What should be done prior to performing a service that involves skin contact?

Prior to performing any service that involves skin contact, washing hands or using hand sanitizer is essential for maintaining hygiene and preventing the spread of germs and infections. Clean hands ensure that any bacteria or viruses present on the skin are eliminated, reducing the risk of contaminating either the client's skin or the tools used during the service. This practice is fundamental in the cosmetology field, where physical contact is inherent in many services, such as facials, massages, or hair treatments.

Hand hygiene builds trust with clients, as it demonstrates professionalism and a commitment to their safety. While other practices like sanitizing the workstation or preparing tools are important for overall safety and cleanliness in a salon or spa environment, they do not replace the need for proper hand sanitation before touching a client's skin. Thus, ensuring clean hands prior to starting any service is a key step in a cosmetologist's protocol for effective and safe client care.