Advanced Esthetic Treatments and Equipment
Exfoliation and peels
Mechanical exfoliation includes scrubs, brushes, and microdermabrasion, which uses crystal or diamond abrasion to remove the stratum corneum. Chemical peels use AHAs, BHAs, or other acids to accelerate desquamation; depth depends on the acid, concentration, pH, and time on skin. Always degrease, protect the eyes, watch for frosting, follow the manufacturer's neutralization protocol, and finish with barrier repair and SPF. Contraindications for both: active acne or infection, rosacea flares, recent isotretinoin, pregnancy (for many acids), photosensitizing medications, and recently treated or waxed skin.
Devices
High frequency (Tesla current) is used for a mild antibacterial and drying effect and is contraindicated with pacemakers, metal implants, epilepsy, and pregnancy. Galvanic and microcurrent devices require intact skin and no metal jewelry. LED therapy is contraindicated for photosensitivity and certain medications. Lasers and intense pulsed light are medical or specially licensed services in Illinois - do not offer what your license does not cover.
Safety and records
Test the device, explain sensations, keep settings conservative, time the treatment, document parameters, and give aftercare: no heat, no exfoliation, and daily broad-spectrum SPF.
Trap: exam items that have you treat over active infection or skip SPF after a peel.