Cosmetology

1. A friend asks why her skin got irritated after using a new cream. What do you do?

Ask about the ingredients and her skin type, and try to work out what triggered the reaction. Tell her to just stop using it. Tell her it’s not really my area.

2. How do you feel about biology and chemistry at school?

I enjoy them – especially anything about the human body, skin and chemical reactions. I study them because I have to, though some topics do interest me. I try to steer clear of them.

3. You pick up a skincare product and see a long list of ingredients. What do you do?

Look up what the ingredients are and what each one does. Glance at the first few and put it back. I never read labels – it’s the scent and packaging that count.

4. Classes, textbooks and discussions will all be in English, in an international group. How does that sound?

Great – I’d love to pick up the scientific vocabulary in English and hear how skincare habits differ between cultures. I’ll manage, although technical terms in English might be a challenge. I’d rather study in my own language.

5. Imagine you’re giving a client a facial. What matters most to you?

Safety, hygiene and making sure she feels at ease. Getting a visible result straight away. Getting it done as quickly as possible.

6. Do you enjoy precise work that calls for a steady hand and patience?

Yes – I like tasks where detail matters, like drawing, model-making or doing make-up. Sometimes, as long as it doesn’t drag on. No, I lose interest quickly.

7. You come across a viral skincare hack online. How do you react?

Check whether there’s any science behind it and whether it could harm the skin. Give it a go if it has loads of likes. That sort of thing doesn’t interest me.

8. How comfortable are you being up close to someone – say, helping with their make-up or putting on a plaster?

Completely – I can be gentle and attentive. A bit awkward, but I manage. Very uncomfortable – I’d rather avoid it.

9. A client wants a treatment you don’t think is right for her skin. What do you do?

Calmly explain why and suggest a safer alternative. Go ahead, but warn her about possible side effects. Do what she asks – the customer is always right.

10. What motivates you most to study Cosmetology?

The chance to combine the science of skin with working with people and helping them feel good in their own skin. An interest in the world of beauty and skincare. I’m not sure it’s for me