WAEC Beauty and Cosmetology Likely Questions 2027/2028 and Answers

WAEC Beauty and Cosmetology likely questions can help you test how well you understand the theory and practical aspects of the subject before the WASSCE.

Beauty and Cosmetology covers much more than hairstyling. Candidates are expected to understand personal and salon hygiene, safety, hair and scalp care, skin care, facial treatment, makeup, manicure, pedicure, beauty tools and equipment, hair pieces, customer relations and the proper running of a salon.

The questions on this page are original practice questions based on important areas of the Beauty and Cosmetology syllabus and the type of knowledge candidates are expected to demonstrate in the examination.

They are not leaked WAEC questions, expo or confirmed questions for the 2027 examination.

Try to answer each question yourself before checking the answer.

READ ALSO: WAEC Beauty and Cosmetology Past Questions and Answers PDF Download

WAEC Beauty and Cosmetology Likely Questions 2027/2028

The practice questions below cover areas such as:

• Introduction to cosmetology
• Personal grooming
• Personal hygiene
• Salon hygiene
• Sanitization and disinfection
• Salon safety
• Tools and equipment
• Hair and scalp care
• Shampooing and conditioning
• Hair styling
• Wigs and hair pieces
• Skin care
• Facial treatment
• Makeup
• Eyebrow care
• Nail care
• Manicure
• Pedicure
• Salon management
• Customer relations
• Practical identification

Use the WAEC Beauty and Cosmetology Syllabus 2027/2028 alongside these questions so that your revision covers the whole subject.

WAEC Beauty and Cosmetology Likely Objective Questions

Attempt these questions before checking the answers.

Question 1

Cosmetology is mainly concerned with:

A. Construction of buildings
B. Beauty care and improvement of personal appearance
C. Preparation of food
D. Repair of electrical appliances

Answer: B. Beauty care and improvement of personal appearance

Cosmetology covers professional beauty services involving areas such as hair, skin, nails and makeup.

Question 2

Which of the following is an important quality of a professional cosmetologist?

A. Carelessness
B. Impatience
C. Good personal hygiene
D. Rudeness

Answer: C. Good personal hygiene

A cosmetologist works closely with clients, so cleanliness and good grooming are essential.

Question 3

Which practice is most appropriate before attending to a new client?

A. Using the same dirty towel used for the previous client
B. Cleaning the workstation and preparing clean tools
C. Leaving used tools on the floor
D. Mixing all used and unused materials together

Answer: B. Cleaning the workstation and preparing clean tools

Question 4

The main reason beauty tools should be cleaned after use is to:

A. make them heavier
B. prevent the spread of contamination between clients
C. change their colour
D. increase the price of the service

Answer: B. Prevent the spread of contamination between clients

Question 5

Which of the following is used mainly for cutting hair?

A. Scissors
B. Powder puff
C. Nail file
D. Facial sponge

Answer: A. Scissors

Question 6

Which tool is commonly used for detangling or arranging hair?

A. Comb
B. Nail clipper
C. Tweezer
D. Emery board

Answer: A. Comb

Question 7

A hair dryer is an example of:

A. consumable material
B. electrical salon equipment
C. cosmetic product
D. manicure cream

Answer: B. Electrical salon equipment

Question 8

Which item should normally be cleaned between clients?

A. Reusable comb
B. Salon wall
C. Sealed unused cream
D. Advertisement poster

Answer: A. Reusable comb

Question 9

Which of the following is a good salon safety practice?

A. Handling electrical appliances with wet hands
B. Leaving water on the floor
C. Checking electrical cords for damage
D. Keeping sharp tools uncovered on chairs

Answer: C. Checking electrical cords for damage

Question 10

A wet salon floor should be cleaned quickly mainly to:

A. increase humidity
B. prevent slips and falls
C. improve the floor colour
D. attract customers

Answer: B. Prevent slips and falls

Question 11

Which of the following is a personal hygiene practice?

A. Sharing unclean towels
B. Washing hands regularly
C. Wearing dirty clothes
D. Keeping long dirty fingernails

Answer: B. Washing hands regularly

Question 12

Which product is primarily used to clean the hair and scalp?

