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CIDESCO Beauty Therapy Diploma (Ireland) study materials
CIDESCO Beauty Therapy Diploma (Ireland) study resources

CIDESCO Beauty Therapy Diploma (Ireland) practice questions

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Question 1Beauty Therapy

Which skin type is characterised by a shiny appearance across the entire face, enlarged pores and frequent comedones?

  1. Sensitive skin
  2. Normal skin
  3. Dry skin
  4. Oily skin Correct answer.

Explanation

Oily skin results from overactive sebaceous glands and shows generalised shine, dilated pores and a tendency to congestion. Dry skin lacks sebum and appears tight and flaky, while sensitive skin reacts with redness rather than producing excess oil.

Question 2Beauty Therapy

In manual lymphatic drainage of the face, the direction of the effleurage strokes should follow which route?

  1. Along the lymphatic pathways towards the regional lymph nodes Correct answer.
  2. Against the direction of lymph flow to stimulate valves
  3. Outwards from the nose towards the ears only
  4. In small circles over the lymph nodes themselves

Explanation

Lymph moves towards the regional nodes in the neck, so drainage strokes are performed in the direction of flow with light pressure. Working against flow overloads the vessels and is contraindicated.

Question 3Beauty Therapy

Which muscle is the principal target of massage during a facial treatment to lift the corners of the mouth?

  1. Zygomaticus major Correct answer.
  2. Masseter
  3. Platysma
  4. Temporalis

Explanation

Zygomaticus major runs from the zygomatic bone to the corner of the mouth and elevates it during smiling. Masseter and temporalis are muscles of mastication, and platysma depresses the lower face.

Question 4Beauty Therapy

What is the correct dilution of a 2% essential oil blend when preparing 50 ml of massage oil?

  1. 0.5 ml of essential oil in 49.5 ml carrier oil
  2. 5 ml of essential oil in 45 ml carrier oil
  3. 2 ml of essential oil in 48 ml carrier oil
  4. 1 ml of essential oil in 49 ml carrier oil Correct answer.

Explanation

A 2% dilution means 2 ml of essential oil per 100 ml of product, so 50 ml requires 1 ml of essential oil made up to 50 ml with carrier oil. The calculation is a straightforward proportion.

Question 5Beauty Therapy

Which of the following is an absolute contraindication to a full-body massage?

  1. Tiredness after a long flight
  2. A verruca on the sole of the foot
  3. A recent deep vein thrombosis Correct answer.
  4. A mild sunburn on the shoulders

Explanation

Deep vein thrombosis carries a risk of clot dislodgement, so massage is absolutely contraindicated until the condition has resolved and medical clearance is given. The other situations are local or require only adaptation.

Question 6Beauty Therapy

Which ingredient is classified as a physical sunscreen?

  1. Octinoxate
  2. Oxybenzone
  3. Avobenzone
  4. Zinc oxide Correct answer.

Explanation

Zinc oxide sits on the skin surface and reflects and scatters UV radiation, making it a physical filter. Oxybenzone, octinoxate and avobenzone are organic chemical absorbers.

Question 7Beauty Therapy

Before performing electrolysis, what is the essential purpose of a patch test?

  1. To sterilise the probe before treatment
  2. To measure the client's pain threshold for billing
  3. To assess skin reaction and tolerance to the current and any products used Correct answer.
  4. To permanently remove a small area of hair

Explanation

A patch test observes how the client's skin responds to the current and any associated products, allowing settings to be adjusted and adverse reactions avoided. It is not a treatment or a sterilisation step.

Question 8Beauty Therapy

Which statement correctly describes the role of the acid mantle?

  1. It regulates body temperature through sweat evaporation
  2. It provides a waterproof layer made of keratin plates
  3. It maintains a slightly acidic surface pH that inhibits bacteria and supports barrier function Correct answer.
  4. It neutralises all sebum produced by the sebaceous glands

Explanation

The acid mantle is a thin film of sebum and sweat with a pH of about 4.5 to 5.5 that discourages pathogenic bacteria and supports the skin barrier. It is not a keratin layer and does not control sebum production.

Question 9Beauty Therapy

A client with a pacemaker requests a treatment involving electrical equipment. What is the correct course of action?

  1. Proceed with low intensity because modern pacemakers are shielded
  2. Treat only the limbs furthest from the chest
  3. Avoid electrical treatments and offer an alternative non-electrical treatment Correct answer.
  4. Ask the client to switch off the pacemaker during the session

Explanation

A pacemaker is an absolute contraindication for electrical beauty equipment because current can interfere with the device. A non-electrical alternative should be offered and medical advice sought if in doubt.

