Infection Control

Infections caught as a result of beauty treatments are extremely rare however the potential is there, and it is good practice to do everything you can to lower the risk of cross infection (the transfer from one person to another). The most common source of infection in a salon is the client but staff and visitors can also bring infection into the salon. It is important to control the infection and not allow it to be transmitted from person to person. People with active diseases should not be treated and staff with obvious diseases should not be treating clients.

What are we protecting against?

Bacteria – are single cell living organisms that exist as single cells or as spores. They vegetative form of bacterial (single cells) are easily killed by application of moisture or chemicals but spores are much more resistant. There is a wide range of bacteria. Some bacteria live inside the body and are harmless unless they are transmitted outside of their original environment. Most bacterial infections can be successfully treated with antibiotics.

Viruses – are minute particles that can only reproduce within a living cell. They can mutate to form new strains. Viral infections cause much more concern in a beauty salon, specifically blood borne that cause Hepatitis B, Hepatitis C and HIV. They are not treatable by antibiotics.

Fungal Infections – some fungi can cause a variety of infections on the skin and mucous membranes.

Infestations – certain insects are associated with infections in humans, either as carriers of disease or by causing the infection themselves.

What to do if your client has an infectious Condition

You are most likely to detect an infection during the consultation. Do not offer any services to Clients that show signs of infection. Explain discretely the reason why the treatment cannot be carried out and encourage your client to seek medical advice.

How can infections be prevented?

In a Salon Setting – a well-designed salon can make infection control simple by following the guidelines set by the relevant authorities.

Thorough Personal Hygiene – all members of staff must maintain high standards of personal hygiene. This will not only reduce the risk of cross infection but also contribute to the high standard of the salon.