Infection control for beauty therapists

Where the infection risks are

• Reusable tools such as nippers, pushers, tweezers and brushes moving between clients
• Small cuts and broken skin during nail, cuticle and waxing services
• Eyes and lash lines, where infections such as conjunctivitis spread easily
• Double-dipping wax spatulas, applicators and product pots
• Towels, linen and work surfaces shared through the day

The habits that matter most

• Clean your hands before and after every client
• Clean, then disinfect or sterilise reusable tools as your procedures require — and use single-use items once only
• Never double-dip; decant products for each client
• Change towels and linen between clients and clean work surfaces
• Don't treat over broken, infected or inflamed skin

Rules and expectations

In many parts of Australia, local councils register and inspect beauty and skin penetration businesses and expect them to meet infection control standards. Requirements differ by state and council, so check with your local council and follow your salon's procedures.

What the course covers

Eight short modules: how infections spread, hand hygiene, PPE, respiratory hygiene, cleaning and disinfection, blood and body fluid spills, waste, linen and sharps, and standard and transmission-based precautions. Then a 20-question assessment and your certificate.