Tennessee Cosmetology Practice Exam

The correct procedure to sanitize brushes used in cosmetology involves washing them with soap and water, followed by disinfection. This two-step process is essential for ensuring that all debris, product buildup, and potential contaminants are removed effectively.

First, using soap and water helps to dislodge and remove physical dirt and oils from the brushes. This step is crucial because simply disinfecting without first cleaning can leave pathogens and residues that may interfere with the disinfectant's effectiveness.

After the initial cleaning, the disinfection step ensures that any remaining bacteria, viruses, or fungi are adequately eliminated. This is typically done using a proper disinfecting solution that is approved for use in beauty and cosmetology settings. The combination of cleaning and disinfecting is recognized as an industry best practice, aligning with health and safety regulations to provide a safe environment for clients.

Other methods mentioned, such as rinsing with water only, using alcohol, or washing solely with disinfectant, would not effectively ensure that brushes are fully sanitized, as they do not provide a comprehensive cleansing approach.