Texas Esthetician License Exam Prep – Real Practice Questions, Answers &
Detailed Rationales (Updated 2026) | Skin Analysis & Facial Treatments,
Hair Removal & Waxing Techniques, Infection Control & Sanitation, 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 blood and body fluid
cleanup in an esthetician practice?
A. 1,000 ppm (1:50 dilution) B. 2,500 ppm (1:20 dilution) C. 5,000 ppm (1:10 dilution) D.
10,000 ppm (1:5 dilution)
CORRECT ANSWER: C. 5,000 ppm (1:10 dilution)
Rationale: Texas Administrative Code §83.104 specifies that blood and body fluid
cleanup requires a disinfectant solution of 5,000 ppm sodium hypochlorite (household
bleach), which is achieved by mixing approximately 1¾ cups of 5.25% household
bleach per gallon of water. This concentration ensures proper virucidal and bactericidal
action for potentially infectious materials.
Question 2: Which of the following services is explicitly prohibited for a licensed
Texas Esthetician to perform under Occupations Code Chapter 1603?
A. Applying semi-permanent eyelash extensions B. Performing chemical exfoliation with
alpha hydroxy acids C. Cutting, trimming, or shaping a client's scalp hair D. Massaging
the face, neck, and shoulders with cosmetic preparations
CORRECT ANSWER: C. Cutting, trimming, or shaping a client's scalp hair
Rationale: Texas Occupations Code §1603.0011(a)(1) explicitly prohibits estheticians
from performing hair services including arranging, cutting, trimming, styling, or waving
scalp hair. These services fall under the scope of Cosmetology Operators or Barbers,
not Estheticians.
Question 3: When performing a facial waxing service in Texas, what is the required
protocol for handling the wax spatula after it has contacted a client's skin?
A. Wipe with a clean paper towel and return to the wax pot B. Rinse with warm water
and air dry before reuse C. Discard immediately; never double-dip into the wax
container D. Spray with EPA-registered disinfectant and reuse within the same service
CORRECT ANSWER: C. Discard immediately; never double-dip into the wax
container
Rationale: Texas sanitation rules require single-use application implements for waxing
services. Double-dipping contaminates the entire wax supply with potential bloodborne
pathogens or microorganisms. Each application must use a new, clean spatula to
prevent cross-contamination between clients and within the same service.
Question 4: Which layer of the epidermis is primarily responsible for cell
regeneration and contains melanocytes?
,A. Stratum corneum B. Stratum granulosum C. Stratum spinosum D. Stratum basale
CORRECT ANSWER: D. Stratum basale
Rationale: The stratum basale (basal layer) is the deepest epidermal layer where
keratinocyte stem cells undergo mitosis for continuous skin renewal. Melanocytes,
which produce melanin for UV protection, are also located in this layer, making it critical
for both regeneration and pigmentation.
Question 5: A client presents with small, flesh-colored bumps on the forehead that
do not express easily. These lesions are most consistent with:
A. Open comedones B. Closed comedones C. Pustules D. Papules
CORRECT ANSWER: B. Closed comedones
Rationale: Closed comedones (whiteheads) appear as small, flesh-colored or whitish
bumps where the follicular opening is closed by skin cells, trapping sebum and keratin
beneath the surface. Unlike open comedones (blackheads), they lack an oxidized
surface and do not express easily without professional extraction techniques.
Question 6: Under Texas law, how many continuing education hours must a
licensed esthetician complete for biennial license renewal, and which topic is
mandatory?
A. 2 hours total; 1 hour on ethics B. 4 hours total; 1 hour on sanitation and safety C. 6
hours total; 2 hours on advanced treatments D. 8 hours total; 3 hours on business
practices
CORRECT ANSWER: B. 4 hours total; 1 hour on sanitation and safety
Rationale: Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation requires licensed
estheticians to complete 4 hours of approved continuing education every two years for
renewal, with at least 1 hour specifically dedicated to sanitation, safety, and infection
control practices as outlined in TDLR administrative rules.
Question 7: Which electrical modality uses a low-level current to stimulate cellular
activity and promote product penetration through iontophoresis?
A. High frequency B. Galvanic current C. Microcurrent D. Tesla current
CORRECT ANSWER: B. Galvanic current
Rationale: Galvanic current is a direct, constant low-voltage current used in esthetics
for iontophoresis (driving water-soluble products into skin using electrical charge) and
desincrustation (softening sebum for extraction). The polarity (positive/negative)
determines the direction of ion movement and treatment effect.
Question 8: What is the primary purpose of performing a patch test 24-48 hours
before a chemical peel service?
