• Texas Cosmetology State Board Exam Prep 2026 | Complete TDLR Licensing
Review Covering Sanitation & Infection Control, Texas Laws & Rules,
Haircutting, Hairstyling, Chemical Services, Skin Care, Nail Technology,
Client Safety, and Professional Ethics | High-Yield Practice Questions with
Clear Explanations to Pass the Texas Cosmetology Board Exam on the First
Attempt
Question 1:
What is the primary purpose of using a disinfectant in a salon?
• A) To clean surfaces
• B) To kill bacteria and viruses
• C) To remove dirt
• D) To enhance color
Correct Option: B) To kill bacteria and viruses
Rationale: Disinfectants are specifically formulated to destroy harmful
microorganisms. In a salon setting, it is crucial to use disinfectants to maintain a
hygienic environment, preventing infections and ensuring the safety of both clients and
professionals.
Question 2:
Which of the following is a common fungal infection of the nails?
• A) Psoriasis
• B) Impetigo
• C) Onychomycosis
• D) Eczema
Correct Option: C) Onychomycosis
Rationale: Onychomycosis is a fungal infection that affects the nails, leading to
discoloration and brittleness. Understanding fungal infections is vital for
cosmetologists as they must identify and respond to such conditions in clients to
ensure healthy nail care.
Question 3:
What technique is used to create volume at the roots of the hair?
• A) Backcombing
• B) Teasing
, • C) Curling
• D) Smoothing
Correct Option: B) Teasing
Rationale: Teasing, also known as backcombing, is a technique that involves combing
the hair toward the scalp to create volume. It is a fundamental skill for hairstylists to
master in order to achieve various hairstyles that require lift and body.
Question 4:
In Texas, how often must a cosmetologist renew their license?
• A) Every 2 years
• B) Every 3 years
• C) Every 2 years with continuing education
• D) Every year
Correct Option: C) Every 2 years with continuing education
Rationale: In Texas, cosmetologists are required to renew their licenses every 2 years,
which includes completing a specified number of continuing education hours. This
ensures that professionals stay updated on the latest practices and safety protocols in
the cosmetology industry.
Question 5:
What is the correct pH level for hair products designed for color-treated hair?
• A) 4.5 - 5.5
• B) 5.5 - 6.0
• C) 4.0 - 5.0
• D) 6.0 - 7.0
Correct Option: C) 4.0 - 5.0
Rationale: Products formulated for color-treated hair typically have a pH between 4.0
and 5.0 to help maintain the hair’s cuticle integrity and prevent color fading.
Understanding pH levels is essential for cosmetologists to recommend appropriate
products to clients and to ensure optimal hair health.
Question 6:
What is the main purpose of a toner in hair coloring?
Review Covering Sanitation & Infection Control, Texas Laws & Rules,
Haircutting, Hairstyling, Chemical Services, Skin Care, Nail Technology,
Client Safety, and Professional Ethics | High-Yield Practice Questions with
Clear Explanations to Pass the Texas Cosmetology Board Exam on the First
Attempt
Question 1:
What is the primary purpose of using a disinfectant in a salon?
• A) To clean surfaces
• B) To kill bacteria and viruses
• C) To remove dirt
• D) To enhance color
Correct Option: B) To kill bacteria and viruses
Rationale: Disinfectants are specifically formulated to destroy harmful
microorganisms. In a salon setting, it is crucial to use disinfectants to maintain a
hygienic environment, preventing infections and ensuring the safety of both clients and
professionals.
Question 2:
Which of the following is a common fungal infection of the nails?
• A) Psoriasis
• B) Impetigo
• C) Onychomycosis
• D) Eczema
Correct Option: C) Onychomycosis
Rationale: Onychomycosis is a fungal infection that affects the nails, leading to
discoloration and brittleness. Understanding fungal infections is vital for
cosmetologists as they must identify and respond to such conditions in clients to
ensure healthy nail care.
Question 3:
What technique is used to create volume at the roots of the hair?
• A) Backcombing
• B) Teasing
, • C) Curling
• D) Smoothing
Correct Option: B) Teasing
Rationale: Teasing, also known as backcombing, is a technique that involves combing
the hair toward the scalp to create volume. It is a fundamental skill for hairstylists to
master in order to achieve various hairstyles that require lift and body.
Question 4:
In Texas, how often must a cosmetologist renew their license?
• A) Every 2 years
• B) Every 3 years
• C) Every 2 years with continuing education
• D) Every year
Correct Option: C) Every 2 years with continuing education
Rationale: In Texas, cosmetologists are required to renew their licenses every 2 years,
which includes completing a specified number of continuing education hours. This
ensures that professionals stay updated on the latest practices and safety protocols in
the cosmetology industry.
Question 5:
What is the correct pH level for hair products designed for color-treated hair?
• A) 4.5 - 5.5
• B) 5.5 - 6.0
• C) 4.0 - 5.0
• D) 6.0 - 7.0
Correct Option: C) 4.0 - 5.0
Rationale: Products formulated for color-treated hair typically have a pH between 4.0
and 5.0 to help maintain the hair’s cuticle integrity and prevent color fading.
Understanding pH levels is essential for cosmetologists to recommend appropriate
products to clients and to ensure optimal hair health.
Question 6:
What is the main purpose of a toner in hair coloring?
