Utah Esthetics Written State Practice Exam

What color follows the frosting stage of a chemical peel?

1. Yellow

2. Red

3. White

4. Green

The correct answer is: White

The frosting stage of a chemical peel is characterized by the appearance of a white color on the treated skin. This occurs as a result of the reaction between the chemical solution and the skin, leading to a coagulation of proteins in the upper layers of the epidermis. This white appearance indicates that the chemical has penetrated effectively into the skin and is a sign that the peel has reached an appropriate depth. Following this stage, the treated area may remain white until it begins to heal, after which skin color will gradually return to normal as the regeneration process occurs. This understanding is crucial for estheticians, as it helps in assessing the effectiveness of the peel and in managing client expectations regarding the healing process. In contrast, yellow, red, and green colors are not associated with the frosting stage of a chemical peel. Yellow may indicate an inappropriate reaction or the presence of exudate, red is often a sign of irritation or inflammation, and green may suggest infection, none of which are desirable or typical outcomes during the frosting stage of a chemical peel.