NIC Esthetician Written Exam flashcards

Cells located in the stratum basale of the epidermis that produce melanin, the pigment responsible for skin color and UV protection.

• Produce melanin
• Located in stratum basale
• Protect against UV radiation

Memory trick: Melanocytes Make Melanin for UV protection.

Specialized dendritic cells found in the epidermis that are part of the immune system, acting as antigen-presenting cells.

• Originate from bone marrow.
• Form a network throughout the epidermis.
• Crucial for initiating immune responses to skin pathogens.

Memory trick: K-M-L-M: Keratinocytes make skin, Melanocytes make color, Langerhans fight, Merkel feel.

A process using galvanic current to introduce water-soluble products into the skin.

• Uses direct current (DC)
• Enhances product penetration
• Suitable for various skin types, especially dehydrated

Memory trick: Glow with Galvanic's Gentle Glide.

A chronic autoimmune skin condition characterized by rapid skin cell turnover, leading to red, scaly patches, often with silvery scales.

• Autoimmune disorder
• Rapid skin cell proliferation
• Commonly affects elbows, knees, scalp

Memory trick: Psoriasis is a 'silver surfer' on a wave of fast skin.

Ultraviolet B radiation, a shorter wavelength of UV light that primarily affects the epidermis, causing sunburn and increasing the risk of skin cancer.

• Strongest between 10 AM and 4 PM.
• Does not penetrate as deeply as UVA.
• Primary cause of DNA damage leading to skin cancer.

Memory trick: B burns, A ages.

Techniques for applying skincare products, especially on sensitive skin, that prioritize minimal friction and stimulation to enhance absorption without irritation.

• Use light, upward strokes for creams/lotions.
• Gentle patting/pressing for serums/essences.
• Avoid rubbing or dragging the skin.
• Always apply with clean hands or tools.

Memory trick: Pat Gently, Press Softly

A makeup primer formulated to control oil, minimize shine, and create a smooth, non-glossy base.

• Absorbs excess oil
• Extends makeup wear
• Ideal for oily or combination skin in oily areas

Memory trick: Prime for Perfection: Hydrate, Matte, Glow, Correct.

Rosacea is a chronic inflammatory skin condition primarily affecting the face, characterized by persistent redness, visible blood vessels, and sometimes papules and pustules.

• Often localized to central face (cheeks, nose, forehead, chin).
• Can include flushing, burning, or stinging sensations.
• Triggers include sun exposure, hot drinks, spicy foods, alcohol, stress.

Memory trick: Red Rosie has a flushed face and bumps.

A common viral infection causing cold sores or fever blisters, characterized by latency and recurrent outbreaks.

• Viral infection
• Remains dormant in nerve cells
• Reactivates due to triggers (stress, sun, fever)

Memory trick: Herpes is a 'Hidden' Virus that 'Strikes' back.

A tough, fibrous, insoluble protein that is the main structural component of hair, nails, and the outer layer of the skin (epidermis), providing protection and strength.

• Primary protein of hair, nails, and epidermis
• Provides strength, resilience, and waterproofing
• Produced by keratinocytes
• Forms a protective barrier against environmental damage

Memory trick: Keratin Keeps Koverings Kstrong.

A massage manipulation consisting of short, quick tapping, slapping, or hacking movements that stimulate nerve endings and increase circulation.

• Stimulating and invigorating.
• Increases local blood circulation.
• Helps to tone underlying muscles.
• Should be performed lightly on facial areas.

Memory trick: Every Person Tries For Relaxation

An increased sensitivity of the skin to ultraviolet (UV) light, often caused by certain medications, medical conditions, or skin treatments like chemical peels.

• Increases risk of sunburn and sun damage
• Can lead to hyperpigmentation (PIH)
• Requires diligent sun protection

Memory trick: Peel Care: Protect, Hydrate, Soothe, Avoid.

Small, dilated blood vessels that appear close to the surface of the skin, often associated with rosacea or sun damage.

• Fragile capillaries
• Can be exacerbated by heat, friction, and certain electrical currents
• Require gentle handling in esthetic treatments

Memory trick: High Freq. on Freq. Fragile Veins is a Faux Pas.

