1. Client Intake, Skin Analysis, and Contraindication Screening
Required Intake Form Fields (complete before every service)
- Full name, date of birth, contact, emergency contact
- Current skincare routine and products used at home
- History of Accutane / isotretinoin use (within last 6-12 months)
- Pregnancy, breastfeeding, or trying to conceive
- Recent cosmetic procedures (Botox, fillers, laser, chemical peels, microneedling, surgery) - dates and locations
- Active skin conditions: eczema, psoriasis, rosacea, dermatitis, cold sores, open wounds
- Allergies (topical, latex, fragrances, nuts, aspirin)
- Medications that increase photosensitivity or affect healing (tretinoin, antibiotics, blood thinners)
- History of keloid scarring or poor wound healing
- Recent sun exposure or tanning bed use
- Fitzpatrick skin type (I-VI) and any ethnic skin considerations
Skin Analysis Performed At Every Visit
- Visual inspection under magnification and good lighting
- Palpation for texture, oiliness, dehydration
- Note primary concerns: acne, pigmentation, aging, sensitivity, dehydration
- Document with photos (with client consent) for progress tracking
Absolute Contraindications (Do Not Treat - Refer or Reschedule)
- Active infection, open lesions, or herpes outbreak in treatment area
- Recent Accutane use (within 6 months for most peels/microneedling; confirm with physician)
- Pregnancy or breastfeeding for retinoid, high-percentage acid, or certain essential oil protocols
- Known allergy to any product ingredient planned for use
- Recent ablative laser, deep peel, or surgery in area (timing per physician clearance)
Relative Contraindications (Proceed with Caution, Modify Protocol, Obtain Consent)
- Active rosacea or very sensitive skin - lower strength, shorter contact
- Recent waxing or exfoliation - wait 3-7 days
- Use of topical retinoids - pause 3-5 days prior for peels
- Sunburn or significant recent UV exposure - postpone or use very mild protocol
Patch Test Protocol (Required for New Clients or New Products)
Apply small amount of product to inner arm or behind ear 24-48 hours before service. Document reaction. If redness, itching, or irritation occurs, do not use that product or strength.
2. General Safety, Sanitation, and PPE Standards
Before Every Client
1. Wash hands with soap and water for 20 seconds.
2. Don fresh gloves (nitrile preferred).
3. Disinfect treatment bed, headrest, trolley, and high-touch surfaces with EPA-registered hospital-grade disinfectant (contact time per label, typically 1-10 minutes).
4. Use disposable or properly sterilized implements only. Autoclave metal tools if required by state; otherwise single-use or properly disinfected.
5. Verify all products are within expiration and properly labeled.
During Service
- Change gloves if contaminated or between major steps when required.
- Avoid touching face, hair, phone, or door handles while gloved.
- Use spatulas or pumps - never double-dip applicators into product jars.
- Maintain clean field; discard used cotton, gauze, and applicators immediately.
After Service
- Remove and dispose of gloves properly.
- Disinfect all surfaces again.
- Wash hands.
- Launder linens per hot-water + disinfectant protocol or use disposable.
PPE Minimum
- Gloves for all facial and peel services.
- Face mask when client is in close proximity or during extractions.
- Eye protection when using high-velocity steam, high-percentage acids, or aerosol products.
3. Signature Facial Protocol (60-75 minutes)
Goal: Cleanse, exfoliate, extract as needed, mask, tone, treat, protect. Suitable for most skin types with modifications.
Products (typical amounts)
- Cleanser: 1-2 pumps or 3-5 ml
- Exfoliant (enzyme or mild AHA): 3-5 ml, 5-8 min contact
- Extractions: as needed with proper technique and client comfort
- Mask: 8-12 g (clay, cream, or sheet)
- Treatment serum: 2-4 drops
- Moisturizer: 1-2 pumps
- SPF: 1-2 pumps (daytime)
Step-by-Step Sequence with Timing
1. Consultation & Skin Analysis (5 min)
Review intake, analyze skin, set expectations, obtain consent signature. Discuss any new concerns.
2. Cleansing (6-8 min)
Remove makeup with oil or balm cleanser. Follow with water-based cleanser. Rinse thoroughly. Pat dry.
3. Exfoliation (5-10 min)
Apply enzyme or low-percentage lactic/glycolic exfoliant. Steam optional (5 min). Avoid eye area. Remove with warm compress or rinse.
For sensitive skin: shorten time or use very mild enzyme only.
4. Extractions (5-12 min as needed)
Use gloves, proper lighting, and comedone extractor. Limit to 10-15 min total. Apply antiseptic afterward.
Never force. If skin is inflamed, skip and note for next visit.
5. Mask (10-15 min)
Apply appropriate mask (hydrating, purifying, calming, brightening). Cover eyes with pads.
Optional: hand or foot massage during mask.
