Texas Esthetician License Exam (TDLR Esthetician State Board) Practice
Questions and Answers PDF | Skin Care Treatments, Facial Procedures,
Skin Anatomy and Physiology, Infection Control and Sanitation, Chemical
Peels and Exfoliation, Hair Removal Techniques, Client Consultation, Texas
Cosmetology Laws and Regulations, Safety Procedures and Professional
Esthetics Standards | Complete Texas TDLR Esthetician Licensing Exam
Preparation Guide
Question 1: According to Texas Administrative Code, what is the minimum number
of hours of supervised practical experience required to obtain an esthetician
license in Texas?
A. 500 hours
B. 750 hours
C. 1000 hours
D. 1500 hours
CORRECT ANSWER: B. 750 hours
RATIONALE: The Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation (TDLR) requires
applicants for an esthetician license to complete a minimum of 750 hours of instruction
in an approved esthetics program, which includes both theoretical knowledge and
supervised practical experience. This requirement is specified in Title 16, Part 1,
Chapter 82 of the Texas Administrative Code.
Question 2: Which of the following disinfectants is EPA-registered and approved for
use on non-porous surfaces in Texas esthetician salons?
A. Household bleach diluted 1:10
B. Quaternary ammonium compound (quat) solution
C. Isopropyl alcohol 50%
D. Hydrogen peroxide 3%
CORRECT ANSWER: B. Quaternary ammonium compound (quat) solution
RATIONALE: Quaternary ammonium compounds (quats) are EPA-registered hospital-
grade disinfectants commonly approved for use on non-porous surfaces in Texas salons
when used according to label directions. While bleach can be effective, it must be EPA-
registered for salon use; 50% isopropyl alcohol and 3% hydrogen peroxide are not
sufficient for disinfection of salon tools and surfaces per TDLR sanitation standards.
Question 3: What is the primary function of the stratum corneum layer of the
epidermis?
A. To produce melanin for UV protection
B. To provide a waterproof barrier and protect underlying tissues
C. To generate new skin cells through mitosis
D. To house sensory nerve endings for touch perception
,CORRECT ANSWER: B. To provide a waterproof barrier and protect underlying
tissues
RATIONALE: The stratum corneum is the outermost layer of the epidermis, composed
of dead, keratinized cells that form a protective, waterproof barrier against
environmental pathogens, chemicals, and moisture loss. This barrier function is critical
for maintaining skin homeostasis and is a foundational concept in esthetics practice.
Question 4: In Texas, how long must an esthetician retain client records, including
service charts and consent forms, after the last date of service?
A. 1 year
B. 2 years
C. 3 years
D. 5 years
CORRECT ANSWER: B. 2 years
RATIONALE: Per Texas Administrative Code §82.101, licensed estheticians must
maintain client records, including service documentation, consent forms, and
contraindication notes, for a minimum of two years from the date of the last service.
This ensures accountability, supports continuity of care, and complies with state
regulatory requirements.
Question 5: Which skin condition is characterized by inflamed, red, itchy patches
and is often triggered by allergens or irritants?
A. Psoriasis
B. Rosacea
C. Contact dermatitis
D. Seborrheic dermatitis
CORRECT ANSWER: C. Contact dermatitis
RATIONALE: Contact dermatitis is an inflammatory skin reaction caused by direct
exposure to an irritant or allergen, resulting in redness, itching, swelling, and sometimes
blistering. Estheticians must recognize this condition to avoid exacerbating it during
treatments and to refer clients to a dermatologist when necessary.
Question 6: When performing a chemical peel in Texas, which action is required
BEFORE applying the peel solution to a client?
A. Apply a thick layer of moisturizer to protect the skin
B. Conduct a patch test 24–48 hours prior to service
C. Obtain written informed consent from the client
D. Use a fan to accelerate drying time
CORRECT ANSWER: C. Obtain written informed consent from the client
,RATIONALE: Texas regulations and professional standards require estheticians to
obtain written informed consent before performing advanced treatments like chemical
peels. This document ensures the client understands potential risks, benefits,
aftercare, and contraindications, protecting both client safety and the practitioner
legally.
Question 7: Which of the following is a contraindication for performing waxing
services?
A. Client has oily skin
B. Client is using topical retinoids
C. Client has light blonde hair
D. Client prefers hard wax over soft wax
CORRECT ANSWER: B. Client is using topical retinoids
RATIONALE: Topical retinoids (e.g., tretinoin, adapalene) thin the epidermis and
increase skin sensitivity, significantly raising the risk of lifting, tearing, or severe irritation
during waxing. Estheticians must screen for retinoid use and postpone waxing for at
least 5–7 days after discontinuation, per professional guidelines and Texas safety
standards.
Question 8: What is the correct sequence for cleaning and disinfecting reusable
esthetic tools in a Texas salon?
