ASCP Esty Talk: Episode 304 – Keep it Clinical and Handle Delicately

Release Date: February 12, 2025
Host/Author: Associated Skin Care Professionals (ASCP)
Description: ASCP Esty Talk and The Rogue Pharmacist podcast are tailored for estheticians, delving into diverse topics from skincare science and business strategies to beauty diversity. Episode 304, titled "Keep it Clinical and Handle Delicately," focuses on the critical subject of managing herpes viruses in esthetic practice.

1. Introduction to Herpes Viruses in Esthetic Practice

In this episode, co-hosts Maggie Stasicken, ASCP's Program Director, and Alec Cressman, a licensed esthetician and ingredient enthusiast, delve into the complexities of managing herpes viruses within the skincare industry. They emphasize the importance of estheticians being well-informed to prevent the spread of infections and handle sensitive client situations with professionalism and empathy.

2. Understanding Herpes Viruses Relevant to Estheticians

a. Herpes Simplex Virus Type 1 (HSV1)

• Definition & Common Presentation: HSV1, commonly known as oral herpes, manifests as cold sores on the lips or inside the mouth.
• Prevalence: "Globally, it's estimated that 64% of people under 50 have HSV1." (Cressman, 04:22)
• Contagiousness & Management: Highly contagious; essential to avoid treating affected areas during active outbreaks. Proper sanitization and, when necessary, rescheduling appointments are crucial to prevent transmission.

“HSV1 is a party crasher. No fun, not invited.” — Alec Cressman (03:25)

b. Herpes Simplex Virus Type 2 (HSV2)

• Definition & Common Presentation: HSV2 is typically associated with genital herpes but can appear in other areas.
• Interchangeability: "Both types can swap locations. Think of them as interchangeable characters of a soap opera." — Maggie Stasicken (07:07)
• Contagiousness & Management: Similar precautions as HSV1 apply. Treatments like Brazilian waxes or intimate brightening should be avoided during outbreaks and rescheduled if necessary.

c. Other Herpes Viruses

• Herpes Zoster (Shingles):

  • Relation to Chickenpox: Shingles is a reactivation of the chickenpox virus, presenting as a painful rash often in strip patterns.
  • Management: Avoid treating areas affected by shingles until fully healed to prevent contagion. Stress and weakened immune systems can trigger outbreaks.

• Epstein-Barr Virus (EBV):

  • Association: Linked to mononucleosis (mono), fatigue, sore throats, and unexpected skin rashes.
  • Prevalence: "Almost everyone gets the Epstein Barr virus at some point in their life." — Maggie Stasicken (15:04)

• Herpes Simplex Virus Type 7 (HSV7):

  • Association: Often related to eczema herpeticum, presenting as painful, fluid-filled blisters on eczema-affected skin.
  • Population at Risk: More common in immunocompromised individuals.

3. Importance of Thorough Consultations

Both hosts stress the necessity of comprehensive client consultations to identify any herpes virus presence or susceptibility. This involves:

• Asking Targeted Questions: Inquiring about past herpes outbreaks, current symptoms, and any preemptive treatments clients might be undergoing.
• Documentation: Keeping detailed records as clients' conditions can change between visits. "The consultation and that paperwork is being done every time your client comes in, because things change." — Maggie Stasicken (18:02)

4. Handling Clients with Herpes Outbreaks: Real-Life Stories

Case Study 1: Chemical Peel and HSV1 Spread

• Scenario: A client with an active cold sore underwent a chemical peel.
• Outcome: Within 24 hours, the cold sore spread extensively to her chin.

“It was a horrible outbreak... every time that she has an outbreak, it could potentially spread to her entire chin.” — Maggie Stasicken (06:02)

Case Study 2: Misidentifying a Cold Sore as a Pimple

• Scenario: A client attempted to extract a cold sore, mistaking it for a pimple, and sought professional help.
• Outcome: The esthetician had to rebook her to prevent further spread.

“She was attempting to extract it on her own... we had to rebook her.” — Maggie Stasicken (10:34)

Personal Anecdote: Instructor's Delicate Approach

• Scenario: An esthetician's instructor questions a client's potential cold sore presence, leading to client embarrassment.

“We can't treat you. We can't even touch her face.” — Maggie Stasicken (08:00)

This highlights the delicate balance between clinical necessity and empathetic communication to avoid client discomfort and maintain professional relationships.

5. Clinical and Empathetic Communication

Effective communication is paramount when addressing herpes-related concerns:

• Use of Gentle Language: Avoid medical jargon that might alienate or embarrass clients.

  “Handle it super delicately with empathy and everything.” — Alec Cressman (08:00)

• Maintain Professionalism: Keep discussions clinical to reassure clients and emphasize safety.

  “Keep it clinical.” — Alec Cressman (08:00)

• Educate Clients: Explain the reasons behind consultations and any necessary appointment changes to foster understanding and trust.

6. Prevention and Management Strategies

Estheticians can adopt several strategies to manage herpes risks effectively:

• Sanitization: Rigorous cleaning of tools and surfaces to prevent virus transmission.
• Avoiding Triggering Treatments: Reschedule treatments that may exacerbate outbreaks, such as chemical peels, micro-needling, and dermaplaning.
• Preemptive Treatments: Collaborate with clients' healthcare providers to manage herpes outbreaks proactively.
• Holistic Client Care: Address clients' overall well-being to minimize stress-related triggers for virus reactivation.

7. Conclusion & Key Takeaways

Episode 304 of ASCP Esty Talk underscores the significance of maintaining a clinical yet compassionate approach when dealing with herpes viruses in esthetic practice. Key takeaways include:

• Awareness: Estheticians must be knowledgeable about various herpes viruses and their implications in skincare treatments.
• Effective Communication: Balancing clinical professionalism with empathetic client interactions is essential to prevent embarrassment and ensure client safety.
• Proactive Management: Comprehensive consultations and diligent sanitization practices are critical in mitigating the spread of herpes viruses.
• Continuous Education: Ongoing learning and sharing of real-life experiences enhance estheticians' ability to handle sensitive situations adeptly.

By adhering to these principles, estheticians can safeguard their clients' health, uphold professional standards, and foster a trustworthy practice environment.

Notable Quotes:

• “HSV1 is a party crasher. No fun, not invited.” — Alec Cressman (03:25)
• “Both types can swap locations. Think of them as interchangeable characters of a soap opera.” — Maggie Stasicken (07:07)
• “Globally, it's estimated that 64% of people under 50 have HSV1.” — Alec Cressman (04:22)
• “The consultation and that paperwork is being done every time your client comes in, because things change.” — Maggie Stasicken (18:02)

For more insights and to connect with Maggie and Alec, visit the ASCP Esty Talk show notes. Share your thoughts and experiences on social media platforms like Instagram and Facebook, or email getconnectedcpskincare.com.