What is the proper approach to hand hygiene in a salon?

• A. Hand sanitizer alone without washing.
• B. Rubbing hands with water only.
• C. Washing with soap and water for at least 20 seconds and/or using an alcohol-based sanitizer when hands are not visibly soiled.
• D. Wearing gloves instead of washing hands.

Answer: (C)

Hand hygiene in a salon aims to prevent the transmission of germs between clients and staff. The proper approach is to wash with soap and water for at least 20 seconds, making sure to clean all areas including between fingers and under nails, then dry with a clean towel. This mechanical cleaning physically removes pathogens and is especially important when hands are visibly dirty or greasy. If hands are not visibly soiled, an alcohol-based sanitizer with at least 60% alcohol can be used as an effective alternative, but it doesn’t remove dirt the way washing does and isn’t as reliable when hands are dirty.

Wearing gloves does not replace the need to wash hands. Gloves should be used in addition to proper hand hygiene, and hands should be washed before putting on gloves and after removing them.