Treatment contraindication checklist

What you need to know

The plain-English guidance that comes with this document.

• "Contraindication" just means "a reason to pause". Some are absolute (don't treat over an active infection or broken skin); some are relative (adapt the treatment, patch test, or get medical sign-off first). The skill is knowing which is which for the treatments you offer — check your product and training guidance for each service.
• When in doubt, don't. If something's flagged and you're not sure it's safe, the right answer is to reschedule or ask the client to check with their GP — not to risk it because they've travelled in or they're a good customer. A refused treatment is a minor annoyance; a burn, an infection or a reaction is a claim.
• Pregnancy and medication catch people out. Several treatments and products aren't advised in pregnancy, and medicines like Roaccutane, strong steroids or blood thinners change how skin reacts and heals. Ask specifically — clients often don't think to mention them.
• Tie it to the consultation and patch test. This checklist works alongside the consultation card (the fuller history) and the patch test record (for colour and similar). Together they're your evidence you assessed the client properly before treating.
• Record the decision, not just the ticks. If you adapt or refuse a treatment, write down what you decided and why, and any advice you gave. That record is what protects you if the client is unhappy about being turned away — or if they go elsewhere and have a problem.
• Get proper training for what you offer. A checklist supports judgement; it doesn't replace it. Make sure anyone carrying out a treatment is trained in it and understands its specific contraindications.
• Applies UK-wide. Assessing contraindications is standard, expected practice and an insurance condition across the UK. Treatments that break the skin carry extra local rules — see your infection control policy.