The skin theory has been divided into different classes for better understanding and evaluation of the students. This course includes the study of the structure and composition of the integumentary system. Students will learn histology of the skin and hair of the tissue as well as the study of function of the skin, cell replacements, glands of the skin, and nutrition for the skin. Students will be instructed in the analysis and classification of skin, performing skin analysis, Fitzpatrick scale and different skin types. The composition, structure and function of the skin that will also be learned to help students know what effects the service performed will have on the client’s skin. Before performing services or selecting products, the client’s skin type and conditions must be analyzed, and appropriate skin care treatment should be determined (50 Clock Hours).

Students will learn the composition of the skin and classification of lesions in primary, secondary and tertiary. One of the objectives of this course is for students to be able to recognize the symptoms and signs of the most frequent skin diseases and disorders that they may find in their aesthetic practice, as well as to distinguish the differentiation between a chronic, acute or inflammatory disease diseases that cannot be treated by the facial specialist. Some of the skin disorders like eczema, acne, rosacea, psoriasis and their relationship to skin types will be discussed (15 Clock Hours).

This course teaches, as part of the general knowledge of skin theory, chapters related to bones, muscles and nerves of the face and neck. The basic movements of facial massage and techniques with oils, creams or lotions are described. Other chapters include massage or treatment of the face, neck or scalp with or without the use of mechanical devices that use oils, creams, lotions or other cosmetic products used to cleanse and condition the skin, to prevent or correct problems or conditions of the face, neck and scalp and to color and beautify the face, neck and scalp or enhance its features. Students will understand how to select techniques based on skin condition. (10 Clock Hours).

Students will learn how to handle a first basic consultation in person, how to create a “greeting plan” and make an appointment by phone. Students also will learn how to prepare an interview with the client and discuss customer expectations. How to perform a skin analysis an develop a treatment plan after client evaluation is part of this class (5 Clock Hours).

Students will learn the components of the endocrine system, endocrine glands and their functions, which is part of the necessary knowledge of skin theory to become an effective facial specialist. The student will develop an understanding of the role of the endocrine system in the skin development and its normal physiology and the effects of the hormonal change on the skin and the benefits and nature of light therapy in the production of Vit D as endocrine receptor. Basic knowledge of the most common disorders of the endocrine system glands and their manifestations in the skin and its appendages will be included (5 Clock Hours).

Students will learn the use of chemical agents to disinfect implements and equipment in the salon and promote, and protect, good health in the community. In order to define terms and to describe and clarify bacteria in relationships to the spread of disease, participants will learn types of bacteria with emphasis in bacterial growth and symptoms of bacterial infections. They will explore the function of the autoclave, type of disinfectant agents used in skin care, and the precautions related to sterilization and sanitation. Application of sterilization and sanitation methods, classification of pathogenic bacteria and know how pathogenic bacteria cause diseases, example of cutibacterium acnes (propionibacterium acnes). Using universal precaution, identify decontamination procedures to ensure the safety of the client and Lab/classroom participants (10 Clock Hours).

Students will learn the basic scientific principles in cosmetic science, definition and composition of skin care cosmetics. Effect of chemistry of cosmetics on the skin, safety of cosmetic and skin preparation. Basic skin care products, ingredients and choosing a product line. Type of products in the market; cleanser, moisturizing, humectants, chemical filters and sunscreen classifications among other (8 Clock Hours).

Students will learn the history of hair removal and the different types of hair removal techniques, in order to remove superfluous hair on the head, face or neck through epilation and/or depilation, excluding electrolysis. Benefits and complications of each technique are included. Proper steps in removing hair through the most commonly used techniques such as tweezing, waxing, and chemical depilatories will be taught. In addition, this class includes an understanding of safety precautions to be followed in the use of electrical devices and in waxing and chemicals applications. (2.5 Clock Hours).

Students will receive theoretical knowledge on the correct application of makeup, how to use the color wheel, characteristics of day and night makeup, and makeup procedures. (2 Clock Hours).

Students will learn polarity and current flow, types of electricity, measurements and safety precautions. The use of electrical modalities, and understanding electrical equipment, for facials and skin care purposes. A chapter to describe the benefits and nature of light therapy, types of energy light and the use of lamp is included Set up, use, and maintenance of electrical devices. The use and types of magnifying lamp (8 Clock Hours).

Students will learn professional ethics, integrity and attitudes. Setting up a Salon or starting a business, record keeping, insurance and compensation package and payroll deduction. Salon license application requirements (2 Clock Hours).

Students will learn the components of the basic facial treatment and perform the step-by- step facial treatment. They will also be prepared to recognize and understand the various ingredients used in facial packs and masks and appropriate used it according with the skin type. Study of protocols for manual and mechanical facials including masks, superficial chemical peels, skin moisturizing, galvanic current techniques, depigmentation and skin nutrition. Students will learn a broad range of facial techniques to optimize the results of facial treatments when dealing with varying skin. Protocols for each type of skin and the use of proper steps and safety precautions in giving facial treatments for varied types of skin will be learned. Exfoliation techniques, whether manual, mechanical or chemical, including microdermabrasion and chemical peeling, will be taught to prepare students for practical activities. They will also learn products, devices and types of chemicals that estheticians must use according to the different types of exfoliations (66 Clock Hours).