NIC Barber Written (Theory) Exam flashcards

For clients with dry skin after a shave, an alcohol-free moisturizing balm or lotion should be applied to restore hydration and soothe the skin.

• Focus on hydration
• Use alcohol-free products
• Balms and lotions are ideal
• Avoid drying astringents or alcohol splashes

Memory trick: Dry skin needs a drink, not a burn; balm and lotion, a good turn.

The professional guidelines for barbers when encountering ingrown hairs on a client, focusing on client safety, prevention of complications, and scope of practice.

• Do not extract ingrown hairs.
• Avoid shaving over inflamed ingrown hairs.
• Advise client on aftercare and when to seek medical advice.
• Prioritize client's skin health over a 'perfect' shave.

Memory trick: Don't poke, don't shave, just advise and save!

After hot towels and pre-shave oil, the next essential step before applying shaving cream is a final beard mapping to confirm hair growth patterns for the first pass.

• Follows hot towel and pre-shave oil
• Confirms hair growth direction
• Ensures correct first pass
• Vital for preventing irritation

Memory trick: Map the beard, then lather and proceed, for a smooth shave, it's what you need.

Specific technique for shaving against the direction of hair growth on the neck, emphasizing safety, control, and minimal irritation on a sensitive area.

• Requires maximum caution.
• Short strokes provide control.
• Light pressure prevents irritation.
• Often done on a second or third pass for closeness.

Memory trick: Short, Light, Slow: That's the way to make the hair go!

Techniques used to prepare thick, stiff beard hair for shaving, aiming to hydrate and relax the hair follicles to facilitate a smoother and less irritating cut.

• Heat and moisture are key for softening.
• Steaming opens pores and hydrates hair.
• Hot lather further softens and lubricates.
• Proper softening reduces pulling and irritation.

Memory trick: Steam and Lather: Softens Stiff Hair Better!

When shaving around a pronounced Adam's apple, stretch the skin to flatten the area and use short, light, diagonal strokes to ensure safety and prevent nicks.

• Stretch skin away from prominence
• Use short, light strokes
• Diagonal strokes are often safest
• Avoid direct pressure and repeated swallowing

Memory trick: Stretch the skin, light strokes, diagonal glide; safety first, no nicks inside!

When shaving the cheek, the barber's non-dominant hand should be placed above the shaving area, pulling the skin upward and taut to create a smooth surface.

• Non-dominant hand creates tension.
• Hand placed above shaving area.
• Pull skin taut (upward/outward).
• Creates a flat, smooth surface for razor.

Memory trick: Stretch the canvas tight, for the razor's smooth flight.

Pustules, being inflamed, pus-filled lesions, are a contraindication for shaving due to the high risk of rupture, infection spread, and potential for worsening the skin condition.

• Indicates an active skin infection or inflammatory process.
• Shaving can rupture pustules, leading to pain and potential for secondary infection.
• Barbers must refuse service and refer clients to a healthcare professional.

Memory trick: No shave if you have a skin rave!

Applying pre-shave oil or lotion after hot towel treatment but before shaving cream to soften hair, protect skin, and enhance razor glide.

• Applied after hot towel, before shaving cream.
• Softens beard hair.
• Creates a protective barrier for the skin.
• Improves razor glide.

Memory trick: Clean, Steam, Oil, Cream: The smooth shave team!

For the second pass of a straight razor shave, shaving across the grain is typically used to achieve a closer shave than the first pass, while still minimizing irritation compared to shaving directly against the grain.

• First pass is usually with the grain.
• Across the grain provides a moderately close shave.
• Against the grain is for maximum closeness but highest irritation risk.
• Direction depends on client's skin sensitivity and desired closeness.

Memory trick: With, Across, Against: Good, Better, Best (but risky)!

The immediate steps taken by a barber to address small nicks or cuts that occur during a straight razor shave, focusing on stopping bleeding and preventing infection.

• Stop service immediately at the point of injury.
• Apply direct pressure with a clean, disposable material.
• Apply an approved antiseptic or styptic product.
• Dispose of contaminated materials properly.

Memory trick: Pressure, Cleanse, Stop, and Go!

The non-dominant hand's most crucial role during a straight razor shave is to stretch the skin taut, in the direction opposite the razor's path, to create a smooth shaving surface.

