Skin Care and Facial Treatments
What the exam tests
This domain tests skin types, skin analysis, facial sequence, product selection, massage and contraindications. You should be able to identify normal, dry, oily, combination and sensitive skin, choose suitable products, and explain why certain clients must be referred rather than treated.
Core rules and concepts
- Analyse skin under good light after cleansing: observe pores, shine, flakiness, redness and sensitivity. Ask about allergies, medications and recent treatments.
- A basic facial sequence is consultation, cleanse, exfoliate, steam, extraction only if trained, massage, mask, tone, moisturise and sunscreen.
- Match products to skin: gel or foaming cleanser for oily skin, cream cleanser for dry skin, fragrance-free products for sensitive skin.
- Do not diagnose medical conditions such as eczema, rosacea or infection. Refer clients with open wounds, active infection, severe acne, sunburn or recent chemical peels.
- Patch test products when allergy risk exists. Keep massage movements gentle and avoid overly long steaming.
Worked example
A client has an oily T-zone, dry cheeks and no allergies. This is combination skin. Choose a mild gel cleanser, light gel moisturiser and brief steam, and avoid heavy oils or aggressive scrubbing. Reasoning: the oily area needs oil control, while the dry area needs hydration without clogging pores. A gentle approach prevents irritation and preserves the skin barrier.
Traps that cost marks
- Calling combination skin oily and using harsh products.
- Steaming for too long or extracting inflamed acne.
- Scrubbing sensitive skin.
- Skipping sunscreen advice.
- Giving a medical diagnosis or treating infected skin.