North Carolina Cosmetic Arts Practice Exam

How should a client prepare for a chemical peel?

1. Increase sun exposure and avoid moisturizers

2. Avoid sun exposure, retinoids, and certain medications several days prior

3. Keep the skin dry for a week

4. Use only natural products leading up to the treatment

The correct answer is: Avoid sun exposure, retinoids, and certain medications several days prior

To ensure the best outcome from a chemical peel, it is essential for clients to prepare their skin appropriately. Avoiding sun exposure, retinoids, and certain medications several days before the treatment helps protect the skin and enhances its ability to recover after the procedure. Sun exposure can increase the risk of post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation and may complicate the healing process. Retinoids, while beneficial for skin health in general, can make the skin more sensitive. Certain medications, particularly blood thinners and specific antibiotics, may also increase sensitivity or the risk of adverse reactions during the peel. By taking these precautions, clients optimize the effectiveness of the chemical peel while minimizing potential side effects. On the other hand, increasing sun exposure or avoiding moisturizers, as suggested in other options, would lead to negative outcomes, as well as keeping the skin dry or using only natural products, which do not address the specific needs of preparing skin for a chemical peel.