• Stretches skin taut
• Opposite razor's movement
• Creates flat shaving surface
• Prevents nicks and irritation

Memory trick: Non-dominant hand, a skin-stretching pro, makes the razor's path smooth, watch it go!

For areas prone to razor bumps (pseudofolliculitis barbae), the first pass should strictly follow the grain with minimal pressure, preferably using a single-edge razor, to prevent hair from growing inward.

• Strictly with the grain
• Minimal pressure
• Single-edge razor preferred
• Prevents ingrown hairs/razor bumps

Memory trick: Razor bumps beware, with-the-grain is the care, light touch, no despair!

When shaving over raised imperfections like moles or skin tags, always stretch the skin away from the area and shave carefully around them to prevent nicks and irritation.

• Never shave directly over moles
• Stretch skin to create a flat area around the imperfection
• Prioritize client safety and avoid injury

Memory trick: Mole or tag? Pull skin back, don't snag!

For complex or multi-directional beard growth, tactile mapping (stroking hair with fingers) is essential to accurately determine the 'with the grain' direction for each section.

• Critical for safe and comfortable shave
• Prevents irritation and ingrown hairs
• Involves feeling hair resistance

Memory trick: Feel the flow, before you go!

The application of a hot towel immediately after a shave primarily serves to close pores, soothe the skin, and remove any remaining lather or debris.

• Closes pores after shaving
• Soothes skin and reduces irritation
• Removes residual lather and hair

Memory trick: After the shave, the hot towel seals the deal: pores close, skin soothes, and cleanliness prevails.

Immediately after the final shave pass and rinsing with warm water, applying a cold towel or compress helps to close pores, soothe the skin, and reduce post-shave irritation.

• Contrasts with pre-shave hot towels.
• Helps prevent ingrown hairs and razor burn.
• Prepares the skin for subsequent toning and moisturizing products.
• Reduces redness and provides a refreshing sensation.

Memory trick: Rinse, Chill, Tone, Moisturize, Seal!

Conditions or factors that make a straight razor shave unsafe or inadvisable for a client, primarily due to risks of infection, irritation, or injury.

• Open lesions or wounds
• Skin infections (e.g., impetigo, herpes simplex)
• Severe acne or inflamed skin
• Allergic reactions to products

Memory trick: Don't Shave if there's a Danger Zone!

For a closer second pass on the upper lip (philtrum), the barber typically shaves against the grain, moving from the mouth towards the nose, with proper skin tension.

• Second pass for closeness
• Against the grain (mouth to nose)
• Requires proper skin tension
• Client comfort is key

Memory trick: Upper lip, second pass, against the grain, smooth as glass!

The immediate step after completing a shave, involving thorough rinsing of the face with cool water to remove lather and close pores.

• Removes all residual shaving product.
• Cool water helps to close pores.
• Prepares skin for toning and moisturizing.
• Essential for hygiene and skin health.

Memory trick: Shave's done, now wash it clean and cool!

For most straight razor passes, the blade should be held at an angle between 15 and 30 degrees to the skin to ensure an effective, irritation-free cut.

• 15-30 degrees is optimal
• Too shallow (low angle) causes scraping
• Too steep (high angle) causes nicks
• Ensures clean cut without irritation

Memory trick: Fifteen to thirty degrees is the sweet spot, for a smooth shave, it's what you got!

Specific product choices and techniques used after shaving to calm, hydrate, and protect sensitive skin, minimizing razor burn and irritation.

• Avoid alcohol-based products.
• Prioritize soothing and hydrating ingredients.
• Balms/lotions are preferred over splashes.
• Reduces redness and inflammation.

Memory trick: Soothe and Calm, No Stingy Harm!

The standard and safest direction of shaving relative to hair growth for the initial pass of a straight razor shave, aiming to reduce bulk and prepare the skin.

• Minimizes irritation and razor burn.
• Reduces risk of nicks and cuts.
• Prepares hair for subsequent passes.
• Always with the grain for the first pass.

Memory trick: Go with the Flow for the First Go!

Clients on blood-thinning medication are a contraindication for straight razor shaving due to the significantly increased risk of prolonged and excessive bleeding from minor cuts, necessitating the refusal of service.

• Blood thinners impair the body's ability to clot blood.
• Even minor nicks can lead to serious blood loss.
• Client safety is paramount; barbers must decline the service.
• Referral to a medical professional is implied for such conditions.

