Styptics to arrest bleeding shall be used only:

• A. In solid form applied with fingers
• B. In liquid or powder form applied by a sanitary item
• C. In a spray used directly on the skin
• D. When provided by a medical professional

Answer: (B)

Styptics are used to stop minor bleeding by delivering a targeted chemical action that helps the blood to clot at the small wound. To do this safely and effectively, they should be in liquid or powder form and applied with a clean sanitary item, such as a cotton swab or gauze. Using a sanitary item keeps the product off the esthetician’s hands, reduces the risk of contamination, and allows precise placement exactly where the bleeding is, which is essential for minor nicks or shaved areas.

Applying a solid form directly with fingers risks uneven distribution and potential contamination, and spraying a product directly on the skin can be hard to control and may irritate surrounding tissue. Requiring a medical professional for use isn’t necessary in typical esthetic practice because trained professionals can manage minor bleeding safely with properly prepared styptics and clean application tools. If bleeding is heavy or not controllable, that would warrant medical attention.