CIBTAC Beauty Therapy Diploma (Ireland) flashcards

32 cards. Read the term and the definition here. The deck at the top of this page is optional.

Fitzpatrick skin type I

Very pale skin, burns easily, never tans. Requires high SPF and minimal UV exposure during treatments such as facials and waxing.

Patch test timing

Apply a small amount of product to the inner forearm or behind the ear 24–48 hours before the first treatment and record the result.

Waxing hair length

Hair should be at least 5 mm long for effective wax adhesion. Shorter hair may not be removed and can cause discomfort or incomplete results.

Contraindication definition

A condition or circumstance that makes a treatment unsafe or inadvisable. Examples include active infection, pregnancy, pacemakers, and recent haemorrhage.

Informed consent

Client agreement to treatment after being told the procedure, benefits, risks, and alternatives. Must be documented before any beauty therapy service.

Skin type classification

Categories include normal, dry, oily, combination, and sensitive. Determined by observation, palpation, and client history before product selection.

Facial routine sequence

Cleanse, exfoliate, tone, massage, mask, moisturise, and protect. Order supports skin preparation, product absorption, and barrier protection.

Lymphatic drainage direction

Massage strokes move toward lymph nodes, typically centripetal toward the heart. Supports fluid movement and reduces puffiness during facial treatments.

SPF recommendation

Daily broad-spectrum SPF 30 or higher is advised, especially for Fitzpatrick types I–II, to reduce photoageing and skin cancer risk.

Complementary colour neutralising

Green cancels redness, orange cancels blue bruising, and yellow cancels purple. Used in make-up correction and camouflage techniques.

Tool disinfection standard

Reusable tools require cleaning then hospital-grade disinfectant. Single-use items such as files and buffers must be discarded after each client.

Massage contraindications

Fever, deep vein thrombosis, uncontrolled hypertension, acute injury, and first-trimester pregnancy. Refer to a healthcare professional when uncertain.

Lash tint patch test

Required 24–48 hours before tinting. Keep developer away from eyes and remove product immediately if redness, swelling, or irritation occurs.

Nail treatment contraindication

Broken skin, fungal or bacterial nail infection, and severe paronychia. Refer client for medical assessment before manicure or pedicure.

Electrical treatment contraindication

Pacemakers, metal implants, pregnancy, epilepsy, and active infection. Electrical currents can interfere with medical devices or trigger seizures.

Client consultation record

Written documentation of skin analysis, allergies, medications, contraindications, patch tests, and consent. Supports safe treatment and professional accountability.

Exfoliation purpose

Removes dead surface cells to improve texture and product absorption. Avoid over-exfoliation on sensitive or retinoid-treated skin to prevent irritation.

Toning function

Restores skin pH after cleansing and removes residue. Apply with cotton pad or mist, avoiding alcohol-heavy formulas on dry or sensitive skin.

Moisturiser function

Hydrates and supports the skin barrier through humectants, emollients, and occlusives. Choose lighter formulas for oily skin and richer creams for dry skin.

Sunburn risk factors

Fair skin, Fitzpatrick I–II, midday sun, and certain medications increase risk. Advise SPF, protective clothing, and avoidance of UV tanning beds.

Wax temperature check

Test wax on the inner wrist before application. It should be warm, not hot, to prevent burns and skin damage during hair removal.

Cross-infection control

Hand hygiene, clean linens per client, disinfected tools, and covered waste. Prevents transmission of bacteria, fungi, and viruses in salon settings.

Skin sensitivity signs

Redness, stinging, tightness, or flaking after product use. Choose fragrance-free, minimal-ingredient products and patch test before treatment.

Make-up foundation matching

Match to jawline in natural daylight, not hand or neck. Test two to three shades and blend to confirm seamless colour match.

Eyebrow shaping principle

Follow natural brow bone and client facial symmetry. Measure inner, arch, and tail points using a pencil or brush before hair removal.

Pedicure water temperature

Use comfortably warm water, approximately 37–40 °C. Check with client, especially for diabetes or circulatory conditions, to prevent burns.

Allergy history question

Ask about product, food, and medication allergies during consultation. Document responses and avoid known allergens in treatments and retail recommendations.

Barrier function

Skin's outer layer regulates water loss and blocks irritants. Maintain with gentle cleansing, moisturiser, and sun protection to prevent dryness and sensitivity.

Facial massage benefit

Improves circulation, relaxation, and product absorption. Avoid on active acne, broken skin, or recent cosmetic procedures unless cleared medically.

Hair removal aftercare

Advise no heat, sun, tight clothing, or perfumed products for 24 hours. Apply soothing lotion and exfoliate gently after 48 hours.

Sterilisation versus disinfection

Disinfection reduces pathogens on surfaces and tools; sterilisation destroys all microorganisms. Salon tools usually require disinfection, not sterilisation.

Client referral duty

Refer suspicious skin lesions, infections, or uncontrolled medical conditions to a doctor. Do not treat beyond scope of beauty therapy practice.