Business Practices and Client Relations
Records and consent
Every client needs a record: intake form, consent, skin analysis, products and services performed, and any reactions. Records protect the client and the practitioner. Informed consent means explaining benefits, risks, and alternatives before service.
Communication and boundaries
Professional communication is clear, confidential, and nonjudgmental. Maintain physical and emotional boundaries, avoid diagnosing medical conditions, and refer out when needed. Handle complaints by listening, acknowledging, and offering a remedy within policy.
Pricing and retail
Service pricing should reflect time, product cost, and overhead. Retail recommendations should be based on the client's analysis and budget, not pressure. Disclose policies on cancellations, late arrivals, and refunds up front.
Legal and ethical basics
Keep client information confidential. Do not make medical claims for cosmetic products. Follow scope of practice - estheticians do not diagnose or treat disease. Insurance and licensing requirements vary; verify current rules.
Traps
- Promising results that constitute a medical claim.
- Skipping documentation of a reaction.
- Pressuring a client into retail purchases.
- Discussing one client's information with another.
Rule of thumb
"If it isn't documented, it didn't happen; if it's a diagnosis, refer it; if it's confidential, keep it."