NIC Esthetician Written Exam flashcards

Grade II acne is a moderate form of acne characterized by numerous comedones (blackheads and whiteheads) along with a noticeable number of papules and pustules.

• More widespread than Grade I, but less severe than Grade III/IV.
• Inflammation is present but not dominant.
• Often manageable with topical treatments and esthetic care.

Memory trick: Acne grades climb from simple dots to a full, angry eruption.

A yellowish-green fluorescence under a Wood's lamp indicates the presence of Pityrosporum (Malassezia) yeast, often associated with folliculitis.

• Caused by Malassezia furfur yeast.
• Often presents as small, itchy papules/pustules.
• Common in oily areas like chest, back, forehead.
• Distinct from orange-red (P. acnes) or coral pink (Erythrasma).

Memory trick: Wood's lamp lights up skin issues in distinct hues.

The multi-step process of cleaning multi-use tools by washing with soap and water, rinsing, drying, immersing in an EPA-registered disinfectant for the specified contact time, then rinsing and drying again before storage.

• Cleaning (soap & water) must precede disinfection.
• Disinfectant requires specific contact time.
• Tools must be rinsed and dried after disinfection.

Memory trick: Clean, Rinse, Dry, Dip, Rinse, Dry, Store.

If electrical equipment emits a burning smell, smoke, or unusual noise, immediately unplug it and cease use to prevent fire, electrical shock, or further damage.

• Burning smell indicates serious malfunction.
• Immediate action: unplug and discontinue use.
• Prioritize safety over completing service.

Memory trick: Burning smell? No need to yell, just unplug the bell!

The safe and proper method of discarding sharp instruments like lancets, needles, and razors to prevent injuries and the spread of infection.

• Must use a puncture-resistant container.
• Container should be labeled as a 'sharps' or 'biohazard' container.
• Never overfill sharps containers.
• Follow local, state, and federal regulations for disposal.

Memory trick: Different waste types need different final resting places.

A device that uses ultraviolet light to keep already-disinfected tools sanitized and free from dust and environmental contaminants, not to sterilize or disinfect them.

• Only for cleaned and disinfected tools.
• Tools must be completely dry before placement.
• Does not sterilize; only maintains a sanitary condition.
• Acts as a storage unit, protecting against recontamination.

Memory trick: Clean, Dry, Disinfect, then Store. That's the tool care score!

Clients exhibiting symptoms of contagious illness should be rescheduled for services only after symptoms have completely resolved for at least 24-48 hours to prevent disease transmission.

• Protects staff and other clients.
• Follows public health guidelines.
• Prioritizes health and safety over immediate revenue.

Memory trick: Sick? Stay Home, Then Schedule Safe.

The immediate and necessary steps to take when a client experiences an unexpected or severe negative reaction during a chemical peel service.

• Stop the peel immediately upon signs of severe irritation (burning, intense redness, blistering).
• Neutralize the peel if it's an acid requiring neutralization (alkaline solution).
• Rinse thoroughly with cool water for an extended period.
• Apply cool compresses to soothe the skin.

Memory trick: Stop, Neutralize, Cool, Refer: For reactions, these are the four.

Soiled linens must be handled with minimal agitation, stored in covered, labeled receptacles, and kept separate from clean linens to prevent contamination.

• Use covered, labeled containers.
• Keep separate from clean linens.
• Minimize agitation to prevent aerosolization.

Memory trick: Soiled goes in a sealed bin, never near what's clean within.

Oral Isotretinoin (Accutane) causes extreme skin thinning, fragility, and sensitivity, making all exfoliating treatments (peels, microdermabrasion), waxing, and aggressive mechanical services strictly contraindicated for several months post-treatment.

• Causes severe skin fragility and sensitivity.
• Contraindicates all exfoliating, waxing, and aggressive treatments.
• Requires medical clearance for services post-treatment.

Memory trick: Accutane Alert: Avoid All Aggressive Actions.

OSHA requires hazardous chemicals to be stored in their original, properly labeled containers with tight-fitting lids, in a cool, dry, well-ventilated area, away from incompatible substances and ignition sources.

• Original, labeled containers.
• Tight-fitting lids.
• Cool, dry, well-ventilated area.
• Separation from incompatible materials.

Memory trick: Labels, Lids, Location, and Logic.

Before applying a high-frequency electrode to a client's skin, the device must be off and the electrode securely inserted into the handpiece to prevent electrical shock or sparking.

• Prevents electrical shock or sparking.
• Ensures client comfort and safety.
• Standard safety protocol for electrical modalities.

Memory trick: High-frequency: Power Off, Electrode In, then Glow.

The proper discarding of items designed for one-time use with a single client, ensuring sanitation and preventing cross-contamination in an esthetics setting.

