Why is PPE So Important in a Beauty Salon?

Amid the artistry and allure to be found in beauty salons, there's a quiet hero — personal protective equipment, better known as PPE. These items, such as face masks and gloves, protect clients and salon employees alike and help make the business a safe, comfortable environment. 

Let's look at what exactly constitutes PPE and the indispensable role these items play in ensuring everyone’s well-being. 

COMMON PPE IN BEAUTY SALONS

Using proper PPE in a beauty salon is essential for creating a safe and hygienic environment, where both salon professionals and clients are protected from potential health hazards. Common PPE in a beauty salon might include:

• Disposable gloves: Gloves made of latex, vinyl, or nitrile to protect the hands from exposure to chemicals, hair or lash dyes, and other salon products.
• Face masks: Masks covering the nose and mouth to reduce the spread of airborne particles, protecting both the salon professional and the client.
• Eye protection: Safety glasses or goggles to shield the eyes from splashes, fumes, or debris during various salon procedures.
• Aprons or gowns: Disposable or washable protective clothing to prevent the stylist's clothing and skin from coming into contact with chemicals, hair, or other salon substances.
• Respirators: High-filtration masks designed to protect against inhaling fine particles, suitable for procedures generating airborne particles.
• Face shields: Transparent shields that cover the face to provide additional protection against splashes or sprays.
• Disinfectant wipes: Antiseptic wipes for cleaning and disinfecting surfaces, tools, and equipment in between client appointments.
• Applicator brushes: Brushes used to apply products while minimizing direct skin contact, ensuring a more controlled and sanitary application of substances, such as eyebrow makeup, brow tint, and eyelash adhesive.
• Disposable towels or capes: Single-use towels or capes to maintain hygiene standards and prevent the spread of contaminants between clients.

WHY IS PPE SO IMPORTANT IN A BEAUTY SALON?

PPE plays a major role in salons, helping to keep not just the employees but also the patrons safe and healthy.

• PPE blocks airborne particles: PPE masks, face shields, and respirators protect clients and technicians, acting as barriers against airborne particles and reducing the risk of inhaling potentially harmful substances. Meanwhile, gloves safeguard against unintended contact with products, and goggles shield eyes from the splashes or vapors of potent serums and harsh chemicals.
• PPE prevents contamination: Gloves, aprons, and masks create physical barriers that prevent direct skin contact with chemicals, hair products, and other salon substances, ensuring a hygienic environment and safeguarding the health of both salon professionals and clients.
• PPE adheres to laws: PPE isn't an arbitrary accessory; it's a hallmark of a salon’s dedication to following industry standards and legal regulations. This is because the use of PPE in beauty salons is often regulated by local health and safety laws and regulations. 
  
• PPE creates a safe environment: Salon employees who wear PPE correctly aren’t just adhering to company regulations and local laws, they’re also sending the message that they prioritize safety and client comfort above all else. This can build trust between the salon and its clients, which helps to ensure patrons will want to return for more appointments in the future.

10 TIPS FOR USING PPE CORRECTLY IN A BEAUTY SALON

You might believe that, for the most part, wearing or using PPE correctly in a beauty salon environment requires common sense. However, it never hurts to review the best practices around PPE to keep yourself and others safe.

1. Store the items properly. Use a clean and designated area, away from potential contaminants, and handle the equipment with care to preserve its integrity and effectiveness.
2. Inspect the equipment regularly. Periodically check PPE for signs of wear, tear, or damage and replace as needed to maintain effectiveness.
3. Make sure the equipment fits. Ensure PPE, such as masks and gloves, fits snugly and comfortably to provide effective protection.
4. Use the proper sequence each time. Follow the correct order when putting on and taking off PPE to minimize the risk of cross-contamination.
5. Practice good hand hygiene. Wash your hands thoroughly before putting on gloves and after removing them to prevent contamination. Encourage frequent handwashing, even when gloves are worn, to maintain hygiene standards.
6. Avoid touching your face. Refrain from touching your face, especially the mask, to prevent the transfer of contaminants.
7. Conduct your business in well-ventilated areas. Ensure proper ventilation in the salon to minimize the inhalation of fumes and airborne particles.
8. Dispose of items properly. Dispose of single-use PPE, such as gloves and masks, in designated waste bins to ensure proper disposal.
9. Invest in employee education and training. Provide thorough training to salon staff on the correct usage of PPE and reinforce safety protocols regularly.
10. Educate your clients. Educate clients on the importance of PPE usage and adherence to salon safety measures for a collaborative effort in maintaining a safe environment.

By now you should have a better idea of the role PPE plays in a beauty salon. Remember that these items are not just accessories; they’re in place for your protection. Encourage your colleagues to be diligent when it comes to using their PPE correctly and hold one another accountable. By supporting those around you and prioritizing everyone’s safety, you’ll contribute to making the salon a place where clients and employees alike feel comfortable and right at home.