 | Kim McIntosh, a former graduate of Xenon Int'l. School of Hair Design serves as the school’s Director and is a shareholder in the business. She holds a Cosmetology, Esthetics and Instructor's license in Kansas and Nebraska. She has worked behind the chair and managed some of the most prominent salons in the Wichita area. As an educator, her primary goal has been to provide the beauty industry with successful licensed professionals. Having served in the past as Second Vice-President on the Board of Directors for the National Cosmetology Association of Kansas, Kim is currently a Director on the national board for the American Association of Cosmetology Schools. You may contact Kim at (316) 943-5516. |
Beauty & Fashion
2004-10-01 15:07:00
Guidelines for salon sanitation
: What are the rules regarding sanitation & disinfection of the equipment used for salon nail care services? Why is this necessary? What are we being protected from?
ANSWER: Each and every state's beauty, barber, and nail salons are regulated by the state, usually their cosmetology boards. Each state has different regulations pertaining to salon sanitation procedures in order to prevent the spread of contagious diseases. Technicians should thoroughly disinfect all implements and surfaces prior to each client's appointment. Metal files, cuticle nippers, clippers, and any other tools used, as well as the surface or table that the process takes place on. Technicians should also practice thorough hand sanitation to prevent the spread of germs and fungus. Any salon that doesn't follow conscientious sanitation practices is probably not a good choice for a nail service. If you find yourself in a position where you feel that these practices are not being followed, your health may be at risk. Common viruses such as those that cause colds and flu are easily spread from hand to hand. Common nail problems are caused by infections from bacteria, such as Staphylococcus; fungi, such as Candida (also known as yeast); and skin viruses, such as warts. Bacterial, fungal and viral infections can occur from using unsanitary nail implements. Unclean implements are especially dangerous if the skin around the nail is torn or broken. This can occur with over manicuring: too much of the cuticle is cut or pushed back too far. If the cuticle is cut or separated from the fingernail, infectious agents can get into the exposed area. Symptoms of an infection include pain, redness, itching, and pus in or around the nail area. Your nail technician is in direct contact with your hands for long periods of time, which makes both of you vulnerable to viruses and other contagious diseases.
