What should a client prone to Herpes Simplex do prior to a skincare service?

For a client prone to Herpes Simplex, taking an antiviral medication before a skincare service is recommended to help prevent an outbreak during or after the treatment. Antivirals work by suppressing the virus and reducing its ability to replicate, which decreases the likelihood of an outbreak occurring, especially when the skin is being manipulated or exposed to conditions that might trigger the virus.

Ensuring the client takes an antiviral can provide a protective measure ahead of their skincare treatment, allowing them to enjoy the benefits of the service without the added worry of activating the virus. This precaution is particularly important in esthetic practices where techniques like exfoliation, extractions, or use of certain tools may irritate the skin and potentially trigger the herpes simplex virus.

While avoiding all products or using a moisturizer might seem like prudent options, they do not have the same preventative effect against herpes outbreaks that an antiviral does. Increasing hydration is generally beneficial for skin health but does not address the specific risk of herpes simplex activation. Thus, the most effective strategy to reduce the risk of an outbreak in this context is the proactive use of antiviral medication.