A. Shampoo
B. Nail polish
C. Foundation
D. Mascara

Answer: A. Shampoo

Question 13

A conditioner is generally used after shampooing to:

A. colour the fingernails
B. improve the manageability and condition of the hair
C. remove eyebrow hair
D. clean salon floors

Answer: B. Improve the manageability and condition of the hair

Question 14

Before shampooing a client, the cosmetologist should first:

A. ignore the condition of the hair
B. prepare and protect the client appropriately
C. apply nail polish
D. use the hottest water available

Answer: B. Prepare and protect the client appropriately

Question 15

Which of the following should be checked before water is applied during shampooing?

A. The customer’s shoe size
B. Water temperature
C. Salon advertisement
D. Nail colour

Answer: B. Water temperature

Question 16

The main purpose of a towel around a client’s shoulders during certain hair services is to:

A. protect the client’s clothing
B. increase hair growth
C. change the hair texture
D. make the client taller

Answer: A. Protect the client’s clothing

Question 17

Which tool is mainly used for shaping eyebrows by removing individual hairs?

A. Tweezer
B. Hair dryer
C. Nail brush
D. Tail comb

Answer: A. Tweezer

Question 18

Which makeup product is commonly applied to the eyelashes?

A. Mascara
B. Foundation
C. Lipstick
D. Face powder

Answer: A. Mascara

Question 19

Eyeshadow is applied mainly to the:

A. lips
B. eyelids
C. fingernails
D. scalp

Answer: B. Eyelids

Question 20

Which product is used mainly to add colour to the lips?

A. Lipstick
B. Shampoo
C. Conditioner
D. Nail hardener

Answer: A. Lipstick

Question 21

Foundation is generally used to:

A. form a base for facial makeup and improve the appearance of the complexion
B. shampoo the hair
C. clean nail equipment
D. cut hair

Answer: A. Form a base for facial makeup and improve the appearance of the complexion

Question 22

Concealer is commonly used to:

A. hide or reduce the appearance of particular skin imperfections
B. wash the hair
C. shape the fingernails
D. dry wet towels

Answer: A. Hide or reduce the appearance of particular skin imperfections

Question 23

Face powder may be used after foundation mainly to:

A. help set the makeup and reduce unwanted shine
B. colour the scalp
C. disinfect salon scissors
D. soften the toenails

Answer: A. Help set the makeup and reduce unwanted shine

Question 24

A facial treatment should normally begin with:

A. proper client preparation and assessment
B. application of random products
C. cutting the client’s hair
D. painting the nails

Answer: A. Proper client preparation and assessment

Question 25

Which activity belongs mainly to nail care?

A. Manicure
B. Shampooing
C. Shampoo setting
D. Eyebrow shaping

Answer: A. Manicure

Question 26

Manicure deals mainly with care of the:

A. feet and toenails
B. hands and fingernails
C. scalp only
D. eyebrows

Answer: B. Hands and fingernails

Question 27

Pedicure deals mainly with care of the:

A. hands
B. feet and toenails
C. hair
D. face only

Answer: B. Feet and toenails

Question 28

Which implement may be used to shorten fingernails?

A. Nail clipper
B. Hair roller
C. Powder brush
D. Shampoo bowl

Answer: A. Nail clipper

Question 29

Which item is used mainly to smooth and shape the edge of a nail?

A. Nail file
B. Hair dryer
C. Lip brush
D. Shampoo bowl

Answer: A. Nail file

Question 30

Which of the following is most important when several clients use the same reusable manicure tools?

A. Appropriate cleaning and disinfection between clients
B. Painting every tool a different colour
C. Keeping them permanently wet
D. Leaving them on the floor

Answer: A. Appropriate cleaning and disinfection between clients

Question 31

A full wig is designed mainly to:

A. cover a substantial portion of the head with artificial or additional hair
B. clean the fingernails
C. remove facial makeup
D. massage the feet

Answer: A. Cover a substantial portion of the head with artificial or additional hair

Question 32

Which factor should be considered when choosing a hair piece for a client?

A. Desired style and suitability
B. Colour of the salon wall only
C. Number of windows in the salon
D. The client’s handwriting

Answer: A. Desired style and suitability

Question 33

A hair piece should be stored properly mainly to:

A. help maintain its shape and condition
B. increase its weight
C. make it permanently wet
D. destroy its texture

Answer: A. Help maintain its shape and condition

Question 34

Which of the following is part of good customer relations?