Choosing an appropriate chemical peel for Fitzpatrick skin type III, balancing efficacy for hyperpigmentation with minimizing risk of post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH).

• Start with superficial peels (AHAs)
• Glycolic acid is a common choice
• Avoid strong peels initially to prevent PIH

Memory trick: Gentle acids first for medium skin, then assess for more.

An electrical facial treatment that uses low-level electrical current to stimulate facial muscles, promote cellular ATP production, and improve circulation for toning and lifting effects.

• Often called 'facial toning' or 'non-surgical facelift'.
• Mimics body's natural electrical impulses.
• Increases ATP, collagen, and elastin production.
• Requires a series of treatments for optimal results.

Memory trick: Microcurrent Makes Muscles Move

The use of an opposite color on the color wheel to neutralize unwanted skin tones before applying foundation.

• Green corrects red.
• Yellow corrects purple/blue.
• Purple corrects yellow/sallow.
• Orange/peach corrects blue/deep purple on darker skin.

Memory trick: Opposite Colors Erase Imperfections

Chemical substances that dissolve hair at the skin's surface.

• Contain alkaline chemicals
• Can cause skin irritation or allergic reactions
• Not suitable for sensitive areas like eyebrows

Memory trick: Wax, Sugar, Tweeze, Zap – Don't Cream!

Identifying the underlying color (undertone) of fair skin to select a foundation that blends seamlessly and enhances the natural complexion, typically cool (pink/red/blueish) or sometimes neutral.

• Fair skin often has cool undertones.
• Cool undertones have pink, red, or blueish hues.
• Matching undertone prevents an ashy or orange appearance.
• Look at veins on the wrist (blue/purple for cool, green for warm).

Memory trick: Warm, Cool, Neutral, True.

The essential protein fibers within the dermis—collagen and elastin—that provide the skin with its structural integrity, tensile strength, and elastic properties.

• Collagen: provides strength and firmness
• Elastin: provides elasticity and recoil
• Both produced by fibroblasts in the dermis
• Degradation leads to wrinkles and sagging

Memory trick: Dermis's Duo: Collagen's Core, Elastin's Stretch.

An electrical modality that uses high-frequency sound waves to gently exfoliate, cleanse, and aid in product penetration without harsh abrasion.

• Gentle and non-invasive.
• Suitable for sensitive skin and darker skin types.
• Helps remove dead skin cells and debris.
• Enhances absorption of serums and moisturizers.

Memory trick: Ultrasound Waves Gently Polish

An alternating current electrical modality that generates ozone and heat, providing germicidal, antiseptic, stimulating, and healing benefits for acne-prone and oily skin.

• Generates ozone for germicidal action.
• Increases circulation and cellular metabolism.
• Helps dry out pustules and promotes healing.
• Used directly or indirectly with a glass electrode.

Memory trick: High Frequency Fights Face Faults

Exocrine glands in the dermis that produce and secrete sebum, an oily substance that lubricates skin and hair.

• Produce sebum
• Associated with hair follicles
• Contribute to oily skin and acne

Memory trick: Sebaceous glands make the skin 'grease' for the face.

Bruising after waxing is often caused by improper technique, such as pulling the strip perpendicular to the skin, not holding the skin taut, or applying wax too hot.

• Pulling perpendicular to skin
• Not holding skin taut
• Wax too hot (less common for bruising, more for burns)
• Excessive skin lifting and trauma

Memory trick: Bad technique leads to pain and marks, be gentle and swift.

The slightly acidic film on the surface of the skin, composed of sebum and sweat, which acts as a protective barrier against bacteria and environmental factors.

• Healthy skin pH is typically 4.5-5.5.
• Helps inhibit bacterial growth.
• Disruption can lead to dryness, irritation, and increased susceptibility to infection.

Memory trick: Keep skin slightly sour, not soap-salty.

Selecting hair removal methods that minimize the risk of post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation, irritation, and other adverse reactions common in Fitzpatrick skin types IV-VI.

• Avoid methods that cause significant trauma or heat to the skin.
• Sugaring is often preferred due to its gentle nature.
• Laser/IPL require careful selection of wavelength and settings.

Memory trick: Sugar's Safe, Waxing's Wound.

A semi-permanent tattooing technique used to create the illusion of fuller, more defined eyebrows by depositing pigment into the skin in hair-like strokes.

