Issue link: https://www.ascpskindeepdigital.com/i/526887
Create your free business website! www.ascpskincare.com 41 Susanne Schmaling, director of education for Associated Skin Care Professionals, is a licensed esthetician, experienced educator, former spa owner, founder of the Pacific Institute of Esthetics, author of A Comprehensive Guide to Equipment (Milady, 2009) and Aging Skin (Milady, 2011), and contributor to Standard Makeup (Milady, 2013). Contact her at sschmaling@ascpskincare.com. the principles of aseptic technique. It was also discovered after reviewing the client's intake form that she had previously been admitted to the hospital for system infections that were resistant to antibiotics. What Do You Need to Know? The first step to avoiding an infection control issue is to understand the difference between aseptic and clean techniques. ASEPTIC TECHNIQUE Aseptic technique relates to the steps that are created in order to reduce the risk of the transmission of pathogenic microorganisms to the client. It is primarily used in medical settings for minimally invasive procedures, such as inserting an IV. In the skin care treatment room, this procedure would possibly be needed during extraction, microneedling, exfoliation, and dermaplaning, because the skin's protective barrier is being removed or altered. Here are typical aseptic techniques: • Wash hands thoroughly with soap and water, then use an alcohol-based antiseptic hand product before and after service. • Apply gloves before performing the service. Masks can be worn, but they're not necessary unless there is a risk of airborne particles, or if someone is coughing or sneezing. • Cleanse the client's skin, and then disinfect it with an astringent or a degreasing solution such as alcohol or acetone. • Create a clean working area on your esthetic cart with a disposable towel, products that have been wiped down with an EPA-approved disinfectant, and as many single-use implements as possible. Cover with a clean towel or other clean covering if left out before service. • Clean the magnifying lamp and handles of all implements and tools with an EPA- approved disinfectant. • Towels and sheets should be kept in a clean, closed container or closet. • When treatment is complete, place disposables in a separate small garbage bag and discard. Put items such as lancets in a sharps disposal. Trash should have a lid and be kept away from the clean area of the room. • Used sheets, headbands, and gowns should be placed in a closed container, separate from clean linens, until washed. Most states require hot water and bleach. • Uniforms should be washed daily; keep a separate apron or coat in case of contamination during a treatment. CLEAN TECHNIQUE Clean technique is the procedure that is most common for all other services, and one that you should be very familiar with. This technique is designed to protect the esthetician and client when touching skin, equipment, and products. The goal is to keep the entire working area clean and free of debris. These procedures are the level of disinfection that is required by state licensing. Here are common clean technique procedures: • Wash hands before and after a service. Alcohol-based hand sanitizers are not a substitute for washing and are not effective when lipids are present on the skin. If you do not have access to water between services, using an alcohol-based hand sanitizer and gloves will work. • Use clean, nonsterile gloves (no latex) as needed. If not using gloves, hand washing is essential. • Clean all surfaces, nondisposable implements, treatment beds, work surfaces, doorknobs, and products daily with an EPA-approved disinfectant. For more information about proper hand washing, visit the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention's instructions at www.cdc.gov/handwashing. • Keep separate areas for clean and dirty implements, sheets, gowns, and other items that come into contact with the client. Receptacles or storage spaces must have a lid or door to close. Summary With the addition of some highly effective but slightly invasive esthetic techniques, it is time to step up and follow the appropriate disinfection technique for the safety of everyone. It may seem difficult and time-consuming at first, but it must become part of your routine. If we, as a profession, can continue to keep our clients safe and provide visible results from our treatments, we will continue to be successful. You can do it! Note: This article is meant to be a guideline for understanding disinfection techniques; it is imperative that you verify all disinfection procedures required by your state cosmetology board. Service Type Disinfection Technique Exfoliation: microdermabrasion, dermaplaning, chemical peels Aseptic Extraction: with or without disposable lancets Aseptic Other modalities: microneedling (CIT), permanent makeup, waxing Aseptic Facial massage Clean Esthetic equipment use Clean Body treatments Clean Basic facial treatments: cleansing, scrub, etc. Clean