I have been blessed with an amazing apprentice in my practice. I think apprenticeships are such a great opportunity to train people on all the different aspects of running a lash business. One of the initial challenges is getting past the subject matter that can be really boring to do but is required nonetheless.
Safety and sanitation, for instance, are never at the top of the list of things students want to study. Students want to get their hands on tweezers, glue, and lash extensions. My job, as an educator, is to train and educate my apprentice on universal precautions and safety standards to keep ourselves and the public safe from disease. That is why I will be going over the safety and sanitation steps that I teach my apprentices in this article.
Steps in Saftey and Sanitation at Your Lash Business
Keeping our work environment clean and disinfected is the number one priority. Let’s review the steps on how to maintain safety and sanitation in your lash business.
1. Keep Hard Surfaces Clean
Hard surfaces must be cleaned with a disinfecting cleaner. Wipe down counters, doorknobs, sink handles, and anything else that you or your client are touching between each and every visit.
2. Cover and Protect
Table coverings must be covered with clean linens or clean table paper for each client. Remember to store soiled linens and towels in a covered container or hamper. Lastly, the table paper must be discarded after each client.
3. Keep Tools Sanitized
Tools and implements must be washed with antibacterial soap, rinsed with water, and sanitized in a wet sanitizer with a hospital grade solution or with an autoclave. (Always follow the manufactures directions.) After cleaning in a wet solution, rinse, dry, and store tools in a covered container or drawer. Autoclave do not need rinsing but should be stored.
Make sure to check out the Eyelash Extension Application Tool Sterilizer!
You may find the Glad Lash Glass Bead Sterilizer very efficient as well. It is compact, fits on your tabletop, and gets the job done quickly. Remember to clean your implements at the end of your day and set up for your next business day so you are ready for your clients.
Skipping steps can cause the spread of infections and bacteria. As a professional and a service provider, we need to be on the front lines of infection protection.
Safety and Inspection is the Priority
If you are not sure of the proper steps to clean your work environment, check with your state board for their requirements.
It’s very important to do and it’s a great refresher for me when working with my apprentice. If you want any additional tips or training on how to run your lash business, check out our salon business resources here on the Glad Lash blog.
And again, remember always to keep it safe and clean when providing lash services!
Maryann Matykowski
Maryann has an accomplished, 30+ year background in the beauty industry. As a cosmetologist she opened her first salon in ’83. She has specialized as an educator since 2006. Maryann knows what it takes to create successful salon businesses and is here to share her experience with you.