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Quizzes > Lifestyle & Hobbies

Milady Chapter 1 Cosmetology Test: History and Careers

Quick, free quiz on cosmetology history and careers. Instant results.

Editorial: Review CompletedCreated By: Kim DingUpdated Aug 27, 2025
Difficulty: Moderate
2-5mins
Learning OutcomesCheat Sheet
Paper art quiz illustration with scissors comb timeline and certificate symbol on sky blue for Milady cosmetology quiz

This Chapter 1 cosmetology quiz helps you check what you know about the history of cosmetology and career opportunities. Tackle quick questions, then keep learning with a chapter 2 cosmetology quiz or sharpen exam skills with a cosmetology practice test. If you want more Milady review, try chapter 5 review questions to compare topics and fill any gaps before class or the state board.

Where did the earliest records of cosmetology practices originate?
Mesopotamia
Ancient Greece
Ancient Rome
Ancient Egypt
Cosmetic practices date back over 5,000 years to Ancient Egypt, where both men and women used natural pigments and oils for beauty and protection. Egyptian royalty, including Cleopatra, made cosmetics a daily ritual, influencing modern techniques. Archaeological finds such as kohl pots and alabaster jars confirm this timeline. .
Which famous Egyptian ruler is known for her elaborate use of cosmetics?
Cleopatra
Queen Nefertari
Hatshepsut
Queen Nefertiti
Cleopatra VII is renowned for her elaborate beauty rituals, including kohl eyeliner, fragrant oils, and herbal masks. She set lasting trends in skin care and makeup that inspired future generations. Ancient texts and artifacts detail her elaborate regimens. .
What is the definition of cosmetology?
Specialty in nail art
Scientific study of cosmetics only
Study of hair, skin, and nails
Study of medical skin diseases
Cosmetology is the professional skill and practice of beautifying hair, skin, and nails. It encompasses chemical treatments, styling methods, and wellness services. Unlike dermatology, it focuses on aesthetic and non-medical procedures. .
The word 'cosmetics' is derived from a Greek term meaning which of the following?
Order or adornment
Beauty
Coloring
Skin care
The term 'cosmetics' comes from the Greek word 'kosmos,' meaning order or adornment. This reflects the practice's ancient roots in organizing and enhancing one's appearance. Over time, the definition has broadened to include a variety of beauty products. .
Which of the following services would NOT typically be offered by a licensed cosmetologist?
Physical therapy
Hair styling
Facial treatments
Manicures
Licensed cosmetologists are trained in hair, skin, and nail services, including cuts, coloring, facials, and manicures. Physical therapy is a medical service provided by licensed physical therapists and is outside the cosmetology scope. .
Which product is primarily used to cleanse the hair and scalp?
Shampoo
Hairspray
Styling gel
Conditioner
Shampoo is formulated with surfactants that trap and remove oil, dirt, and product buildup from hair and scalp. Conditioners and styling products serve different functions, such as moisturizing and holding shape. .
Which tool is most commonly used for cutting hair?
Flat iron
Blow dryer
Hair clipper guard
Hair shears
Hair shears are specialized scissors designed for precise cutting and shaping of hair. They differ from regular scissors in blade quality and handle design. Proper shears are essential to safe, effective haircutting. .
Which cosmetology specialist is primarily responsible for waxing and skin treatments?
Barber
Makeup artist
Nail technician
Esthetician
Estheticians are licensed professionals trained in skin care services, including waxing, facials, and non-medical treatments. They focus on skin health and topical applications, unlike barbers or nail technicians. .
Which device is used to curl hair by applying heat?
Flat brush
Clippers
Sectioning clips
Curling iron
A curling iron uses a heated barrel to shape hair into curls or waves. The tool's temperature and barrel size determine curl tightness. This innovation revolutionized styling in the 20th century. .
What is the primary purpose of shampooing during a salon service?
To make hair straight
To dry the hair quickly
To clean the hair and scalp
To add color to hair
Shampooing removes dirt, oils, and product residues, allowing for a clean base before cutting, coloring, or styling. Proper cleansing ensures longer-lasting results. .
Who founded the cosmetics brand Max Factor in 1909?
Helena Rubinstein
Émile Schueller
Max Factor
Elizabeth Arden
Max Factor, born Maksymilian Faktorowicz, established his makeup company in 1909 after immigrating to the U.S. He pioneered theatrical makeup and coined the term 'make-up.' Today the brand is synonymous with professional cosmetics. .
During the Renaissance, which hazardous ingredient was used in facial powders?
Rice powder
Turmeric
Charcoal
White lead
Renaissance powders often contained white lead for a pale complexion, unaware of its toxicity. Prolonged use led to lead poisoning, prompting later safer formulations. .
What ancient cosmetic stick did Egyptians use to darken eyelashes and eyelids?
Mineral pigment
Henna
Charcoal
Kohl
Kohl, made from galena or lead sulfide, was applied to eyelashes and eyelids for beauty and protection from glare. It also had antiseptic properties. Kohl remains in use in many cultures today. .
Which company publishes the Milady Standard Cosmetology textbook?
Milady
Pivot Point
Procter & Gamble
L'Oréal
Milady, part of Cengage Learning, publishes the Milady Standard Cosmetology textbook, the industry's leading curriculum. It's widely used in beauty schools and state board examinations. .
Which specialist is trained to perform nail enhancements and art?
Nail technician
Esthetician
Color technician
Barber
Nail technicians specialize in manicures, pedicures, acrylics, gels, and decorative techniques. Their training focuses exclusively on nail health and artistry. .
What is the minimum passing score on most state board cosmetology written exams?
80%
85%
70%
75%
