Is handwashing required before every service?

• A. Yes; proper hand hygiene is a fundamental infection-control practice.
• B. Only if hands are visibly dirty
• C. Only after service
• D. Not required with gloves

Answer: (A)

Hand hygiene before client contact is essential to infection control. Washing hands with soap and water (for about 20 seconds) or using an approved sanitizer before touching the client or tools helps prevent cross-contamination and protects both client and practitioner. It is required before every service, because pathogens can be present even when hands look clean, and you want to minimize any transfer during the treatment. Gloves are an added protection, but they do not replace handwashing; you should wash before putting on gloves and again after removing them, and you should wash if gloves become contaminated. This combination—washing before every service and using gloves appropriately—best supports safe esthetic practice.