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DE Esthetician study materials
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DE Esthetician practice questions

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Question 1Aesthetician (Delaware professional licensing category)

In Delaware, which agency issues the license that authorizes a person to practice esthetics for compensation?

  1. The Delaware Board of Cosmetology and Barbering's parent city government
  2. The Delaware Department of Labor
  3. The Delaware Division of Professional Regulation Correct answer.
  4. The Delaware Department of Health and Social Services

Explanation

Delaware licenses estheticians through the Division of Professional Regulation, which administers the professional licensing boards, including the board that regulates cosmetology and esthetics. A practitioner must hold that state credential before charging clients for esthetic services.

Question 2Aesthetician (Delaware professional licensing category)

A client with a known allergy to a specific preservative asks for a facial. What is the most appropriate first step before selecting products?

  1. Proceed with the standard facial because preservative allergies are rare
  2. Dilute the product with water to reduce the allergen concentration
  3. Review the ingredient list of each product and avoid any that contain the allergen Correct answer.
  4. Apply the product to a small area and proceed if no reaction appears within five minutes

Explanation

Ingredient review is the reliable way to prevent contact with a known allergen, because reaction severity is unpredictable and dilution does not reliably prevent sensitization. A brief patch test in the treatment room is not a substitute for reading labels, and preservative allergies are common enough to take seriously.

Question 3Aesthetician (Delaware professional licensing category)

Which skin condition is a strict contraindication for waxing because the procedure can spread infection and tear compromised tissue?

  1. Seborrheic dermatitis
  2. Rosacea
  3. Melasma
  4. Impetigo Correct answer.

Explanation

Impetigo is a contagious bacterial skin infection, so waxing over it can spread the bacteria and damage fragile skin. Seborrheic dermatitis, rosacea, and melasma are not contagious and are managed with gentler technique rather than automatic exclusion.

Question 4Aesthetician (Delaware professional licensing category)

Which statement correctly describes the difference between disinfection and sterilization in an esthetics setting?

  1. Sterilization is used only on the skin, while disinfection is used only on tools
  2. Disinfection destroys all microbial life, while sterilization only reduces visible soil
  3. Disinfection reduces pathogens on surfaces, while sterilization destroys all microbial life including spores Correct answer.
  4. Disinfection and sterilization are interchangeable terms for cleaning implements

Explanation

Disinfection lowers the number of pathogens on nonporous implements and surfaces, whereas sterilization eliminates all microorganisms, including bacterial spores. Esthetic tools that contact skin are typically cleaned and then disinfected at the appropriate level.

Question 5Aesthetician (Delaware professional licensing category)

An esthetician is choosing an EPA-registered disinfectant for metal extractors. Which product label claim is the minimum appropriate for this use?

  1. A cosmetic cleanser labeled for sensitive skin
  2. A hospital-grade tuberculocidal disinfectant Correct answer.
  3. A general-purpose sanitizer for food-contact surfaces
  4. An antiseptic skin wipe

Explanation

Implements used in esthetics that may contact blood or broken skin should be treated with a disinfectant carrying a tuberculocidal or hospital-grade claim, which indicates efficacy against a tough benchmark organism. Sanitizers and skin antiseptics do not provide the required level of instrument disinfection.

Question 6Aesthetician (Delaware professional licensing category)

Which practice best demonstrates proper hand hygiene immediately before beginning a facial service?

  1. Applying hand sanitizer over visible product residue
  2. Rinsing hands briefly in warm water only
  3. Wiping hands on the client's drape before starting
  4. Washing with soap and water for at least 20 seconds, then drying with a clean towel Correct answer.

Explanation

Soap-and-water washing for at least 20 seconds physically removes soil and transient organisms, and drying with a clean towel prevents recontamination. Sanitizer works poorly on visibly soiled hands, and rinsing alone does not remove oils or microbes effectively.

Question 7Aesthetician (Delaware professional licensing category)

What is the primary purpose of performing a skin analysis with magnification before a treatment?

