Product Knowledge and Retail in Beauty Therapy
Domain 10 tests ingredients, product function, pH, compatibility, expiry and needs-based retailing without medical claims.
Product science
- Cleansers remove oil and debris; match to skin type. Exfoliants: AHAs (glycolic, lactic) loosen dead cells; BHAs (salicylic) are oil-soluble and suit congested skin.
- Moisturisers contain humectants (glycerin), emollients (oils) and occlusives (petrolatum) to support the barrier.
- Sunscreen needs broad-spectrum UVA/UVB protection and adequate SPF; reapply as directed.
- Skin pH is about 4.7–5.5; strong acids or overuse of exfoliants can irritate. Check expiry and period-after-opening; patch-test new products.
- Avoid mixing incompatible actives such as retinoids with strong acids unless the client has professional guidance.
Retail conversation
Ask about needs, allergies, current routine and budget; explain benefits and limits; never claim to cure a medical condition; record recommendations.
Worked example: A client with dry, tight skin wants the strongest exfoliant available. Reasoning: the barrier is likely compromised, so strong acid would increase irritation. Recommend a gentle cleanser, emollient moisturiser and daily SPF first; introduce a low-strength lactic acid once or twice weekly when comfortable.
Traps: recommending products for diagnosed disease; ignoring allergies; using expired stock; overpromising results; selling without a needs analysis.