Professional Standards and Business Practices
What this domain tests
Professional practice items cover scope of practice, informed consent, documentation, confidentiality, referrals, insurance, retail ethics, and regulatory compliance. The exam tests judgment: what you may do, what you must disclose, and when to send a client to a physician.
Core rules
- Stay within state scope: estheticians perform cosmetic services; they do not diagnose or treat disease. Medical conditions require referral.
- Informed consent should name the service, risks, alternatives, expected downtime, aftercare, and the client's right to stop. Document it.
- Records are confidential and retained per state law; release requires client authorization or legal requirement. Before-and-after photos need written consent.
- Contraindication screening and patch tests are documented before peels, lasers, and new products.
- Advertising must be truthful; avoid guarantees, cure claims, and manipulated before-and-after images. Pricing should disclose fees and retail commissions.
- Maintain infection control logs, device maintenance records, and incident reports.
Worked example
A client asks you to freeze off a skin tag with a high-frequency device because a friend had it done. Decline and explain scope of practice; offer a referral to a dermatologist. Document the request and referral. The reasoning: removing a lesion is a medical act, and using an esthetic device for it creates legal and safety risk.
Traps
Do not promise specific outcomes. Do not post client photos without consent. Do not treat a condition you are not trained or licensed to treat. Do not let retail pressure override contraindications.