Most U.S. state boards require a minimum score of 75% on the written portion of the cosmetology exam. Practical tests also have passing requirements set by each state board. .
Which technique, popularized in the 1960s-70s, uses aluminum foil to separate hair sections during coloring?
Hair weaving
Balayage
Perm rod wrapping
Foil highlighting
Foil highlighting isolates sections of hair with foil and color. This method allows precise control over lightening and results in distinct highlights. It remains a staple in salons. .
Approximately how many training hours are required for cosmetology licensure in most U.S. states?
2,400 hours
1,000 hours
600 hours
1,600 hours
Most states mandate between 1,200 and 1,600 hours of combined theory and practical training. This ensures students gain comprehensive skills before taking state board exams. .
Which career path specializes in makeup for film, television, and theater?
Salon manager
Esthetician
Makeup artist
Cosmetic chemist
Makeup artists apply specialized cosmetics for entertainment media, creating looks that withstand high-definition photography and stage lighting. Their work differs from everyday beauty makeup. .
Which ingredient in cosmetics helps blend oil and water-based components?
Pigment
Preservative
Surfactant
Fragrance
Surfactants reduce surface tension between oil and water, allowing the two to mix and form stable emulsions in creams and lotions. They also help cleanse by helping water bind to oils and dirt. .
Who is credited as the first African American self-made millionaire in the cosmetics industry?
Annie Turnbo Malone
Sarah Breedlove
Madam C.J. Walker
Madam Walker
Madam C.J. Walker, born Sarah Breedlove, built a hair-care empire in the early 1900s and became the first African American female self-made millionaire. She developed specialized scalp treatments and a national sales network. .
Which federal agency enforces salon workplace safety and sanitation regulations?
FDA
FTC
OSHA
EPA
The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) requires salons to maintain safe work environments, including proper chemical labeling, ventilation, and employee training. Violations can result in fines. .
What cellular process in the hair bulb is responsible for hair growth?
Apoptosis
Anagen
Mitosis
Meiosis
Mitosis in the hair bulb's matrix cells produces new hair cells, pushing the hair shaft upward and resulting in growth. Disruptions in mitosis can lead to hair disorders. .
What is the primary function of a cosmetology licensing act in the U.S.?
Regulate pharmaceutical sales
Authorize medical aesthetic treatments
Establish state licensing requirements
Set federal hair color standards
State cosmetology licensing acts define the scope of practice, required training hours, exam criteria, and continuing education for professionals. This ensures consistent public safety and competency levels. .
In which year did the first professional cosmetology school in the U.S. open?
1875
1905
1945
1920
In 1905, the first professional cosmetology school was established in Chicago, focusing on scientific approaches to beauty and hygiene. It marked the start of formal education in the industry. .
Who launched the first branded hair-color product in Europe in 1909?
Helena Rubinstein
Elizabeth Arden
Eugène Schueller
Max Factor
In 1909, French chemist Eugène Schueller introduced the first commercial hair-color product under the brand L'Oréal. His innovations led to the global hair-color market. .
Which phase of the hair growth cycle can last between two and six years?
Anagen
Telogen
Exogen
Catagen
The anagen phase is the active growth period for hair follicles, lasting from two to six years. Length of anagen determines maximum hair length for individuals. .
What is the main role of a platform educator in cosmetology?
Retail sales only
Teaching techniques at shows
Salon floor cleaning
Product research
Platform educators travel to hair shows and schools to demonstrate new techniques and products. They train professionals and raise brand awareness through live presentations. .
Which cosmetology professional specializes in aromatherapy and facial massage techniques?
Manicurist
Makeup artist
Barber
Esthetician
Estheticians receive training in facial massage, aromatherapy, and advanced skincare treatments that go beyond basic makeup application. They tailor services to client skin needs. .
In what decade was the Cosmetology Teachers Association formed to standardize teacher training?
1950s
1930s
1920s
1940s
The Cosmetology Teachers Association was established in the 1930s to unify curriculum standards, promote instructor training, and elevate educational quality across beauty schools. .
What hairstylist innovation is Marcel Grateau credited with introducing in the late 19th century?
Hair crimper
Electric roller set
Permanent wave machine
Marcel wave iron
Marcel Grateau invented the curling iron that produced deep, uniform waves - later called the Marcel wave. This manual iron transformed salon styling and remains a classic technique. .
Which federal law requires salons to provide accessible facilities for clients with disabilities?
Fair Labor Standards Act
Americans with Disabilities Act
Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act
Occupational Safety and Health Act
The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) of 1990 mandates that public accommodations, including salons, be accessible to people with disabilities. This includes ramps, wide doorways, and accessible restrooms. .
What abrasive tool did ancient Romans use for hair removal and exfoliation?
Pumice stone
Olive oil
Beeswax
Ash
Romans used pumice stones for hair removal and skin smoothing, and they applied botanical formulas for additional exfoliation. This method combined physical abrasion and ingredients. .
When did OSHA's Bloodborne Pathogens Standard, affecting salon safety procedures, become effective?
1992
2000
1995
1988
OSHA's Bloodborne Pathogens Standard went into effect in March 1992, requiring salons to follow rigorous sterilization and disposal protocols to reduce infection risk. It fundamentally changed salon hygiene requirements. .
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Study Outcomes