Question 10Beauty Therapy

Which sequence correctly describes the stages of a galvanic facial treatment using desincrustation followed by iontophoresis?

  1. Apply both stages using only the positive pole
  2. Cleanse and apply iontophoresis with the negative pole, then desincrust with the positive pole
  3. Cleanse and desincrust with the negative pole, then apply iontophoresis with the positive pole Correct answer.
  4. Apply both stages using only the negative pole

Explanation

Desincrustation uses the negative pole as the active electrode to saponify sebum and soften keratin. Iontophoresis then uses the positive pole to drive positively charged active ingredients into the skin.

Question 11Beauty Therapy

During a hot wax hair removal treatment on the legs, at what temperature should the wax be maintained?

  1. Approximately 38 to 42 degrees Celsius Correct answer.
  2. Approximately 70 to 75 degrees Celsius
  3. Approximately 20 to 25 degrees Celsius
  4. Approximately 55 to 60 degrees Celsius

Explanation

Hot wax is kept at around 38 to 42 degrees Celsius, warm enough to spread thinly but below the temperature that would burn skin. Higher temperatures risk burns and lower ones give poor adhesion.

Question 12Beauty Therapy

A client presents with a fungal infection on the toenails before a pedicure. How should the therapist respond?

  1. Proceed and apply a base coat to seal the nail plate
  2. Soak the feet in hot water to soften the infection
  3. Treat the nails normally but use extra polish
  4. Decline the treatment on the affected area and refer the client to a GP Correct answer.

Explanation

Fungal nail infections are contagious and a local contraindication, so the affected area should not be treated and the client referred for medical assessment. Equipment and linens must also be managed with strict infection control.

Question 13Beauty Therapy

Which treatment is most suitable for a client with active acne vulgaris who wants a facial?

  1. A hot steam and strong exfoliation facial to dry out the spots
  2. An intensive peel with a high-percentage glycolic acid
  3. A facial massage over inflamed pustules to disperse congestion
  4. A gentle deep-cleansing facial with non-comedogenic products and light extraction of mature comedones Correct answer.

Explanation

Active acne requires gentle cleansing with non-comedogenic products and only careful extraction of mature comedones, avoiding stimulation of inflamed lesions. Aggressive heat, friction or strong acids can worsen inflammation and cause scarring.

Question 14Beauty Therapy

Which factor most directly determines the choice of massage medium for a client with very dry, mature skin?

  1. The client's preference for a strong fragrance
  2. The speed at which the medium absorbs into cotton towels
  3. The desire for a matte finish after treatment
  4. The need for occlusive, nourishing ingredients that replenish lipids Correct answer.

Explanation

Very dry, mature skin benefits from richer oils and creams that support the lipid barrier and reduce transepidermal water loss. Finish, fragrance and towel absorption are secondary considerations.

Question 15Beauty Therapy

What is the primary action of a high-frequency (Tesla) current in acne treatment?

  1. It produces ozone and has a bactericidal and drying effect on the skin Correct answer.
  2. It drives water-soluble products deep into the dermis
  3. It stimulates muscle contraction to firm the jawline
  4. It cools the skin to reduce redness

Explanation

High-frequency current generates ozone at the electrode, which has a bactericidal effect and helps dry sebaceous congestion. It does not drive products into the skin or stimulate muscle contraction.

Question 16Beauty Therapy

Which precaution is most important when performing a chemical peel with glycolic acid?

  1. Use the highest available concentration for best results
  2. Assess skin sensitivity and neutralise or remove the acid at the correct time Correct answer.
  3. Apply a thick layer and leave it until the client reports discomfort
  4. Apply the acid to damp skin to increase penetration

Explanation

Glycolic acid peels require a skin assessment, correct concentration and timely neutralisation or removal to prevent burns. Leaving the acid until discomfort or applying it to damp skin increases penetration unpredictably and risks injury.

Question 17Beauty Therapy

A client's skin shows dilated capillaries across the cheeks. Which massage technique should be avoided over this area?

  1. Light pressure point work
  2. Vigorous petrissage and tapotement Correct answer.
  3. Gentle lymphatic drainage
  4. Slow effleurage

Explanation

Dilated capillaries are fragile, so vigorous kneading and percussion can cause further dilation and bruising. Slow effleurage and gentle drainage are appropriate alternatives.