Memory trick: If blood is thin, no razor on skin!

When shaving recessed areas like dimples, the barber must stretch the surrounding skin taut to flatten the surface, allowing for a safe and even razor glide.

• Stretch skin around recess
• Flattens the contoured area
• Creates smooth shaving surface
• Prevents nicks in recessed spots

Memory trick: Dimples are tricky, but stretching makes it slicky, a flat path for the razor, quickly!

Skin tension involves using the non-dominant hand to stretch the skin opposite the razor's path, creating a flat, firm surface for a safe and smooth shave.

• Performed with non-dominant hand
• Stretches skin against razor direction
• Prevents nicks and improves closeness

Memory trick: Stretch back, shave forward, no attack!

To maintain constant control and prevent slipping during a straight razor shave, the barber typically braces the razor with the ball of the thumb or the forefinger of the dominant hand.

• Dominant hand bracing
• Utilizes thumb or forefinger ball
• Ensures stability and control
• Prevents razor slipping

Memory trick: Thumb's the anchor, forefinger's the guide, keeping the razor steady, side by side.

The technique of stretching the client's skin taut with the non-shaving hand during a straight razor shave to create an optimal surface for the razor blade.

• Prevents nicks and cuts.
• Allows for a closer shave.
• Creates a smooth, even surface.
• Maintained throughout each stroke.

Memory trick: Stretch the Skin, Stay in the Win!

For sensitive skin prone to razor burn, a soothing pre-shave oil or balm creates a protective, lubricating barrier to reduce friction and irritation.

• Reduces razor drag
• Calms and conditions skin
• Minimizes post-shave irritation

Memory trick: Soothe and guard, for skin that's hard.

The process of identifying the specific direction of hair growth on all areas of a client's face and neck prior to shaving, crucial for planning shave strokes.

• Hair growth is rarely uniform.
• Varies by individual and facial area.
• Essential for preventing irritation and ingrown hairs.
• Informs the direction of each shaving pass.

Memory trick: Map the Hair, Everywhere!

Pre-shave oil or lotion creates a protective, lubricating layer on the skin to reduce friction and improve razor glide during shaving.

• Reduces razor drag
• Minimizes irritation
• Forms a protective barrier for the skin

Memory trick: Oil and cream, a smooth shave dream.

The precise straight razor grip involves a light, balanced hold with the thumb on the tang and fingers supporting the shank and handle for maximum control and maneuverability.

• Thumb on tang
• Fingers support shank and handle
• Ensures precision and safety
• Avoids excessive pressure

Memory trick: Tang and shank, a barber's bank!

A shaving technique where the razor moves in the opposite direction of hair growth, used to achieve the closest possible shave.

• Achieves the closest shave.
• Typically used on second or third pass.
• Requires careful technique to minimize irritation.
• Not recommended for sensitive skin or first pass.

Memory trick: First, follow the flow; then, cross the path; finally, defy the growth for the ultimate smooth.

For the sensitive philtrum area, stretch the skin vertically towards the nose to flatten the curve, then use short, gentle, downward strokes with the grain for control and minimal irritation.

• Area is highly sensitive and often curved.
• Vertical skin tension helps to flatten the surface.
• Short, gentle strokes with the grain are crucial to prevent nicks and irritation.
• Razor angle should be shallower than other areas.

Memory trick: Tighten up, go slow, feel the flow!

To safely shave the philtrum, instruct the client to lift their nose slightly to flatten the area, then use short, controlled, with-the-grain strokes.

• Client lifts nose slightly.
• Area becomes flatter, more accessible.
• Use short, controlled strokes.
• Shave with the grain (for first pass).

Memory trick: For the nose mountain, lift and shorten the strokes, no long, sweeping jokes.

Active skin conditions like inflamed pustules, boils, or infections are contraindications for shaving due to the risk of spreading infection or causing further harm.

• Risk of infection spread
• Risk of irritation and worsening condition
• Barber should refuse service and recommend medical advice

Memory trick: When in doubt, don't shave it out!

For mild razor burn, apply a cool, soothing, alcohol-free aftershave balm or gel to calm inflammation and reduce redness.

• Avoid heat and friction
• Use soothing ingredients like aloe vera
• Prevents worsening of irritation

Memory trick: Red skin? Cool and serene, make it clean!