A. Listening to the client
B. Insulting difficult clients
C. Discussing clients’ private matters publicly
D. Ignoring appointments

Answer: A. Listening to the client

Question 35

Keeping information given privately by a client from unnecessary disclosure is known as:

A. advertising
B. confidentiality
C. pricing
D. merchandising

Answer: B. Confidentiality

Question 36

Which of the following can help a salon attract customers?

A. Good service and appropriate advertising
B. Poor hygiene
C. Constant lateness
D. Unprofessional behaviour

Answer: A. Good service and appropriate advertising

Question 37

Which record may help a salon monitor money received and spent?

A. Financial record
B. Hairstyle magazine only
C. Wall calendar only
D. Mirror record

Answer: A. Financial record

Question 38

Stock control in a beauty salon helps the owner to:

A. monitor products and supplies available
B. remove all salon mirrors
C. avoid serving customers
D. prevent staff from cleaning

Answer: A. Monitor products and supplies available

Question 39

Which of the following is a consumable beauty product?

A. Shampoo
B. Salon chair
C. Hair dryer
D. Mirror

Answer: A. Shampoo

Question 40

A salon chair is best described as:

A. salon equipment
B. shampoo
C. cosmetic powder
D. disposable supply

Answer: A. Salon equipment

Question 41

Which item is most suitable for protecting a client’s clothes during some salon services?

A. Cape or protective covering
B. Nail file
C. Tweezer
D. Mascara wand

Answer: A. Cape or protective covering

Question 42

One major purpose of consultation before a beauty treatment is to:

A. understand the client’s needs and relevant condition before selecting a service
B. increase the number of mirrors
C. avoid speaking to the client
D. use every product in the salon

Answer: A. Understand the client’s needs and relevant condition before selecting a service

Question 43

A cosmetologist should stop or modify a service when:

A. there is a condition that makes continuing unsafe or inappropriate
B. another client enters the salon
C. the salon has a mirror
D. the client’s shoes are black

Answer: A. There is a condition that makes continuing unsafe or inappropriate

Question 44

Which practice helps reduce cross-contamination in a salon?

A. Using appropriately cleaned tools
B. Sharing unclean towels
C. Returning used disposable materials to clean storage
D. Using one applicator on several clients without cleaning or replacement

Answer: A. Using appropriately cleaned tools

Question 45

After completing a beauty service, the workstation should be:

A. prepared properly for the next client
B. left dirty until the end of the month
C. filled with used towels
D. covered with waste products

Answer: A. Prepared properly for the next client

WAEC Beauty and Cosmetology Likely Theory Questions and Answers

Question 46

Define cosmetology.

Answer

Cosmetology is the professional study and practice of beauty care involving services that improve or maintain the appearance of the hair, skin, nails and related areas.

Question 47

State six career opportunities in Beauty and Cosmetology.

Answer

Possible careers include:

1. Hairstylist
2. Makeup artist
3. Nail technician
4. Manicurist
5. Pedicurist
6. Beauty therapist
7. Salon manager
8. Cosmetologist
9. Beauty-product retailer
10. Beauty consultant

Any six relevant careers may be stated.

Question 48

State six qualities of a good cosmetologist.

Answer

A good cosmetologist should be:

1. Clean
2. Courteous
3. Patient
4. Punctual
5. Honest
6. Attentive
7. Responsible
8. Well groomed
9. Respectful
10. Able to communicate well

Personal Hygiene Likely Questions

Question 49

State seven rules of personal hygiene a cosmetologist should observe.

Answer

A cosmetologist should:

1. Bathe regularly.
2. Wash hands properly.
3. Keep fingernails clean.
4. Maintain good oral hygiene.
5. Wear clean clothing.
6. Keep hair clean and neat.
7. Cover cuts appropriately.
8. Avoid offensive body odour.
9. Maintain clean working habits.

Question 50

Explain four reasons personal hygiene is important in a beauty salon.

Answer

Personal hygiene:

1. Helps reduce the risk of spreading contamination.
2. Creates a good professional impression.
3. Makes clients more comfortable.
4. Supports a clean working environment.
5. Encourages confidence in the cosmetologist.

Salon Hygiene and Safety Likely Questions

Question 51

Distinguish between cleaning, disinfection and sterilization.

Answer

Cleaning removes visible dirt and unwanted material from an item or surface.

Disinfection uses an appropriate method or product to destroy many harmful microorganisms on suitable non-living surfaces and reusable items.

Sterilization refers to a higher level of decontamination intended to destroy all forms of microbial life when the method and item are suitable.

