Beauty salons and beauty parlours undertake a variety of procedures, some of which penetrate the skin or that may draw blood. It is important that these treatments are carried out by trained professionals and proper hygiene standards are followed.

Guidelines

In Australia, each State sets its individual guidelines for industry. Hygiene and safety form part of the training undertaken by Beauty Therapists as part of Certificates II, III, IV and Diploma studies. The range of treatments offered by a salon will determine which standards they must comply with, and whether they need to register with their local council. Beauty therapists themselves must also maintain personal hygiene standards and practices such as hand washing before and after each client and wearing single use gloves for any treatments that may break the skin. All equipment used in the salon must be cleaned between uses and single use equipment should be disposed of after use. The beauty salon premises must be kept in a clean and hygienic condition at all times. Although infections caught from beauty salons and nail salons are rare they are not unheard of, so it is important that clients also practice good hygiene before and after treatments in order to lower the risks.

Contact your local beauty salon or day spa to discuss further any hygiene concerns you may have before you make an appointment.