Before analyzing a patient's skin, what should be done first?

Before analyzing a patient's skin, it is essential to remove makeup. This step ensures that the esthetician can thoroughly see the skin's true condition without any obstructions. Makeup can cover up imperfections, such as blemishes, dryness, or signs of aging, which are important for a proper assessment and diagnosis.

By removing makeup, the esthetician is better equipped to evaluate skin type, texture, and any existing conditions, such as acne or sensitivity. This clarity is critical for developing an effective treatment plan tailored to the patient's unique needs.

In a practical setting, cleansing the skin might also be considered part of this preparation, but removing makeup comes first to ensure that the analysis reflects the skin's actual state. Therefore, the correct order of operations begins with makeup removal to provide a clear canvas for assessment.