  1. To select a retail product based on the client's budget
  2. To determine the client's blood type for record keeping
  3. To identify skin type, conditions, and areas needing modification of the service plan Correct answer.
  4. To decide whether the client needs a physician referral for all services

Explanation

Skin analysis under magnification reveals hydration, oiliness, pore condition, and lesions so the esthetician can tailor products and techniques. It is a treatment-planning step, not a diagnostic medical test or a sales exercise.

Question 8Aesthetician (Delaware professional licensing category)

A client presents with a new, irregularly shaped mole with varied colors that has changed recently. What is the correct esthetician response?

  1. Exfoliate the area to improve its appearance
  2. Apply a high-percentage acid peel directly over the lesion
  3. Do not treat the area and advise the client to have it evaluated by a physician Correct answer.
  4. Cover the mole with makeup and proceed with the facial

Explanation

A changing, irregularly colored lesion may indicate a serious medical condition, so the esthetician must avoid treating it and refer the client to a physician. Estheticians do not diagnose skin lesions and should never apply exfoliating or peeling products over a suspicious growth.

Question 9Aesthetician (Delaware professional licensing category)

Which ingredient is a beta hydroxy acid commonly used in esthetic peels to address congestion in oily skin?

  1. Hyaluronic acid
  2. Salicylic acid Correct answer.
  3. Glycerin
  4. Squalane

Explanation

Salicylic acid is a beta hydroxy acid that is oil soluble and helps exfoliate inside the pore, making it useful for congested, oily skin. Hyaluronic acid, glycerin, and squalane are humectants or emollients that hydrate rather than exfoliate.

Question 10Aesthetician (Delaware professional licensing category)

During a glycolic acid peel, a client reports intense stinging and the skin shows uniform frosting. What should the esthetician do?

  1. Leave the acid on for the full scheduled time regardless of response
  2. Add another layer to complete the planned protocol
  3. Neutralize or remove the acid promptly and assess the skin Correct answer.
  4. Apply a warm towel to increase penetration

Explanation

Frosting and intense stinging signal that the acid has acted beyond the intended level, so the peel should be stopped and the acid removed or neutralized according to the product's instructions. Continuing or intensifying exposure increases the risk of burns and post-inflammatory pigmentation.

Question 11Aesthetician (Delaware professional licensing category)

Which massage movement is described as light, rhythmic tapping performed with the fingertips?

  1. Tapotement Correct answer.
  2. Effleurage
  3. Petrissage
  4. Friction

Explanation

Tapotement consists of brisk, rhythmic tapping or percussive movements, often with the fingertips or hands. Effleurage is gliding, petrissage is kneading, and friction is a deeper circular or cross-fiber movement.

Question 12Aesthetician (Delaware professional licensing category)

A client receiving a facial massage has visible redness and reports a throbbing sensation in the treated area. What is the best action?

  1. Increase pressure to move stagnant blood
  2. Stop the massage and cool the skin before deciding whether to continue Correct answer.
  3. Apply a heating mask to balance the response
  4. Continue at the same pace because redness indicates circulation

Explanation

Throbbing and marked redness suggest the tissue is reacting adversely, so the esthetician should pause, cool the area, and reassess before continuing. Increasing pressure or adding heat can intensify the reaction rather than resolve it.

Question 13Aesthetician (Delaware professional licensing category)

Which massage contraindication applies to a client with an active fever and swollen lymph nodes?

  1. Systemic illness that warrants postponing the service Correct answer.
  2. A cosmetic preference for lighter pressure
  3. A desire to extend the treatment time
  4. A need to use more massage cream

Explanation

Fever and swollen lymph nodes point to a systemic condition, and massage is postponed when a client is acutely ill to avoid stressing the body further. Pressure preference, product choice, and treatment length are service variables, not contraindications.

Question 14Aesthetician (Delaware professional licensing category)

Which description best matches Fitzpatrick skin type I?

  1. Olive skin that rarely burns and tans easily
  2. Light brown skin that tans gradually with occasional burning
  3. Deeply pigmented skin that never burns
  4. Very fair skin that burns easily and tans little or not at all Correct answer.

