What material is commonly used for disinfecting non-porous surfaces in esthetics?

Quaternary ammonium compounds, often referred to as quats, are widely recognized for their effectiveness in disinfecting non-porous surfaces within esthetics. These compounds possess antimicrobial properties that make them effective against a broad spectrum of pathogens, including bacteria, fungi, and viruses. Their use is particularly suited to the esthetics environment, where maintaining high levels of cleanliness is crucial for client safety and preventing cross-contamination.

Quats are user-friendly, typically have a pleasant scent, and often leave surfaces feeling smooth and residue-free, making them an appealing choice for estheticians. In terms of longevity, quats can provide residual efficacy, meaning they remain active on surfaces for an extended period even after initial application, thereby continuously offering protection against microbial growth.

While other options like alcohol wipes, bleach solutions, and hydrogen peroxide have their respective disinfecting qualities, quats are favored in many esthetic settings for their broad applicability, ease of use, and safety profile when used according to guidelines.