WAEC 2026 Cosmetology Questions and Answers – May/June (OBJ & Essay)
Preparing for the WAEC 2026 Cosmetology examination requires a solid understanding of beauty therapy, skincare, hair care, nail technology, and hygiene practices. This compilation of WAEC 2026 Cosmetology OBJ and Essay Questions and Answers is designed to help candidates revise effectively, understand key concepts, and boost their confidence ahead of the May/June examination.
Click here to get 2026 WAEC & NECO Questions and Answers
WAEC 2026 Cosmetology Questions and Answers – May/June (OBJ & Essay) SECTION A: OBJECTIVE QUESTIONS (20)
1. Cosmetology is the study of:
A. Medicine
B. Beauty treatment
C. Engineering
D. Agriculture
Answer: B
2. Which of the following is a tool used in manicure?
A. Comb
B. Nail file
C. Razor blade
D. Sponge
Answer: B
3. The outermost layer of the skin is called:
A. Dermis
B. Epidermis
C. Subcutaneous
D. Sebaceous
Answer: B
4. Shampoo is used to:
A. Style hair
B. Clean hair
C. Cut hair
D. Dry hair
Answer: B
5. A pedicure is treatment of the:
A. Hair
B. Hands
C. Feet
D. Face
Answer: C
6. Which of the following is a disinfectant?
A. Oil
B. Dettol
C. Powder
D. Cream
Answer: B
7. The tool used for cutting hair is:
A. Comb
B. Scissors
C. Brush
D. File
Answer: B
8. Hair is mainly made up of:
A. Protein
B. Fat
C. Water
D. Oil
Answer: A
9. A facial treatment is mainly for the:
A. Hands
B. Face
C. Legs
D. Hair
Answer: B
10. The nail is part of the:
A. Skeletal system
B. Integumentary system
C. Digestive system
D. Respiratory system
Answer: B
11. Conditioner is used to:
A. Dry hair
B. Soften hair
C. Cut hair
D. Wash hair
Answer: B
12. Sterilization means:
A. Cleaning
B. Killing all microorganisms
C. Drying
D. Heating
Answer: B
13. The basic unit of hair structure is:
A. Root
B. Shaft
C. Follicle
D. Cell
Answer: D
14. Which of the following is used for makeup application?
A. Sponge
B. Blade
C. Comb
D. File
Answer: A
15. Dandruff affects the:
A. Skin
B. Nails
C. Scalp
D. Teeth
Answer: C
16. Nail polish remover contains:
A. Water
B. Acetone
C. Oil
D. Cream
Answer: B
17. The purpose of steaming in facial is to:
A. Close pores
B. Open pores
C. Dry skin
D. Cut skin
Answer: B
18. A wig is used to:
A. Clean hair
B. Cover hair
C. Cut hair
D. Dye hair
Answer: B
19. Hygiene means:
A. Decoration
B. Cleanliness
C. Styling
D. Cutting
Answer: B
20. The tool used to dry hair is:
A. Comb
B. Hair dryer
C. Brush
D. Razor
Answer: B
WAEC 2026 Cosmetology Questions and Answers – May/June (OBJ & Essay) SECTION B: ESSAY QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS (20)
1. Define cosmetology.
Answer: Cosmetology is the science and art of beautifying the skin, hair, and nails.
2. List five branches of cosmetology.
Answer:
- Hairdressing
- Skincare (facials)
- Nail technology
- Makeup artistry
- Barbering
3. Explain the importance of hygiene in cosmetology.
Answer: Hygiene prevents infections, ensures client safety, maintains professional standards, and promotes good health.
4. Mention five tools used in hairdressing.
Answer: Comb, scissors, hair dryer, brush, clippers.
5. What is manicure?
Answer: Manicure is the care and treatment of the hands and fingernails.
6. State the steps involved in facial treatment.
Answer: Cleansing, exfoliation, steaming, extraction, massage, mask application, toning, moisturizing.
7. List three types of hair.
Answer: Straight, wavy, curly.
8. What is sterilization?
Answer: It is the process of destroying all microorganisms on tools and equipment.
9. Mention four skin types.
Answer: Normal, oily, dry, combination.
10. State the functions of shampoo.
Answer: It cleanses the scalp, removes dirt, oil, and product buildup.
11. What is pedicure?
Answer: Pedicure is the treatment and care of the feet and toenails.
12. List five cosmetic products.
Answer: Foundation, powder, lipstick, mascara, eyeliner.
13. Explain the structure of the skin.
Answer: The skin has three layers: epidermis (outer), dermis (middle), and subcutaneous layer (inner).
14. Mention three nail diseases.
Answer: Nail fungus, paronychia, nail discoloration.
15. What is makeup?
Answer: Makeup is the application of cosmetic products to enhance appearance.
16. State safety precautions in cosmetology.
Answer: Sterilize tools, wash hands, use clean materials, avoid sharing tools, wear protective gear.
17. What is hair conditioning?
Answer: It is the process of moisturizing and softening hair using conditioners.
18. List five salon equipment.
Answer: Hair dryer, steamer, sterilizer, salon chair, mirror.
19. Explain the importance of customer care in cosmetology.
Answer: It builds trust, ensures client satisfaction, encourages repeat business, and improves reputation.
20. What is dandruff and how can it be treated?
Answer: Dandruff is the shedding of dead skin cells from the scalp. It can be treated with medicated shampoos and proper hygiene.
 – May/June Exam Guide){kind=link}