Skin Care II SS1 Beauty & Cosmetology Lesson Note

Understanding Acne (Pimples)

Acne isn’t just “dirt” on the face. It happens when the tiny holes in our skin (pores) get blocked.

How it happens:

1. Too much oil: Your body produces extra oil (sebum).
2. Dead skin: Old skin cells don’t fall off; they get stuck in the oil.
3. Bacteria: Germs start to grow in that “trap,” and the skin gets swollen, red, and painful.

The “No-Squeeze” Rule: Tell your clients never to “pop” pimples! Squeezing pushes the bacteria deeper into the skin and leaves a black scar (hyperpigmentation) that takes months to fade.

Exfoliation: The “Deep Scrub”

Exfoliation is the process of removing dead skin cells from the surface of the skin. Think of it like sweeping a room before you mop it.

Types of Exfoliation:

• Mechanical (Physical): Using a scrub that has small “grains” or “beads.” You rub it gently in circles. Example: Sugar scrubs or using a soft facial sponge.
• Chemical: Using mild liquids (like Salicylic acid) that dissolve the “glue” holding dead skin together.

Why Exfoliate?

• It makes the skin feel smooth.
• It helps creams and serums soak in better.
• It prevents blackheads.

Warning: Do not exfoliate more than 2 times a week. If you do it every day, you will strip away the skin’s protection and cause redness.

Face Masks: The “Treatment” Step

A face mask is a thick layer of product left on the skin for 10–15 minutes. It gives the skin a “boost” of whatever it needs.

Category A: Natural Masks (Homemade)

You can find these in your kitchen! They are cheap and very effective.

• For Oily Skin/Acne: Honey and Lemon. Honey kills germs, and lemon cuts through oil.
• For Dry Skin: Mashed Avocado or Banana. These have natural oils that feed the skin.
• For Brightening: Turmeric and Yogurt. Helps to fade dark spots.

Category B: Synthetic Masks (Store-bought)

These are formulated in labs and come in tubes or sheets.

• Clay Masks: These “suck out” oil and dirt like a vacuum. Great for people with very oily skin.
• Sheet Masks: These look like a ghost face made of paper! They are soaked in water and vitamins to hydrate the skin.
• Peel-off Masks: These dry into a rubbery layer that you pull off. They are satisfying but can be harsh on sensitive skin.

Managing Acne: A Professional Guide

If a client comes to you with a lot of pimples, follow this plan:

1. Keep it Clean: Advise them to use a gentle cleanser twice a day.
2. Hands Off: Remind them to stop touching their face with dirty hands.
3. Check the Diet: Too much sugar and fried “oily” foods can make acne worse for some people.
4. Moisturize: Many people with acne stop using cream because they think their face is “already oily.” This is a mistake! If the skin gets too dry, it will produce even more oil to compensate. Use a light, watery moisturizer.

Common Myths About Skin Care

Practical Activity: The “Kitchen Facial”

1. In small groups, we will prepare a Honey and Sugar scrub for the hands (not the face yet!).
2. Mix 1 tablespoon of sugar with 1 tablespoon of honey.
3. Gently rub it on your hands for 2 minutes and wash off with lukewarm water.
4. Notice how soft your skin feels. This is the power of exfoliation!