Texas Esthetician License Exam Prep – Real Practice Questions, Answers
& Detailed Rationales (Updated 2026) | Skin Analysis & Facial
Treatments, Hair Removal & Waxing Procedures, Infection Control &
Sanitation Standards, Skin Disorders & Conditions, Chemical Peels &
Exfoliation, Product Chemistry, Texas TDLR Laws & Regulations, Spa
Safety, Client Consultation & Professional Esthetics Practice
Question 1: According to Texas Administrative Code Chapter 83, what is the
minimum concentration of bleach solution required for disinfecting non-porous
implements in an esthetician practice?
A. 50 ppm chlorine solution
B. 100 ppm chlorine solution
C. 500 ppm chlorine solution
D. 1000 ppm chlorine solution
CORRECT ANSWER: D. 1000 ppm chlorine solution
Rationale: : Texas Administrative Code §83.95 requires that non-porous implements be
disinfected using an EPA-registered disinfectant or a bleach solution of at least 1000
ppm available chlorine (approximately 1:10 dilution of household bleach). This
concentration ensures effective destruction of pathogens including bacteria, viruses,
and fungi, protecting both clients and practitioners from infection transmission.
Question 2: Which of the following services is explicitly within the scope of
practice for a licensed Texas esthetician?
A. Performing chemical peels using glycolic acid above 30% concentration
B. Administering injectable dermal fillers
C. Applying semi-permanent eyelash extensions using single-fiber technique
D. Diagnosing and treating acne vulgaris with prescription medications
CORRECT ANSWER: C. Applying semi-permanent eyelash extensions using single-
fiber technique
Rationale: : Under Texas Occupations Code §1603.0011(c), licensed estheticians are
specifically authorized to apply eyelash extensions using semi-permanent, threadlike
extensions composed of applying single fibers to a person's eyelashes. Services
involving prescription medications, injections, or high-concentration chemical peels
exceed the esthetician scope and require medical licensure.
Question 3: When performing a patch test for a new skin care product, what is the
minimum recommended waiting period before proceeding with full application
according to Texas esthetician best practices?
A. 5-10 minutes
B. 15-30 minutes
C. 24-48 hours
D. 72 hours
,CORRECT ANSWER: C. 24-48 hours
Rationale: : A patch test assesses for allergic reactions or sensitivity to products. Texas
esthetician standards and industry best practices recommend waiting 24-48 hours after
applying a small amount of product to a discreet area (such as behind the ear or inner
arm) before proceeding with full treatment. This timeframe allows delayed
hypersensitivity reactions to manifest, ensuring client safety.
Question 4: Which layer of the epidermis is primarily responsible for the process of
keratinization?
A. Stratum basale
B. Stratum spinosum
C. Stratum granulosum
D. Stratum corneum
CORRECT ANSWER: C. Stratum granulosum
Rationale: : The stratum granulosum is the epidermal layer where keratinocytes
undergo keratinization, producing keratin and lipids that form the skin's protective
barrier. Cells in this layer accumulate keratohyalin granules and begin to flatten and die
as they migrate upward. The stratum corneum consists of fully keratinized, dead cells;
the stratum basale is the proliferative layer; and the stratum spinosum provides
structural strength.
Question 5: Under Texas law, how long must an esthetician retain client records
containing service documentation and consent forms?
A. 1 year from date of service
B. 2 years from date of service
C. 3 years from date of service
D. 5 years from date of service
CORRECT ANSWER: B. 2 years from date of service
Rationale: : Texas Administrative Code §83.91 requires licensees to maintain client
records, including service documentation, consent forms, and contraindication notes,
for a minimum of two years from the date of service. This retention period supports
regulatory compliance, liability protection, and continuity of care while aligning with
standard medical record practices.
Question 6: Which of the following is a contraindication for performing facial
extractions?