Immediately after rinsing the face post-shave, a cold towel or compress is applied to close pores, soothe the skin, and reduce irritation before applying other post-shave products.

• Follows final rinse
• Uses cold towel/compress
• Closes pores
• Soothes skin, reduces inflammation

Memory trick: Rinse, then chill: cold towel's the thrill, to close those pores, calm and still.

For clients with thick, coarse beards and sensitive skin, thorough pre-shave preparation involves multiple hot towel applications and a rich, protective shaving cream to soften hair and reduce irritation.

• Multiple hot towels soften coarse hair
• Rich shaving cream provides lubrication
• Minimizes irritation on sensitive skin

Memory trick: Hot towels and rich cream are the dynamic duo for tough beards and tender skin.

When shaving a client with moles or skin tags, the barber must carefully maneuver the razor to avoid any direct contact with these raised skin imperfections.

• Avoid direct contact with razor.
• Maneuver carefully around the area.
• Cutting moles/tags can cause bleeding, infection, scarring.
• Prioritize client safety.

Memory trick: When the path is bumpy, steer clear, don't rush, and hold your fear.

The very first action taken immediately after completing the final shaving pass to clean the skin and prepare it for further treatment.

• Removes all shaving product residue.
• Eliminates loose hair particles.
• Prevents skin irritation from leftover lather.
• Prepares skin for toning and moisturizing.

Memory trick: Rinse, Tone, Soothe, Protect!

Inflamed pustules, especially recurring and painful, are a contraindication for shaving services, requiring referral to a medical professional due to potential infection or serious skin condition.

• Indicates potential infection (e.g., folliculitis).
• Risk of spreading infection.
• Barbers cannot diagnose or treat.
• Must refuse service and recommend medical care.

Memory trick: Inspect, Intercept, Inform, and Refer if it seems like a medical blur.

A potent skin-lightening agent that works by decreasing the formation of melanin in the skin, effective for treating dark spots and uneven skin tone.

• Inhibits the enzyme tyrosinase, crucial for melanin synthesis.
• Often considered the 'gold standard' for treating hyperpigmentation.
• Typically requires a prescription and should be used under professional guidance due to potential side effects.

Memory trick: Hydroquinone Halts Hyper-melanin.

The amount of force applied during a facial massage, which must be adapted to the client's individual comfort level and skin type.

• Too much pressure can cause pain, bruising, or damage, especially on sensitive skin.
• Too little pressure may not provide therapeutic benefits.
• Always communicate with the client to gauge their comfort level.

Memory trick: Pressure Perfects the Pampering.

Various tools are used in facial treatments for hygienic and effective product application, ensuring even distribution and preventing contamination.

• Ensures hygiene.
• Promotes even product distribution.
• Minimizes product waste.

Memory trick: Brush it on, Keep it Clean, for a Professional Scene.

The use of an electrical current to produce a gentle warming effect, requiring specific safety protocols to prevent injury.

• Generates ozone and heat to stimulate circulation and provide an antiseptic effect.
• Strictly requires removal of all metal jewelry from client and barber.
• Contraindicated for clients with pacemakers, epilepsy, or pregnancy.

Memory trick: High-Frequency = Hands-Off all Heavy Metal.

A common chronic skin condition characterized by areas of blackheads, whiteheads, pimples, and greasy skin, often leading to psychological distress.

• Caused by clogged hair follicles with oil and dead skin cells.
• Inflammation leads to papules (red bumps) and pustules (pus-filled bumps).
• Can be exacerbated by hormones, diet, and physical manipulation.

Memory trick: Pustules, Papules, and Picking point to Acne.

Rosacea is a chronic inflammatory skin condition characterized by redness, visible blood vessels, and sometimes bumps. Exfoliation must be very gentle to avoid triggering flare-ups.

• Rosacea skin is highly reactive.
• Avoid harsh physical or chemical exfoliation.
• Enzyme peels are generally the safest option.

Memory trick: Rosacea's Redness Responds to Really Gentle Enzymes.

Sensitive skin is prone to redness, itching, and irritation. Common irritants include synthetic fragrances, certain alcohols, and harsh exfoliants.

• Skin reacts easily to stimuli.
• Fragrances are a common trigger.
• Goal is to use gentle, hypoallergenic products.

