What is an antiseptic?

An antiseptic is specifically defined as a substance that inhibits the growth of bacteria and is applied to living tissues. This characteristic is crucial in barbershops and other personal care environments where potential exposure to pathogens can occur. Antiseptics serve to reduce the risk of infection by preventing bacterial proliferation on the skin and other organic surfaces.

The ability of an antiseptic to act on living tissue differentiates it from disinfectants, which are only formulated for use on non-living surfaces. Understanding this distinction is vital for maintaining hygiene standards and ensuring client safety in any grooming or healthcare setting. Antiseptics play a key role in infection control practices, making them essential tools for barbers and cosmetologists.