Question 18Beauty Therapy

Which statement best explains why a therapist should avoid treating a client with undiagnosed high blood pressure using heat treatments?

  1. Heat lowers blood pressure so much that fainting is guaranteed
  2. Heat increases lymph flow so much that the nodes block
  3. Heat causes vasodilation that can raise cardiac workload and destabilise blood pressure Correct answer.
  4. Heat sterilises the skin and removes the need for cleansing

Explanation

Heat produces vasodilation and increases circulatory demand, which can destabilise a client whose blood pressure is uncontrolled. Medical clearance is required before heat treatments in such cases.

Question 19Beauty Therapy

Which muscle group is primarily worked by effleurage along the posterior lower leg?

  1. Tibialis anterior and extensor digitorum longus
  2. Biceps femoris and semitendinosus
  3. Gastrocnemius and soleus Correct answer.
  4. Rectus femoris and vastus medialis

Explanation

The calf is formed by gastrocnemius and soleus, which lie posteriorly below the knee. The hamstrings, anterior compartment muscles and quadriceps lie elsewhere.

Question 20Beauty Therapy

Which statement about the structure of the hair follicle is correct?

  1. The follicle is lined entirely by stratified squamous epithelium without a root sheath
  2. The dermal papilla is located above the skin surface
  3. The sebaceous gland lies at the base of the follicle and produces sweat
  4. The arrector pili muscle contracts to raise the hair and cause goosebumps Correct answer.

Explanation

The arrector pili is a small smooth muscle attached to the follicle that contracts in response to cold or emotion, raising the hair. Sebaceous glands produce sebum, and the dermal papilla lies at the base of the follicle.

Question 21Beauty Therapy

A client with a history of cold sores books a lip and chin wax. What is the most appropriate advice?

  1. Apply a hot compress first to bring out any virus
  2. Wax only the chin and treat the lip with hot wax
  3. Proceed because waxing does not affect the herpes virus
  4. Reschedule unless the client has taken antiviral prophylaxis prescribed by their doctor Correct answer.

Explanation

Trauma from waxing can trigger a herpes simplex outbreak in clients with a history of cold sores. Antiviral prophylaxis prescribed by a doctor, or postponement, reduces this risk.

Question 22Beauty Therapy

Which combination of findings most strongly suggests a client should be referred for suspected skin cancer before any facial treatment?

  1. Symmetrical freckles that darken slightly in summer
  2. A uniform mole present since childhood
  3. An asymmetrical pigmented lesion with irregular borders that has changed in size recently Correct answer.
  4. Mild redness over the cheeks after exercise

Explanation

The ABCD criteria of asymmetry, border irregularity, colour variation and recent change raise suspicion of melanoma and require urgent medical referral. Stable, symmetrical lesions and transient redness do not carry the same concern.

Question 23Beauty Therapy

A client with type 2 diabetes controlled by diet requests a pedicure and reports reduced sensation in the toes. What is the safest professional response?

  1. Decline invasive nail and callus work and refer, as reduced sensation raises the risk of unnoticed injury Correct answer.
  2. Proceed with normal filing and cuticle cutting because the diabetes is diet controlled
  3. Use a metal file to remove callus more quickly
  4. Soak the feet in very hot water to improve circulation first

Explanation

Peripheral neuropathy reduces protective sensation, so injuries from nippers, files or heat may go unnoticed and ulcerate. Non-invasive care only, with referral to a podiatrist or GP, is the safe approach.

Question 24Beauty Therapy

Which explanation best accounts for the need to avoid massage over varicose veins?

  1. Damaged valves and dilated vessel walls make the veins fragile and prone to thrombus formation Correct answer.
  2. Massage increases sebum production over the veins
  3. The veins contain no blood and cannot respond to pressure
  4. The veins are superficial and will be pushed deeper by pressure

Explanation

Varicose veins result from incompetent valves and weakened vessel walls, so direct pressure risks pain, rupture and thrombophlebitis. Surrounding tissue may be treated gently with medical advice.

Question 25Beauty Therapy

A salon is reviewing its infection control procedures after a client develops folliculitis following leg waxing. Which control measure most directly addresses the likely cause?

