QQI Level 6 Beauty & Body flashcards

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

Stratum corneum

The outermost epidermal layer of flattened, keratinised dead cells embedded in lipid. It provides the main barrier to water loss and to penetration of cosmetic ingredients.

Acid mantle

The skin's slightly acidic film of sebum, sweat and lactic acid at pH 4.5-5.5. It inhibits bacteria and maintains barrier enzyme activity; alkaline cleansers temporarily disrupt it.

Epidermal melanin unit

One melanocyte plus the roughly 36 keratinocytes it supplies with melanosomes. Melanin transfers to keratinocytes and shields their nuclei from UV damage.

Skin barrier function

The corneocyte-lipid structure of the stratum corneum that limits water loss and entry of irritants and microbes. Damage shows as tightness, redness and increased sensitivity.

Double dipping

Re-inserting a used wax spatula into the pot after contact with skin. It transfers microbes into the wax and is prohibited; use a fresh spatula for every application.

Disinfection contact time

The manufacturer-specified period a disinfectant must stay wet on a pre-cleaned surface to kill target organisms. Shortening it invalidates the disinfection step.

Patch test

Applying a small amount of a high-risk product to skin, usually 24-48 hours before treatment, to detect sensitisation. The result must be recorded before proceeding.

Isotretinoin contraindication

Systemic acne drug that thins and fragilises skin and impairs healing. Waxing and aggressive exfoliation are avoided during use and typically for six months after stopping.

Informed consent

Client agreement to a specific treatment after being told its purpose, products, expected results, risks and alternatives. It is documented, signed and can be withdrawn at any time.

Open versus closed questions

Open questions invite detailed history and feelings; closed questions confirm specific facts. A consultation uses open questions first, then closed questions to verify.

Fitzpatrick phototype

A six-point scale of skin response to UV, from type I (always burns, never tans) to VI (never burns). It guides exfoliation intensity and light-based treatment suitability.

ABCDE lesion check

Asymmetry, Border irregularity, Colour variation, Diameter over 6 mm, Evolving change. Any positive finding is referred for medical assessment rather than treated in the salon.

Skin type versus condition

Type is genetic and stable (oily, dry, combination, normal). Condition is temporary and treatable (dehydration, sensitivity, pigmentation). Treatment plans address both.

Free acid value

The proportion of an acid peel not bound as a salt, which drives penetration and activity. Lower pH and higher free acid increase peel strength and risk.

Salicylic acid

A lipid-soluble beta hydroxy acid that penetrates pores and is comedolytic and anti-inflammatory. It is often chosen for oily, acne-prone skin and is typically self-neutralising.

Mandelic acid

A large-molecule alpha hydroxy acid that penetrates slowly, giving gentler exfoliation. It is often selected for sensitive skin and darker phototypes at lower risk of pigmentation.

Effleurage

A gliding massage stroke applied with relaxed hands, usually toward the heart. It warms tissue, spreads product and links other strokes in a Swedish massage sequence.

Massage contraindication

A condition making massage unsafe, such as DVT, fever, active infection or uncontrolled hypertension. Absolute contraindications mean no treatment; local ones mean work around the area.

Anagen phase

The active growth stage of the hair cycle, when the hair is anchored deep in the follicle. Waxing is most effective on anagen hair of adequate length.

Strip versus hard wax

Strip (soft) wax is removed with a fabric strip and suits large areas. Hard film wax sets on its own, is removed without a strip and suits sensitive or coarse-hair areas.

Folliculitis

Inflammation or infection of hair follicles, appearing as small red bumps, sometimes pustular. It is a local contraindication to waxing until resolved.

Humectant

An ingredient such as glycerin or hyaluronic acid that attracts and holds water in the upper skin layers. It needs an occlusive layer to prevent water loss in dry conditions.

Occlusive

An ingredient such as petrolatum or silicone that forms a film on the skin surface and reduces transepidermal water loss. It is used in barrier-repair and night products.

INCI list

The international naming system for cosmetic ingredients, listed in descending concentration above 1 percent. It allows therapists to check allergens and compare formulations.

Period after opening

The PAO symbol, such as 12M, states how long a product remains safe to use after it is first opened. It applies alongside, not instead of, the unopened expiry date.

Scope of practice

The treatments and advice a therapist is trained, insured and legally permitted to provide. Diagnosing skin disease falls outside it and requires medical referral.

GDPR client data

European rules requiring lawful, minimal and secure processing of personal and health data. Clients may request access, correction or erasure of their records.

Treatment record

A signed document capturing consultation findings, products and batch numbers, timings, consent and any reaction. It supports continuity of care and defends insurance claims.

Feature versus benefit

A feature is what a product contains or does; a benefit is the outcome for the client. Retail recommendations lead with benefits linked to the client's stated concern.

Needs-based selling

Recommending only products that address a concern identified in consultation, with a demonstration and clear instructions. It builds trust and repeat business rather than short-term sales.

Aftercare advice

Written and verbal instructions on what to do and avoid after treatment, such as no heat or sun for 24 hours. It reduces adverse reactions and is documented on the record.

Complaints procedure

A documented process to acknowledge, investigate and resolve client complaints promptly, with the outcome recorded. It protects the client relationship and supports legal compliance.