Hair Removal
What this domain tests
Hair removal questions focus on waxing and related methods: hair growth cycles, patch testing, temperature control, sanitation, client screening, and aftercare. Expect contraindication scenarios involving medications and compromised skin.
Core rules
- Hair grows in anagen, catagen, and telogen phases. Waxing removes hair from the follicle but does not stop growth; anagen hairs are most responsive.
- Hair should be about one-quarter inch long for wax to grip. Trim longer hair; do not wax very short stubble if the wax cannot grip.
- Patch test according to product directions, especially for clients with sensitive skin or allergy history. Test wax temperature on your wrist or gloved inner arm.
- Contraindicate or postpone waxing over sunburn, open lesions, active infection, recent peels, and irritated skin. Clients on isotretinoin, retinoids, or blood thinners need medical clearance or postponement per product and state rules.
- Never double-dip a spatula. Use a new applicator each time, or a clean section of wax, and discard contaminated wax.
Worked example
A client scheduled for a lip wax says she started tretinoin three days ago. Reasoning: retinoids thin the barrier and increase risk of skin lifting and tearing. Postpone the wax, document the medication, and advise her to ask her prescriber when it is safe to resume. Do not wax over the treated area.
Traps
Double-dipping; waxing over a mole or broken skin; using wax that is too hot; ignoring medication history; pulling wax against hair growth incorrectly; skipping aftercare with cooling and SPF.