West Virginia Cosmetology Board Practice Exam

A client should be referred to a healthcare provider if there are signs of health issues or infections because health professionals are equipped to diagnose and treat medical conditions. In a cosmetology setting, observing symptoms such as unusual scalp irritation, persistent skin conditions, or potential allergic reactions during a service are critical indicators that warrant professional medical intervention. Recognizing the limitations of a cosmetologist's training in medical matters ensures that clients receive the appropriate care for conditions that may go beyond the scope of beauty and personal care.

In contrast, regular hair care advice, post-treatment protocols after hair coloring, and seeking new styling options fall within the expertise of a cosmetologist. These tasks do not typically indicate an underlying health concern, thus they do not require referral to a healthcare provider. Understanding these distinctions is key to practicing safe and responsible cosmetology.