Issue link: https://www.ascpskindeepdigital.com/i/120653
ascp and you: finer points Treatment Templates Take the confusion out of designing a treatment plan by Susanne Schmaling In the last issue, we looked at how to perform a basic skin assessment and gather the right information about your client. Knowing how to use that information to create a treatment plan is the next step���one that will pay off with consistent, professional results. Although creating a plan can seem daunting, using a template will make it quick and easy. Your template and final plan will be limited by certain unavoidable factors: your scope of practice under the laws of your state (look up state board information at www.ascpskincare.com/become/boardinfo.php), and perhaps an employer who restricts you to a specific product line and protocol. However, an understanding of proper treatment design will help you be more productive in any situation. Here are some easy steps to formulate an effective plan. Step 1: Know Your Products Step 2: Know Your Client Understand your client���s demographics and lifestyle, and what these mean in combination with the skin health information you gathered during the skin assessment. Several lifestyle factors are important. Age Not all clients look their age; some have skin that appears much younger or older than typical for their age group. Knowing the client���s age will let you view skin condition in that context and judge her natural resistance to the typical signs of aging. This marker can be a guideline for treatment. You can make the most of any product line by becoming an expert in its ingredients and uses. Do you have a proven system to treat aging skin, pigmentation conditions, and other skin concerns your client may have? What are your options for home care? Remember that the greatest effects on skin health stem from the client���s daily, at-home regimen. Having a prepared outline will make it easier to plan customized variations for an individual client���s needs. 34ASCP Skin Deep May/June 2013