Candidates should follow the terminology and procedures taught in the current WAEC syllabus and their approved training materials.

Question 52

State six reasons reusable salon tools should be properly cleaned after use.

Answer

They should be cleaned to:

1. Remove dirt and product residue.
2. Reduce the risk of cross-contamination.
3. Keep tools suitable for the next client.
4. Maintain professional salon standards.
5. Help preserve the tools.
6. Prevent unpleasant odours or build-up.

Question 53

State eight safety rules that should be observed in a beauty salon.

Answer

1. Keep floors dry and free from obstacles.
2. Handle sharp tools carefully.
3. Check electrical equipment before use.
4. Keep unsuitable electrical equipment away from water.
5. Store chemicals correctly.
6. Follow product instructions.
7. Dispose of waste properly.
8. Switch off equipment after use.
9. Maintain good ventilation where necessary.
10. Use appropriate protective materials.

Question 54

Give four reasons electrical salon equipment should be inspected regularly.

Answer

Regular inspection helps to:

1. Identify damaged cables or plugs.
2. Reduce the risk of electric shock.
3. Reduce the risk of fire.
4. Keep the equipment working correctly.
5. Prevent interruption during a client service.

Hair and Scalp Likely Questions

Question 55

State five functions or importance of hair care.

Answer

Proper hair care can:

1. Keep the hair clean.
2. Keep the scalp clean.
3. Improve the appearance of the hair.
4. Help keep hair manageable.
5. Reduce build-up of dirt and products.
6. Support good grooming.

Question 56

Outline the general steps involved in shampooing a client’s hair.

Answer

A general procedure may include:

1. Prepare the workstation and required materials.
2. Consult or assess the client as appropriate.
3. Protect the client’s clothing.
4. Prepare the hair.
5. Check the water temperature.
6. Wet the hair.
7. Apply suitable shampoo.
8. Massage the hair and scalp appropriately.
9. Rinse thoroughly.
10. Repeat if necessary.
11. Apply conditioner where appropriate.
12. Rinse and towel dry.
13. Clean the workstation and equipment.

The exact procedure may vary according to the client’s hair and the products being used.

Question 57

State five factors that may be considered when selecting a shampoo.

Answer

Factors may include:

1. Hair type
2. Scalp condition
3. Condition of the hair
4. Service to be performed
5. Product instructions
6. Client sensitivity or relevant history

Question 58

State four functions of a hair conditioner.

Answer

A conditioner may:

1. Improve hair manageability.
2. Make detangling easier.
3. Improve smoothness.
4. Reduce roughness.
5. Improve the appearance and feel of the hair.

Question 59

State six tools or materials that may be required during a basic shampoo service.

Answer

Examples include:

1. Shampoo
2. Conditioner
3. Towels
4. Protective cape
5. Comb
6. Shampoo bowl or suitable washing facility
7. Water
8. Hair clips where needed

Wigs and Hair Pieces Likely Questions

Question 60

State five uses of wigs or hair pieces.

Answer

They may be used to:

1. Change a hairstyle.
2. Add length.
3. Add volume.
4. Cover areas of hair loss.
5. Create a special style or effect.
6. Protect or temporarily cover natural hair.

Question 61

State five factors to consider when purchasing a hair piece.

Answer

Consider:

1. Size or fit
2. Colour
3. Texture
4. Quality
5. Desired style
6. Intended use
7. Cost
8. Ease of maintenance

Question 62

State five ways of caring for a wig or hair piece.

Answer

1. Clean it using an appropriate method.
2. Detangle carefully.
3. Use products suitable for the material.
4. Allow it to dry appropriately.
5. Store it correctly.
6. Avoid unnecessary heat where the fibre is not heat-safe.
7. Handle the base or attachment carefully.

Skin Care Likely Questions

Question 63

State four basic skin types commonly discussed in cosmetology.

Answer

Common categories include:

1. Normal skin
2. Dry skin
3. Oily skin
4. Combination skin

Some beauty-care systems may describe additional conditions separately.

Question 64

State six factors that may affect the appearance or condition of the skin.

Answer

Factors may include:

1. Age
2. Sun exposure
3. Climate
4. Personal hygiene
5. Nutrition
6. Hydration
7. Lifestyle
8. Product use

Question 65

Define wrinkles.

Answer

Wrinkles are lines, folds or creases that develop in the skin, particularly as the skin changes with age and other contributing factors.

