IA Esthetician study plan

Define the layers of the skin (epidermis, dermis, subcutaneous) and list the function of each layer in your own words.

Label a blank diagram of the skin and its appendages (hair follicle, sebaceous gland, sweat gland, arrector pili) from memory with at least 90% accuracy.

Classify skin types (normal, dry, oily, combination, sensitive) and write the observable characteristics and typical product needs for each.

Explain the difference between skin types and skin conditions, giving three examples of each.

Describe the pH range of healthy skin and identify how alkaline or acidic products affect the acid mantle.

Identify the main ingredient categories in professional skin care products (humectants, emollients, occlusives, exfoliants, surfactants, preservatives) and state the role of each.

Match at least ten common cosmetic ingredients to their function and any contraindication noted in your study materials.

Differentiate the Fitzpatrick skin phototypes and explain how phototype influences treatment selection and risk of hyperpigmentation.

Summarize the signs of common skin conditions estheticians may observe (acne, rosacea, hyperpigmentation, dehydration) and practice stating when to refer to a physician.

Explain how the sun, smoking, and dehydration affect skin aging using at least three mechanisms.

Sequence the standard facial steps from client consultation through post-treatment home care in the correct order.

Describe the purpose, procedure, and contraindications for cleansing, exfoliation, extraction, massage, masking, and moisturizing.

Demonstrate (or narrate step by step) a full basic facial on a practice partner or model head within a 60-minute window.

List at least five contraindications that require modifying or postponing a facial and explain the reasoning for each.

Explain the difference between manual, chemical, and mechanical exfoliation and select an appropriate option for three client scenarios.

Compare massage movements used in facial treatments (effleurage, petrissage, tapotement, friction) and state where each is appropriate on the face and neck.

Identify the main facial muscles and their actions well enough to describe the direction of massage strokes.

Explain how to customize a facial for oily, dry, sensitive, and mature skin, naming at least two product or technique changes per skin type.

Describe the purpose and safe use of common facial machines or modalities covered in your materials, including any precautions for each.

Write a client consultation script that captures skin history, allergies, medications, and prior treatments.

Compare the main hair removal methods (waxing, sugaring, threading, tweezing, depilatory, laser/light-based) on mechanism, duration of results, risk, and client suitability.

Explain the hair growth cycle (anagen, catagen, telogen) and how it affects waxing timing and expectations.

List the contraindications and precautions for waxing, including medications, skin conditions, and areas of the body.

Describe the correct waxing procedure for at least three body areas, including patch testing, temperature check, hair direction, and post-care.

Explain the prevention and recognition of common complications such as burns, ingrown hairs, and skin lifting.

List the sanitation and disinfection requirements for tools, implements, and work surfaces used in hair removal and skin care, and state which items are single-use.

Explain the difference between cleaning, sanitizing, disinfecting, and sterilizing, giving an example of each in a salon setting.

Describe safe handling of blood and body fluids, including glove use and disposal, in the esthetics setting.

Identify the categories of client information that must be kept confidential and how records should be stored.

Explain the esthetician's scope of practice and when a service must be refused or referred.

Summarize the Iowa laws and rules governing licensing, license renewal, and the practice of esthetics, using your state-provided rule text as the source.

State the requirements for salon or shop licensing, inspection, and display of licenses in Iowa.

Describe the rules for sanitation, equipment, and facility requirements that apply to an Iowa esthetics practice.

Explain the disciplinary process and the consequences of practicing without a license or violating sanitation rules.

Identify the advertising and professional-conduct rules that apply to licensed practitioners in Iowa.

Complete a full-length timed practice exam and record your score by domain.

Review every missed question and write a one-line correction for each, grouped by domain.

Re-drill your two weakest domains using flashcards or self-quizzing until you reach 85% on each.

Rehearse the sanitation and contraindication facts most likely to be tested until you can state them without notes.

Build a final one-page summary sheet of high-risk facts (contraindications, sanitation levels, scope of practice, Iowa licensing rules).