Facial Treatments, Cleansing, Exfoliation, and Extractions
What the exam tests
Facial treatment questions test sequencing, cleanser and exfoliant selection, safe extraction, mask use, and sanitation between steps.
Core rules
- Sequence: consultation and skin analysis, cleansing, exfoliation, extractions if appropriate, massage, mask, moisturizer, sunscreen.
- Choose cleansers by skin condition: gel for oily, cream for dry, gentle nonfoaming for sensitive. Avoid stripping the barrier.
- Mechanical exfoliation uses scrub or brush; chemical uses AHAs, BHAs, or enzymes. Match strength to skin and history.
- Extract only open comedones and soft sebaceous plugs. Do not force inflamed pustules, nodules, or cysts; refer.
- Use gloves, finger cots, or gauze; disinfect tools; support tissue; apply gentle pressure.
- Heat and steam can increase redness; avoid overuse in rosacea or sensitive skin.
Worked example
A client wants a painful red pustule squeezed. Reasoning: inflamed lesions can rupture inward, spread infection, and scar. Do not extract. Apply a cool compress if appropriate, document, and advise the client to seek medical care if it worsens.
Traps
Extracting milia with a needle unless scope and training allow; over-exfoliating; using hot steam on reactive skin; and skipping sun protection after exfoliation.