Why ask about a client's skincare routine and product use during consultation?

Asking about a client's current skincare routine and products during consultation helps the cosmetologist understand factors that affect the skin's condition and how it may respond to a service — for example, use of strong actives, exfoliants, or retinoids can sensitize the skin and influence what is safe to do. This information, alongside the visual analysis, guides safe, suitable choices and helps avoid adverse reactions. Gathering relevant routine and product history is part of a thorough, safety-minded skin consultation on the exam.