Esthetician Testing
If you have interest in performing facial and waxing services, you probably have looked into esthetics schools and training programs. During this training, you'll learn techniques necessary to satisfy clients and be successful in your trade. After the completion of education hours mandated by state law, you will need to take a test given by the cosmetology board before you start working as an esthetician.
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Purpose
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Esthetics testing will allow you to demonstrate that you are well-versed in the function of the skin and its care. Once you pass the state board exam, you will have the confidence of knowing that you have in-depth knowledge of techniques and procedures that will keep your future clients safe when you provide them services. You will receive a license to post that indicates to clients that you have completed the necessary steps to be allowed to legally perform services.
Preparation
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The education you receive in esthetics school will prepare you to pass your state's cosmetology state board exam. The person responsible for designing your school's curriculum is usually well-versed in state board regulations and should know what subjects are covered on the esthetics exam. Instructors may administer a practice test to make you familiar with the testing process. In some esthetics schools, your training may culminate with a mock esthetics exam. You can ask your instructors where you can find additional state board prep materials.
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Features
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Most state exams have two parts--a written multiple-choice test and a practical examination. During the written part of the test you will be quizzed on sanitation and how to control infection. You will need to have an understanding of safety procedures in the salon. A large part of the exam will focus on the physiology and anatomy of the skin and its structure. A section of the test will prove if you have an understanding of diseases and conditions of the skin, and the growth cycles of hair. During the practical phase of the test, expect to perform all aspects of a facial service, including the application and removal of product and massage techniques. An examiner may ask you to explain what you are doing.
Location
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Your state cosmetology board will decide the testing site. Some cosmetology boards have a special room located in their office that is used for the examination, or they may borrow space in a cosmetology or esthetics school. The cosmetology board usually informs candidates by letter of the date and time of the exam. You may have to travel a long distance to the travel site, possibly staying overnight if the designated site is far from your home.
Materials
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You may need to bring products and supplies with you to the test. The list of materials needed is usually outlined in the letter you'll receive notifying you of the time and date of the test. Some items you will need include cleanser, moisturizer, exfoliant, masque, a makeup kit, cotton and applicators. You can get most of the supplies from a beauty supply store. Some beauty supply stores sell an "esthetician state board kit" that includes many of the materials you will. You may also need to bring a mannequin or a live model to perform services on during the testing.
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References
Resources
- Photo Credit getting a facial image by Kelly Kane from Fotolia.com