Sterilisation and Hygiene & Methods of Sterilisation, Disinfection and Sanitisation

Healthy and hygienic working conditions are very important and should always be of the highest standard to ensure a safe environment for everyone involved. Lack of cleanliness can lead to cross contamination and cross infection which is the spread of infectious or non infectious organic matter from one person to another. This can include :

Bacterial Infection Minute, single-celled organisms found nearly everywhere. There are two general types of bacteria: Non-pathogenic, which are harmless to humans. Pathogenic, which are harmful and cause disease such as respiratory diseases and skin infections like impetigo.

Virus Infections Organisms smaller than bacteria. Viruses can only live and reproduce within living cells. They are able to cause disease, e.g. hepatitis, influenza, herpes simplex (cold sores).

Fungal Infections Spongy, yeast growth, very contagious, e.g. tinea (ringworm)

Insect Infestations Head lice are the most common, also scabies, caused by female itch mire burrowing under the epidermis and laying her eggs.

Bacteria and viruses enter the body in the following ways: Inhalation (airborne) Ingestion (via the mouth) By direct contact ( via cross-contamination, from another person or object) In the blood stream (via contaminated sharps material) In the make-up studio, infection may occur when dirty equipment is used or a make- up artist works unhygienically.

Ways to avoid cross-infection Sterilisation – To make free from all living micro-organisms, to make sterile. It is an absolute term; an object is either sterile or not. Sanitisation – To inhibit growth of micro-organisms, to maintain or improve conditions with regard to dirt and infection. Disinfection – An agent, such as heat, radiation or a chemical that destroys, neutralizes or inhibits the growth of disease-carrying micro-organisms.

Methods of sterilisation, disinfection or sanitation Whatever method of sterilisation, disinfection or sanitation is being used, it is important to physically clean contaminated equipment first to remove any residual material that may prevent the penetration or steam or chemicals to the contaminated surface.

Steam or wet heat (Autoclave) – This method uses steam or wet heat to sterilise. It requires temperatures of between 121 and 134°C. A container known as an autoclave sterilises using this method. It is particularly suitable for small pieces of metal equipment such as tweezers and scissors. Chemicals and Alcohols – Many of these products are based on two alcohols – ethyl and isopropyl, which are diluted to varying strengths. Surgical spirit is the most common from of ethyl alcohol. Barbicide is a registered hospital disinfectant what is bactericidal, fungicidal and virucidal and kills HIV, herpes, tinea and numerous other pathogenic organisms. UV Radiation – UV radiation is classed as a sanitiser, as it is only effective against a limited range of organisms. Objects must be turned to ensure UV rays penetrate the entire surface Brush Cleaners – Brush cleaners remove cosmetic residue, grease and oil from brushes. Many products will also disinfect at the same time whilst conditioning the brushes to keep them supple.

Personal Hygiene Hair should be clean. Long hair should be worn off the face so it does not dangle in the clients face. Clean clothes should be worn. Strong perfumes or aftershave should be avoided. Nails should be short and clean, polish should be intact. Jewellery, particularly rings and bracelets should not be worn as they may scratch or irritate the clients. The make-up artist’s hands should be cleansed before each client with a suitable hand wash, for example hibiscrub. Wounds and open sores on the make up artists hands should be covered with a suitable waterproof dressing. Good oral hygiene is important, particularly if you are a smoker or have eaten strongly flavoured food the night before. Chewing gum whilst working should be avoided. Low or flat heels should be worn for safety and to encourage good posture. Always follow legislative and workplace rules and regulations.