The Importance of Sanitation and Safety in the Esthetics Industry
In the esthetics industry, sanitation and safety are not optional—they are essential. Whether performing facials, waxing, or other intimate services like Brazilian waxing, following strict hygiene practices protects both the client and the technician, ensures compliance with state board regulations, and maintains a professional, trustworthy environment.
Recently, there have been videos circulating showing estheticians using reusable gloves for waxing services, including Brazilian waxes, instead of disposable gloves. While it might seem eco-friendly or cost-effective, this practice is unsanitary and unsafe. State board regulations in nearly every U.S. jurisdiction require single-use, disposable gloves for waxing and other services that may involve contact with bodily fluids, open skin, or potential contaminants.
Unlike towels used in facials—which can be properly laundered and sanitized—waxing can create messy situations that expose technicians to blood, menstrual fluid, and other bodily fluids. Brazilian waxing, in particular, involves areas where the skin is extremely sensitive and prone to small nicks or cuts, creating open portals for bacteria and infection.
Reusable gloves are not easily sanitized after contact with wax and bodily fluids. Wax residue can remain embedded in the material, making thorough cleaning extremely difficult. Switching gloves mid-service is complicated and increases the risk of contaminating the cleaned or “soiled” surface. In contrast, disposable gloves are designed for single use, minimizing contamination and protecting both the client and technician.
The same caution applies to waxing spatulas. Some salons use non-disposable plastic spatulas that are intended to be sanitized and reused. While this may seem sustainable, it can create bad hygiene habits such as double-dipping, where the spatula is repeatedly dipped into the wax pot after contacting a client’s skin. Double-dipping can transfer bacteria, blood, or other bodily fluids into the wax, contaminating the entire container and putting future clients at risk of infection. The safest practice is to use single-use, disposable spatulas for each application, preventing cross-contamination and maintaining compliance with state regulations.
Proper sanitation also extends beyond gloves and spatulas:
Tools must be disinfected according to state board-approved procedures.
Work surfaces should be cleaned and sanitized before and after each client.
Linens and towels must be laundered with proper cleaning agents and stored hygienically.
Hand hygiene is critical; washing hands before and after each service is non-negotiable.
The consequences of cutting corners on sanitation are serious. Using unsanitary practices not only risks the health of clients but can also lead to state board violations, fines, and the potential loss of licensure. Poor hygiene practices can spread infections such as bacterial folliculitis, staph infections, or other communicable illnesses.
In conclusion, sanitation is the backbone of professional esthetics. Disposable gloves, single-use spatulas, properly sanitized tools, clean linens, and adherence to state board regulations are all essential components of a safe, professional practice. As estheticians, we owe it to our clients—and ourselves—to prioritize safety above convenience or cost-saving measures.