Virginia Cosmetology State Board Review

Hair Structure and Treatments

• Cortex: The middle layer of hair that provides strength and elasticity.
• Medulla: The innermost layer of hair, consisting of round cells.
• Follicle: Small tubular cavity on the root of hair.
• Strand Test: Used to determine processing time and potential results for hair treatments.
• Patch Test: Allergy test performed 24-48 hours before a service to check for sensitivities.

Skin and Anatomy Studies

• Oseology: The study of bones.
• Myology: The study of muscles.
• Dermatology: The study of skin.
• Epidermis: The outer layer of the skin.
• Dermis: The inner layer of the skin.
• Acne Causes: Primarily caused by sebaceous glands.

Nail and Hair Care

• Lunula: The visible part of the nail matrix.
• Neutralizing Shampoo: Returns hair to a neutral pH after chemical services.

Disinfection and Sanitation Protocols

• Whirlpool Foot Spa Disinfection: Must be disinfected for 10 minutes after each client and kept in disinfecting solution overnight at least once a week.

Bacterial Types

• Non-pathogenic Bacteria: Harmless bacteria, sometimes utilized in food.
• Staphylococci: Harmful pus-forming bacteria that appear singly or in groups.
• Bacilli: Short rod-shaped bacteria that can cause diseases such as tetanus and tuberculosis.

Skin Conditions and Terms

• Verruca: Refers to warts.
• Mole: A small brown blemish on the skin.
• Psoriasis: A skin disease characterized by red patches.
• Herpes Simplex: Also known as a fever blister or cold sore.
• Comedone: A blackhead, which is a hardened sebum mass in a hair follicle.
• Keloid: Thicker scars resulting from excessive growth.
• Fissure: A crack in the skin penetrating the dermis.
• Papule: Commonly known as a pimple.
• Pustule: An inflamed pimple filled with pus.

Exfoliation Techniques

• Chemical Exfoliants: Products containing chemicals designed to loosen or dissolve dead cell buildup.
• Mechanical Exfoliants: Physically remove dead skin cell buildup through scrubbing.
• Clay-Based Masks: Absorbing cleansing masks specifically for oily skin.

Massage Techniques

• Effleurage: A tight, continuous stroking movement using slow rhythm.
• Friction: A deep rubbing technique applying pressure.
• Hacking: A chopping movement.
• Petrissage: Kneading movement involving lifting, squeezing, and pressing the tissue.

Electrotherapy Essentials

• Cathode Charge: The negative electrode used in electrotherapy.
• Electricity: A form of energy exhibiting magnetic, chemical, and thermal properties.

Hair Types and Design Principles

• Wavy Medium Hair: Considered the most versatile hair type for various styling techniques.
• Symmetrical Design: Hair design principle using two imaginary lines for balance.
• Ideal Face Type: Oval face shape is considered the most favorable in styling.
• Defining Characteristics of Hair: Texture and pattern are key attributes influencing hair care and styling methods.