Which of the following is a contraindication that would typically require medical clearance before a facial?

• A. Mild seasonal allergies.
• B. Acute eczema on the cheeks.
• C. Active contagious skin infection (e.g., impetigo) or uncontrolled skin disease.
• D. Recent waxing on the eyebrows.

Answer: (C)

The key idea is that anything that could spread infection or that represents an uncontrolled health issue is a contraindication that requires medical clearance before a facial. An active contagious skin infection, such as impetigo, falls into this category. Because the treatment involves skin contact and shared tools, applying products or using equipment could spread bacteria to other clients or the therapist, and the condition could worsen with facial procedures. Obtaining medical clearance ensures the infection is properly managed or the service is postponed safely, preventing transmission and complications.

In contrast, mild seasonal allergies aren’t contagious and don’t inherently make a facial unsafe, though you’d note symptoms and proceed with appropriate accommodations if needed. Recent waxing on the eyebrows is a temporary post-wax sensitivity and doesn’t involve an active infection or uncontrolled skin disease, so it generally wouldn’t require medical clearance. An active eczema flare could be considered an uncontrolled skin condition, but the emphasis in this context is on contagious infections or truly uncontrolled diseases requiring medical input before proceeding.