• Manual hand tool used, not a machine
• Pigment implanted into superficial layers of the skin
• Lasts 1-3 years depending on skin type and aftercare

Memory trick: Brows Blessed by Blade, Lips Lavished by Light.

Essential aftercare instructions following microdermabrasion to protect sensitized skin, promote healing, and prevent complications.

• Skin is more vulnerable to sun damage post-treatment.
• Sun protection is paramount to prevent hyperpigmentation.
• Hydration and avoidance of irritants are also important.

Memory trick: Sun Protection Prevents Problems.

A gentle enzymatic exfoliation using bromelain, an enzyme derived from pineapple, to digest dead protein cells on the skin's surface.

• Proteolytic enzyme.
• Derived from pineapple.
• Gentle exfoliation, suitable for sensitive skin.
• Helps improve skin texture and brightness.

Memory trick: Fruity Enzymes for Gentle Peels

A facial treatment process that uses galvanic current with an alkaline solution to soften and emulsify sebum and debris in the pores.

• Prepares skin for extractions.
• Uses negative pole of galvanic current.
• Alkaline solution reacts with sebum.

Memory trick: Softening Sebum with Science

Mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) is highly susceptible to damage from reactive oxygen species (ROS) due to its location, lack of protective histones, and limited repair mechanisms, contributing significantly to cellular aging and disease.

• Located near ROS production (mitochondria)
• Lacks protective histones
• Limited repair mechanisms
• Implicated in aging and disease

Memory trick: Mitochondrial DNA is the 'engine's blueprint' most exposed to 'engine rust'.

A device that emits warm mist to open pores, soften skin, and promote product absorption during a facial.

• Hydrates the skin
• Softens dead skin cells and sebum
• Prepares skin for extractions or product penetration

Memory trick: Cleanse, Analyze, Prep, Treat, Protect.

A process of using galvanic current to force water-soluble products that contain ions into the skin. Anaphoresis uses the negative pole to introduce negatively charged products.

• Uses galvanic (direct) current.
• Enhances product penetration.
• Negative pole (anaphoresis) introduces negative ions.
• Positive pole (cataphoresis) introduces positive ions.

Memory trick: Galvanic Poles Push Potions

The thickest layer of the skin, located beneath the epidermis, rich in connective tissue, blood vessels, nerves, and housing collagen and elastin fibers.

• Contains collagen and elastin
• Provides strength and elasticity
• Houses hair follicles, glands, nerves

Memory trick: The Dermis is like a 'Durable' spring-mattress for the skin.

A family of zinc-dependent enzymes that degrade components of the extracellular matrix, such as collagen and elastin, playing a role in tissue remodeling and degradation in conditions like photoaging.

• Activity is increased by UV radiation, inflammation, and aging.
• Contribute to wrinkles, loss of elasticity, and impaired wound healing.
• Target for anti-aging skincare ingredients.

Memory trick: MMPs cut up skin's support, especially in the sun.

Small, benign, soft, flesh-colored or slightly pigmented outgrowths of skin.

• Common in areas of friction (neck, underarms)
• Benign and harmless
• Also known as acrochordons

Memory trick: Skin tags hang like little clothing tags.

For clients with mature skin and telangiectasias, indirect high frequency is the preferred method as it offers gentle stimulation without aggravating delicate capillaries.

• Telangiectasias = delicate capillaries
• Avoid direct, strong stimulation
• Indirect high frequency is gentle
• Sparking is contraindicated

Memory trick: Gentle waves for delicate veins, no direct sparks or shocks.

A highly elastic protein in connective tissue, particularly in the dermis, that allows many tissues in the body to resume their shape after stretching or contracting.

• Gives skin its flexibility and recoil ability.
• Degrades with age and sun exposure.
• Part of the extracellular matrix.

Memory trick: Collagen is strength, Elastin is stretch.

The most serious type of skin cancer, developing in melanocytes, identifiable by the ABCDEs of melanoma.

• Highly metastatic if not caught early.
• Often arises from existing moles or appears as a new dark spot.
• Prompt detection is crucial for successful treatment.

Memory trick: ABCDEs are your sun safety guide.