Explanation

Fitzpatrick type I is characterized by very fair skin, light eyes or hair, easy burning, and little to no tanning. Higher types have progressively more pigment and greater resistance to burning.

Question 15Aesthetician (Delaware professional licensing category)

Why is Fitzpatrick skin typing especially important when planning a laser or intense pulsed light treatment?

  1. Skin typing predicts the client's pain tolerance during treatment
  2. Darker skin types carry a higher risk of pigment changes from light-based devices Correct answer.
  3. Skin typing determines which cleanser the client should buy
  4. Lighter skin types cannot tolerate any light-based treatment

Explanation

Higher Fitzpatrick types have more melanin, which competes with the target chromophore and raises the risk of burns and post-inflammatory pigment changes during light-based treatments. Settings and device selection are adjusted accordingly, and lighter skin is not automatically excluded.

Question 16Aesthetician (Delaware professional licensing category)

Which product is most appropriate for cleansing a client with dry, sensitive skin?

  1. A bar soap with added fragrance
  2. A foaming cleanser with high alcohol content
  3. A fragrance-free, creamy cleanser Correct answer.
  4. An exfoliating scrub with coarse particles

Explanation

Dry, sensitive skin tolerates a mild, fragrance-free creamy cleanser that lifts debris without stripping the barrier. High-alcohol foams, coarse scrubs, and fragranced soaps can irritate or over-dry reactive skin.

Question 17Aesthetician (Delaware professional licensing category)

What is the main function of a humectant in a moisturizer?

  1. To form an occlusive seal that blocks all water loss
  2. To provide sun protection
  3. To dissolve keratin plugs inside pores
  4. To attract and hold water in the upper layers of the skin Correct answer.

Explanation

Humectants such as glycerin bind water and help increase hydration in the stratum corneum. Occlusives form a seal and keratolytics address pore congestion, so those functions belong to different ingredient classes.

Question 18Aesthetician (Delaware professional licensing category)

Which statement about sunscreen use in an esthetic facial treatment plan is accurate?

  1. Broad-spectrum protection with an appropriate SPF should be recommended daily, including on cloudy days Correct answer.
  2. SPF 15 provides complete protection against all UV damage
  3. Indoor lighting eliminates the need for sunscreen
  4. Sunscreen is needed only during summer months

Explanation

UV radiation reaches the skin even on cloudy days, so daily broad-spectrum sunscreen with an adequate SPF supports prevention of photoaging and pigment disorders. Seasonal use or a low SPF alone does not provide reliable protection.

Question 19Aesthetician (Delaware professional licensing category)

A client requests a chemical peel but mentions taking isotretinoin. What is the appropriate esthetician action?

  1. Perform the peel only on the forehead
  2. Proceed with the peel but skip the prep products
  3. Defer the peel and advise the client to consult the prescribing physician Correct answer.
  4. Perform a stronger peel to compensate for slow cell turnover

Explanation

Isotretinoin markedly increases skin fragility and impairs healing, so peels are typically deferred until the client has discontinued it under medical guidance. The esthetician should refer to the prescriber rather than adjusting the peel to be more aggressive.

Question 20Aesthetician (Delaware professional licensing category)

Which tool is used to magnify and illuminate the skin during a facial analysis?

  1. A steamer
  2. A high-frequency electrode
  3. A galvanic roller
  4. A magnifying lamp Correct answer.

Explanation

A magnifying lamp combines magnification with light so the esthetician can inspect pores, texture, and lesions closely. High-frequency electrodes, steamers, and galvanic rollers are treatment devices rather than observation tools.

Question 21Aesthetician (Delaware professional licensing category)

Which statement about high-frequency treatment in esthetics is correct?

  1. It is a form of cryotherapy using liquid nitrogen
  2. It uses a mild electrical current and is applied with a glass electrode over the skin Correct answer.
  3. It sterilizes the skin completely and replaces disinfection
  4. It delivers a deep mechanical exfoliation of the stratum corneum

Explanation

High-frequency devices apply a mild alternating current through a glass electrode, producing a violet glow that is used for targeted skin treatment. The device does not deep-exfoliate, sterilize, or freeze tissue.

