The general rule for disinfection is to apply disinfectants to what items?

• A. Tools and styling implements, not on hair, skin, or nails.
• B. Hair and skin only.
• C. Furniture and fabrics only.
• D. Food contact surfaces only.

Answer: (A)

Disinfection in a salon is about treating the items that can carry germs between clients—tools and styling implements. These nonporous, inanimate objects come into direct contact with clients, so they must be disinfected after cleaning to prevent cross-contamination. Hair, skin, and nails are living tissues and can be irritated or damaged by disinfectants, so they’re not treated with disinfectants during service. The correct approach is to thoroughly clean tools first, then apply a proper disinfectant for the required contact time, rinse or air-dry as directed, and store them correctly.