Everyone knows how essential it is to clean and disinfect the surfaces of our homes and workplaces. This becomes even more critical when performing professional beauty treatments such as lash lifts, lash fillers, eyelash extensions, eyebrow tinting, and more. However, are we truly following the correct sanitization procedures?
The presence of germs and bacteria poses a serious risk of contamination. That’s why it is crucial to operate correctly—complying with hygiene and safety regulations—to reduce the transmission of bacteria and germs that can lead to infections of any kind.
Understanding the Basics: Cleaning, Sanitizing, and Sterilizing
Many people mistakenly believe these terms mean the same thing, but they serve different purposes:
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Cleaning: This involves washing surfaces or tools to remove dirt and impurities. When we clean our work tools, we eliminate visible debris, which is an essential first step since many microorganisms can be removed simply by cleaning.
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Sanitizing: This process makes an object or surface hygienic by eliminating harmful bacteria and contaminants.
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Sterilizing: This is the complete destruction and removal of all microorganisms. Typically, sterilization is done using an autoclave, a device that uses pressurized steam to eliminate all bacteria, fungi, and viruses.
To summarize:
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Cleaning = Removing impurities.
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Sanitizing = Eliminating most bacteria.
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Sterilizing = Destroying all microorganisms.
What Professional Products Should You Use?
The innovative InLei® brand, a leader in lash lift treatments such as Lash Filler, has developed two essential products to help with proper sanitization: InLei® F 360 for surfaces and InLei® F PLUS for work tools.
InLei® F 360: Your Best Friend for Surface Cleaning
This powerful disinfectant eliminates bacteria and germs from large work surfaces such as beds, tables, lamps, and chairs. It is compatible with all materials and does not require rinsing.
How to Use:
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Spray directly onto the surfaces.
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Let it sit for a few seconds.
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Wipe clean with a disposable cloth.
With InLei® F 360, keeping your academy or beauty studio spotless has never been easier!
InLei® F PLUS: Professional Cleaning for Tools
This ready-to-use sanitizing solution is perfect for lash and brow tools, including silicone rods, tweezers, patches, and other essential tools. It does not need to be diluted, making it an efficient option for busy professionals.
How to Use:
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Remove any visible dirt or product residue.
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If necessary, rinse tools under running water with soap.
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Soak tools in InLei® F PLUS for the recommended time:
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5 minutes: Bactericidal effect (kills bacteria and germs).
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20 minutes: Fungicidal effect (eliminates fungi).
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30 minutes: Virucidal effect (destroys viruses and spores).
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Do not exceed the indicated times, as the product may lose effectiveness.
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Rinse tools with running water and dry them with a disposable cloth.
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Once dry, tools are safe to use again!
For the Ultimate Clean Freaks: Sterilization!
Even though lash stylists do not work directly with blood (unlike nail technicians), sterilizing tools adds an extra level of protection. Metal tools like tweezers and the InLei® Fillering tool can be sterilized, as well as InLei® silicone rods and pads. The high-quality silicone used in InLei® products ensures that sterilization temperatures do not damage or deform the tools.
How to Sterilize Tools Using an Autoclave:
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Wash tools thoroughly with soap and water to remove all residues.
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Soak them in InLei® F PLUS to ensure complete sanitation.
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Place tools in sterilization pouches.
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Sterilize in an autoclave at 121°C for 30 minutes.
The Importance of Compliance with Safety Standards
According to Legislative Decree, workplaces must adhere to strict hygiene regulations. Every beauty center and lash stylist must maintain a risk assessment document to ensure that both staff and clients are aware of potential risks.
A Clean Workplace Reflects Professionalism
Your expertise is not only demonstrated by flawless lash treatments but also by maintaining a clean and safe workspace. A hygienic environment enhances your salon’s reputation and ensures the safety of both you and your clients. Let’s make our workspaces shine!