Memory trick: For Sensitive Skin, F-A-C-E your fears and avoid Fragrances, Alcohols, and harsh Chemicals.

An Alpha Hydroxy Acid (AHA) with a larger molecular structure, making it a gentler exfoliant suitable for sensitive or darker skin types prone to post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation.

• Derived from milk, known for hydrating properties.
• Larger molecular size compared to glycolic acid results in slower, more superficial penetration.
• Minimizes irritation and risk of PIH, especially in Fitzpatrick skin types IV-VI.

Memory trick: Lactic is Larger, Less Likely to Leave Marks (PIH) on darker skin.

The first step in many facial treatments, aimed at purifying the skin's surface.

• Removes makeup, dirt, oil, and environmental pollutants.
• Prepares the skin for deeper cleansing, exfoliation, and product penetration.
• Prevents spread of bacteria during treatments like extractions.

Memory trick: Cleanse First, Everything Else Follows.

Small, white, or yellowish cysts that appear on the skin, typically around the eyes, caused by trapped keratin.

• Often mistaken for whiteheads but are not acne lesions.
• Form when skin flakes or keratin become trapped under the skin surface.
• Usually harmless and can be extracted professionally with appropriate tools.

Memory trick: Pearly White Bumps? Must Be Milia.

Fitzpatrick skin type V describes skin that rarely burns, always tans, and is common in Middle Eastern, some Asian, and some Hispanic individuals. This skin type has a high risk of post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH).

• Rarely burns, always tans.
• High melanin content.
• Increased risk of post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH).

Memory trick: Fit-P-I-H: Fitzpatrick means Pigmentation Is High risk.

Emollients are moisturizing ingredients that form a protective film on the skin's surface to prevent water loss (TEWL) and smooth the skin's texture. They are essential for repairing a compromised skin barrier.

• Create a protective barrier on skin.
• Reduce transepidermal water loss (TEWL).
• Smooth and soften skin.

Memory trick: Emollients are the 'Cement' for a compromised skin barrier, sealing in moisture.

A severe acne medication (Accutane) that makes skin extremely fragile and sensitive, contraindicating aggressive treatments for an extended period after use.

• Causes thinning and extreme sensitivity of the skin.
• Strictly contraindicates waxing, chemical peels, microdermabrasion, and dermaplaning.
• Contraindication typically lasts 6-12 months post-treatment to allow skin recovery.

Memory trick: Accutane Alert: Avoid Aggressive Abrasions for a Year.

Ingredients that encourage the skin to produce more collagen, a protein vital for skin's strength, elasticity, and youthful appearance, are crucial for anti-aging treatments.

• Collagen provides skin structure.
• Production declines with age.
• Retinoids are key stimulators.

Memory trick: Retinoids Rebuild Resilience, Vitamin C Creates Collagen.

A product designed to soothe, hydrate, and protect skin after shaving, specially formulated with gentle, non-irritating ingredients for sensitive skin types.

• Aims to reduce redness, irritation, and razor burn.
• Should be alcohol-free and fragrance-free or minimally fragranced.
• Key ingredients often include aloe vera, allantoin, chamomile, and hyaluronic acid.

Memory trick: Sensitive Skin Seeks Soothing Solutions.

Facial masks formulated with natural clays (e.g., bentonite, kaolin) that absorb excess sebum, detoxify, and minimize the appearance of pores.

• Clays have absorbent and adsorbent properties.
• Effective for reducing shine and drawing out impurities.
• Beneficial for acne-prone and congested skin types.

Memory trick: Oily Skin Needs Clay to Cleanse.

The dormant herpes simplex virus (HSV-1) can be reactivated by trauma or stress to the skin, including aggressive facial treatments.

• Triggers include physical trauma, UV exposure, stress, and immunosuppression.
• Aggressive exfoliation (e.g., chemical peels, microdermabrasion) poses a high risk.
• Antiviral prophylaxis may be recommended by a physician before high-risk procedures.

Memory trick: Herpes Hates Harsh Treatments.

A category of skincare ingredients that attract and hold moisture, vital for addressing dehydrated skin conditions.

• Examples include hyaluronic acid, glycerin, urea, and sodium PCA.
• Work by drawing water from the atmosphere and deeper skin layers.
• Improve skin plumpness, reduce fine lines, and enhance barrier function.

Memory trick: Humectants Help Hydrate.