Massachusetts State Board Esthetics Practice Exam

The action that can lead to cross-contamination is touching skin and then equipment. When an esthetician touches a client's skin, there may be bacteria, oils, or other substances transferred onto their hands. If those hands then touch the equipment without proper sanitization in between, it creates a pathway for contaminants to spread. This can compromise the sterility of tools and surfaces, posing a risk of infection or skin issues for subsequent clients.

In contrast, washing hands frequently is a vital practice that helps to reduce the risk of cross-contamination. Using disposable tools further minimizes the chances of spreading contaminants, as these tools are single-use and do not get shared. Regularly cleansing surfaces is also an important preventive measure against cross-contamination, as it helps eliminate pathogens that might linger on equipment or workspaces.