Question 66

State five factors that can contribute to the appearance of wrinkles.

Answer

Possible factors include:

1. Ageing
2. Repeated sun exposure
3. Dryness
4. Smoking or certain lifestyle habits
5. Repeated facial movements
6. Poor skin-care habits

Facial Treatment Likely Questions

Question 67

List eight materials or supplies that may be required for a basic facial treatment.

Answer

Depending on the treatment, materials may include:

1. Clean towels
2. Headband
3. Facial cleanser
4. Cotton pads
5. Facial sponge
6. Toner
7. Suitable treatment or mask product
8. Moisturizer
9. Facial tissues
10. Clean applicators

Question 68

Outline the general stages of a basic facial treatment.

Answer

A general sequence may include:

1. Prepare the client.
2. Protect the hair and clothing.
3. Assess the skin.
4. Cleanse the skin.
5. Carry out any suitable additional preparation.
6. Apply the appropriate treatment.
7. Remove the treatment product correctly.
8. Apply suitable finishing products.
9. Clean the workstation and tools.

The exact treatment should depend on the client’s skin and the service being provided.

Question 69

State four reasons a client’s skin should be assessed before a facial treatment.

Answer

Assessment helps the cosmetologist to:

1. Identify the apparent skin type.
2. Select suitable products.
3. Select an appropriate treatment.
4. Notice conditions that may affect the service.
5. Avoid unsuitable procedures.

Facial Makeup Likely Questions

Question 70

State five reasons people apply facial makeup.

Answer

Makeup may be applied to:

1. Improve or change appearance.
2. Enhance facial features.
3. Create a particular style.
4. Reduce the visible appearance of some imperfections.
5. Complement clothing or an occasion.
6. Create special effects.

Question 71

List ten supplies or tools that may be used during facial makeup.

Answer

Examples include:

1. Foundation
2. Concealer
3. Face powder
4. Eyeshadow
5. Eyeliner
6. Mascara
7. Eyebrow pencil or product
8. Blush
9. Lipstick
10. Lip liner
11. Makeup brushes
12. Sponges or applicators

Question 72

Outline a general sequence for applying basic facial makeup.

Answer

A possible sequence is:

1. Prepare the client’s face.
2. Cleanse if necessary.
3. Apply appropriate skin preparation.
4. Apply foundation.
5. Apply concealer where required.
6. Set or finish the base appropriately.
7. Define the eyebrows.
8. Apply eye makeup.
9. Apply cheek colour where required.
10. Apply lip products.
11. Check and blend the finished makeup.

The exact order can vary depending on the makeup technique being used.

Question 73

State four functions of face powder in makeup.

Answer

Face powder may:

1. Help set base makeup.
2. Reduce unwanted shine.
3. Improve the finished appearance.
4. Help provide a smoother-looking finish.

Question 74

State three functions of concealer.

Answer

Concealer may be used to:

1. Reduce the visible appearance of blemishes.
2. Reduce the appearance of uneven areas.
3. Improve the appearance of particular areas before or after foundation, depending on the method used.

Eye and Eyebrow Makeup Likely Questions

Question 75

State one major use each of the following:

a. Eyeshadow
b. Eyeliner
c. Mascara
d. Eyebrow pencil

Answer

Eyeshadow: Adds colour or definition to the eyelids.

Eyeliner: Defines the eye area along the lash line.

Mascara: Darkens or emphasizes the eyelashes.

Eyebrow pencil: Helps fill or define the eyebrows.

Question 76

List five supplies or implements that may be used during eyebrow care or makeup.

Answer

Examples include:

1. Tweezer
2. Eyebrow brush
3. Eyebrow pencil
4. Appropriate eyebrow product
5. Small scissors where professionally appropriate
6. Clean applicators

Question 77

State four precautions when working around a client’s eyes.

Answer

1. Keep tools and applicators clean.
2. Avoid poking or scratching the eye.
3. Use products according to their intended use.
4. Avoid sharing unsuitable applicators between clients.
5. Stop if irritation or an unsafe condition occurs.

Lip Care Likely Questions

Question 78

List five materials that may be used for basic lip care or makeup.

Answer

Examples include:

1. Lip balm
2. Lipstick
3. Lip liner
4. Lip brush
5. Clean tissue
6. Suitable lip exfoliating product where appropriate

Question 79

State three functions of lip products.

