Skin Care
This domain tests skin anatomy, skin analysis, facial protocol, and contraindications. Questions cover the epidermis, dermis, subcutaneous layer, skin types, Fitzpatrick phototypes, exfoliation, massage, masks, and hair removal safety.
Skin structure and analysis
- Epidermis: outer layer; the stratum corneum is the barrier. Dermis: contains collagen, elastin, sebaceous glands, and sweat glands. Subcutaneous: fat and cushioning.
- Skin types include normal, dry, oily, and combination. Fitzpatrick I–VI estimates sun response and guides sun-protection advice.
- Skin pH is mildly acidic, around 4.5–5.5; barrier-friendly cleansing avoids stripping.
Facial protocol
- Cleanse, analyze, exfoliate, massage, apply mask, moisturize, and finish with sun protection.
- Mechanical exfoliation uses scrubs or brushes; chemical exfoliation uses acids or enzymes. Match intensity to skin sensitivity.
- Contraindications include open lesions, sunburn, active herpes, recent peels or waxing, and irritated skin. Massage is avoided over inflamed acne.
Worked example
A client has an oily T-zone, dry cheeks, and mild congestion. Reasoning: combination skin needs zone-specific care. You cleanse with a gentle gel, use mild exfoliation, apply a clay mask only to the T-zone, and moisturize the cheeks. You avoid aggressive extractions on inflamed lesions and skip massage over active acne.
Traps that cost marks
- Diagnosing medical conditions instead of referring.
- Massaging over inflamed or infected skin.
- Waxing over skin treated with retinoids or recent peels.
- Using one mask type for every skin zone.
- Forgetting sun protection after exfoliation.