Client Consultation, Contraindications, and Documentation
Consultation questions test whether you gather the right history, recognize contraindications, obtain consent, and document in a defensible way. Idaho estheticians do not diagnose, but they must screen and refer.
Intake and contraindications
- Ask about medications, allergies, pregnancy, surgeries, skin conditions, and prior cosmetic services.
- Major contraindications include isotretinoin, often for 6 months, topical retinoids, blood thinners, active infection, recent peels or lasers, sunburn, keloid history, and pregnancy for certain ingredients.
- Patch test when a product or adhesive warrants it; obtain informed consent before service.
Documentation
- Record date, service, products and lot numbers, skin observations, consent, patch test, adverse reactions, and aftercare.
- Use objective language. Write "client reports stinging" rather than "client is allergic."
- Keep records confidential and retain them per Idaho requirements.
Worked example
A client on isotretinoin requests lip waxing. Decline waxing and explain that the medication makes skin fragile and can cause lifting or scarring. Offer a non-wax alternative only if safe, document the refusal and education, and ask the client to return after medical clearance. Reasoning: the medication is a strong contraindication for waxing and many peels.
Traps that cost marks
- Relying on a verbal "I'm fine" instead of a written history.
- Failing to document an adverse reaction.
- Assuming natural products are safe in pregnancy.
- Performing a service after a positive patch test.