Utah Master Esthetician Practice Exam

Which hair removal method is considered safe for clients using tretinoin?

1. Waxing

2. Shaving

3. Threading

4. Laser Hair Removal

The correct answer is: Threading

When considering hair removal methods for clients using tretinoin, the safest option is threading. Tretinoin is a topical retinoid that can increase skin sensitivity and lead to potential irritation, especially when it comes to hair removal techniques that involve pulling or traumatic action on the skin. Threading is a method that involves twisting a thin thread to remove hair from the follicle and is known for being less abrasive than other methods like waxing. It doesn’t involve the use of heat or harsh chemicals, which can irritate sensitive skin. Additionally, since threading does not involve pulling on the skin as much as waxing does, it minimizes the risk of redness and irritation, making it a safer choice for clients undergoing treatment with tretinoin. In contrast, waxing typically removes hair along with a layer of skin cells, which could exacerbate sensitivity resulting from tretinoin. Laser hair removal can also cause irritation due to heat and energy use, while shaving might result in nicks or cuts, which may not be ideal for those with compromised skin due to tretinoin usage. Thus, among these methods, threading stands out as the most suitable and safe option for individuals using tretinoin.