What are the three main routes of exposure in a shop or salon?

The three main routes of exposure in a shop or salon are breathing, skin and eye contact, and swallowing. Each of these routes highlights how substances can enter the body during salon services or while handling products.

Breathing refers to the inhalation of airborne chemicals or vapors, which can occur if proper ventilation is not maintained in a salon. Many products used in cosmetology, such as hair dyes and nail polishes, can release fumes that may be harmful when inhaled over time.

Skin and eye contact encompasses the exposure that can happen when products come into direct contact with the skin or eyes, leading to irritation, allergic reactions, or chemical burns. This route is particularly relevant for hair colorants and other topical products.

Swallowing, or ingestion, can occur accidentally if contaminated hands touch the mouth or if products are improperly stored. While this is less common than the other methods of exposure, proper safety protocols are necessary to prevent any ingestion of harmful substances.

Each of these routes underscores the importance of health and safety practices in a salon environment, including the use of personal protective equipment and proper hygiene to minimize risks associated with product handling and application.