• Items like cotton pads, tissues, and spatulas.
• Must be discarded immediately after use.
• If not contaminated with blood, dispose in general waste.
• Never reuse single-use items.

Memory trick: Single-use, non-bloody: Into the regular, covered bin.

A condition that restricts esthetic services only to a specific area of the body, allowing other unaffected areas to be treated.

• Examples include active lesions, pustules, or localized rashes.
• Requires avoiding direct treatment on the affected area.
• Different from a general contraindication which prevents the entire service.
• Prevents spread of infection and further irritation.

Memory trick: Spot a problem? Stop and assess; Safety first, then proceed with care.

Active bacterial skin infections (e.g., impetigo, boils) are absolute contraindications for esthetic services to prevent spread and ensure client safety, necessitating a medical referral.

• Highly contagious.
• Risk of spread to client, esthetician, and environment.
• Requires medical referral; service refusal.

Memory trick: Infection's a sign, a doctor's referral is divine.

Conditions or factors that make a particular esthetic treatment or procedure inadvisable due to potential harm, adverse reactions, or risk of infection.

• Include open sores, infections, severe skin conditions, and certain medical conditions.
• Estheticians must identify and respect contraindications for client safety.
• Always refer clients with unidentifiable or contagious conditions to a physician.

Memory trick: When in doubt, client's health comes first, then professional referral.

A pre-service safety procedure where a small amount of a product (e.g., chemical peel, tint, wax) is applied to a discreet area of the skin to test for allergic reactions or sensitivities before full application.

• Identifies potential allergic reactions.
• Prevents severe adverse reactions.
• Performed 24-48 hours prior to service.

Memory trick: Test a Spot, Before the Lot.

An approach to infection control where all human blood and certain human bodily fluids are treated as if known to be infectious for HIV, HBV, and other bloodborne pathogens.

• Treats all blood/fluids as potentially infectious.
• Protects against bloodborne pathogens.
• Emphasizes personal protective equipment (PPE).

Memory trick: Every drop you see, treat it like it's a pathogen spree.

An OSHA regulation (29 CFR 1910.1200) requiring employers to inform employees about hazardous chemicals in the workplace through labeling, Safety Data Sheets (SDSs), and training.

• Also known as the 'Right-to-Know' law.
• Key elements include written program, labeling, SDSs, and employee training.
• Applies to any workplace where hazardous chemicals are used.
• Aims to reduce chemical-related injuries and illnesses.

Memory trick: Labels, SDSs, Training, Program: HazCom's vital four.

Aseptic gloving involves washing hands thoroughly, then donning gloves by touching only specific, non-sterile areas (inside cuff) to maintain the sterility of the glove's outer surface.

• Handwashing before gloving is crucial.
• Touch only the inside cuff of the first glove.
• Touch only the outside of the second glove.
• Maintain sterility of outer glove surfaces.

Memory trick: Wash, touch inside, then outside, keep the germies deep inside.

Understanding the different classes of fire extinguishers and their appropriate uses is critical for salon safety, especially for electrical fires common with esthetic equipment.

• Class A: Ordinary combustibles (wood, paper).
• Class B: Flammable liquids (oils, solvents).
• Class C: Electrical equipment (live wires).
• Class K: Cooking oils/grease.

Memory trick: Fire Type to Extinguisher: Know your ABCs, and CO2 for electric.

The proper disposal of items contaminated with blood or other potentially infectious materials (OPIM) into designated, clearly labeled biohazard waste containers to prevent pathogen transmission.

• Mandated by OSHA's Bloodborne Pathogens Standard.
• Applies to blood, body fluids, and contaminated sharps.
• Prevents spread of infectious diseases.

Memory trick: Blood goes Red, Sharps go Box.

An active pustule is a localized contraindication for esthetic services. The affected area should be avoided to prevent infection spread, increased inflammation, or scarring, while other non-affected areas can be treated.

• Prevents spread of infection.
• Minimizes inflammation and scarring.
• Requires documentation in client chart.

Memory trick: Pustule Present? Pass, Proceed, Protect.

When handling chemicals that pose a splash risk, safety goggles are essential PPE to protect the eyes from splashes, fumes, and corrosive substances.

• Safety goggles provide a tight seal.
• Protects against splashes and fumes.
• Critical for strong chemical handling.

Memory trick: Chemicals can sting, so proper PPE brings protection to everything.

During a power outage, the immediate safety action is to provide emergency lighting to ensure visibility, prevent falls, and allow for safe assessment and conclusion of services, prioritizing client safety and well-being.

• Visibility is crucial for safety.
• Prevents client and esthetician injury.
• Allows for safe continuation of necessary steps.

Memory trick: Light First, Then Lead Out.

Active, contagious skin conditions (e.g., herpes simplex, impetigo) are absolute contraindications for esthetic services to prevent spread and protect client and practitioner.