A. Oily skin with open comedones
B. Active herpes simplex outbreak
C. Mild rosacea in remission
D. Normal skin with occasional blackheads
CORRECT ANSWER: B. Active herpes simplex outbreak
,Rationale: : Active herpes simplex (cold sores) is an absolute contraindication for facial
extractions and other invasive facial procedures due to risk of viral spread, secondary
infection, and delayed healing. Performing extractions during an outbreak can
disseminate the virus to other facial areas or to the esthetician. Services should be
postponed until lesions are completely healed and the client is no longer contagious.
Question 7: What is the primary purpose of using a Wood's lamp during skin
analysis?
A. To measure skin hydration levels
B. To detect bacterial infections through fluorescence
C. To visualize pigmentation irregularities and product residue
D. To assess skin elasticity and firmness
CORRECT ANSWER: C. To visualize pigmentation irregularities and product residue
Rationale: : A Wood's lamp emits ultraviolet light that causes certain skin conditions,
pigmentation variations, and cosmetic product residues to fluoresce in characteristic
colors. This aids estheticians in identifying hyperpigmentation, dehydration, fungal
infections, and inadequate cleansing. It does not measure hydration, elasticity, or
definitively diagnose bacterial infections.
Question 8: According to Texas sanitation regulations, how often must facial chairs
and headrests be cleaned and disinfected?
A. At the end of each workday
B. After each client service
C. Only when visibly soiled
D. Once weekly with deep cleaning
CORRECT ANSWER: B. After each client service
Rationale: : Texas Administrative Code §83.104(c) explicitly states that facial chairs and
beds, including headrests, must be cleaned and disinfected after providing service to
each client. This prevents cross-contamination between clients and maintains a
hygienic environment consistent with infection control standards for direct-contact
surfaces.
Question 9: Which type of exfoliation involves the use of enzymes derived from
fruits such as papaya or pineapple?
A. Mechanical exfoliation
B. Chemical exfoliation with alpha hydroxy acids
C. Enzymatic exfoliation
D. Microdermabrasion
CORRECT ANSWER: C. Enzymatic exfoliation
Rationale: : Enzymatic exfoliation utilizes proteolytic enzymes (e.g., papain from
papaya, bromelain from pineapple) to break down keratin proteins in dead skin cells,
, facilitating gentle desquamation without abrasion or low-pH acids. This method is
suitable for sensitive skin and those who cannot tolerate mechanical or acid-based
exfoliants.
Question 10: What is the correct sequence for donning personal protective
equipment (PPE) before performing a facial service?
A. Gloves, mask, gown, eye protection
B. Gown, mask, eye protection, gloves
C. Mask, gown, eye protection, gloves
D. Eye protection, gloves, mask, gown
CORRECT ANSWER: B. Gown, mask, eye protection, gloves
Rationale: : Proper PPE donning sequence minimizes contamination risk: gown first to
protect clothing, then mask to cover nose/mouth, eye protection to shield mucous
membranes, and gloves last to maintain sterility of hands. Gloves are applied last
because they contact the client directly and should remain uncontaminated during
preparation. Removal follows reverse order to avoid self-contamination.
Question 11: Which gland is primarily responsible for producing sebum, the oily
substance that lubricates skin and hair?
A. Eccrine gland
B. Apocrine gland
C. Sebaceous gland
D. Sudoriferous gland
CORRECT ANSWER: C. Sebaceous gland
Rationale: : Sebaceous glands are holocrine glands attached to hair follicles that
secrete sebum, an oily mixture of lipids that moisturizes skin, provides antimicrobial
protection, and maintains the acid mantle. Eccrine and apocrine glands are types of
sudoriferous (sweat) glands involved in thermoregulation and pheromone production,
respectively.
Question 12: In Texas, what is the minimum age requirement to apply for an
esthetician license?
