What does the term 'sanitization' refer to in a cosmetology setting?

In a cosmetology setting, 'sanitization' refers to the process of reducing the number of microorganisms to safe levels. This practice is crucial for maintaining a clean and safe environment for both clients and professionals by minimizing the risk of infections and cross-contamination. Unlike sterilization, which aims to eliminate all microorganisms, sanitization focuses on bringing the microbial load down to levels that are considered safe according to health standards.

This distinction is important because, in many practical situations, complete sterilization may not be necessary, nor feasible, especially for non-invasive services. The primary goal of sanitization is to enhance safety without the need for more extreme measures that may not be applicable in a typical salon or spa environment, where tools and surfaces can be sanitized effectively between uses.