What type of personal protective equipment (PPE) is worn to protect the cosmetologist from exposure to microbes during service?

Gloves are essential personal protective equipment (PPE) worn by cosmetologists to protect their hands from exposure to microbes during various beauty services. When performing tasks such as nail treatments, facials, or any procedure that may involve contact with skin or bodily fluids, gloves act as a barrier. They prevent the transmission of pathogens, reducing the risk of infection for both the client and the cosmetologist.

Using gloves is especially critical in settings where there may be cuts, abrasions, or the presence of bodily fluids, as they ensure a sterile environment. While masks, aprons, and hairnets provide different forms of protection in a salon, they do not directly prevent microbial transmission through hand contact. Masks can protect against airborne pathogens, and aprons protect clothing from chemicals and stains, but gloves specifically address the need for hand safety against microbial exposure, making them the most relevant choice in this context.