Cosmetology

1. During a clinic placement, a client sees no results after a course of treatments. What do you do?

Go back over her history, the notes and the protocol so far, then adjust the treatment plan. Suggest another course of the same treatments. Suggest she tries another clinic.

2. You come across a new study on how well an active ingredient works. How do you read it?

Check the methodology, the size and make-up of the sample, and who funded it. Read the conclusions and note the key points. I don’t read studies – the manufacturer’s leaflets are enough for me.

3. At Master’s level you’ll read research papers, write assignments and present case studies in English, alongside classmates from many countries. How do you feel about that?

It’s a real plus – access to current research and swapping experience with people from other countries will broaden my view of cosmetology. I’ll cope, although academic writing in English will take some effort. I’d rather keep English out of the classroom.

4. A client with a skin condition asks for a treatment. How do you proceed?

Assess any contraindications and, if in doubt, refer them to a dermatologist or agree a plan together. Do a gentler version of the treatment. Carry out the treatment as usual.

5. How would you feel about running your own clinic or leading a team?

I find that appealing – I want to combine expert knowledge with planning services, building a team and keeping standards high. Maybe one day, but for now I prefer working under someone else’s direction. It doesn’t interest me at all.

6. If you could design your own skincare product, where would you start?

By defining what the skin needs, choosing the active ingredients and checking how they interact. With the scent and packaging – I’d sort out the formula later. I wouldn’t want to design products.

7. How do you approach device-based treatments, such as those using light, electrical current or ultrasound?

I want to understand exactly how they affect the tissue, when to use them and when they’re contraindicated. The user manual is enough for me. I don’t really keep up with that kind of thing.

8. For a seminar, you need to come up with your own research project. What topic do you choose?

A real problem from practice – say, how well a therapy works for a particular skin concern – that I can investigate and write up. A general literature review, just to get it done. Whatever my supervisor suggests – I don’t have ideas of my own.

9. A client asks if a treatment will definitely get rid of her wrinkles. How do you answer?

Explain honestly what she can realistically expect, and we agree on goals together. Tell her she’ll see results, without going into detail. Promise they’ll disappear – what matters is keeping her happy.

10. What motivates you most to pursue a Master’s degree in Cosmetology?

The chance to deepen my scientific knowledge and move towards specialist cosmetology, research or clinic management. Better career prospects with a Master’s degree. I’m not sure it’s for me