Lesson 1Focused physical exam: facial anatomy, skin quality, laxity, volume loss, dynamic vs static linesThis lesson details a targeted cosmetic physical examination, focusing on facial anatomy, skin condition, laxity, volume levels, and dynamic versus static lines to develop realistic, prioritised, and anatomically sound treatment plans.
Analyse facial shape and structural supportAssess skin texture, pores, and uneven pigmentationEvaluate laxity, drooping, and tissue saggingDifferentiate dynamic from static wrinklesIdentify volume loss and fat compartment shiftsPrioritise findings into phased treatment plansLesson 2Dermatoscopic and photographic documentation: tools, standardised views, Fitzpatrick classificationThis lesson explains dermatoscopic and photographic documentation methods, covering tool choices, standardised angles, lighting, and skin typing to monitor progress, aid diagnosis, and provide medicolegal safeguards.
Select cameras, lenses, and lighting setupsStandardise patient positioning and viewsUse consistent exposure and background settingsIncorporate dermatoscopy for lesion assessmentClassify skin type with Fitzpatrick and GlogauStore and secure images for follow-up comparisonLesson 3Medication and supplement review: anticoagulants, isotretinoin, immunosuppressants, herbal supplementsThis lesson outlines a thorough review of medications and supplements, such as anticoagulants, isotretinoin, immunosuppressants, and herbal products, to foresee bleeding, bruising, delayed healing, and interactions with cosmetic treatments.
Identify anticoagulants and antiplatelet agentsReview isotretinoin and retinoid exposureAssess steroids and immunosuppressive therapyScreen for photosensitising medicationsDocument herbal and over-the-counter productsCoordinate medication adjustments with prescribersLesson 4Assessment of vascular and sensory status: palpation, blanching tests, vascular mappingThis lesson describes assessing vascular and sensory status prior to procedures using palpation, blanching, and mapping to spot high-risk areas, anatomical variations, and nerve issues that could affect injection methods and complication handling.
Palpate pulses and assess capillary refillPerform blanching and compression safety testsMap major facial arteries and danger zonesIdentify prior surgery, scars, and fillersScreen for neuropathy and altered sensationPlan safer injection planes and volumesLesson 5Medical history essentials: systemic diseases, medications, allergies, pregnancy and breastfeedingThis lesson addresses key medical history for cosmetic patients, emphasising systemic conditions, medications, allergies, and reproductive status to predict complications, modify product selections, and schedule procedures safely and responsibly.
Screen for cardiovascular and metabolic diseaseIdentify autoimmune and connective tissue disordersReview allergies, atopy, and prior drug reactionsAssess pregnancy, fertility plans, breastfeedingEvaluate bleeding risk and wound healing issuesClarify prior anaesthesia or surgery complicationsLesson 6Lifestyle and skin care factors: sun exposure, smoking, topical regimens, recent tanningThis lesson explores lifestyle and skincare elements affecting healing, pigmentation changes, and treatment longevity, including sun exposure, smoking, tanning, and topical routines, to optimise timing, advice, and pre-treatment preparation.
Quantify chronic and intermittent sun exposureAssess indoor tanning and recent sunburnsEvaluate smoking, vaping, and nicotine useReview current topical and prescription productsIdentify irritants, exfoliants, and retinoidsPlan preconditioning and post-care regimensLesson 7Cosmetic history and psychosocial screening: previous aesthetic treatments, expectations, body dysmorphic riskThis lesson reviews gathering cosmetic history, understanding motivations, and screening for psychosocial issues like body dysmorphic disorder to match expectations, safeguard patient wellbeing, and inform ethical treatment choices.
Document prior cosmetic and surgical proceduresAssess satisfaction with previous aesthetic outcomesExplore motivations and treatment goalsScreen for body dysmorphic disorder and red flagsEvaluate social, cultural, and financial pressuresDiscuss consent, autonomy, and treatment boundariesLesson 8Dermatologic history: acne, rosacea, prior procedures, scarring, photosensitivityThis lesson concentrates on specific dermatologic history, covering acne, rosacea, scarring, pigmentation issues, and photosensitivity to anticipate flare-ups, abnormal healing, and colour changes post-lasers, peels, injectables, and energy devices.
Document acne, rosacea, and seborrheic dermatitisReview history of keloids and hypertrophic scarsAssess melasma and post-inflammatory hyperpigmentScreen for photosensitivity and photodermatosesNote prior lasers, peels, and resurfacingEvaluate chronic infections and herpes labialis