Question 22Aesthetician (Delaware professional licensing category)

Which record-keeping entry best supports continuity of care for a returning esthetician client?

  1. Only the total amount the client paid
  2. Date of service, products used, skin observations, and any adverse reactions Correct answer.
  3. A general note that the facial went well
  4. Only the client's preferred appointment time

Explanation

Thorough intake and treatment records document what was used and how the skin responded, allowing the next session to be planned safely. Payment amounts, scheduling preferences, and vague comments do not capture clinical detail needed for continuity.

Question 23Aesthetician (Delaware professional licensing category)

How should single-use implements such as disposable spatulas and cotton swabs be handled after a service?

  1. Discard them in a covered waste container; they are not reused Correct answer.
  2. Store them in a drawer for the next client
  3. Soak them in cleanser and return them to the supply jar
  4. Wash and reuse them after rinsing in water

Explanation

Single-use items are designed to be used once and discarded to prevent cross-contamination between clients. Rinsing or storing them for later use defeats their purpose and creates a hygiene risk.

Question 24Aesthetician (Delaware professional licensing category)

Which client instruction supports safe aftercare following a facial with extractions?

  1. Scrub the extracted areas vigorously to prevent clogging
  2. Use a tanning bed to speed healing
  3. Avoid harsh scrubs and sun exposure, and keep the treated area clean and moisturized Correct answer.
  4. Immediately apply a strong acid peel at home

Explanation

After extractions the skin is temporarily compromised, so gentle cleansing, moisturizing, and sun avoidance support healing. Aggressive exfoliation, strong acids, and UV exposure increase irritation and pigmentation risk.

Question 25Aesthetician (Delaware professional licensing category)

An esthetician notices that a client's skin has become increasingly reactive over several visits with escalating exfoliation. What is the best professional response?

  1. Recommend daily use of a strong scrub at home
  2. Ignore the change because reactivity is expected to worsen
  3. Reduce the exfoliation intensity and reassess the skin barrier before increasing again Correct answer.
  4. Add a second exfoliating step to speed results

Explanation

Increasing reactivity suggests the skin barrier is being overworked, so the esthetician should scale back exfoliation, reassess, and rebuild tolerance before advancing the protocol. Adding more exfoliation or home scrubbing would likely worsen the irritation.

Question 26Aesthetician (Delaware professional licensing category)

Under Delaware cosmetology and barbering law, which activity falls within the scope of practice of a licensed esthetician?

  1. Performing dermal filler injections
  2. Applying makeup and performing skin care treatments Correct answer.
  3. Cutting and styling hair with thermal tools
  4. Filing and shaping artificial nail enhancements

Explanation

Delaware licenses estheticians to perform skin care and makeup services, including facials, waxing, and cosmetic application. Hair services belong to cosmetologists and barbers, nail enhancements to nail technicians, and injections to medical professionals.

Question 27Aesthetician (Delaware professional licensing category)

Which condition is a recognized local contraindication for waxing an area of the face or body?

  1. Well-controlled seasonal allergies
  2. Recent sunburn or active dermatitis over the treatment site Correct answer.
  3. Use of daily multivitamin supplements
  4. A history of tension headaches

Explanation

Compromised skin such as sunburn, dermatitis, or open lesions is a local contraindication because waxing can worsen irritation and cause injury. Systemic conditions and supplement use are not local skin contraindications.

Question 28Aesthetician (Delaware professional licensing category)

What is the primary purpose of a patch test before applying a tint or lightener to a client's eyebrows or lashes?

  1. To confirm the product will hold color for several weeks
  2. To determine the ideal shape for the brow arch
  3. To measure how quickly the product processes on the skin
  4. To detect a possible allergic reaction before full application Correct answer.

Explanation

A patch test exposes a small area to the product so a hypersensitivity reaction can be identified before the full service. It does not predict color longevity, processing speed, or shaping preferences.

Question 29Aesthetician (Delaware professional licensing category)

Which statement correctly describes the role of a toner in a professional facial routine?

