10 REAL State Board Test Questions (NIC)

The following introductory paragraph, and questions, is taken directly from the National Interstate Council Of State Boards Of Cosmetology (NIC) website. Additional testing information (although no additional test questions) is also available at that site.

The following sample questions are similar to those on the NIC Cosmetology Written Examination. Each question is followed by four answer choices. Only one choice is correct. Correct answers are listed following the sample questions.

1 - Which of the following substances is usually contained in a toner?
a - metallic dye
b - compound dye
c - vegetable tint
d - oxidation tint

2 - Which of the following should be applied to the skin after the removal of whiteheads?
a - a caustic
b - a deodorant
c - an antiseptic
d - a bleaching cream

3 - Before disinfecting combs and brushes, they should be:
a - wiped with a towel
b - wiped with a tissue
c - rinsed in cold water
d - cleansed with soap and warm water

4 - What is the process used in tapering and thinning with scissors?
a - clipping
b - slithering
c - razor cutting
d - layer cutting

5 - The action of chemical relaxers causes the hair to:
a - stop growing
b - harden and set
c - form new curls
d - soften and swell

6 - When should a predisposition test be performed?
a - when the scalp has cuts
b - before applying peroxide
c - before every application of an oxidizing tint
d - before any application of vegetable coloring

7 - At what part of the nail does growth start?
a - wall
b - matrix
c - lunula
d - cuticle

8 - What is the function of sebum?
a - to dry the skin
b - to harden the skin
c - to cleanse the skin
d - to lubricate the skin

9 - Sterilization is the process of:
a - keeping bacteria alive
b - destroying offensive odors
c - destroying beneficial microorganisms only
d - destroying both harmful and beneficial bacteria

10 - Where should freshly laundered towels be kept?
a - on a clean shelf
b - in a convenient place
c - in a closed cabinet or drawer
d - in neat stacks by the shampoo bowl

Answer Key:
1 / d, 2 / c, 3 / d, 4 / b, 5 / d, 6 / c, 7 / b, 8 / d, 9 / d, 10 / c

Poster's Note:
Observe where it says "questions are similar to those on the NIC Cosmetology Written Examination". This means they are no longer using these exact questions, so do not memorize these exact questions. Rather, try to understand the concept or principle being asked, so that you can apply it to any question they really do ask you, no matter how they word it.

It is also the opinion and experience of this writer that these questions are far simpler than the questions you will actually be asked on your exam. After you take your exam, see if you agree with me, or not, and post your own experience and opinion. It will help others.

To visit the NIC website: www.nictesting.otg

For help with passing your written exam: www.cosmetologystateboardexam.com