What type of decontamination is the second level of infection control?

The second level of infection control is disinfection, which plays a vital role in reducing the number of pathogenic microorganisms on surfaces and instruments. Disinfection is a process that involves using chemical agents to kill or deactivate germs, especially those that can cause infection. This step is crucial in a beauty or skincare environment where tools and surfaces must be cleaned to prevent the spread of diseases and ensure client safety.

Disinfection is typically more effective than sanitation, the first level of infection control, which focuses on reducing the number of bacteria to safe levels but does not necessarily kill them. While antiseptics are used on living tissues to reduce the possibility of infection, they are not the focus of decontamination in a salon or spa setting. Excoriation refers to a type of skin injury and is not relevant to infection control practices. Understanding these distinctions is crucial for maintaining a safe and hygienic working environment in skin care practices.