I started doing a quick skin check with a magnifying lamp before every facial

For a while, I felt like my basic skin analysis during the consultation was missing things, especially with clients who had really subtle texture issues. About three months ago, I decided to try something new. Right after the double cleanse, before I even start extractions or any treatment, I do a full two-minute scan with my 5x magnifying lamp. I just tell the client I'm doing a detailed map of their skin. It sounds simple, but it's been a game changer. I've caught so many tiny, almost invisible closed comedones and early-stage milia that I would have totally glossed over before. It lets me adjust my plan on the spot, like adding a bit more enzyme time in a specific zone. Has anyone else added a step like this to their routine and found it changed your service outcomes?

2 comments

2 Comments

taragibson6d agoMost Upvoted

My friend who does lashes swears by using a magnifying lamp for mapping. She says it helps her see the natural growth pattern way better.

the_julia6d ago

My old boss at the salon on Maple Street made us do a detailed pore map with a marker before any extractions. It felt like overkill at first, just drawing on someone's face. But after a few weeks, I realized I was spotting patterns in clogged areas I had been missing completely. It trained my eye to see the skin in sections, not just as a whole. I still mentally map it out that way even without the pen now.