2024/2025: 50 Cosmetology Questions with
Verified Answers and Rationales | 100%
Guaranteed Pass
1. Multiple-Choice
Question: What is the primary role of hydrogen peroxide in hair coloring?
A) To condition the hair
B) To open the cuticle and develop color
C) To protect the scalp
D) To remove natural pigment
Answer: B) To open the cuticle and develop color
Rationale: Hydrogen peroxide opens the hair cuticle to allow dye penetration and
initiates the chemical reaction for permanent color development.
2. Multiple-Choice
Question: Which organization oversees the New Jersey State Board of Cosmetology and
Hairstyling?
A) FDA
B) NIC
C) Division of Consumer Affairs
D) OSHA
Answer: C) Division of Consumer Affairs
Rationale: The NJ State Board operates under the Division of Consumer Affairs, which
regulates licensing and testing.
3. Multiple-Choice
Question: What is the correct term for split or brittle nails?
A) Onycholysis
B) Onychorrhexis
C) Paronychia
D) Koilonychia
Answer: B) Onychorrhexis
Rationale: Onychorrhexis refers to split or brittle nails, often due to trauma or
dehydration.
4. Multiple-Choice
Question: What is the minimum contact time for a disinfectant to be effective?
A) 30 seconds
B) 1 minute
C) 10 minutes
D) 20 minutes
Answer: C) 10 minutes
, Rationale: EPA-registered disinfectants require a 10-minute contact time to kill
pathogens effectively, per NIC standards.
5. Multiple-Choice
Question: What is the primary purpose of the cuticle layer of the hair?
A) Regulate hair growth
B) Protect the cortex
C) Add color to the hair
D) Increase hair elasticity
Answer: B) Protect the cortex
Rationale: The cuticle, the outermost hair layer, protects the inner cortex from damage
and aids in moisture retention.
6. Multiple-Choice
Question: What should a cosmetologist do to avoid back strain during a shampoo
service?
A) Bend at the waist
B) Maintain a straight posture
C) Sit on a stool
D) Use a low sink
Answer: B) Maintain a straight posture
Rationale: Maintaining a straight posture reduces strain on the back during prolonged
standing tasks.
7. Multiple-Choice
Question: Which brush is best for applying powder blush?
A) Flat foundation brush
B) Rounded, fluffy blush brush
C) Angled contour brush
D) Fan brush
Answer: B) Rounded, fluffy blush brush
Rationale: A rounded, fluffy blush brush ensures even application and blending for a
natural look.
8. Multiple-Choice
Question: What is the minimum age requirement to apply for a cosmetology license in
New Jersey?
A) 16
B) 17
C) 18
D) 21
Answer: B) 17
Rationale: NJ requires applicants to be at least 17 years old for cosmetology licensure.
9. Multiple-Choice
Question: What is the primary benefit of a facial massage?
A) Stimulates hair growth
B) Improves circulation
C) Reduces hair porosity
D) Increases sebum production
Answer: B) Improves circulation