Before serving a client, what must all licensees do to maintain hygiene?

Maintaining hygiene is paramount in any cosmetology practice, especially when it involves direct client service, such as applying eyelash extensions. The correct answer emphasizes the importance of thoroughly cleaning hands with soap and water or using hand sanitizer before serving a client. This practice ensures that any potential contaminants, including bacteria and viruses, are removed from the hands, minimizing the risk of infection or other complications for the client.

Cleaning with soap and water effectively eliminates a wide range of pathogens, while hand sanitizer serves as a good alternative when soap and water are not immediately available, provided it contains at least 60% alcohol. This protocol is essential not only for the safety of the client but also for maintaining a professional standard in the beauty industry.

Other options do not provide adequate hygiene measures. Rinsing hands with water alone does not remove germs and can lead to cross-contamination. Using disposable gloves without washing hands first still poses a risk, as any contaminants on the hands can transfer to the gloves and potentially to the client. Wiping hands on a towel is also insufficient, as this method does not guarantee the removal of harmful microorganisms. Therefore, the correct approach is to ensure hands are properly cleansed before any client interaction, reinforcing a commitment to safety and hygiene practices.