VA Esthetician flashcards

32 cards. Read the term and the definition here. The deck at the top of this page is optional.

Stratum corneum

Outermost epidermal layer of flattened, keratinized dead cells that forms the skin's primary barrier against water loss, irritants, and microorganisms; it is the layer most exfoliants act upon.

Acid mantle

Thin film of sebum, sweat, and lipids on the skin surface with a pH near 4.5 to 5.5, which inhibits bacteria and supports barrier function; alkaline cleansers disrupt it.

Fitzpatrick scale

Classification of skin types I through VI based on burning and tanning response to ultraviolet light; used to select treatment intensity and sun protection recommendations.

Anagen phase

Active growth stage of the hair cycle lasting roughly two to six years, during which the follicle sits deepest and is most responsive to electrolysis.

Alpha hydroxy acid

Water-soluble exfoliating acid such as glycolic or lactic that loosens bonds between dead surface cells; it increases sun sensitivity and is avoided on compromised skin.

Sebaceous gland

Oil gland attached to a hair follicle that secretes sebum, lubricating skin and hair; excess sebum plus retained keratin forms comedones and acne.

Effleurage

Gliding massage stroke applied with light to medium pressure; used to spread product and to begin or end a facial, generally moving toward lymph nodes.

Comedone extraction

Removal of open or closed comedones with gentle pressure or a sterile extractor after the skin is softened; inflamed cysts and pustules are never squeezed.

Contraindication

A condition making a planned treatment unsafe, such as contagious infection, open lesions, recent surgery, or isotretinoin use; the service is modified, postponed, or referred.

Superficial peel

Chemical exfoliation removing only the stratum corneum with low-percentage acids, producing light flaking and little downtime, with daily sun protection required afterward.

Client intake form

Written health history recording medications, allergies, pregnancies, prior treatments, and skin conditions; reviewed before every service to identify contraindications and document consent.

Hard wax

Stripless resin or polymer wax applied in a thick layer that shrinks around hair as it cools and is lifted off without cloth strips; suited to sensitive areas.

Soft wax

Thinly applied resin wax removed with a cloth strip pressed on and pulled against hair growth; a fresh strip and spatula are used for each area.

Double dipping

Reinserting a spatula that has touched skin into the wax container, which contaminates the entire supply; prohibited in favor of single-use spatulas or dippers.

Folliculitis

Inflammation or bacterial infection of hair follicles appearing as red bumps or pustules after waxing or shaving; avoid further trauma and refer persistent cases.

Isotretinoin (Accutane)

Oral acne medication that thins and dries the skin; waxing is contraindicated during use and for six months after because skin may lift or tear.

Waxing hair length

Hair should be about one-quarter inch or six millimeters long so wax can grip it; longer hair is trimmed first, and hair grows roughly half an inch monthly.

Green corrector

Concealer used to neutralize red tones from blemishes, broken capillaries, and rosacea; applied thinly before foundation so the color does not show through.

Lash curl types

J, B, C, and D describe increasing curvature of extension fibers; the choice depends on the natural lash direction and the desired amount of lift.

Lash adhesive

Cyanoacrylate-based glue that cures on exposure to moisture in the air; cure speed changes with humidity and temperature, and fumes require ventilation.

Patch test

Applying a small amount of a product such as adhesive or tint to the skin 24 to 48 hours before service to check for an allergic reaction.

Warm undertone

Skin with a yellow, peach, or golden cast and greenish veins; matched with warm-labeled foundations, while cool undertones show pink or blue.

Disinfection

Use of an EPA-registered hospital-grade product to destroy most pathogenic organisms on nonporous surfaces, excluding spores; the label contact time must be met.

Sterilization

Process that destroys all microbial life including bacterial spores, typically by autoclave; reserved for items that penetrate skin or contact blood.

Contact time

The number of minutes an implement must remain immersed or wet with disinfectant per the manufacturer's label to achieve the stated kill claims.

Porous implements

Items that absorb liquid, such as pumice stones, foam files, and wooden sticks; they cannot be reliably disinfected and must be discarded after one client.

Safety Data Sheet

Document supplied with professional products that lists hazards, safe handling, first aid, and storage requirements; it must be accessible in the salon.

Blood exposure

Stop the service, don gloves, cleanse the wound, disinfect all contacted surfaces with hospital-grade disinfectant, and place contaminated items in a biohazard bag.

Board for Barbers and Cosmetology

Virginia agency within the Department of Professional and Occupational Regulation that licenses estheticians, wax technicians, and salons and enforces regulation 18VAC41.

Scope of practice

Services an esthetician is licensed to perform, including facials, waxing, makeup, and lash services; diagnosing or treating skin disease is prohibited.

License display

Virginia requires the current license or a certified copy to be available at the salon where services are performed for inspection by the Board.

Establishment license

Salon license issued for each physical location; practitioners must work in a licensed establishment, and operating without one is a violation.