,A. To determine the client's pain tolerance B. To assess skin hydration levels C. To
identify potential allergic or adverse reactions to peel ingredients D. To measure the
skin's pH balance
CORRECT ANSWER: C. To identify potential allergic or adverse reactions to peel
ingredients
Rationale: Patch testing is a critical safety protocol that involves applying a small
amount of the chemical peel solution to a discreet area (typically behind the ear or
inner arm) to observe for erythema, swelling, itching, or blistering. This prevents
widespread adverse reactions during full-face treatment and is considered standard of
care in Texas esthetics practice.
Question 9: Which of the following skin conditions is characterized by dilated
capillaries, persistent facial erythema, and potential papules/pustules, and
requires gentle, non-irritating treatments?
A. Rosacea B. Psoriasis C. Eczema D. Seborrheic dermatitis
CORRECT ANSWER: A. Rosacea
Rationale: Rosacea is a chronic inflammatory condition primarily affecting the central
face, featuring persistent redness, visible telangiectasias (dilated capillaries), and
sometimes inflammatory lesions. Estheticians must avoid heat, friction, alcohol-based
products, and aggressive exfoliation that can trigger flushing and worsen symptoms.
Question 10: According to Texas sanitation standards, what is the minimum
contact time required for an EPA-registered hospital-grade disinfectant to
effectively kill pathogens on non-porous implements?
A. 30 seconds B. 5 minutes C. 10 minutes D. As specified by the manufacturer's label
instructions
CORRECT ANSWER: D. As specified by the manufacturer's label instructions
Rationale: Texas Administrative Code §83.104 requires that disinfectants be used
strictly according to the EPA-registered label directions, including dilution ratios,
contact time, and application method. Contact times vary by product and pathogen
(typically 5-10 minutes for bactericidal/virucidal claims), so following manufacturer
instructions is legally mandatory.
Question 11: Which muscle is primarily responsible for elevating the eyebrows and
creating horizontal forehead lines?
A. Orbicularis oculi B. Frontalis C. Corrugator supercilii D. Zygomaticus major
CORRECT ANSWER: B. Frontalis
Rationale: The frontalis muscle, part of the occipitofrontalis group, originates at the
scalp and inserts into the eyebrow region. Its contraction elevates the eyebrows and
, creates horizontal forehead wrinkles. Understanding facial musculature is essential for
massage techniques and recognizing expression-related aging patterns.
Question 12: When performing a basic facial in Texas, what is the correct sequence
for the initial cleansing steps?
A. Toner, cleanser, steam, exfoliation B. Eye makeup removal, facial cleanser, rinse, pat
dry C. Exfoliation, cleanser, steam, extractions D. Steam, cleanser, toner, moisturizer
CORRECT ANSWER: B. Eye makeup removal, facial cleanser, rinse, pat dry
Rationale: Proper facial protocol begins with removing eye makeup using a gentle,
ophthalmologist-tested product to avoid irritation. This is followed by a full facial
cleanse appropriate for skin type, thorough rinsing with lukewarm water, and gentle pat-
drying with a clean disposable towel to prepare skin for subsequent treatment steps.
Question 13: Which of the following ingredients functions primarily as a humectant
in skincare formulations?
A. Dimethicone B. Glycerin C. Isopropyl myristate D. Titanium dioxide
CORRECT ANSWER: B. Glycerin
Rationale: Glycerin is a classic humectant that attracts water molecules from the
dermis and environment to hydrate the stratum corneum. Humectants improve skin
moisture content and barrier function. Dimethicone is an occlusive, isopropyl myristate
is an emollient, and titanium dioxide is a physical sunscreen agent.
Question 14: A client with active herpes simplex lesions on the lips requests a
facial service. What is the appropriate professional response?
A. Proceed with the facial but avoid the lip area B. Apply antiviral cream before
beginning the service C. Reschedule the appointment until lesions are completely
healed and crusted over D. Use disposable gloves and perform the service with extra
sanitation precautions
CORRECT ANSWER: C. Reschedule the appointment until lesions are completely
healed and crusted over
Rationale: Herpes simplex virus is highly contagious during active outbreaks. Texas
sanitation rules and professional ethics require estheticians to postpone services for
clients with contagious conditions to prevent transmission to the esthetician, other
clients, or spreading the virus to other facial areas. Services may resume once lesions
are fully healed.
Question 15: Which type of hair removal method uses a sugar-based paste applied
against hair growth and removed in the direction of growth?
