Issue link: https://www.ascpskindeepdigital.com/i/393439
26 ASCP Skin Deep November/December 2014 Clean Waxing What's lurking in your wax pot? Waxing is one of the fastest growing services in the esthetics market. Virtually all client demographics, young and old, are eager to rid their bodies of unwanted hair. Waxing is seen by consumers as a low-risk beauty service; maybe a little painful, but certainly nothing that can lead to serious injury or death. And they're right—but only if you, the waxer, understand the real risks and take the correct precautions. No matter how careful you are, and no matter what type of wax you use, waxing always disrupts the integrity of the skin and leaves it more vulnerable to infection. This creates a perfect environment for various bacteria, fungi, and viruses that may be lurking on the surface of the wax, on the edge of the wax pot, on the applicator stick, or even on your hands. As a professional, it is your responsibility to ensure your services are safe for your clients. That begins with following proper infection control procedures from beginning to end! by Leslie Roste Every Client is a High-Risk Client We all know some clients have a higher risk of infection due to medical conditions that affect their immune systems—but that can include conditions they may not even know they have. Just because your clients say they have no contraindications for waxing, that does not mean you can take any chances or relax your hygiene protocols. Consider the case of a 20-year-old Australian woman who almost died following a Brazilian wax because she developed