I gave a client a 20% glycolic acid peel after she said her skin was 'tough' and it was a huge mistake

She came in for a facial and kept insisting her skin could handle anything, so I went against my gut and used a stronger peel than I normally would. Her face was bright red and stinging for over an hour after, and she called me the next day saying it was still burning. I learned that even when a client pushes for something, you have to stick to your professional judgment and start slow, no matter what they say. It took her skin a full week to calm down. Has anyone else had a client pressure them into a treatment that went wrong?

3 comments

3 Comments

martin.lee8d ago

I used to believe a client knew their own skin best, but a situation like yours changed my mind completely. I had a client much like @bennett.james described, always pushing for more. Giving in once led to a bad reaction, and the regret was worse than any tip. Now, my consultation notes are my guide, not the client's demands.

the_dylan10d ago

Ever think some clients just want to feel heard, not actually get the strong treatment?

bennett.james10d ago

Yeah, that's most of them honestly.