What is the first step in proper infection control in the salon?

• A. Put on gloves before washing hands.
• B. Wash hands, then sanitize the work area and tools before starting any service.
• C. Rinse hands with water and air dry.
• D. Sanitize tools only at the end of the day.

Answer: (B)

Proper infection control starts with clean hands. Washing hands thoroughly before touching anything or starting a service removes dirt, oils, and most transient microorganisms, lowering the chance of transferring germs to clients or tools. After hands are clean, sanitize the work area and tools to eliminate any remaining microorganisms on surfaces you’ll contact during the service. This two-step sequence—hands first, surfaces next—creates a safer starting point for every client.

Putting on gloves before washing hands can trap contaminants and gives a false sense of cleanliness. Rinsing with water and air drying removes little in terms of pathogens. Sanitizing tools only at the end of the day leaves surfaces and tools exposed to potential contamination during the day. Therefore, washing hands first, then sanitizing the workspace and tools before starting any service is the best approach.