Skin Care, Facial Services, and Hair Removal
Skin Structure and Assessment
The epidermis is the outer protective layer; the dermis holds collagen, elastin, nerves, and blood vessels; subcutaneous tissue provides cushioning. Skin types are normal, dry, oily, and combination, modified by sensitivity and condition. The Fitzpatrick scale estimates sun response and guides treatment intensity. A thorough intake identifies allergies, medications, pregnancy, recent peels, and retinoid or isotretinoin use - all of which change what you may safely perform.
Facial Services
A basic facial follows a sequence: consultation, cleansing, skin analysis, exfoliation, massage, extractions if appropriate, mask, and finishing products with sun protection. Massage manipulations include effleurage (gliding), petrissage (kneading), tapotement (percussion), and friction (rubbing). Massage is contraindicated over inflammation, infection, or recent injury. Extractions are limited to soft, ready comedones; do not force. Know the roles of AHAs, BHAs, vitamin C, and humectants at a basic level - cosmetologists do not diagnose or prescribe.
Hair Removal
Soft wax is applied thin and removed with strips; hard wax is applied thicker, hardens, and is lifted without strips - better for sensitive areas. Test wax temperature on your wrist, always patch test the client, and never wax over isotretinoin users, recently peeled or irritated skin, or moles and broken skin. Hair should be roughly a quarter inch long. Tweezing suits small areas; threading is an option. Laser and electrolysis are outside scope - refer.
Traps and Rule of Thumb
Watch for 'wax over retinoids is fine,' 'extract every blackhead,' and 'massage improves inflammation.' Rule of thumb: when the skin is angry - red, hot, broken, or infected - hands off and refer.