Before servicing a client, what hand hygiene step should a manicurist take?

Washing hands with liquid soap is the most effective hand hygiene step for a manicurist to take before servicing a client. This method not only helps to remove dirt and debris but also significantly reduces the number of germs and bacteria present on the skin. Using liquid soap, especially in combination with warm water, creates a lather that effectively lifts pathogens from the skin's surface.

This practice is essential in the beauty and personal care industry, where close contact with clients is common, and maintaining high hygiene standards is crucial to prevent the spread of infections. Hands should be scrubbed for at least 20 seconds, ensuring that the entire surface of the hands, including between the fingers and under the nails, is thoroughly cleaned.

While using hand sanitizer, rinsing with water only, or using antibacterial wipes can provide some level of cleanliness, they are not as effective as washing with soap and water in certain situations. Hand sanitizers may not eliminate all types of germs and are less effective when hands are visibly dirty or greasy. Rinsing with water alone does not effectively remove contaminants. Antibacterial wipes can be useful in some circumstances but may not have the same thorough cleansing capability as washing with soap and water.