Is the Esthetician exam difficult?
The Esthetician exam can be considered difficult.
In most cases, you will have to take both a written and a practical exam. This means that you will have to have a good understanding of the theory and a good grasp of the techniques and protocols.
Even so, you should not be discouraged. If you take enough time to study and practice, you are guaranteed a smooth examination experience.
What is on the Esthetician exam?
The Esthetician exam is made up of multiple-choice questions.
These questions focus on areas like basic scientific concepts, procedures, and protocols regarding skincare and services.
What do I have to do during the Esthetician practical exam?
During your practical exam, you will have to demonstrate knowledge of procedures and protocols, as well as a good grasp of particular skills.
The areas you will be assessed on during your practical exam are:
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Work area preparation and Set up of supplies
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Client preparation and basic facial
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Work area preparation for a new client and Set up of supplies
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New client preparation and hair removal of the eyebrow using simulated soft wax and tweezing
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Facial Makeup
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Blood exposure procedure
Some additional sections include Particle Microdermabrasion on the Forehead, Eyelash Enhancement, and Hair Removal of the Upper Lip Using Hard Wax.
These specific assessment categories are outlined by NIC and will be present as they are if you take your NIC exam.
If your state is not NIC, they might have different labels for each section of the exam. Even so, the basic tasks you are expected to perform will be the same.
What topics are on the Esthetician exam?
The topics you will be tested on during your Esthetician exam are:
Scientific Concepts:
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Basic Knowledge of microbiology
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Infection control procedures
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Safety procedures and guidelines
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Human physiology and anatomy
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Histology and physiology of the skin
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Skin disorders and diseases
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Function and composition of the hair
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Basic Chemistry
Skincare and services:
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Client consultation and documentation
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Client protection
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Skin analysis
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Contraindications for skin services
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Treatment protocol
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Cleansing, Steaming, and Exfoliating procedures
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Massage movements
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Methods of extraction
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Functions and applications of masks
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Use of electrical equipment in skin services
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Makeup
What type of questions are on the Esthetician exam?
All the questions on the Esthetician exam are multiple-choice.
How is the Esthetician exam structured?
The Esthetician exam is made up of two sections:
The written portion, in which your theoretical knowledge is tested. This is made up of 110 questions for the NIC exam. The number may vary depending on your state.
The practical portion evaluates your skills and abilities.
What is the time limit for the Esthetician exam?
The time limit for the Esthetician exam will vary by state.
The average amount of time allotted for the written portion of the exam varies from 90 minutes to 120 minutes.
The practical portion lasts around 120 minutes. Keep in mind that not all practical sections will be timed.
How long is each part of the Esthetician exam?
For the written portion of the exam, you are allowed between 90 to 120 minutes to complete all questions.
For the practical portion, each section is timed separately.
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Work area preparation and Set up of supplies - 10 minutes
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Client preparation and basic facial - 25 minutes
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Work area preparation for a new client and Set up of supplies - 10 minutes
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New client preparation and hair removal of the eyebrow using simulated soft wax and tweezing - 5-minute set-up, untimed procedure
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Facial Makeup - 20 minutes
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Blood exposure procedure - 10 minutes
What is the hardest part of the Esthetician exam?
The hardest part of the Esthetician exam may vary for each candidate.
Some might find the written portion more overwhelming, while others consider the practical exam more stressful and demanding.
Either way, with enough preparation, you should find both portions of the exam.
What is the biggest mistake students make on the Esthetician exam?
The biggest mistake students can make on the Esthetician exam is not preparing enough.
Any other mistakes can be avoided as long as you are familiar with the contents and structure of the exam itself.
