Client Consultation, Contraindications, and Documentation
What the exam tests
Consultation questions focus on informed consent, medical screening, contraindication recognition, patch testing, and records that protect the client and the esthetician.
Core rules
- Use a written intake form: medications, allergies, pregnancy, skin conditions, recent procedures, and communicable disease.
- Key contraindications include isotretinoin, retinoids and acids, blood thinners, photosensitizing drugs, active infection, open wounds, recent surgery or peels, and known product allergy.
- Patch test when the product label or salon policy requires it; record time, site, and result.
- Obtain informed consent before service; explain benefits, risks, alternatives, and aftercare.
- Document in SOAP format: Subjective, Objective, Assessment (within scope), Plan. Record facts, products, times, and client instructions.
- Keep records confidential and store them securely.
Worked example
A client on isotretinoin asks for a lip wax. Reasoning: isotretinoin thins and weakens skin, raising the risk of tearing and scarring. Decline waxing, explain why, document the refusal and education, and offer a safe alternative only after the prescriber clears it.
Traps
Accepting “I’m fine” instead of a complete history; skipping patch tests; writing opinions as diagnoses; and failing to document a refused service or referral.