Specialists at the top of their field have taken the National Esthetics Theory Examination. It’s a licensure test developed by the Interstate Council of State Boards of Cosmetology (NIC), certifying that these professionals understand complex subjects such as areas of the face that include muscles and bones, the neck and shoulders, and even understand skin microbiology.
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Esthetician Exam Outline
The Esthetician exam contains 110 questions and has a time limit of 1.5 hours.
The test is split into two sections: Scientific Concepts and Skin Care and Services.
I. Scientific Concepts (55%)
The questions in this section assess the following topics:
- Basic microbiology
- Infection control procedures
- Standard precautions
- Blood exposure procedures
- SDSM
- Chemical handling
- Cell functions
- Organ functions
- Tissues
- Body systems
- Structure and function of skin layers
- Structure and function of glands
- Skin disorders and diseases
- Hair and follicle structure
- Hair growth cycles
- Abnormal hair growth
- Basic chemistry
II. Skin Care and Services (45%)
The questions in this section ask you to demonstrate several things, including:
- Client protection
- Skin analysis
- Contraindications
- Treatment protocol
- Cleansing procedures
- Steaming procedures
- Exfoliation procedures
- Massage movements
- Extraction methods
- Functions and applications of various masks
- The concluding processes of facial services
- Electrical equipment used in skin services
- Makeup knowledge
- Knowledge of body treatments, eyelash and eyebrow services, and hair removal methods
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How to Pass the Esthetician Exam
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Test Day
On the day of the exam, you should arrive at the testing center 30 minutes early to go through the sign-in procedures. You also need to make sure you bring your photo ID and candidate admission notice.
As with most tests, there is a long list of items that you are not allowed to bring into the testing room. Items include mobile phones, tablets, computers, cameras, printed materials, and notes.
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FAQs
Q
How many questions are on the Esthetician exam?
A
There are 110 questions on the exam.
Q
How long is the Esthetician exam?
A
The Esthetician exam is timed at 1.5 hours.
Q
How much does the Esthetician exam cost?
A
The cost of the exam varies depending on which state you take the test in.
Q
What is a passing score for the Esthetician exam?
A
You must answer at least 70% of the questions correctly to pass the exam.
