Skin Care and Esthetics Services
Layers, skin types, and the barrier
The epidermis (outer, no blood vessels) includes the stratum corneum; the dermis holds collagen, elastin, nerves, and glands; the subcutaneous layer stores fat. The acid mantle sits near pH 4.5 to 5.5. Classify skin as normal, dry, oily, combination, or sensitive, and note Fitzpatrick type, which predicts sun and treatment response.
Treatments and technique
Cleansing, exfoliation (physical scrubs; chemical AHAs and BHAs), extractions, massage, masks, and moisturizer. The classic massage manipulations are effleurage (gliding), petrissage (kneading), tapotement (percussion), and friction/vibration. Extract only pustules and open comedones - never inflamed acne, moles, or cysts. Steamers stay roughly a hand-width from the face, and all electrodes, tips, and implements are disinfected between clients.
Waxing and contraindications
Test wax temperature on your inner wrist, apply in the direction of hair growth, and remove against it. Do not wax over isotretinoin (Accutane) use within the required window, recent retinoid use, fresh peels, sunburn, varicose veins, or moles; refer clients with diabetes or circulatory problems. Any contagious condition is a stop sign.
Traps
Questions flip effleurage direction, confuse cuticle with eponychium, or ask whether you may extract a cyst (you may not). Remember that estheticians do not diagnose skin disease.
Worked example: a client who started a retinol two weeks ago wants a brow wax - reschedule, because thinned skin lifts and tears.