Rock the Wyoming State Board Cosmetology Exam 2026 – Glam Up and Ace the Test!

Washing hands with soap for at least 20 seconds is the most effective method for sanitizing before providing a service. This practice actively removes dirt, bacteria, and viruses from the skin. The mechanical action of scrubbing, combined with the surfactants in soap, helps to dislodge and wash away contaminants that may be present on the hands.

While alcohol-based hand sanitizers can be effective in certain situations, they are not a replacement for thorough handwashing with soap and water, especially in the context of a hands-on service in cosmetology where the risk of transmission of pathogens can be higher. Quick rinsing without soap fails to adequately clean the hands, as it does not effectively remove harmful microorganisms. Lastly, wearing gloves without washing hands is not sufficient for sanitation and can lead to cross-contamination if hands are not clean before glove use. Thus, washing with soap for at least 20 seconds is the preferred and recommended method for hand sanitation in a cosmetology setting.