If a client tells you that they are on antibiotics or are experiencing skin sensitivity, you should _________.

• A. Proceed with service without testing
• B. Patch test any chemicals prior to a service
• C. Dilute chemicals in water first
• D. Increase exposure time to chemicals

Answer: (B)

When a client is on antibiotics or has skin sensitivity, the risk of an adverse reaction to cosmetic chemicals is higher, so testing before full service is essential. Patch testing places a tiny amount of each product on a small skin area and checks for a reaction over a short period, helping identify anything the skin might react to without exposing the whole face or body. If a reaction occurs, you can avoid that product or choose safer alternatives, preventing a larger problem during the service. Proceeding without testing can lead to irritation or an allergic reaction; simply diluting products doesn’t reliably prevent reactions and increasing exposure time only raises the risk.