• Protects client from worsening condition.
• Protects other clients and esthetician from infection.
• Rescheduling is the appropriate action.

Memory trick: If it's contagious or compromises, always pause and advise.

The immediate and critical emergency response to a chemical splash in the eye, primarily involving prolonged flushing with water to minimize damage and prevent vision loss.

• Immediate action is crucial.
• Flush with lukewarm water for 15-20 minutes.
• Hold eyelids open while flushing.
• Seek medical attention immediately after flushing.

Memory trick: Chemical Eye Crisis: Flush, Flush, Flush, then seek help.

Protocols designed to prevent the spread of bacteria, viruses, and fungi during waxing services, focusing on single-use items and proper wax handling.

• Waxing sticks are always single-use (no double-dipping).
• Wax pots must be kept meticulously clean.
• Wax can be retained for a limited period (e.g., 24 hours) if not contaminated.
• Applicators must be discarded immediately after a single dip.

Memory trick: One stick, one dip, then discard. Keep the wax clean, don't be a hazard.

A process that uses steam under pressure to kill all forms of microbial life, including bacterial spores, on reusable tools and equipment.

• Achieves the highest level of decontamination: sterilization.
• Requires tools to be thoroughly cleaned and dried beforehand.
• Tools are often wrapped or pouched to maintain sterility after processing.
• Regular monitoring and spore testing are essential to confirm effectiveness.

Memory trick: Autoclave's steam under pressure makes all germs flee, for sterility's guarantee.

Estheticians should observe and refer clients with suspicious skin lesions (e.g., changing moles, new growths) to a medical professional, as diagnosis and treatment are outside their scope of practice.

• Observe, but do not diagnose.
• Refer to dermatologist for suspicious lesions.
• Prioritize client safety and health.

Memory trick: See something strange, suggest a doctor's change.

Practices and precautions implemented to minimize the risk of fires caused by electrical equipment, wiring, or overloaded circuits.

• Avoid overloading electrical outlets and circuits.
• Do not use damaged or frayed electrical cords.
• Ensure proper grounding of electrical equipment.
• Regularly inspect and maintain all electrical appliances and wiring.

Memory trick: Inspect, Don't Overload, Keep Clear: For fire, follow these three.

In a chemical spill, after ensuring immediate personal safety and alerting others, consulting the product's Safety Data Sheet (SDS) is paramount for specific, safe cleanup and first aid instructions.

• SDS provides product-specific hazard info.
• Includes safe handling, cleanup, and first aid.
• Crucial for corrosive or hazardous spills.

Memory trick: Spill a chemical? Safety's critical! SDS has the script, don't just flip!

The process of introducing fresh air and removing stale or contaminated air from an enclosed space, essential for maintaining air quality and safety in esthetics settings.

• Dilutes airborne contaminants (chemicals, pathogens).
• Improves indoor air quality.
• Reduces risk of respiratory issues and infections.
• May involve exhaust fans, HVAC systems, or open windows.

Memory trick: Ventilation's Vital Vow: Volume of fresh air vanquishes various vectors.

The length of time a mixed disinfectant solution remains effective and capable of killing pathogens, as stated by the manufacturer.

• Often 24 hours, but can vary (e.g., daily, weekly).
• Must be discarded immediately if visibly soiled with debris or blood.
• Always follow manufacturer's instructions for mixing and disposal.
• Using expired or soiled disinfectant nullifies its effectiveness.

Memory trick: Time and cleanliness dictate disinfectant's prime.

To calculate the amount of concentrate needed for a specific dilution ratio (e.g., 1:X), divide the total volume of the solution by X. This yields the amount of concentrate, with the remainder being water.

• Ratio X means 1 part concentrate to X total parts solution.
• Formula: Total Volume / Ratio = Concentrate Volume.
• Accurate dilution ensures efficacy and safety.

Memory trick: Divide Total by Ratio to Get Concentrate.

The recommended length of time an individual should scrub their hands with soap and water to ensure the removal of transient microorganisms and reduce the risk of infection.

• Minimum 15-20 seconds of scrubbing.
• Focus on all surfaces of hands, including between fingers and under nails.
• Use warm water and a good quality liquid soap.
• Important before and after client contact, after touching contaminated surfaces, and after using restrooms.

Memory trick: Sing 'Happy Birthday' twice for the right handwashing time.

A standardized document providing comprehensive information about a hazardous chemical, including its properties, hazards, first-aid measures, and safe handling procedures.

• Required by OSHA's Hazard Communication Standard.
• Must be readily accessible to all employees.
• Replaced Material Safety Data Sheets (MSDS) in 2012.
• Contains 16 standard sections.

Memory trick: SDS: Safety Data Sheets Save Lives by detailing hazards.

Measures taken to prevent electrical hazards, such as shock or burns, when using high-frequency devices in esthetics, including ensuring equipment is dry and in good repair.