6. Tone & Treat (5 min)
Apply toner or essence. Follow with targeted serum (e.g., niacinamide, hyaluronic, antioxidant).
7. Moisturize & Protect (4 min)
Apply moisturizer. Daytime: apply broad-spectrum SPF 30+ (reapply instruction given).
8. Aftercare Review & Booking (3-5 min)
Provide written aftercare. Recommend home products. Rebook next appointment (ideally 4 weeks).
Aftercare Instructions (Verbal + Written Handout)
- Avoid sun exposure and tanning for 48 hours. Use SPF daily.
- No harsh exfoliants, retinoids, or scrubs for 48-72 hours.
- Keep skin hydrated; drink water.
- Avoid touching face, picking, or applying makeup for 6-12 hours if possible.
- If redness or irritation persists >24 hours, contact studio.
Charting Requirements
Date, service name, products used with lot/exp if tracked, skin observations, extractions performed, client feedback, home care recommendations, next appointment, esthetician initials.
4. Dermaplaning Protocol (45-60 minutes)
Scope Note: Superficial exfoliation of dead skin and vellus hair using sterile surgical blade. Not shaving. Suitable for most Fitzpatrick types I-IV with caution on higher.
Contraindications (in addition to general)
- Active acne, pustules, or broken skin in area
- Recent chemical peel, laser, or wax (wait per modality)
- Blood-thinning medications (note increased bruising risk)
- History of cold sores (prophylaxis may be recommended)
- Unrealistic expectations about hair regrowth (educate: hair grows back same texture/density)
Products & Tools
- Pre-cleanser and cleanser
- Alcohol-free toner
- Sterile #10 or #14 dermaplaning blade (single-use per client or properly sterilized handle + fresh blade)
- Hyaluronic serum or light hydrator
- Moisturizer + SPF
- Optional: enzyme prep
Step-by-Step (45-60 min)
1. Intake & Consent (5 min)
Confirm no contraindications. Explain sensation (light scraping), results (smoother texture, better product absorption), and aftercare.
2. Cleanse (5 min)
Double cleanse. Remove all makeup and oils.
3. Prep Skin (3 min)
Optional light enzyme 3-5 min for easier glide. Tone. Stretch skin taut.
4. Dermaplaning (15-25 min)
Hold blade at 45-degree angle. Use short, gentle strokes with the grain of hair growth. Work in sections: forehead, cheeks, nose, chin, jaw, neck.
Use new blade or clean between sides if double-sided. Avoid pressure. Wipe blade frequently on clean gauze.
5. Post-Cleanse & Soothe (5 min)
Gently cleanse residual debris. Apply cool compress or calming toner.
6. Treatment & Finish (8-10 min)
Apply hydrating serum, moisturizer, and SPF (day) or night cream.
- Aftercare & Rebook (3 min)
Aftercare Specific to Dermaplaning
- Skin may feel slightly tight or pink for a few hours.
- Avoid direct sun 24-48 hrs. SPF mandatory.
- No scrubs, acids, retinoids, or waxing for 3-5 days.
- Makeup may be applied after 24 hours if skin feels comfortable.
- Hair will appear to grow back in 3-4 weeks at same rate and texture.
Safety / Disposal
Discard blade in sharps container immediately after use. Never reuse blades between clients.
5. Light Chemical Peel Protocol - Lactic or Glycolic 20-30% (45-60 min)
Important Scope & Safety
Only superficial peels within esthetician scope. Medium/deep peels, TCA >15-20% in many jurisdictions, or phenol are medical and require physician oversight. Always follow product manufacturer instructions and your state board rules.
Pre-Peel Requirements
- Client must have used at-home AHA/retinoid tolerance test or completed a series of milder treatments.
- No recent sun, waxing, or other exfoliation 5-7 days prior.
- Informed consent including risks (redness, flaking, PIH risk especially Fitzpatrick IV-VI, infection rare).
Protocol Steps (example 25% Lactic Peel)
1. Prep (10 min)
Thorough cleanse. Optional degrease with alcohol-free prep solution. Apply eye pads and lip protectant.
2. Application (3-5 min application + 3-8 min contact)
Apply peel solution evenly with fan brush or gauze in layers as per product. Start with 1-2 layers. Monitor erythema and client comfort constantly.
Timing and layers per manufacturer - do not exceed recommended maximum.
3. Neutralization / Removal (as indicated)
Some lactic peels are self-neutralizing. Others require water or specific neutralizer. Follow label exactly. Rinse thoroughly if required.
4. Soothe & Protect (8 min)
Apply calming serum, occlusive moisturizer or post-peel balm, and high SPF.
Aftercare (Critical - Provide Written)
- Expect mild to moderate flaking or dryness 2-5 days post. Do not pick.
- Cleanse gently with lukewarm water and mild cleanser only for 48 hrs.
- No acids, retinoids, scrubs, or exfoliants for 7 days (or until skin fully healed).