Answer

Depending on the product, they may:

1. Add colour.
2. Improve the appearance of the lips.
3. Help moisturize or protect against dryness.

Manicure Likely Questions

Question 80

Define manicure.

Answer

Manicure is the cosmetic care and treatment of the hands and fingernails.

Question 81

List eight manicure tools or materials.

Answer

Examples include:

1. Nail clipper
2. Nail file
3. Cuticle implement
4. Manicure bowl
5. Nail brush
6. Cotton pads
7. Nail polish
8. Nail polish remover
9. Hand cream
10. Clean towels

Question 82

Outline the general procedure for a basic manicure.

Answer

A general procedure may include:

1. Prepare the workstation.
2. Prepare the client.
3. Inspect the hands and nails.
4. Remove old polish where necessary.
5. Shape the nails appropriately.
6. Soften and attend to the cuticle area safely.
7. Clean the nails.
8. Apply suitable hand or nail-care products.
9. Apply polish if required.
10. Clean tools and the workstation after the service.

Pedicure Likely Questions

Question 83

Define pedicure.

Answer

Pedicure is the cosmetic care and treatment of the feet and toenails.

Question 84

List eight materials or tools that may be used for a basic pedicure.

Answer

Examples include:

1. Foot basin
2. Clean towels
3. Nail clipper
4. Nail file
5. Nail brush
6. Suitable foot-care product
7. Cotton pads
8. Nail polish
9. Nail polish remover
10. Suitable moisturizer

Question 85

State five hygiene or safety precautions to observe during a pedicure.

Answer

1. Use properly cleaned tools.
2. Use clean towels.
3. Clean the foot basin appropriately.
4. Avoid unsafe treatment of damaged or questionable skin.
5. Handle nail implements carefully.
6. Clean the workstation afterward.

Salon Management Likely Questions

Question 86

State eight factors that can contribute to the effective running of a beauty salon.

Answer

Possible factors include:

1. Good hygiene
2. Good customer service
3. Proper record keeping
4. Adequate tools and equipment
5. Stock control
6. Good staff behaviour
7. Safety
8. Proper appointment management
9. Effective advertising
10. Financial management

Question 87

State five records that may be useful in managing a salon.

Answer

Examples include:

1. Sales or income record
2. Expense record
3. Stock record
4. Appointment record
5. Client record
6. Staff record

Question 88

State five forms of advertising that can be used by a beauty salon.

Answer

Possible methods include:

1. Signboard
2. Posters or handbills
3. Word of mouth
4. Social media
5. Online advertising
6. Local media
7. Promotional offers

Question 89

State six ways a salon worker can maintain good customer relations.

Answer

1. Greet clients politely.
2. Listen to their requests.
3. Communicate clearly.
4. Keep appointments as much as possible.
5. Respect confidentiality.
6. Handle complaints professionally.
7. Maintain good hygiene.
8. Treat clients respectfully.

WAEC Beauty and Cosmetology Likely Practical Questions

Practical-type questions can test whether you can recognise a tool, product, equipment or procedure and explain what it is used for.

Question 90

A specimen is a tweezer.

State:

a. one major use
b. two care practices

Answer

Use: It may be used to remove individual unwanted hairs, such as during eyebrow shaping.

Care:

1. Clean it after use.
2. Disinfect appropriately for reusable salon use.
3. Store it in a clean, dry place.

Question 91

A specimen is a hair dryer.

State:

a. two uses
b. three safety precautions

Answer

Uses

1. Drying the hair.
2. Assisting in certain hairstyling procedures.

Safety precautions

1. Inspect the cord and plug before use.
2. Avoid inappropriate contact with water.
3. Switch off after use.
4. Do not use damaged equipment.

Question 92

A specimen is a nail file.

State two uses.

Answer

A nail file can be used to:

1. Shape the free edge of the nail.
2. Smooth rough nail edges.

Question 93

You are given the following products:

• Foundation
• Mascara
• Shampoo
• Nail polish

Classify each according to its major area of use.

Answer

Product	Main Area
Foundation	Facial makeup
Mascara	Eye makeup
Shampoo	Hair care
Nail polish	Nail care

Question 94

You are shown a full wig.

State:

a. two uses
b. four factors to consider when selecting it

Answer

Uses

1. To change hairstyle.
2. To cover much of the natural hair or areas of hair loss.

Factors

1. Size or fit
2. Colour
3. Texture
4. Quality
5. Style
6. Cost

Question 95

You are shown:

• Eyeshadow
• Mascara
• Eyebrow pencil

State the effect or purpose of each.