A. Hard wax B. Soft wax C. Sugaring D. Threading
CORRECT ANSWER: C. Sugaring
Detailed Rationales (Updated 2026) | Skin Analysis & Facial Treatments,
Hair Removal & Waxing Techniques, Infection Control & Sanitation, 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 blood and body fluid
cleanup in an esthetician practice?
A. 1,000 ppm (1:50 dilution) B. 2,500 ppm (1:20 dilution) C. 5,000 ppm (1:10 dilution) D.
10,000 ppm (1:5 dilution)
CORRECT ANSWER: C. 5,000 ppm (1:10 dilution)
Rationale: Texas Administrative Code §83.104 specifies that blood and body fluid
cleanup requires a disinfectant solution of 5,000 ppm sodium hypochlorite (household
bleach), which is achieved by mixing approximately 1¾ cups of 5.25% household
bleach per gallon of water. This concentration ensures proper virucidal and bactericidal
action for potentially infectious materials.
Question 2: Which of the following services is explicitly prohibited for a licensed
Texas Esthetician to perform under Occupations Code Chapter 1603?
A. Applying semi-permanent eyelash extensions B. Performing chemical exfoliation with
alpha hydroxy acids C. Cutting, trimming, or shaping a client's scalp hair D. Massaging
the face, neck, and shoulders with cosmetic preparations
CORRECT ANSWER: C. Cutting, trimming, or shaping a client's scalp hair
Rationale: Texas Occupations Code §1603.0011(a)(1) explicitly prohibits estheticians
from performing hair services including arranging, cutting, trimming, styling, or waving
scalp hair. These services fall under the scope of Cosmetology Operators or Barbers,
not Estheticians.
Question 3: When performing a facial waxing service in Texas, what is the required
protocol for handling the wax spatula after it has contacted a client's skin?
A. Wipe with a clean paper towel and return to the wax pot B. Rinse with warm water
and air dry before reuse C. Discard immediately; never double-dip into the wax
container D. Spray with EPA-registered disinfectant and reuse within the same service
CORRECT ANSWER: C. Discard immediately; never double-dip into the wax
container
Rationale: Texas sanitation rules require single-use application implements for waxing
services. Double-dipping contaminates the entire wax supply with potential bloodborne
pathogens or microorganisms. Each application must use a new, clean spatula to
prevent cross-contamination between clients and within the same service.
Question 4: Which layer of the epidermis is primarily responsible for cell
regeneration and contains melanocytes?
,A. Stratum corneum B. Stratum granulosum C. Stratum spinosum D. Stratum basale
CORRECT ANSWER: D. Stratum basale
Rationale: The stratum basale (basal layer) is the deepest epidermal layer where
keratinocyte stem cells undergo mitosis for continuous skin renewal. Melanocytes,
which produce melanin for UV protection, are also located in this layer, making it critical
for both regeneration and pigmentation.
Question 5: A client presents with small, flesh-colored bumps on the forehead that
do not express easily. These lesions are most consistent with:
A. Open comedones B. Closed comedones C. Pustules D. Papules
CORRECT ANSWER: B. Closed comedones
Rationale: Closed comedones (whiteheads) appear as small, flesh-colored or whitish
bumps where the follicular opening is closed by skin cells, trapping sebum and keratin
beneath the surface. Unlike open comedones (blackheads), they lack an oxidized
surface and do not express easily without professional extraction techniques.
Question 6: Under Texas law, how many continuing education hours must a
licensed esthetician complete for biennial license renewal, and which topic is
mandatory?
A. 2 hours total; 1 hour on ethics B. 4 hours total; 1 hour on sanitation and safety C. 6
hours total; 2 hours on advanced treatments D. 8 hours total; 3 hours on business
practices
CORRECT ANSWER: B. 4 hours total; 1 hour on sanitation and safety
Rationale: Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation requires licensed
estheticians to complete 4 hours of approved continuing education every two years for
renewal, with at least 1 hour specifically dedicated to sanitation, safety, and infection
control practices as outlined in TDLR administrative rules.
Question 7: Which electrical modality uses a low-level current to stimulate cellular
activity and promote product penetration through iontophoresis?
A. High frequency B. Galvanic current C. Microcurrent D. Tesla current
CORRECT ANSWER: B. Galvanic current
Rationale: Galvanic current is a direct, constant low-voltage current used in esthetics
for iontophoresis (driving water-soluble products into skin using electrical charge) and
desincrustation (softening sebum for extraction). The polarity (positive/negative)
determines the direction of ion movement and treatment effect.
Question 8: What is the primary purpose of performing a patch test 24-48 hours
before a chemical peel service?