  1. It replaces the need for any exfoliating step
  2. It restores the skin's pH balance and removes residual cleanser Correct answer.
  3. It provides the primary sun protection for the service
  4. It delivers the deepest hydration of the entire treatment

Explanation

Toners are applied after cleansing to remove residue and help restore the skin's slightly acidic pH. They do not substitute for exfoliation, sun protection, or a hydrating moisturizer.

Question 30Aesthetician (Delaware professional licensing category)

Which massage movement is a slow, kneading technique that lifts and squeezes the tissue between the hands?

  1. Effleurage
  2. Tapotement
  3. Petrissage Correct answer.
  4. Vibration

Explanation

Petrissage is a kneading movement that compresses and lifts tissue to stimulate deeper circulation. Effleurage is gliding, tapotement is percussion, and vibration is a rapid shaking movement.

Question 31Aesthetician (Delaware professional licensing category)

Which practice protects a client's modesty and privacy during a body treatment?

  1. Allowing the client to remain fully clothed during a body wrap
  2. Draping the client so only the area being treated is exposed Correct answer.
  3. Discussing the client's treatment plan in the reception area
  4. Leaving the treatment room door open for ventilation

Explanation

Proper draping exposes only the area being worked on and preserves client dignity and warmth. Open doors, full clothing during wraps, and public discussion of treatment plans undermine privacy and service quality.

Question 32Aesthetician (Delaware professional licensing category)

Which action best prevents cross-contamination when removing product from a jar for a facial?

  1. Wiping the jar rim with a used towel between uses
  2. Using a clean spatula and dispensing onto a clean surface Correct answer.
  3. Dipping clean fingertips directly into the jar
  4. Returning unused product from the hand to the jar

Explanation

A clean spatula keeps the product supply free of skin contact and microbes. Finger dipping, returning used product, and reusing soiled towels introduce contamination into the container.

Question 33Aesthetician (Delaware professional licensing category)

Which item is classified as a single-use implement in an esthetics treatment room?

  1. A stainless steel extraction tool
  2. A glass mixing bowl
  3. A disposable facial spatula Correct answer.
  4. A reusable spatula

Explanation

Disposable spatulas are intended for one use and are discarded after a service. Metal extraction tools, glass bowls, and reusable spatulas are designed to be cleaned and disinfected between clients.

Question 34Aesthetician (Delaware professional licensing category)

A client with oily, acne-prone skin wants a facial. Which step is most appropriate during the treatment?

  1. A warm paraffin mask over inflamed lesions
  2. Gentle cleansing followed by a non-comedogenic moisturizer Correct answer.
  3. A coarse scrub applied over active pustules
  4. Heavy occlusive massage cream left on the skin

Explanation

Oily, acne-prone skin benefits from gentle cleansing and lightweight, non-comedogenic hydration that does not clog pores. Heavy occlusives, coarse scrubs over lesions, and paraffin over inflammation can worsen the condition.

Question 35Aesthetician (Delaware professional licensing category)

A client reports burning and stinging after a product was applied during a facial. What is the esthetician's first appropriate action?

  1. Continue the service and document the complaint afterward
  2. Apply a stronger active ingredient to neutralize the reaction
  3. Stop the service and remove the product with cool water Correct answer.
  4. Cover the area with a warm towel to increase absorption

Explanation

When a client reports burning, the service should stop immediately and the product should be gently removed with cool water. Adding actives, continuing the service, or applying heat can intensify the reaction.

Question 36Aesthetician (Delaware professional licensing category)

An esthetician is selecting a cleanser for a client with mature, dry skin. Which formulation is most suitable?

  1. A creamy, lipid-rich cleanser Correct answer.
  2. A foaming gel with a high concentration of salicylic acid
  3. An alcohol-based astringent cleanser
  4. A gritty exfoliating scrub used daily

Explanation

Mature, dry skin benefits from a creamy cleanser that supports the lipid barrier and limits moisture loss. Foaming acids, alcohol-based products, and daily gritty scrubs can strip or irritate dry skin.

