectant instructions.
• Crucial for preventing the spread of bacteria, viruses, and fungi.

Memory trick: Each Client, Fresh Clean, Every Time.

The requirement for storing multi-use implements in a clean, closed, and labeled environment after disinfection to prevent recontamination.

• Must be clean and closed
• Must be labeled
• Prevents airborne contamination

Memory trick: After a clean, keep it 'Closed and Labeled' to remain keen!

A step-by-step procedure for safely managing small, contained chemical spills in the salon, prioritizing immediate safety and proper cleanup.

• Contain the spill immediately.
• Ensure adequate ventilation.
• Consult the product's Safety Data Sheet (SDS) for cleanup.
• Wear appropriate PPE.

Memory trick: Spill small, contain it all, ventilate the hall, then SDS call!

The process of applying lightener to hair that has not been previously colored or lightened, typically involving a specific sequence to achieve even results.

• Mid-shaft lightens slowest, scalp lightens fastest due to body heat.
• Ends may lighten faster due to existing porosity.
• Correct application prevents banding and uneven lift.

Memory trick: MID-dle first, then ENDS, last the SCALP, to keep it pristine.

Hair extensions that come with a pre-taped weft, which is applied by sandwiching a small section of natural hair between two extension wefts using a medical-grade adhesive.

• Lightweight and lay flat against the scalp.
• Considered one of the least damaging methods for fine or fragile hair.
• Require professional application and removal to prevent damage.

Memory trick: TAPE-IN is the GENTLEST choice for fragile hair.

Hair coloring products that make a physical change, coating the hair shaft and are removed by shampooing.

• No developer required
• Does not penetrate cuticle
• Washes out with shampoo
• Used for subtle color changes or special effects

Memory trick: Think of 'The Silly Dragon's Purple Mane' for the main types.

A perm wrapping technique where the hair is wrapped at an angle other than perpendicular to the length of the rod, typically from the ends to the scalp in a spiral motion, creating a uniform curl along the entire length of the strand.

• Ideal for long hair
• Creates uniform, elongated curls/waves
• Less volume at the base, more flowing look
• Can be done with straight rods or soft bender rods

Memory trick: Remember 'Basic Bricks Spin Weaves' for perm wrap styles.

A haircutting elevation where the hair is held straight out from the head at a 90-degree angle from the scalp, resulting in layers of equal length throughout the head.

• Creates uniform layers
• All hair strands cut to the same length
• Also known as a 'square layer' or 'round layer' depending on finger position
• Removes weight and adds volume

Memory trick: Remember 'Zero-Four-Nine-One' for the main angles and their effects.

A common, non-contagious scalp condition characterized by dry, white, and flaky scales that shed from the scalp, often accompanied by itching.

• Often referred to as 'dry dandruff'.
• No signs of inflammation or redness.
• Can be caused by dry scalp, infrequent shampooing, or certain sensitivities.
• Managed with frequent shampooing and moisturizing scalp treatments.

Memory trick: DRY flakes, NO Redness? SIMPLEX needs MILD shampoo.

A class of chemical relaxers with a very high pH, containing a metal hydroxide compound (e.g., sodium hydroxide, potassium hydroxide, lithium hydroxide), highly effective for straightening very curly, coarse, and resistant hair.

• Strongest type of relaxer
• Typically pH 12.5-13.5
• Breaks disulfide bonds permanently
• No-lather shampoo required for rinsing, no separate neutralizer (neutralization is rinse-based)

Memory trick: Remember 'High-Tide' for the main relaxer categories.

Hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) acts as an oxidizing agent in hair color and lightener, breaking down melanin and activating color molecules. Its strength is measured in 'volume'.

• Higher volume = more lift, faster reaction.
• Lower volume = less lift, more deposit, gentler.
• Standard volumes are 10, 20, 30, and 40.

Memory trick: Every 10 volume is a STEP in lift, but 20 is the SWEET spot.

Perm rods that are uniform in diameter along their entire length, producing a consistent curl size from scalp to ends.