- SPF 30+ reapply every 2 hrs when outdoors. Strict sun avoidance for 7-10 days.
- Moisturize frequently. Avoid saunas, hot showers, intense exercise 24-48 hrs.
- If excessive redness, swelling, blistering, or signs of infection - contact studio/physician immediately.
Post-Peel Series Recommendation
Best results in series of 4-6 peels spaced 2-4 weeks apart. Maintenance every 6-8 weeks.
6. Microneedling (Collagen Induction) Protocol - If Within Scope (60-75 min)
Critical Scope Note
Many states limit microneedling needle depth for estheticians (typically 0.5 mm or less). Depths >1.0 mm or use of PRP / growth factors often require medical supervision. Verify your state board rules and training before offering. This protocol assumes superficial cosmetic microneedling within esthetic scope.
Contraindications (Additional)
- Active acne, rosacea flare, eczema, psoriasis in area
- History of keloid or hypertrophic scarring
- Blood disorders or on anticoagulants (note bleeding risk)
- Recent filler/Botox in area (wait 2-4 weeks)
- Autoimmune conditions affecting healing (discuss with physician)
Protocol Outline
1. Thorough cleanse + optional numbing cream (20-30 min, per product and regulations).
2. Disinfect skin with antiseptic.
3. Apply sterile hyaluronic or growth-factor serum if allowed.
4. Perform passes with sterile single-use cartridge (0.25-0.5 mm typical for estheticians). 3-4 passes in different directions. Mild pinpoint bleeding expected.
5. Apply post-treatment calming serum / balm.
6. SPF if daytime. Strict aftercare instructions.
Aftercare (7-14 days strict)
- No makeup, touching, or products except those provided for 24 hrs.
- Cleanse with gentle non-foaming cleanser only.
- Avoid sun, heat, exercise, swimming, saunas 48-72 hrs.
- Peeling or sandpaper texture normal days 3-7. Do not pick.
- SPF daily for 14 days minimum. Reapply.
- No retinoids, acids, or exfoliation for 7-14 days.
- Series: 3-6 treatments spaced 4-6 weeks.
7. Documentation, Charting, and Referral Guidelines
Every Service Charting (Minimum)
- Date, time, esthetician
- Service performed + products used (name, lot if tracked)
- Skin assessment before/after
- Client reported concerns and tolerance
- Any modifications or adverse reactions
- Aftercare provided (verbal + written)
- Home recommendations
- Next appointment or follow-up plan
- Signature or initials of esthetician and client acknowledgment where required
When to Refer to Dermatologist or Physician
- Suspicious lesions, changing moles, or possible skin cancer
- Severe or persistent acne, cystic acne, or suspected hormonal component
- Signs of infection post-treatment
- Client request for prescription retinoids, isotretinoin, or medical procedures
- Conditions outside esthetic scope (e.g., medical-grade peels, deep microneedling with blood products)
- Client reports systemic symptoms or medication changes that affect skin
Record Retention
Maintain client records for minimum period required by your state (often 3-7 years). Include photos with consent. Protect privacy per applicable law.
8. Product Layering & Pre/Post-Care Notes
General Layering Rule (Thinnest to Thickest)
Cleanser → Toner/Essence → Treatment Serum → Eye Cream → Moisturizer → SPF (day) or Occlusive (night).
Pre-Treatment Advice (Given at Booking)
- Avoid sun and self-tanners 5-7 days prior.
- Discontinue strong retinoids or acids 3-5 days before peels or needling (per protocol).
- Arrive with clean skin, no makeup.
Retail Recommendation Protocol
At end of every service, recommend 1-2 targeted home products that support the in-clinic treatment. Demonstrate usage. Offer to order or ring up.
Esthetician Treatment Protocols - professional template for licensed estheticians. This is not medical advice. All services must be performed within your state board scope of practice. Verify current regulations, required training, and product manufacturer guidelines before use. Contraindications and aftercare must be adapted to individual client and jurisdiction. As of 2026-06.
Appendix - Quick Reference Table of Common Treatments
| Treatment | Typical Duration | Key Contraindications (Summary) | Downtime Expectation | Recommended Frequency |
|--------------------|------------------|------------------------------------------|---------------------------|-----------------------|
| Signature Facial | 60-75 min | Active infection, recent procedures | Minimal | Every 4 weeks |
| Dermaplaning | 45-60 min | Active acne, recent peel/wax | 0-24 hrs pinkness | Every 3-4 weeks |
| Light Lactic Peel | 45-60 min | Sunburn, Accutane <6 mo, pregnancy | 2-5 days flaking | Series of 4-6, then maintenance |
| Microneedling (cosmetic) | 60-75 min | Keloid history, active inflammation, anticoagulants | 1-7 days texture/peel | 4-6 week intervals |
Always document client-specific modifications. Keep this document updated as products, regulations, or best practices change.
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