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

Before analyzing a patient's skin, the crucial first step is to remove makeup. This practice allows for a clear view of the skin’s texture, tone, and any potential issues such as acne, pigmentation, or irritation. Makeup can obfuscate these details, leading to an inaccurate assessment. By removing makeup, an esthetician can effectively evaluate the patient's skin condition, which is essential for recommending appropriate treatments and products.

The other steps are typically considered after makeup removal. Applying sunscreen is important but more relevant after the skin analysis and treatment recommendations have been made. Examining the skin under a magnifier can provide additional insights, but this should follow the removal of any barriers like makeup. Cleansing the skin is also a critical part of preparation, often done to remove excess oils and impurities, but it comes after makeup has been completely taken off to ensure that the skin is being evaluated in its natural state.