A diagnostic tool that uses filtered UV light to reveal various skin conditions based on their characteristic fluorescence patterns and colors.

• Different colors indicate different conditions.
• Yellow-green = bacteria/oil; bright white/blue-white = hypopigmentation/thick stratum corneum.
• Violet = dehydrated; dark spots = hyperpigmentation.

Memory trick: Wood's Lamp: Colors tell tales of skin's secrets.

A condition or factor that serves as a reason to withhold a certain medical treatment due to the harm that it would cause the patient.

• Indicates a treatment should not be performed.
• Protects client safety and prevents adverse reactions.
• Requires thorough client consultation and skin analysis.

Memory trick: Safety is paramount; always stop if there's a risk.

Commonly known as sun spots or age spots, these are flat, benign, hyperpigmented lesions that develop on sun-exposed skin due to chronic UV radiation.

• Appear as small, discrete brown or black spots.
• Primarily occur on face, hands, décolleté, and arms.
• Increase in number and size with age and sun exposure.

Memory trick: Solar lentigines are the sun's little brown 'lentils' scattered on your skin.

Acne characterized by breakouts, often cystic, along the jawline, chin, and neck, typically triggered or exacerbated by hormonal fluctuations (e.g., menstrual cycle, pregnancy).

• Common in adult women.
• Often deep, painful lesions.
• Requires targeted treatments to balance hormones or reduce their impact.

Memory trick: Acne comes from oil, bacteria, hormones, or friction.

Treatments that must be avoided while a client is taking isotretinoin (Accutane) due to extreme skin fragility and impaired healing.

• Includes aggressive exfoliation, waxing, chemical peels, microdermabrasion, laser treatments.
• Skin becomes very thin, dry, and sensitive.
• Risks include scarring, prolonged redness, delayed wound healing.

Memory trick: Accutane makes skin fragile; avoid anything abrasive.

Chemotherapy can severely compromise skin integrity, leading to extreme dryness, thinning, sensitivity, increased risk of infection, and impaired healing, necessitating highly modified and gentle esthetic treatments, often with medical clearance.

• Skin barrier is significantly weakened.
• Increased risk of photosensitivity, rashes, and irritation.
• Avoid harsh ingredients, strong exfoliation, or heat-based modalities.

Memory trick: Chemo makes skin a 'delicate flower' – protect it from all harshness, and get a doctor's 'OK'.

Certain esthetic treatments are contraindicated during pregnancy to ensure the safety of both the mother and the developing fetus.

• Avoid electrical currents (high-frequency, galvanic).
• Avoid certain chemical peels and strong exfoliants.
• Avoid treatments involving deep tissue manipulation or heat near the abdomen.

Memory trick: Pregnant clients need pampering, but avoid the buzz and deep work.

A skin type characterized by having both oily and dry or normal areas on the face, typically an oily T-zone (forehead, nose, chin) and drier cheeks.

• Requires targeted care for different facial zones.
• Can be influenced by genetics, hormones, and climate.
• Commonly exhibits larger pores in the T-zone.

Memory trick: Combination skin is like a patchwork quilt, different textures in different places.

An active or impending outbreak of the Herpes Simplex Virus (cold sore/fever blister) that prohibits any facial or skin treatment on the affected area due to contagiousness and risk of spread.

• Highly contagious viral infection.
• Can spread to other areas (autoinoculation) or individuals.
• Requires rescheduling until fully healed (no scabs or open lesions).

Memory trick: Contagious? Stop and reschedule for safety.

A side effect of prolonged topical corticosteroid use, leading to thinning, fragility, and visible blood vessels in the skin.

• Causes include overuse or high potency corticosteroids.
• Symptoms: skin thinning, translucency, easy bruising, telangiectasias.
• Requires careful product selection and gentle treatment.

Memory trick: Thin skin can be from too much steroid, sun, or just getting old.

Topical antibiotic creams, particularly for acne, can increase skin sensitivity and fragility, making waxing in treated areas contraindicated due to the high risk of skin lifting, irritation, or tearing.

• Compromise skin barrier function.
• Increase susceptibility to trauma.
• Always inquire about all topical medications during consultation.

Memory trick: Topical antibiotics make skin 'thin ice' – don't wax, or it will crack.