Question 37Aesthetician (Delaware professional licensing category)

Which statement accurately describes the action of an exfoliant containing alpha hydroxy acids?

  1. It loosens the bonds between dead surface cells to promote shedding Correct answer.
  2. It constricts blood vessels to reduce visible redness
  3. It physically abrades the skin with suspended particles
  4. It blocks ultraviolet radiation at the skin surface

Explanation

Alpha hydroxy acids work chemically by weakening the cohesion of corneocytes so dead surface cells shed more readily. Physical abrasion, UV blocking, and vasoconstriction describe other product categories.

Question 38Aesthetician (Delaware professional licensing category)

A client asks whether an esthetician can diagnose a suspicious skin growth. What is the appropriate response?

  1. Diagnose the growth as benign based on its appearance
  2. Recommend an over-the-counter cream to shrink the growth
  3. Schedule a series of peels to remove the growth
  4. Explain that diagnosis is outside esthetics scope and refer the client to a physician Correct answer.

Explanation

Estheticians are not licensed to diagnose skin disease and must refer suspicious lesions to a qualified medical professional. Offering a diagnosis, a treatment cream, or peels to remove a growth exceeds the esthetics scope of practice.

Question 39Aesthetician (Delaware professional licensing category)

Which practice best protects an esthetician's own musculoskeletal health during repeated facial services?

  1. Adjusting table height and maintaining neutral posture during work Correct answer.
  2. Standing in one fixed position for the entire shift
  3. Keeping the table low to reach the face more easily
  4. Leaning over the client with a rounded back for closer viewing

Explanation

Correct table height and neutral posture reduce strain on the back, neck, and shoulders during repetitive work. Rounded postures, low tables, and prolonged static standing increase injury risk.

Question 40Aesthetician (Delaware professional licensing category)

Which step is required before reusing a metal extraction tool on the next client?

  1. Clean it, then disinfect it with an EPA-registered hospital-grade disinfectant Correct answer.
  2. Rinse it under warm water only
  3. Wipe it with a dry paper towel
  4. Store it in a drawer without processing

Explanation

Reusable implements must be cleaned of debris and then disinfected with an EPA-registered hospital-grade product before reuse. Rinsing, dry wiping, or storing without processing leaves contaminants behind.

Question 41Aesthetician (Delaware professional licensing category)

A client with a history of cold sores requests a lip wax. What is the most appropriate esthetician action?

  1. Apply a numbing agent and continue the service
  2. Postpone the service and advise consulting a physician if an outbreak is present Correct answer.
  3. Increase the wax temperature to shorten contact time
  4. Proceed with the wax since the outbreak is not currently visible

Explanation

Waxing can trigger a herpes simplex outbreak, so the service should be postponed when an active or recent outbreak is reported, with medical referral as needed. Proceeding, numbing, or increasing heat does not remove the risk of triggering a lesion.

Question 42Aesthetician (Delaware professional licensing category)

Which statement about the use of electrical facial devices is accurate?

  1. Devices must be used according to manufacturer instructions and client contraindications Correct answer.
  2. Any device may be used on any client regardless of health history
  3. Device settings do not need to be documented in client records
  4. Electrical devices are exempt from sanitation requirements

Explanation

Electrical facial devices must be used per manufacturer guidance and only after screening for contraindications such as pregnancy, pacemakers, or metal implants. They require sanitation and documentation like other equipment.

Question 43Aesthetician (Delaware professional licensing category)

A client receiving a series of chemical peels reports increasing sensitivity and visible redness between appointments. What is the best course of action?

  1. Increase the acid concentration to speed results
  2. Add a second exfoliating treatment in the same visit
  3. Recommend daily use of a strong scrub at home
  4. Extend the interval between peels and reduce the acid strength or contact time Correct answer.

Explanation

Escalating sensitivity signals over-exfoliation, so the esthetician should slow the schedule and reduce intensity to allow barrier recovery. Increasing strength, layering exfoliants, or adding harsh home care worsens the irritation.

Question 44Aesthetician (Delaware professional licensing category)

Which factor most directly determines how long a wax should be left on the skin before removal?