,A. To determine the client's pain tolerance B. To assess skin hydration levels C. To
identify potential allergic or adverse reactions to peel ingredients D. To measure the
skin's pH balance
CORRECT ANSWER: C. To identify potential allergic or adverse reactions to peel
ingredients
Rationale: Patch testing is a critical safety protocol that involves applying a small
amount of the chemical peel solution to a discreet area (typically behind the ear or
inner arm) to observe for erythema, swelling, itching, or blistering. This prevents
widespread adverse reactions during full-face treatment and is considered standard of
care in Texas esthetics practice.
Question 9: Which of the following skin conditions is characterized by dilated
capillaries, persistent facial erythema, and potential papules/pustules, and
requires gentle, non-irritating treatments?
A. Rosacea B. Psoriasis C. Eczema D. Seborrheic dermatitis
CORRECT ANSWER: A. Rosacea
Rationale: Rosacea is a chronic inflammatory condition primarily affecting the central
face, featuring persistent redness, visible telangiectasias (dilated capillaries), and
sometimes inflammatory lesions. Estheticians must avoid heat, friction, alcohol-based
products, and aggressive exfoliation that can trigger flushing and worsen symptoms.
Question 10: According to Texas sanitation standards, what is the minimum
contact time required for an EPA-registered hospital-grade disinfectant to
effectively kill pathogens on non-porous implements?
A. 30 seconds B. 5 minutes C. 10 minutes D. As specified by the manufacturer's label
instructions
CORRECT ANSWER: D. As specified by the manufacturer's label instructions
Rationale: Texas Administrative Code §83.104 requires that disinfectants be used
strictly according to the EPA-registered label directions, including dilution ratios,
contact time, and application method. Contact times vary by product and pathogen
(typically 5-10 minutes for bactericidal/virucidal claims), so following manufacturer
instructions is legally mandatory.
Question 11: Which muscle is primarily responsible for elevating the eyebrows and
creating horizontal forehead lines?
A. Orbicularis oculi B. Frontalis C. Corrugator supercilii D. Zygomaticus major
CORRECT ANSWER: B. Frontalis
Rationale: The frontalis muscle, part of the occipitofrontalis group, originates at the
scalp and inserts into the eyebrow region. Its contraction elevates the eyebrows and
, creates horizontal forehead wrinkles. Understanding facial musculature is essential for
massage techniques and recognizing expression-related aging patterns.
Question 12: When performing a basic facial in Texas, what is the correct sequence
for the initial cleansing steps?
A. Toner, cleanser, steam, exfoliation B. Eye makeup removal, facial cleanser, rinse, pat
dry C. Exfoliation, cleanser, steam, extractions D. Steam, cleanser, toner, moisturizer
CORRECT ANSWER: B. Eye makeup removal, facial cleanser, rinse, pat dry
Rationale: Proper facial protocol begins with removing eye makeup using a gentle,
ophthalmologist-tested product to avoid irritation. This is followed by a full facial
cleanse appropriate for skin type, thorough rinsing with lukewarm water, and gentle pat-
drying with a clean disposable towel to prepare skin for subsequent treatment steps.
Question 13: Which of the following ingredients functions primarily as a humectant
in skincare formulations?
A. Dimethicone B. Glycerin C. Isopropyl myristate D. Titanium dioxide
CORRECT ANSWER: B. Glycerin
Rationale: Glycerin is a classic humectant that attracts water molecules from the
dermis and environment to hydrate the stratum corneum. Humectants improve skin
moisture content and barrier function. Dimethicone is an occlusive, isopropyl myristate
is an emollient, and titanium dioxide is a physical sunscreen agent.
Question 14: A client with active herpes simplex lesions on the lips requests a
facial service. What is the appropriate professional response?
A. Proceed with the facial but avoid the lip area B. Apply antiviral cream before
beginning the service C. Reschedule the appointment until lesions are completely
healed and crusted over D. Use disposable gloves and perform the service with extra
sanitation precautions
CORRECT ANSWER: C. Reschedule the appointment until lesions are completely
healed and crusted over
Rationale: Herpes simplex virus is highly contagious during active outbreaks. Texas
sanitation rules and professional ethics require estheticians to postpone services for
clients with contagious conditions to prevent transmission to the esthetician, other
clients, or spreading the virus to other facial areas. Services may resume once lesions
are fully healed.
Question 15: Which type of hair removal method uses a sugar-based paste applied
against hair growth and removed in the direction of growth?
A. Hard wax B. Soft wax C. Sugaring D. Threading
CORRECT ANSWER: C. Sugaring