  1. Explain Historical Hair Coloring Practices -

    Describe how in ancient Rome middle class women colored their hair and understand how these early techniques influenced the evolution of cosmetology.

  2. Identify Key Milestones in Cosmetology History -

    Trace major developments from early beauty rituals through the establishment of modern beauty professions to see how cosmetology has evolved.

  3. Recall Foundational Cosmetology Concepts -

    Summarize essential terminology and principles from chapter 1 history and career opportunities to reinforce your core cosmetology knowledge.

  4. Assess Professional Opportunities in the Beauty Industry -

    Evaluate various career paths introduced in Milady CH 1 and recognize the skills and qualifications needed for each role.

  5. Apply Quiz Strategies for Confidence -

    Use effective recall and test-taking techniques to tackle the Milady CH 1 quiz, sharpen your understanding, and build confidence in your cosmetology studies.

Cheat Sheet

  1. Ancient Hair Coloring Techniques -

    In ancient Rome middle class women colored their hair with natural ingredients like saffron and beechwood ashes, a tradition detailed in Milady CH 1. To recall key dyes, use the mnemonic "SSB" (Saffron, Safflower, Beechwood) which tracks the primary colorants. Smithsonian studies confirm these early formulas paved the way for modern permanent and temporary hair color services.

  2. Historical Timeline of Hair and Skin Care -

    Chapter 1 history and career opportunities in cosmetology traces the evolution from Egyptian kohl eye liners (3100 BC) to Victorian pin curls and Marcel waves. Remember the phrase "EKPV" (Egypt, Kohl, Paris, Victorian) to sequence major milestones. University of Southern California archives highlight how each era influenced technique and product innovation.

  3. Major Career Paths in Modern Cosmetology -

    The Milady CH 1 outlines four core career options: hairstylist, esthetician, nail technician, and salon manager - summarized by the "HENS" mnemonic. Each role requires specialized training, from advanced hair cutting to spa therapy, validated by the National Cosmetology Association. Exploring these opportunities helps students align their strengths with industry demands.

  4. Health, Safety, and Professional Ethics -

    Chapter 1 history and career opportunities cosmetology emphasizes strict sanitation and disinfection standards, including proper use of MSDS (Material Safety Data Sheets). Follow OSHA guidelines and state board rules to protect clients and yourself. The "3D rule" (Disinfect, Dispose, Document) ensures compliance and builds professional trust.

  5. Licensing and Continued Education -

    Passing your state board exam often hinges on Milady CH 1 fundamentals, so review core concepts daily with flashcards or quizzes. Remember the formula "3R" (Review, Reinforce, Retest) to structure study sessions and monitor progress. Many institutions like the National-Interstate Council recommend at least 100 hours of supervised practice before applying for licensure.

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