Answer

Eyeshadow: Adds colour or definition to the eyelid area.

Mascara: Emphasizes the eyelashes.

Eyebrow pencil: Defines or fills the eyebrows.

Question 96

A salon worker has just completed a makeup service.

State five clean-up activities that should follow.

Answer

1. Dispose of used disposable materials correctly.
2. Clean reusable tools.
3. Disinfect suitable reusable implements as required.
4. Clean the workstation.
5. Return clean products and equipment to their proper places.
6. Remove and handle used towels appropriately.
7. Prepare the area for the next client.

Question 97

A reusable beauty tool has visible product residue after being used on a client.

What should be done before it is used again?

Answer

The residue should first be properly removed by cleaning, after which the tool should receive the appropriate hygiene treatment required for that type of reusable implement before reuse.

Simply wiping visible dirt away and immediately using it on another client is not adequate professional practice.

Likely Scenario Questions

WAEC can also test whether you can apply what you know to a practical salon situation.

Question 98

A client arrives for a facial treatment, but the cosmetologist notices an unusual skin condition that may make the planned treatment unsuitable.

What should the cosmetologist do?

Answer

The cosmetologist should not simply continue with the planned treatment.

The condition should be assessed within the cosmetologist’s professional limits, the service should be modified or postponed where appropriate, and the client may need to be advised to seek suitable professional attention when the condition is outside cosmetology practice.

Question 99

A salon worker drops a reusable comb on a dirty floor while attending to a client.

What should happen before the comb is used again?

Answer

The comb should be removed from use and properly cleaned and treated according to the salon’s hygiene procedure before being used again.

Question 100

A client asks the cosmetologist to use the same disposable applicator that was used on another client because it “still looks clean.”

What is the correct professional response?

Answer

The cosmetologist should use a fresh suitable disposable applicator.

An item intended for single use should not be reused on another client merely because it appears clean.

Areas WAEC Candidates Have Needed to Understand Well

Previous WAEC Cosmetology examiner materials have tested candidates on areas such as personal hygiene, salon rules, sanitization, facial makeup, shampoo, wrinkles, facial treatment, wigs, hair care and classification of beauty products.

Practical papers have also required candidates to identify beauty supplies and implements, state their uses, explain why reusable implements should be cleaned, work with eye and lip makeup products and demonstrate knowledge of hair pieces.

This means your revision should not be limited to one part of the subject.

A candidate who knows hairstyling very well but ignores hygiene, facial care, nail care or salon management can still leave large gaps in preparation.

Use the Beauty and Cosmetology Areas of Concentration

Check the WAEC Beauty and Cosmetology Areas of Concentration 2027/2028 while using these questions.

If hair care is easy for you but salon hygiene is difficult, spend more time on hygiene.

If you can describe manicure but struggle to identify practical implements, practise with actual tools.

If makeup products confuse you, group them according to:

• Face
• Eyes
• Lips
• Nails
• Hair

Revision should focus more heavily on your weak areas.

Combine Likely Questions With Past Questions

Likely questions and past questions are useful in different ways.

Past questions show what WAEC has actually asked in previous examinations.

Likely questions give you fresh situations and questions to test whether you really understand the topic.

For example:

Study Facial Makeup → Attempt Past Questions → Correct Mistakes → Attempt Fresh Likely Questions

For practical work:

Study Salon Tools → Identify Real Tools → Attempt Past Practical Questions → Try New Identification Questions

Use the WAEC Beauty and Cosmetology Past Questions and Answers PDF alongside this page.

You can also see the other subjects on the WAEC Likely Questions 2027/2028 and Answers for All Subjects page.

Practise With Real Beauty Tools Where Possible

Beauty and Cosmetology is a practical subject.

Pictures and diagrams are useful, but real tools are better when available.

Try to become familiar with items such as:

• Combs
• Brushes
• Scissors
• Hair dryers
• Rollers
• Tweezers
• Makeup brushes
• Nail files
• Nail clippers
• Manicure bowls
• Foot basins
• Towels
• Wigs and hair pieces

For each item, ask yourself four questions:

What is it called?

What is it used for?

How should it be cared for?

What safety or hygiene rule applies to it?

If you can answer those four questions confidently, practical identification becomes much easier.

