Free New Hampshire Cosmetology State Board Exam Practice Test

Sample New Hampshire Cosmetology practice questions

Try a few representative questions below. Each includes the correct answer and a short explanation — the same style you'll see in the full practice test.

1. Question 1Nail Disorders

   A client presents with a severe case of onychomycosis on their toenails, characterized by significant discoloration, thickening, and subungual hyperkeratosis. As a licensed cosmetologist in New Hampshire, what is your immediate and primary course of action upon observing this condition?

   • A.Proceed with a standard pedicure, focusing on aggressive filing to reduce the hyperkeratosis and applying an antifungal polish.
   • B.Attempt to treat the condition with a high-concentration salicylic acid peel, followed by regular application of a broad-spectrum antifungal cream.
   • C.Inform the client that the condition is beyond the scope of cosmetology services and recommend they seek immediate consultation with a podiatrist or physician.(Correct)
   • D.Advise the client to purchase an over-the-counter antifungal treatment and return in six weeks for a follow-up assessment.

   Explanation

   A licensed cosmetologist is trained to provide cosmetic services and cannot diagnose or treat medical conditions like onychomycosis. This condition requires professional medical evaluation and treatment by a podiatrist or physician.

2. Question 2Chemical Services

   During a chemical hair straightening service, a client's hair begins to exhibit signs of extreme porosity and breakage after the relaxer application, despite following manufacturer instructions. What is the most critical immediate step to mitigate further damage?

   • A.Apply a bond-rebuilding treatment and rinse the relaxer only after the recommended processing time.
   • B.Apply a clarifying shampoo to remove excess product and then proceed with a conditioning mask.
   • C.Neutralize the relaxer immediately with a pH-balanced neutralizing shampoo and condition deeply.
   • D.Immediately rinse the hair thoroughly with cool water and apply a protein-filler treatment.(Correct)

   Explanation

   When hair shows signs of severe damage during a chemical service, the priority is to stop the chemical process immediately. Thoroughly rinsing with cool water halts the relaxer's action, and a protein filler can help temporarily strengthen compromised hair structure.

3. Question 3Hair Coloring

   A client requests a drastic color change from dark brown (Level 3) to platinum blonde (Level 10). The client has a history of previous box dye applications and their hair feels dry. What is the most appropriate initial step before commencing the lightening process?

   • A.Perform a strand test using a high-lift color to assess processing time and final result.
   • B.Apply a bleach bath formulation (bleach mixed with shampoo and low-volume developer) to lift the color evenly.
   • C.Immediately apply a full-head application of 30-volume developer and bleach, checking the hair every 5 minutes.
   • D.Conduct a thorough porosity and elasticity test, and potentially a patch and predisposition test, to determine hair health and formulate a safe lightening plan.(Correct)

   Explanation

   Before undertaking a significant lightening process, especially on previously colored hair, a comprehensive assessment of the hair's condition is paramount. Porosity and elasticity tests reveal how the hair will absorb and react to chemicals, preventing breakage and ensuring a more predictable outcome.

Want the full exam? Start the free practice test →

Frequently asked questions

Related practice tests

• EPA 608