Advanced Facial and Skin Care Treatments
What this domain tests
Advanced facial questions test modality selection, skin preparation, parameters, contraindications, post-treatment care and complication management. Expect applied scenarios, not just definitions.
Core rules and concepts
- Chemical peels: superficial peels act on the epidermis; depth depends on agent, concentration, pH, free-acid level, contact time and skin prep. Neutralise only those products requiring it.
- Microdermabrasion: mechanical exfoliation; avoid over active acne, rosacea, fragile skin, recent isotretinoin and areas with infection.
- Microneedling: creates controlled micro-injury; strict asepsis is required, with caution around active infection, anticoagulants and autoimmune conditions.
- LED: non-ablative photobiomodulation; protect eyes and match wavelength to the treatment goal.
- Electrical modalities such as galvanic, high frequency, ultrasound and microcurrent require intact skin, correct coupling and contraindication checks including pacemakers, pregnancy where advised, and metal implants.
- Always patch test, prep according to protocol, use SPF and aftercare, and document parameters.
Worked example
A client with photoageing and no active acne is booked for a superficial glycolic peel. Reasoning: start low, for example a low percentage at pH around 3–4, degrease, protect sensitive areas, time the application, assess the endpoint of mild erythema, neutralise if required, then apply barrier cream and SPF. Review at 2–4 weeks rather than stacking stronger acids immediately.
Traps that cost marks
- Believing a stronger peel is always better.
- Treating active cold sores or impetigo.
- Mixing acids without pH control.
- Leaving clients without SPF advice.
- Failing to record peel type, strength, time and endpoint.