WI Esthetician study plan

Define each link in the chain of infection and give one esthetics-specific example of how to break it

Differentiate cleaning, disinfection, and sterilization, and state which level applies to each implement in a typical facial station

Demonstrate correct handwashing sequence and glove donning/doffing steps from memory

Identify the EPA registration and label-contact-time information required on a hospital-grade disinfectant

Explain the layers of the epidermis in order and state the function of each stratum

Describe the structure and role of the dermis, subcutaneous layer, and appendages (sweat glands, sebaceous glands, hair follicle)

Practice Wisconsin-relevant safety procedures: blood spill response, contraindication screening before service, and safe sharp handling

Label a blank skin cross-section diagram with 20 structures from memory

Differentiate the functions of the body's systems that affect skin: circulatory, lymphatic, nervous, endocrine, and excretory

Explain the skin's barrier, immune, thermoregulation, and vitamin D synthesis functions

Compare melanin production, skin phototypes, and how UV exposure affects each layer

Trace the phases of wound healing and the role of the skin in defense

Conduct a full client intake and skin analysis using a written consultation form

Differentiate skin types (normal, dry, oily, combination) from skin conditions (dehydration, sensitivity, aging, acne, hyperpigmentation) using observable evidence

Identify primary and secondary lesions and recognize 8 common skin disorders that require referral

Explain Fitzpatrick typing and how it changes treatment selection and informed consent

Match common ingredients (AHA, BHA, retinoids, vitamin C, niacinamide, hyaluronic acid, benzoyl peroxide, physical and chemical UV filters) to the condition each addresses

Explain the mechanism and contraindication of exfoliation types: mechanical, enzymatic, and chemical

Select products for three sample client scenarios and justify each choice in one sentence

Recognize signs of over-exfoliation, allergic reaction, and product incompatibility

Sequence the steps of a basic facial and a specialty facial from preparation through post-service care

Describe modalities: steam, extraction, massage movements, high-frequency, LED, microdermabrasion, and chemical peel depth categories

Apply safe parameters and contraindications for each modality, including when to refer out

Create post-treatment home-care instructions a client could follow

Summarize Wisconsin licensing requirements, scope of practice, and rules for a licensed esthetician, including what must be referred to a physician

Explain Wisconsin requirements for salon/school sanitation, recordkeeping, and continuing education

Apply professional standards: confidentiality, informed consent, boundaries, and scope-of-practice limits when a client requests a prohibited service

Calculate service pricing, product cost percentage, and retail markup using a worksheet

Complete two full-length timed practice exams and analyze missed items by domain

Re-drill the two weakest domains using flashcards until 90% accuracy on each

Recite sanitation and scope-of-practice rules under time pressure

Write a test-day plan covering timing per question, flagging strategy, and review of unguessed items