Beautician

Key points

• Hygiene protects both the client and the beautician and builds trust.
• Cleaning removes dirt, disinfection kills most germs, sterilisation kills all microorganisms.
• Always clean a tool before disinfecting it, and follow the label for strength and contact time.
• Single-use items such as threading thread and cotton are thrown away after one client.
• Never double-dip a used spatula into wax or cream.

Key points

• The five common skin types are normal, dry, oily, combination and sensitive.
• Combination skin has an oily T-zone with normal or dry cheeks.
• The basic routine is cleanse, tone if wanted, moisturise and protect with sunscreen by day.
• Exfoliate gently, usually once or twice a week, and less often for sensitive skin.
• Refer skin conditions to a doctor; never diagnose or promise a cure.

Key points

• The hair shaft has three layers: cuticle, cortex and medulla.
• Shampoo cleans the scalp; conditioner goes mainly on the lengths and ends.
• Wet hair is fragile, so detangle it gently with a wide-tooth comb from the ends upwards.
• Use heat protection and moderate heat, and trim split ends because they cannot be repaired.
• Refer scalp problems to a doctor and stop the service if you see head lice.

Key points

• Check hands and feet first; do not work over infection, swelling or broken skin.
• File from the side towards the centre in one direction, not with a sawing action.
• Soften and gently push back cuticles; never cut living skin.
• Trim toenails straight across and smooth heels with a foot file or pumice, never a blade.
• Remove oil from the nail plate before applying base coat, colour and top coat.

Key points

• Prepare the skin first: cleanse, moisturise and use primer if wanted.
• Undertone can be warm, cool or neutral; test foundation on the jawline in daylight.
• Complementary colours neutralise each other, so green corrector reduces the look of redness.
• Use spatulas, disposable wands and clean brushes so that makeup never spreads germs.

Key points

• A consultation and record card come before every service.
• A contra-indication means the service should not be done, or needs special care or a doctor's approval.
• A patch test checks for a reaction before a product, such as hair colour, is fully used.
• Threading uses a twisted cotton thread, always fresh for each client.
• Soft wax is removed with a strip against hair growth; hard wax sets and is lifted off without a strip.

Key points

• Use electrical tools with dry hands, check cords, and unplug heated tools after use.
• Store chemicals labelled and closed, follow instructions, and never mix products unless told to.
• Cool a minor burn under cool running water for about 20 minutes; never use ice, butter or toothpaste.
• For facial swelling or difficulty breathing, call emergency help at once; 112 is India's national emergency number.
• Professional conduct means punctuality, honesty, clear prices, privacy and consent.