• Uniform curl pattern
• Ideal for body waves and consistent volume
• Suitable for shorter to medium length hair
• Can be used for all perm wrap techniques

Memory trick: Remember 'Cool Straight Bends' for the main rod shapes.

Perms with a pH of 4.5-7.0, requiring an outside heat source to process, and are gentler on the hair.

• pH between 4.5 and 7.0
• Requires external heat (hood dryer)
• Slower processing time
• Recommended for fragile, fine, or previously colored/damaged hair

Memory trick: A 'CAT' can help you remember the main perm categories: Cold, Acid, Thio-free.

Hair with a tightly closed, overlapping cuticle layer that resists moisture and chemical penetration, making it difficult for products to enter the hair shaft.

• Tightly compact cuticle
• Resists chemical penetration (e.g., perms, color)
• Requires longer processing times for chemical services
• Often takes longer to dry

Memory trick: Remember 'High-Low Porosity' for how hair reacts to chemicals.

Hair with a raised or damaged cuticle layer, allowing it to absorb moisture rapidly but also lose it just as quickly. It often feels rough and appears dull.

• Cuticle layer is open or compromised.
• Absorbs products quickly but struggles to retain moisture.
• Often a result of chemical processing, heat styling, or environmental damage.
• Sinks quickly in a water test.

Memory trick: HIGH porosity, HIGH absorption, HIGH speed to sink.

A concentration of hydrogen peroxide developer that provides 3-4 levels of lift when mixed with permanent hair color or lightener.

• Provides 3-4 levels of lift
• Used for significant lightening
• Can be used off-scalp for highlights or on-scalp with caution
• Stronger than 10 or 20 volume, but less strong than 40 volume

Memory trick: Remember 'Ten, Twenty, Thirty, Forty' for increasing lift.

A severe form of dandruff characterized by greasy or waxy scales mixed with sebum that stick to the scalp in crusts. It is often accompanied by redness and irritation.

• Caused by an overgrowth of Malassezia globosa yeast and excessive sebum production.
• Symptoms include oily, yellowish flakes, sometimes with inflammation.
• Treated with medicated shampoos containing fungicides like zinc pyrithione, selenium sulfide, or ketoconazole.

Memory trick: Oily Yellow Scales? STEATOIDES needs MEDICATED care.

The technique of applying lightener to virgin hair (hair not previously colored) by starting at the mid-shaft, then moving to the ends, and finally to the scalp area to achieve even lift and prevent 'hot roots'.

• Addresses the 'hot root' phenomenon
• Mid-shaft and ends are typically cooler and require more processing time
• Scalp area processes faster due to body heat
• Ensures consistent, even lift from root to tip

Memory trick: Remember 'Mid-End-Root' for the application order to avoid hot roots.

A test required by federal food, drug, and cosmetic acts to identify a possible allergy to hair color products before full application.

• Must be performed 24-48 hours prior to the service.
• Applied to a small, inconspicuous area of skin, typically behind the ear or on the inner elbow.
• Positive reaction indicates an allergy, and the service should not proceed.

Memory trick: PATCH test for ALLERGIES, behind the EAR or inner ELBOW, for safety.

Applying the same amount of pressure and pull to each section of hair during a haircut to ensure even lengths and predictable results.

• Crucial for precision cuts, especially blunt cuts
• Prevents unevenness and 'holes'
• Too much tension can cause hair to spring up shorter
• Too little tension can result in an imprecise line

Memory trick: To make a 'Perfect Cut' for a blunt style, ensure 'Tension is Tight and Even'.

Chemical texture services that process at a lower pH (4.5-7.0) and are gentler on the hair, producing softer, more natural-looking waves and curls.

• Ideal for porous, damaged, or fine hair.
• Contain glyceryl monothioglycolate (GMTG) as the primary reducing agent.
• Require heat (either from a dryer or self-heating) to process.

Memory trick: Gentle Acid BALANCES the hair, making it a SOFT curl.