An active skin infection or open, inflamed lesion with pus that prohibits an esthetician from performing any invasive or direct treatment on the affected area.

• Risk of spreading infection.
• Risk of scarring and further damage.
• Requires medical evaluation by a physician.

Memory trick: Infection: Stop, Refer, Protect.

Individuals with shellfish allergies may experience allergic reactions to products containing ingredients derived from algae or seaweed due to shared allergenic proteins.

• Algae and seaweed can contain proteins similar to those found in shellfish.
• Always inquire about allergies during client consultation.
• Avoid marine-derived ingredients for clients with shellfish allergies.

Memory trick: Be aware of the sea's hidden ties; shellfish allergies can surprise with algae.

A chronic inflammatory skin condition characterized by extremely dry, itchy, red, and inflamed skin, often with flaking, and a strong association with other atopic conditions like asthma and allergies.

• Part of the 'atopic triad' (eczema, asthma, hay fever).
• Skin barrier dysfunction is a key feature.
• Triggers include irritants, allergens, stress, and climate.

Memory trick: Atopic dermatitis is the 'itchy triad' – skin, lungs, and nose all sensitive.

A skin condition characterized by a lack of water in the stratum corneum, leading to symptoms like dullness, tightness, fine lines, rough texture, and flakiness, regardless of the skin's oil production.

• Can affect any skin type (oily, dry, combination, normal).
• Caused by environmental factors, lifestyle, and improper product use.
• Requires humectants and barrier-supporting ingredients for treatment.

Memory trick: Dehydrated skin is like a thirsty sponge – tight, dull, and showing every little wrinkle.

Recently peeled skin is highly sensitive and compromised, requiring specific aftercare and avoidance of further professional treatments until fully healed.

• Skin barrier is temporarily impaired.
• Increased sensitivity to products and manipulation.
• Risk of irritation, hyperpigmentation, or infection if treated too soon.
• Healing time varies based on peel depth.

Memory trick: When skin looks hurt, stop, assess, and wait.

Specific care instructions and avoided treatments for clients using topical retinoids due to increased skin sensitivity and thinning.

• Skin becomes more fragile and photosensitive.
• Avoid aggressive exfoliation (peels, scrubs, microdermabrasion).
• Avoid waxing on treated areas.
• Emphasize strict sun protection (SPF).

Memory trick: Retinoids make skin delicate; treat with gentleness and SPF.

Abrasive aesthetic treatments (e.g., microdermabrasion, chemical peels) should be postponed for 7-14 days after Botox injections to prevent neurotoxin migration and ensure optimal results.

• Botox needs time to settle into muscle tissue.
• Pressure or massage can cause the neurotoxin to spread.
• Always inquire about recent injectables during consultation.

Memory trick: After Botox, let it 'settle in' for two weeks before any 'rough play' on the skin.

Treating post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation in darker skin tones requires careful selection of ingredients to effectively lighten pigmentation while minimizing irritation and preventing further PIH.

• Prioritize tyrosinase inhibitors.
• Avoid excessive irritation, which can worsen PIH.
• Gentle exfoliation is key.
• Sun protection is paramount.

Memory trick: For dark skin PIH, inhibit the color factory gently, and always protect.

Oral corticosteroids can lead to skin thinning, increased fragility, bruising, and delayed wound healing, requiring estheticians to perform treatments with extreme caution and gentleness.

• Skin becomes more delicate and prone to injury.
• Aggressive treatments like peels or waxing may be contraindicated.
• Always consult with a physician if unsure about treatment safety.

Memory trick: Corticosteroids make skin like thin paper; handle with care, or it will tear.

A common, benign, non-cancerous skin growth that often appears waxy, scaly, or crusty with a 'stuck-on' appearance.

• Vary in color from light tan to black.
• Commonly found on the face, chest, back, and scalp.
• Usually harmless, but can be mistaken for melanoma.
• Increase in number with age.

Memory trick: Benign spots are usually just 'stuck on' or a simple mole.

A common skin problem that causes dark, discolored patches on your skin, primarily on the face, often triggered by hormonal changes and sun exposure.

• Often called 'the mask of pregnancy'.
• Aggravated by sun exposure.
• Requires careful management and sun protection.

Memory trick: Pigment problems stem from sun, hormones, or injury.