• Water conducts electricity; avoid contact with electrical equipment.
• Ensure electrodes are completely dry before use.
• Inspect cords for damage; avoid frayed wires.
• Always follow manufacturer's instructions for safe operation.

Memory trick: High-frequency and water don't mix; dry means no shocks.

Multi-use tools that come into contact with skin or bodily fluids must be thoroughly cleaned and then disinfected with an EPA-registered disinfectant.

• Required for non-porous, multi-use tools.
• Eliminates most, but not all, pathogenic microorganisms.
• Follow manufacturer's instructions for contact time.

Memory trick: Clean for show, Disinfect for go, Sterilize for glow.

A specific sequence of actions required to safely and effectively clean and disinfect surfaces contaminated with blood or other potentially infectious materials (OPIM).

• Always wear appropriate PPE (e.g., gloves).
• First, clean visible blood and debris with soap and water.
• Second, disinfect the area with an EPA-registered tuberculocidal disinfectant.
• Dispose of all contaminated materials as biohazard waste.

Memory trick: Gloves first, then clean the mess, then disinfect for success.

The process that completely destroys all microbial life, including spores, on an object or surface, typically achieved through heat (autoclave) or chemical sterilants.

• Highest level of decontamination.
• Required for critical items that penetrate sterile tissue.
• Eliminates bacteria, viruses, fungi, and spores.
• Common methods include autoclaving.

Memory trick: S-D-S: Sanitation, Disinfection, Sterilization, increasing power.

A massage technique characterized by deep kneading, squeezing, and rolling movements that lift and compress tissues, stimulating circulation, improving muscle tone, and facilitating product penetration.

• Involves kneading, squeezing, pinching motions
• Affects deeper muscle and connective tissue
• Stimulates circulation and lymphatic flow
• Helps improve muscle tone and elasticity

Memory trick: Every Face Needs Professional Touching.

A method of permanent hair removal that uses a fine probe to deliver electrical current directly into the hair follicle, destroying its growth cells.

• Only FDA-approved method for permanent hair removal
• Effective on all hair colors (including blonde, red, gray)
• Safe for all skin types, including darker skin tones (Fitzpatrick V-VI)
• Minimizes risk of hyperpigmentation compared to light-based methods for darker skin

Memory trick: Electrolysis Eliminates Every Hair Safely.

Selecting a foundation that provides adequate coverage for an even skin tone, a natural finish, and extended wear for photography, avoiding heavy or artificial appearances.

• Medium coverage is often ideal for balancing naturalness with flaw blurring
• Long-wear formulas ensure durability under lights and for extended sessions
• Avoids excessive glow or matte finishes unless specifically desired
• Matches skin tone and undertone perfectly to prevent demarcation lines

Memory trick: Coverage, Finish, Longevity, Match: Foundation's Four Musts.

An electrical modality that uses high-frequency vibrations to gently exfoliate the skin, remove impurities, and enhance the penetration of skincare products.

• Uses high-frequency sound waves (ultrasound)
• Provides gentle exfoliation (cavitation)
• Enhances product penetration (sonophoresis)
• Suitable for various skin types, including sensitive

Memory trick: Every Esthetician Uses Many Great Tools.

A chemical exfoliation treatment using alpha hydroxy acid (glycolic acid) at lower concentrations to gently remove dead skin cells, improving skin texture, clarity, and radiance with minimal downtime.

• Alpha Hydroxy Acid (AHA)
• Works by dissolving intercellular glue
• Targets dullness, mild hyperpigmentation, fine lines, rough texture
• Superficial depth (epidermis only)

Memory trick: Peels Progress from Pretty to Perilous.

The essential first step in tool decontamination, involving the physical removal of all visible debris and organic matter using soap and water prior to disinfection or sterilization.

• Removes organic matter (blood, skin cells) that can inactivate disinfectants.
• Must be done before disinfection or sterilization.
• Typically involves scrubbing with a brush under running water and detergent.

Memory trick: Clean First, Disinfect Second, Sterilize if Needed.

Recognizing signs of excessive irritation or sensitivity during or after a chemical peel (e.g., persistent erythema, burning, extreme sensitivity) and taking immediate corrective and preventative actions.

• Erythema (redness) and sensitivity are key indicators of over-reaction
• Immediate neutralization is critical if peel is still active
• Soothing and barrier-repairing products are essential post-reaction
• Future treatment plans must be adjusted (weaker peels, longer intervals)

Memory trick: React, Soothe, Adjust, Prevent.

A condition in a specific area of the body that makes it unsafe to perform a particular esthetic service on that area, but other areas may still be treated.

• Affects only a limited part of the body.
• Service can proceed on unaffected areas.
• Examples include sunburn, localized infection, or bruise.

Memory trick: Local is an area, Absolute is a NO-GO.