  1. Disinfecting tools and avoiding wax cross-contamination between clients Correct answer.
  2. Increasing the wax temperature to sterilise it
  3. Applying a heavier moisturiser after waxing
  4. Using the same spatula for several clients to save time

Explanation

Folliculitis after waxing usually follows bacterial contamination of the follicle, so disinfection of tools and single-use or correctly managed wax and spatulas is the key control. Heat does not sterilise wax and shared spatulas spread organisms.

Question 26Beauty Therapy

Which layer of the epidermis contains actively dividing keratinocytes that continually renew the skin surface?

  1. Stratum corneum
  2. Stratum granulosum
  3. Stratum lucidum
  4. Stratum basale Correct answer.

Explanation

The stratum basale is the deepest epidermal layer and holds the mitotically active cells that produce new keratinocytes. These cells migrate upward and differentiate through the other layers before being shed from the surface.

Question 27Beauty Therapy

Which type of joint allows the greatest range of movement and is therefore relevant when mobilising the shoulder during massage?

  1. Fibrous joint
  2. Ball-and-socket joint Correct answer.
  3. Cartilaginous joint
  4. Hinge joint

Explanation

Ball-and-socket joints, such as the shoulder and hip, permit movement in all planes including rotation, flexion, extension, abduction and adduction. This wide range underlies the mobility a therapist works with during massage.

Question 28Beauty Therapy

Which substance produced by sebaceous glands helps to lubricate the skin and retain moisture?

  1. Sebum Correct answer.
  2. Elastin
  3. Melanin
  4. Keratin

Explanation

Sebaceous glands secrete sebum, an oily substance that coats the skin surface and helps reduce water loss. It also contributes to the protective acid mantle when combined with sweat.

Question 29Beauty Therapy

What is the correct dilution ratio when preparing a disinfectant solution for salon tools according to the manufacturer's instructions?

  1. Use the strongest available concentration regardless of label
  2. Double the recommended concentration to ensure effectiveness
  3. Use the concentration specified on the product label Correct answer.
  4. Dilute only with hot water to increase potency

Explanation

Disinfectants must be prepared at the concentration and contact time stated by the manufacturer to achieve the claimed antimicrobial action. Using too weak a solution fails to kill pathogens, while excessive concentration wastes product and may damage tools.

Question 30Beauty Therapy

Which nail structure is the visible portion of the nail that extends beyond the fingertip?

  1. Nail bed
  2. Free edge Correct answer.
  3. Lunula
  4. Nail matrix

Explanation

The free edge is the part of the nail plate that projects past the fingertip and is trimmed during manicure and pedicure. It contains no nerve endings or blood supply.

Question 31Beauty Therapy

Which massage movement is characterised by slow, rhythmic stroking performed with the whole hand and used to begin and end a treatment?

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

Explanation

Effleurage is a gliding stroking movement that warms tissue, links other movements and is used to open and close a massage routine. It aids venous and lymphatic return when performed towards the heart.

Question 32Beauty Therapy

Which piece of personal protective equipment should a therapist wear when performing a treatment that may involve contact with blood or body fluids?

  1. Cotton gloves
  2. Reusable latex gloves
  3. Disposable nitrile gloves Correct answer.
  4. Fabric wrist supports

Explanation

Disposable nitrile gloves provide an effective barrier against blood-borne pathogens and are suitable for clients with latex sensitivity. They must be changed between clients and discarded after use.

Question 33Beauty Therapy

Which vitamin is essential for the absorption of calcium and is synthesised in the skin on exposure to ultraviolet light?

  1. Vitamin D Correct answer.
  2. Vitamin A
  3. Vitamin C
  4. Vitamin K

Explanation

Vitamin D is produced in the skin when ultraviolet B light converts a cholesterol derivative into a precursor that is then activated in the body. It is essential for calcium absorption and healthy bone formation.

Question 34Beauty Therapy

A client with sensitive skin requests a facial and reports stinging with many products. Which approach is most appropriate for the therapist to take?

  1. Increase the steam temperature to open the pores quickly
  2. Proceed with the full standard routine but reduce massage time
  3. Apply a strong exfoliant first to desensitise the skin
  4. Perform a patch test on a small area and select gentle, fragrance-free products Correct answer.

Explanation

Sensitive skin benefits from a patch test and gentle, minimally fragranced products to reduce the risk of irritation. Selecting suitable formulations and monitoring the skin response protects the client and tailors the treatment.

Question 35Beauty Therapy

During a facial, a client begins to feel dizzy and pale. What is the most appropriate immediate action for the therapist?