Learn Procedures in the Correct Order

Cosmetology questions can ask you to outline a procedure.

The order of the steps matters.

For example, you should not apply makeup before preparing the client’s face.

You should not finish a manicure before shaping or preparing the nails.

When learning any procedure, break it into:

1. Preparation
2. Main procedure
3. Finishing
4. Clean-up

That makes it easier to remember logically.

Do Not Ignore Clean-Up

Clean-up is part of professional beauty work.

After a service, think about:

• Used towels
• Reusable tools
• Disposable supplies
• Work surfaces
• Electrical equipment
• Product storage
• Waste
• Preparation for the next client

If a question asks you to outline a complete service, do not assume the answer ends as soon as the client’s makeup, hair or nails are finished.

Read the Number of Points Required

If a question says:

State four rules of personal hygiene

give at least four correct points.

If it says:

Explain three rules

do not only list the three rules. Explain them.

If it asks:

Identify the implement and state two uses

make sure you answer both parts.

Candidates sometimes know a topic but lose marks by answering only part of the question.

Do Not Memorise These Answers Word for Word

The examination may change the tool, product or salon situation.

For example, a practice question may ask about a hair dryer while the examination asks about another electrical salon appliance.

The safety principles may still be related.

A question may ask about manicure instead of pedicure.

The hygiene principles may still be similar.

Understand the principle behind the answer.

That is more useful than memorising one paragraph.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoid:

• Studying only hairstyling
• Ignoring nail care
• Ignoring skin care
• Confusing manicure with pedicure
• Confusing a tool with a product
• Confusing salon equipment with disposable supplies
• Ignoring hygiene
• Forgetting clean-up procedures
• Writing procedures in the wrong order
• Giving vague uses of tools
• Ignoring salon management
• Reusing inappropriate disposable materials
• Handling electrical equipment carelessly
• Giving one point when several are requested
• Memorising answers instead of understanding them
• Reading likely questions without doing practical work

Frequently Asked Questions About WAEC Beauty and Cosmetology Likely Questions

What are WAEC Beauty and Cosmetology likely questions?

They are original examination-style practice questions prepared around important areas candidates are expected to understand in Beauty and Cosmetology.

Are these the real WAEC Beauty and Cosmetology 2027 questions?

No. They are practice questions and are not leaked or confirmed WAEC examination questions.

Are these Beauty and Cosmetology expo questions?

No. They are revision materials.

Do the questions have answers?

Yes. Answers and explanations are provided so that you can check your work after attempting the questions.

Why do older WAEC materials call the subject Cosmetology?

Older WAEC e-Learning materials use the name Cosmetology, while WAEC’s current WASSCE subject listing uses Beauty and Cosmetology.

Does Beauty and Cosmetology have practical questions?

Practical knowledge is an important part of the subject. Candidates should be able to identify beauty tools, products, equipment and procedures.

Should I practise with actual salon tools?

Yes. Practical exposure makes it easier to recognise tools and explain their uses and care.

Should I study salon hygiene?

Yes. Hygiene, sanitization, safe working practices and care of tools are important parts of professional cosmetology.

Do I need to study makeup?

Yes. Facial makeup, eye makeup, eyebrow care and related tools and products are important areas.

Do I need to study manicure and pedicure?

Yes. Nail care is part of Beauty and Cosmetology.

Do I need to study wigs and hair pieces?

Yes. Previous WAEC Cosmetology materials have included questions involving hair pieces and their care.

Should I still practise past questions?

Yes. Use the WAEC Beauty and Cosmetology Past Questions together with these fresh practice questions.

Can likely questions guarantee A1?

No. They are meant to test your preparation. Your result depends on your knowledge, practical understanding and performance in the actual examination.

Final Note

WAEC Beauty and Cosmetology likely questions are most useful when you actually practise what they are testing.

Do not only read a manicure procedure. Practise identifying the tools and arranging the steps.

Do not only memorise the name of a makeup product. Know what it is used for and how it is handled.

Do not only read about salon hygiene. Understand why tools, towels, surfaces and work areas must be properly cared for between clients.

Use the WAEC Beauty and Cosmetology Syllabus, Beauty and Cosmetology Areas of Concentration and Beauty and Cosmetology Past Questions together.

The aim is not to predict one exact examination paper.

The aim is to understand the subject well enough to answer correctly when the tools, products, procedures, diagrams or salon situations in the examination are different from the ones you practised.