General procedures

• Do not apply materials to a client if it has been applied to another person. Wax can be reused if it is treated correctly.
• Avoid cross-contamination by using a single-use applicator or dispensing sufficient material from original container into another clean container (to be used only on one client).
• Do not apply cosmetic testers directly to the face or mouth.
• Apply materials to a client by either using single-use equipment or equipment that has been effectively cleaned, disinfected or sterilised.
• Before using on another client, clean and sterilise instruments (e.g. razors, manicure instruments) that do not normally penetrate the skin but which may have been contaminated with blood and body substances. Find out more about cleaning methods:
  • How to clean equipment - Cleaning method 1
  • How to clean equipment that you cannot put in water - Cleaning method 2

Foot spas

Foot spas need to be cleaned correctly to prevent infections:

• clean foot spas between clients
• clean foot spas at the end of the day.

Waxing

• Clean spatulas before re-using on another person or use disposable spatulas (wax can become contaminated by dipping the spatula into the wax pot after it has just been used on a client)
• Single use wax is preferable, however, the following steps are required if you choose to re-use wax:
  • heat and strain re-useable wax to remove hair
  • reheat it to at least 130°C for 15 minutes before it is used on another client (use a thermometer to check)
  • leave the strained material in the waste container
  • clean the strainer after each use
  • clean wax pots and tongs daily to remove build up of hair etc.

Electrolysis

Before carrying out electrolysis on a client, their skin must be adequately prepared to protect them from infection. This can be done by swabbing with an antiseptic solution. General procedures:

• ensure all needles used in electrolysis are sterile
• whenever possible, use single-use disposable needles
• if non-disposable needles are to be re-used, sterilise them in accordance with the Infection Control Guidelines for Personal Appearance Services before using on another client
• if a reuseable sterile needle is used extensively on a client in one treatment session, this needle must be disposed of in the sharps container and not re-used
• clean needle holders with warm water and detergent, then allow to dry.

Post treatment

After each client:

• clean and sterilise (where required) re-usable equipment in accordance with the Infection Control Guidelines for Personal Appearance Services
• wash your hands