  1. Stop the treatment, lower the client's head and ensure fresh air Correct answer.
  2. Raise the client's head above heart level and apply a cold compress to the feet
  3. Continue the treatment and offer a glass of water at the end
  4. Increase the steam to improve circulation

Explanation

Dizziness and pallor suggest a vasovagal response or low blood pressure, so treatment should stop and the client should be positioned with the head lowered to restore blood flow to the brain. Fresh air and reassurance support recovery.

Question 36Beauty Therapy

Which statement correctly describes the difference between a mask and a scrub in a facial routine?

  1. A mask is applied before cleansing, while a scrub is applied after toning
  2. A scrub is left on the skin for 20 minutes, while a mask is rinsed immediately
  3. A mask is always exfoliating, while a scrub is always hydrating
  4. A scrub removes dead surface cells mechanically, while a mask delivers active ingredients to the skin Correct answer.

Explanation

Scrubs use physical particles or granules to exfoliate dead surface cells, whereas masks are left on the skin to deliver treatment ingredients such as hydration or clay absorption. They serve different purposes and are sequenced accordingly.

Question 37Beauty Therapy

A client requests a full-body massage but has a raised, red, warm area on the calf. What is the most appropriate response?

  1. Apply heat to the area before massaging
  2. Treat the whole body but avoid the affected leg and advise the client to seek medical advice Correct answer.
  3. Proceed with the massage as the redness is likely from exercise
  4. Massage the area firmly to disperse the redness

Explanation

A hot, red, swollen area may indicate infection or deep vein thrombosis, both of which are contraindications to massage. The therapist should avoid the area, treat only safe regions if appropriate and refer the client for medical assessment.

Question 38Beauty Therapy

Which technique should be used when removing hard wax from the skin?

  1. Rub it off with a warm cloth
  2. Flick it off quickly against the direction of hair growth Correct answer.
  3. Pull it off in the direction of hair growth with a firm, quick motion
  4. Peel it back slowly parallel to the skin

Explanation

Hard wax is removed with a quick flick against the direction of hair growth while the skin is held taut, which minimises discomfort and reduces hair breakage. Pulling slowly increases pain and may not remove hair cleanly.

Question 39Beauty Therapy

Which factor is most important to consider when selecting a massage medium for a client with oily skin on the back?

  1. The medium's ability to avoid adding further oiliness while allowing glide Correct answer.
  2. The cost of the product per litre
  3. The colour of the product
  4. The client's preference for a strong fragrance

Explanation

For oily skin, a lighter medium such as a gel or lotion provides glide without adding heavy oil that could contribute to congestion. The choice should balance client comfort with skin type suitability.

Question 40Beauty Therapy

A client receiving a manicure has a small cut on the cuticle that is bleeding. What is the correct action?

  1. Apply acetone to the cut to clean it
  2. Continue the manicure and apply polish over the cut
  3. Stop, apply pressure with a sterile wipe and cover the area before continuing or rescheduling Correct answer.
  4. Ignore it as small cuts are common in manicures

Explanation

Any break in the skin is a potential entry point for infection and a source of blood-borne contamination. The therapist should control bleeding with a sterile dressing, cover the area and follow standard precautions before deciding whether to continue.

Question 41Beauty Therapy

Which statement best explains why a therapist should avoid using tapotement over the kidneys?

  1. The kidneys are located too deep to be affected
  2. Tapotement is too gentle to have any effect there
  3. Tapotement is only suitable for the face
  4. Percussion may stimulate underlying organs and cause discomfort or harm Correct answer.

Explanation

Percussive movements transmit force through the tissues and over organs such as the kidneys may cause discomfort or injury. Therapists therefore avoid tapotement over the renal area and bony prominences.

Question 42Beauty Therapy

Which physiological effect explains why effleurage towards the heart supports venous return?

  1. It causes vasoconstriction of all surface vessels
  2. It increases arterial blood pressure significantly
  3. It assists the milking action of veins and lymph vessels Correct answer.
  4. It reduces heart rate to dangerous levels

Explanation

Effleurage applied in the direction of venous and lymphatic flow assists the return of blood and lymph towards the heart. This supports circulation and reduces oedema without directly altering arterial pressure.

Question 43Beauty Therapy

A client with a known allergy to tea tree oil requests an aromatherapy massage. What is the most appropriate action?

