Pennsylvania Esthetician State Board Practice Exam

What is an important step to take before administering high-frequency treatments?

1. Apply oil to the skin

2. Perform a patch test

3. Use a mild exfoliant

4. Apply a rich moisturizer

The correct answer is: Perform a patch test

Performing a patch test is a crucial step before administering high-frequency treatments. This test helps determine the skin's reaction to the treatment, especially for clients with sensitive or reactive skin. By applying the device to a small area of skin before proceeding with full treatment, the esthetician can identify any potential adverse reactions, such as irritation or allergic responses. This practice ensures safety and allows the esthetician to make informed decisions about the suitability of the treatment for the client. In contrast, applying oil to the skin, using a mild exfoliant, or applying a rich moisturizer do not directly assess skin sensitivity or suitability for high-frequency treatments. While these actions may be part of a skincare routine or prep, they do not provide the necessary assurance that the client will not experience negative effects from the treatment itself. Thus, the patch test stands out as the best practice in ensuring client safety.