A. Disinfect, rinse, clean with soap, air dry
B. Clean with soap and water, rinse, disinfect, air dry
C. Rinse, disinfect, clean with soap, store in UV cabinet
D. Soak in disinfectant, wipe with alcohol, rinse, store
CORRECT ANSWER: B. Clean with soap and water, rinse, disinfect, air dry
RATIONALE: TDLR sanitation protocols require a two-step process: first, physically
clean tools with soap and water to remove debris; second, immerse in an EPA-
registered disinfectant for the manufacturer-specified contact time. Tools must then be
rinsed (if required by disinfectant label) and air-dried on a clean towel before storage to
prevent recontamination.
Question 9: Which layer of the skin contains blood vessels, nerves, hair follicles,
and sebaceous glands?
A. Epidermis
B. Dermis
C. Hypodermis
D. Stratum basale
CORRECT ANSWER: B. Dermis
RATIONALE: The dermis is the middle layer of skin, located beneath the epidermis, and
contains vital structures including blood vessels, lymphatics, nerve endings, hair
, follicles, sweat glands, and sebaceous (oil) glands. Understanding dermal anatomy is
essential for estheticians to assess skin conditions and perform treatments safely.
Question 10: In Texas, what is the legal requirement for an esthetician regarding the
use of single-use items such as cotton pads or applicators?
A. They may be reused if disinfected between clients
B. They must be discarded after each client use
C. They can be shared among staff if stored properly
D. They must be autoclaved before reuse
CORRECT ANSWER: B. They must be discarded after each client use
RATIONALE: Texas sanitation rules mandate that all single-use, porous, or non-
disinfectable items (e.g., cotton pads, gauze, wooden applicators) must be discarded
immediately after use on a single client. Reuse of such items poses a cross-
contamination risk and violates TDLR health and safety standards.
Question 11: Which ingredient is commonly used in esthetic products for its
humectant properties to attract and bind water to the skin?
A. Mineral oil
B. Glycerin
C. Zinc oxide
D. Salicylic acid
CORRECT ANSWER: B. Glycerin
RATIONALE: Glycerin is a humectant that draws moisture from the environment and
deeper skin layers to the stratum corneum, improving hydration and barrier function.
Estheticians should understand ingredient functions to recommend appropriate
products for client skin types and concerns.
Question 12: What is the primary purpose of performing a client consultation
before an esthetic service in Texas?
A. To upsell retail products
B. To document the client's insurance information
C. To assess medical history, skin condition, and treatment goals
D. To schedule follow-up appointments
CORRECT ANSWER: C. To assess medical history, skin condition, and treatment
goals
RATIONALE: A thorough consultation allows the esthetician to identify
contraindications, customize treatments, set realistic expectations, and obtain
informed consent. This step is critical for client safety, treatment efficacy, and
compliance with Texas professional practice standards.
Questions and Answers PDF | Skin Care Treatments, Facial Procedures,
Skin Anatomy and Physiology, Infection Control and Sanitation, Chemical
Peels and Exfoliation, Hair Removal Techniques, Client Consultation, Texas
Cosmetology Laws and Regulations, Safety Procedures and Professional
Esthetics Standards | Complete Texas TDLR Esthetician Licensing Exam
Preparation Guide
Question 1: According to Texas Administrative Code, what is the minimum number
of hours of supervised practical experience required to obtain an esthetician
license in Texas?
A. 500 hours
B. 750 hours
C. 1000 hours
D. 1500 hours
CORRECT ANSWER: B. 750 hours
RATIONALE: The Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation (TDLR) requires
applicants for an esthetician license to complete a minimum of 750 hours of instruction
in an approved esthetics program, which includes both theoretical knowledge and
supervised practical experience. This requirement is specified in Title 16, Part 1,
Chapter 82 of the Texas Administrative Code.
Question 2: Which of the following disinfectants is EPA-registered and approved for
use on non-porous surfaces in Texas esthetician salons?
A. Household bleach diluted 1:10
B. Quaternary ammonium compound (quat) solution
C. Isopropyl alcohol 50%
D. Hydrogen peroxide 3%
CORRECT ANSWER: B. Quaternary ammonium compound (quat) solution
RATIONALE: Quaternary ammonium compounds (quats) are EPA-registered hospital-
grade disinfectants commonly approved for use on non-porous surfaces in Texas salons
when used according to label directions. While bleach can be effective, it must be EPA-
registered for salon use; 50% isopropyl alcohol and 3% hydrogen peroxide are not
sufficient for disinfection of salon tools and surfaces per TDLR sanitation standards.
Question 3: What is the primary function of the stratum corneum layer of the
epidermis?
A. To produce melanin for UV protection
B. To provide a waterproof barrier and protect underlying tissues
C. To generate new skin cells through mitosis
D. To house sensory nerve endings for touch perception
,CORRECT ANSWER: B. To provide a waterproof barrier and protect underlying
tissues
RATIONALE: The stratum corneum is the outermost layer of the epidermis, composed
of dead, keratinized cells that form a protective, waterproof barrier against
environmental pathogens, chemicals, and moisture loss. This barrier function is critical
for maintaining skin homeostasis and is a foundational concept in esthetics practice.
Question 4: In Texas, how long must an esthetician retain client records, including
service charts and consent forms, after the last date of service?