  1. Use tea tree oil in a diluted blend as dilution prevents reactions
  2. Avoid tea tree oil and select an alternative oil after checking other allergies Correct answer.
  3. Apply tea tree oil neat to test the reaction
  4. Proceed because aromatherapy oils are natural and therefore safe

Explanation

Known allergies must be respected regardless of dilution, and the therapist should choose an alternative oil after reviewing the client's full allergy history. Natural origin does not guarantee safety.

Question 44Beauty Therapy

Which structure connects muscle to bone and may be injured by overly vigorous massage?

  1. Cartilage
  2. Fascia
  3. Ligament
  4. Tendon Correct answer.

Explanation

Tendons are strong fibrous bands that attach muscle to bone and transmit the force of contraction. Overly vigorous massage near tendons can cause inflammation or strain.

Question 45Beauty Therapy

A client with rosacea books a facial and wants exfoliation. Which approach is most appropriate?

  1. Perform a strong mechanical scrub to remove redness
  2. Apply a high-percentage glycolic peel immediately
  3. Use gentle exfoliation and avoid heat, friction and stimulating massage Correct answer.
  4. Use hot steam for 15 minutes to open the pores

Explanation

Rosacea-prone skin is reactive to heat, friction and strong exfoliation, which can trigger flushing and worsen symptoms. Gentle exfoliation and avoidance of triggers are the safer approach.

Question 46Beauty Therapy

Which statement correctly describes the function of the lymphatic system in relation to beauty therapy?

  1. It drains excess tissue fluid and supports immune defence Correct answer.
  2. It secretes hormones that control sebum production
  3. It produces red blood cells in the skin
  4. It transports oxygen from the lungs to the tissues

Explanation

The lymphatic system returns excess interstitial fluid to the bloodstream and carries immune cells, supporting tissue health and defence. Manual lymphatic drainage techniques aim to encourage this flow.

Question 47Beauty Therapy

A client presents with a raised, pearly-edged lesion with a small central ulcer on the cheek that has been present for several months. What is the most appropriate action for the therapist?

  1. Treat the area with a clay mask and monitor for a week
  2. Apply a tea tree oil compress to the lesion
  3. Exfoliate gently to encourage healing
  4. Refer the client to a doctor without treating the lesion Correct answer.

Explanation

A pearly, ulcerated lesion that persists is a recognised warning sign of possible skin cancer and requires medical assessment. Therapists must not treat suspicious lesions and should refer promptly.

Question 48Beauty Therapy

Which combination of factors most strongly indicates that a client should be referred before a hot stone massage?

  1. A mild dislike of strong fragrance
  2. Recent weight loss and a preference for quiet treatment
  3. Uncontrolled hypertension and a history of deep vein thrombosis Correct answer.
  4. Occasional tiredness after work

Explanation

Uncontrolled hypertension and a history of deep vein thrombosis are significant contraindications because heat and pressure can affect circulation and blood pressure. Referral to a medical practitioner is required before proceeding.

Question 49Beauty Therapy

Which statement best explains the difference between disinfection and sterilisation in a salon setting?

  1. Both terms describe the same process and are interchangeable
  2. Disinfection reduces pathogens on surfaces, while sterilisation destroys all microorganisms including spores Correct answer.
  3. Sterilisation is a chemical wipe-down process, while disinfection uses an autoclave
  4. Disinfection kills all microorganisms including spores, while sterilisation only removes dirt

Explanation

Disinfection reduces the number of pathogenic organisms on surfaces or tools, whereas sterilisation destroys all microorganisms including bacterial spores. Salon tools that penetrate skin require sterilisation, while surfaces require disinfection.

Question 50Beauty Therapy

A client arrives for a lash tint consultation and mentions that she had a reaction to a previous tint, with swelling and redness around the eyes. She says she is happy to sign the consent form and wants the treatment today. What is the most appropriate course of action for the therapist?

  1. Proceed with the tint because the signed consent form transfers responsibility to the client
  2. Carry out a patch test on the inner elbow and proceed with the tint if no reaction appears after ten minutes
  3. Proceed with the tint but use a weaker dilution of the tint mixture to reduce the risk of reaction
  4. Refuse the lash tint, record the reported reaction, and advise the client to seek medical advice before any future tinting Correct answer.

Explanation

A previous reaction involving swelling and redness around the eyes indicates a likely sensitisation to tint ingredients, and re-exposure can trigger a faster and more severe response. A patch test cannot reliably predict this in a client with a known reaction, so the treatment should not go ahead. The therapist should document the reported reaction, decline the service, and refer the client for medical advice.