Cosmetic Dermatology Assistance Flashcards
7 cards from real CDT practice questions. Tap to flip, then mark Knew It or Still Learning — missed cards come back until you master them.
Read the first 7 Cosmetic Dermatology Assistance flashcards as text
Which wavelength range is used by Nd:YAG lasers commonly employed for laser hair removal on darker skin types?
Answer: 1064 nm
The 1064 nm Nd:YAG laser has lower melanin absorption, allowing safer treatment on darker Fitzpatrick skin types with reduced epidermal damage.
When preparing a patient for a glycolic acid peel, which pre-peel skin prep step removes surface oils to ensure even penetration?
Answer: Degreasing with acetone or alcohol-based cleanser
Degreasing the skin removes sebum and residue, allowing the acid to penetrate evenly and produce a uniform peel result.
A cosmetic dermatology tech notices a patient has active herpes labialis lesions during intake for a perioral laser resurfacing procedure. The most appropriate action is to:
Answer: Postpone the procedure and notify the physician for antiviral prophylaxis review
Active herpes labialis is a contraindication to perioral laser treatment; the procedure should be postponed and antiviral prophylaxis managed by the physician.
Which type of injection technique is used to deposit filler along a linear tract while the needle is being withdrawn?
Answer: Retrograde linear threading
Retrograde linear threading deposits filler as the needle or cannula is withdrawn, creating a smooth column of product along the injection tract.
A patient on isotretinoin (Accutane) therapy requests a microdermabrasion treatment. The tech should:
Answer: Defer the procedure and inform the physician — isotretinoin is a contraindication
Isotretinoin impairs skin healing and alters sebaceous gland function; most guidelines recommend waiting 6–12 months after discontinuation before ablative or resurfacing procedures.
Which post-treatment instruction is critical following botulinum toxin injections to the forehead and glabella?
Answer: Avoid lying down for at least 4 hours to prevent toxin migration
Remaining upright for at least 4 hours after Botox injection helps prevent migration of the toxin to unintended muscle groups such as the levator palpebrae.
During laser treatment documentation, the acronym 'LASER' stands for Light Amplification by Stimulated Emission of Radiation. Which property of laser light makes it ideal for targeting specific chromophores?
Answer: Monochromaticity (single wavelength)
Laser light is monochromatic (single wavelength), allowing selective photothermolysis by precisely matching the absorption peak of the target chromophore (e.g., melanin, hemoglobin).