A. 1 year
B. 2 years
C. 3 years
D. 5 years
CORRECT ANSWER: B. 2 years
RATIONALE: Per Texas Administrative Code §82.101, licensed estheticians must
maintain client records, including service documentation, consent forms, and
contraindication notes, for a minimum of two years from the date of the last service.
This ensures accountability, supports continuity of care, and complies with state
regulatory requirements.
Question 5: Which skin condition is characterized by inflamed, red, itchy patches
and is often triggered by allergens or irritants?
A. Psoriasis
B. Rosacea
C. Contact dermatitis
D. Seborrheic dermatitis
CORRECT ANSWER: C. Contact dermatitis
RATIONALE: Contact dermatitis is an inflammatory skin reaction caused by direct
exposure to an irritant or allergen, resulting in redness, itching, swelling, and sometimes
blistering. Estheticians must recognize this condition to avoid exacerbating it during
treatments and to refer clients to a dermatologist when necessary.
Question 6: When performing a chemical peel in Texas, which action is required
BEFORE applying the peel solution to a client?
A. Apply a thick layer of moisturizer to protect the skin
B. Conduct a patch test 24–48 hours prior to service
C. Obtain written informed consent from the client
D. Use a fan to accelerate drying time
CORRECT ANSWER: C. Obtain written informed consent from the client
,RATIONALE: Texas regulations and professional standards require estheticians to
obtain written informed consent before performing advanced treatments like chemical
peels. This document ensures the client understands potential risks, benefits,
aftercare, and contraindications, protecting both client safety and the practitioner
legally.
Question 7: Which of the following is a contraindication for performing waxing
services?
A. Client has oily skin
B. Client is using topical retinoids
C. Client has light blonde hair
D. Client prefers hard wax over soft wax
CORRECT ANSWER: B. Client is using topical retinoids
RATIONALE: Topical retinoids (e.g., tretinoin, adapalene) thin the epidermis and
increase skin sensitivity, significantly raising the risk of lifting, tearing, or severe irritation
during waxing. Estheticians must screen for retinoid use and postpone waxing for at
least 5–7 days after discontinuation, per professional guidelines and Texas safety
standards.
Question 8: What is the correct sequence for cleaning and disinfecting reusable
esthetic tools in a Texas salon?
A. Disinfect, rinse, clean with soap, air dry
B. Clean with soap and water, rinse, disinfect, air dry
C. Rinse, disinfect, clean with soap, store in UV cabinet
D. Soak in disinfectant, wipe with alcohol, rinse, store
CORRECT ANSWER: B. Clean with soap and water, rinse, disinfect, air dry
RATIONALE: TDLR sanitation protocols require a two-step process: first, physically
clean tools with soap and water to remove debris; second, immerse in an EPA-
registered disinfectant for the manufacturer-specified contact time. Tools must then be
rinsed (if required by disinfectant label) and air-dried on a clean towel before storage to
prevent recontamination.
Question 9: Which layer of the skin contains blood vessels, nerves, hair follicles,
and sebaceous glands?
A. Epidermis
B. Dermis
C. Hypodermis
D. Stratum basale
CORRECT ANSWER: B. Dermis
RATIONALE: The dermis is the middle layer of skin, located beneath the epidermis, and
contains vital structures including blood vessels, lymphatics, nerve endings, hair
, follicles, sweat glands, and sebaceous (oil) glands. Understanding dermal anatomy is
essential for estheticians to assess skin conditions and perform treatments safely.
Question 10: In Texas, what is the legal requirement for an esthetician regarding the
use of single-use items such as cotton pads or applicators?
A. They may be reused if disinfected between clients
B. They must be discarded after each client use
C. They can be shared among staff if stored properly
D. They must be autoclaved before reuse
CORRECT ANSWER: B. They must be discarded after each client use
RATIONALE: Texas sanitation rules mandate that all single-use, porous, or non-
disinfectable items (e.g., cotton pads, gauze, wooden applicators) must be discarded
immediately after use on a single client. Reuse of such items poses a cross-
contamination risk and violates TDLR health and safety standards.
Question 11: Which ingredient is commonly used in esthetic products for its
humectant properties to attract and bind water to the skin?
A. Mineral oil
B. Glycerin
C. Zinc oxide
D. Salicylic acid
CORRECT ANSWER: B. Glycerin
RATIONALE: Glycerin is a humectant that draws moisture from the environment and
deeper skin layers to the stratum corneum, improving hydration and barrier function.
Estheticians should understand ingredient functions to recommend appropriate
products for client skin types and concerns.
Question 12: What is the primary purpose of performing a client consultation
before an esthetic service in Texas?
A. To upsell retail products
B. To document the client's insurance information
C. To assess medical history, skin condition, and treatment goals
D. To schedule follow-up appointments
CORRECT ANSWER: C. To assess medical history, skin condition, and treatment
goals
RATIONALE: A thorough consultation allows the esthetician to identify
contraindications, customize treatments, set realistic expectations, and obtain
informed consent. This step is critical for client safety, treatment efficacy, and
compliance with Texas professional practice standards.