A. 16 years old
B. 17 years old
C. 18 years old
D. 21 years old
CORRECT ANSWER: B. 17 years old
Rationale: : Texas Occupations Code §1603.251 and TDLR regulations specify that
applicants for an esthetician license must be at least 17 years of age. Additional
requirements include completion of 750 hours of approved training, passing both
& Detailed Rationales (Updated 2026) | Skin Analysis & Facial
Treatments, Hair Removal & Waxing Procedures, Infection Control &
Sanitation Standards, Skin Disorders & Conditions, Chemical Peels &
Exfoliation, Product Chemistry, Texas TDLR Laws & Regulations, Spa
Safety, Client Consultation & Professional Esthetics Practice
Question 1: According to Texas Administrative Code Chapter 83, what is the
minimum concentration of bleach solution required for disinfecting non-porous
implements in an esthetician practice?
A. 50 ppm chlorine solution
B. 100 ppm chlorine solution
C. 500 ppm chlorine solution
D. 1000 ppm chlorine solution
CORRECT ANSWER: D. 1000 ppm chlorine solution
Rationale: : Texas Administrative Code §83.95 requires that non-porous implements be
disinfected using an EPA-registered disinfectant or a bleach solution of at least 1000
ppm available chlorine (approximately 1:10 dilution of household bleach). This
concentration ensures effective destruction of pathogens including bacteria, viruses,
and fungi, protecting both clients and practitioners from infection transmission.
Question 2: Which of the following services is explicitly within the scope of
practice for a licensed Texas esthetician?
A. Performing chemical peels using glycolic acid above 30% concentration
B. Administering injectable dermal fillers
C. Applying semi-permanent eyelash extensions using single-fiber technique
D. Diagnosing and treating acne vulgaris with prescription medications
CORRECT ANSWER: C. Applying semi-permanent eyelash extensions using single-
fiber technique
Rationale: : Under Texas Occupations Code §1603.0011(c), licensed estheticians are
specifically authorized to apply eyelash extensions using semi-permanent, threadlike
extensions composed of applying single fibers to a person's eyelashes. Services
involving prescription medications, injections, or high-concentration chemical peels
exceed the esthetician scope and require medical licensure.
Question 3: When performing a patch test for a new skin care product, what is the
minimum recommended waiting period before proceeding with full application
according to Texas esthetician best practices?
A. 5-10 minutes
B. 15-30 minutes
C. 24-48 hours
D. 72 hours
,CORRECT ANSWER: C. 24-48 hours
Rationale: : A patch test assesses for allergic reactions or sensitivity to products. Texas
esthetician standards and industry best practices recommend waiting 24-48 hours after
applying a small amount of product to a discreet area (such as behind the ear or inner
arm) before proceeding with full treatment. This timeframe allows delayed
hypersensitivity reactions to manifest, ensuring client safety.
Question 4: Which layer of the epidermis is primarily responsible for the process of
keratinization?
A. Stratum basale
B. Stratum spinosum
C. Stratum granulosum
D. Stratum corneum
CORRECT ANSWER: C. Stratum granulosum
Rationale: : The stratum granulosum is the epidermal layer where keratinocytes
undergo keratinization, producing keratin and lipids that form the skin's protective
barrier. Cells in this layer accumulate keratohyalin granules and begin to flatten and die
as they migrate upward. The stratum corneum consists of fully keratinized, dead cells;
the stratum basale is the proliferative layer; and the stratum spinosum provides
structural strength.
Question 5: Under Texas law, how long must an esthetician retain client records
containing service documentation and consent forms?
A. 1 year from date of service
B. 2 years from date of service
C. 3 years from date of service
D. 5 years from date of service
CORRECT ANSWER: B. 2 years from date of service
Rationale: : Texas Administrative Code §83.91 requires licensees to maintain client
records, including service documentation, consent forms, and contraindication notes,
for a minimum of two years from the date of service. This retention period supports
regulatory compliance, liability protection, and continuity of care while aligning with
standard medical record practices.
Question 6: Which of the following is a contraindication for performing facial
extractions?