  1. The esthetician's personal preference
  2. The client's hair color
  3. The wax formulation and the manufacturer's recommended timing Correct answer.
  4. The number of clients scheduled that day

Explanation

Wax formulation and manufacturer guidance determine the appropriate application and setting time. Hair color, personal preference, and scheduling do not affect how the product should be processed.

Question 45Aesthetician (Delaware professional licensing category)

An esthetician notices a client's skin has developed a rash that follows the pattern of a recently applied product. What is the most appropriate documentation and follow-up action?

  1. Recommend repeating the same product to confirm the reaction
  2. Record the reaction, product used, and onset, and advise medical follow-up Correct answer.
  3. Record only that the facial was completed successfully
  4. Note nothing unless the client requests documentation

Explanation

Adverse reactions should be documented with the product, timing, and symptoms, and the client should be advised to seek medical evaluation as needed. Omitting the event or repeating the product risks harm and poor records.

Question 46Aesthetician (Delaware professional licensing category)

A client with diabetes requests a foot wax and reports a small, painless wound on the foot that has not healed. What is the most appropriate action?

  1. Apply an antiseptic and continue the service
  2. Decline the service on the affected area and refer the client to a physician Correct answer.
  3. Proceed with the wax and cover the wound with a bandage
  4. Increase the wax temperature to seal the wound

Explanation

A non-healing wound in a client with diabetes warrants medical evaluation, and waxing over compromised tissue risks infection and poor healing. Bandaging, antiseptics, or heat do not make the service safe.

Question 47Aesthetician (Delaware professional licensing category)

An esthetician is planning a treatment for a client taking a photosensitizing medication. Which adjustment is most appropriate?

  1. Proceed with intense pulsed light at a higher setting
  2. Skip sunscreen because the medication already protects the skin
  3. Add a stronger exfoliating peel to compensate
  4. Avoid photosensitizing treatments such as light therapy and advise sun protection Correct answer.

Explanation

Photosensitizing medications increase the risk of adverse reactions to light-based treatments and UV exposure, so those services should be avoided and sun protection emphasized. Higher light settings, added peels, and skipping sunscreen increase risk.

Question 48Aesthetician (Delaware professional licensing category)

A client's skin shows signs of dehydration with fine lines and tightness but also significant oiliness. Which approach best addresses both findings?

  1. Apply a heavy petrolatum-based cream to seal in moisture
  2. Use an alcohol-based toner to control oil throughout the day
  3. Use lightweight hydration with humectants and avoid heavy occlusives Correct answer.
  4. Recommend daily use of a strong exfoliating scrub

Explanation

Oily but dehydrated skin benefits from humectant hydration in lightweight formulations that do not add congestion. Heavy occlusives, drying alcohol toners, and daily harsh scrubs can worsen the imbalance.

Question 49Aesthetician (Delaware professional licensing category)

An esthetician is deciding whether to perform a service on a client who discloses a contagious skin infection on the treatment area. What is the correct decision?

  1. Treat only the unaffected side of the face
  2. Proceed while wearing gloves to prevent spread
  3. Apply a topical antiseptic and continue the full service
  4. Postpone the service until the infection has resolved and been cleared Correct answer.

Explanation

Contagious skin infections are a contraindication because treatment can spread infection and worsen the condition, so the service should be postponed until resolved. Gloves, partial treatment, or antiseptics do not make the service safe.

Question 50Aesthetician (Delaware professional licensing category)

A returning client reports using a new prescription retinoid nightly. How should the esthetician adjust the facial plan?

  1. Perform a strong chemical peel to enhance the retinoid effect
  2. Wax the face as usual since the retinoid is topical
  3. Apply a high-concentration acid serum to test tolerance
  4. Avoid strong exfoliation and waxing and focus on barrier support and hydration Correct answer.

Explanation

Prescription retinoids thin the stratum corneum and increase sensitivity, so aggressive exfoliation and waxing should be avoided while barrier support and hydration are emphasized. Peels, waxing, and strong acids raise the risk of irritation and injury.