A. Oily skin with open comedones
B. Active herpes simplex outbreak
C. Mild rosacea in remission
D. Normal skin with occasional blackheads
CORRECT ANSWER: B. Active herpes simplex outbreak
,Rationale: : Active herpes simplex (cold sores) is an absolute contraindication for facial
extractions and other invasive facial procedures due to risk of viral spread, secondary
infection, and delayed healing. Performing extractions during an outbreak can
disseminate the virus to other facial areas or to the esthetician. Services should be
postponed until lesions are completely healed and the client is no longer contagious.
Question 7: What is the primary purpose of using a Wood's lamp during skin
analysis?
A. To measure skin hydration levels
B. To detect bacterial infections through fluorescence
C. To visualize pigmentation irregularities and product residue
D. To assess skin elasticity and firmness
CORRECT ANSWER: C. To visualize pigmentation irregularities and product residue
Rationale: : A Wood's lamp emits ultraviolet light that causes certain skin conditions,
pigmentation variations, and cosmetic product residues to fluoresce in characteristic
colors. This aids estheticians in identifying hyperpigmentation, dehydration, fungal
infections, and inadequate cleansing. It does not measure hydration, elasticity, or
definitively diagnose bacterial infections.
Question 8: According to Texas sanitation regulations, how often must facial chairs
and headrests be cleaned and disinfected?
A. At the end of each workday
B. After each client service
C. Only when visibly soiled
D. Once weekly with deep cleaning
CORRECT ANSWER: B. After each client service
Rationale: : Texas Administrative Code §83.104(c) explicitly states that facial chairs and
beds, including headrests, must be cleaned and disinfected after providing service to
each client. This prevents cross-contamination between clients and maintains a
hygienic environment consistent with infection control standards for direct-contact
surfaces.
Question 9: Which type of exfoliation involves the use of enzymes derived from
fruits such as papaya or pineapple?
A. Mechanical exfoliation
B. Chemical exfoliation with alpha hydroxy acids
C. Enzymatic exfoliation
D. Microdermabrasion
CORRECT ANSWER: C. Enzymatic exfoliation
Rationale: : Enzymatic exfoliation utilizes proteolytic enzymes (e.g., papain from
papaya, bromelain from pineapple) to break down keratin proteins in dead skin cells,
, facilitating gentle desquamation without abrasion or low-pH acids. This method is
suitable for sensitive skin and those who cannot tolerate mechanical or acid-based
exfoliants.
Question 10: What is the correct sequence for donning personal protective
equipment (PPE) before performing a facial service?
A. Gloves, mask, gown, eye protection
B. Gown, mask, eye protection, gloves
C. Mask, gown, eye protection, gloves
D. Eye protection, gloves, mask, gown
CORRECT ANSWER: B. Gown, mask, eye protection, gloves
Rationale: : Proper PPE donning sequence minimizes contamination risk: gown first to
protect clothing, then mask to cover nose/mouth, eye protection to shield mucous
membranes, and gloves last to maintain sterility of hands. Gloves are applied last
because they contact the client directly and should remain uncontaminated during
preparation. Removal follows reverse order to avoid self-contamination.
Question 11: Which gland is primarily responsible for producing sebum, the oily
substance that lubricates skin and hair?
A. Eccrine gland
B. Apocrine gland
C. Sebaceous gland
D. Sudoriferous gland
CORRECT ANSWER: C. Sebaceous gland
Rationale: : Sebaceous glands are holocrine glands attached to hair follicles that
secrete sebum, an oily mixture of lipids that moisturizes skin, provides antimicrobial
protection, and maintains the acid mantle. Eccrine and apocrine glands are types of
sudoriferous (sweat) glands involved in thermoregulation and pheromone production,
respectively.
Question 12: In Texas, what is the minimum age requirement to apply for an
esthetician license?
A. 16 years old
B. 17 years old
C. 18 years old
D. 21 years old
CORRECT ANSWER: B. 17 years old
Rationale: : Texas Occupations Code §1603.251 and TDLR regulations specify that
applicants for an esthetician license must be at least 17 years of age. Additional
requirements include completion of 750 hours of approved training, passing both
