Pus-forming bacteria arranged in curved lines resembling a string of beads. They cause infections such as strep throat and blood poisoning.

Spherical bacteria that grow in pairs and cause diseases such as pneumonia.

An infection, such as a pimple or abscess, that is confined to a particular part of the body and appears as a lesion containing pus.

Disease caused by parasites, such as lice and mites.

a virus that causes warts in humans, but is also the cause of cervical cancer in women. When the virus infects the bottom of the foot and resembles small black dots, usually in clustered groups, it is also called plantar warts.

Various poisonous substances produced by some microorganisms (bacteria and viruses).

The ability of the body to destroy and resist infection. Immunity against disease can be either natural or acquired, and is a sign of good health.

are products made of quaternary ammonium cations and are designed for disinfection on nonporous surfaces. They are appropriate for use in non-critical (non-invasive) environments and are effective against most pathogens of concern in the salon environment.

The removal of blood and all other potentially infectious materials on an item’s surface, and the removal of visible debris or residue such as dust, hair, and skin.

Are the methods used to eliminate or reduce the transmission of infectious organisms.

A chemical process that destroys most, but not necessarily all, harmful organisms on environmental surfaces. The pathogens of concern in the cosmetology industry are effectively destroyed by the disinfection process, which is required in all states.

Round-shaped bacteria that appear singly (alone) or in groups. The three types of cocci are staphylococci, streptococci, and diplococci.

Spiral or corkscrew-shaped bacteria that cause diseases such as syphilis and Lyme disease.

Pus-forming bacteria that grow in clusters like a bunch of grapes. They cause abscesses, pustules, and boils.

Harmful microorganisms that can cause disease or infection in humans when they invade the body.

One-celled microorganisms that have both plant and animal characteristics. Some are harmful; some are harmless.

A mechanical process (scrubbing) using soap and water or detergent and water to remove all visible dirt, debris, and many disease-causing germs.

The invasion of body tissues by disease-causing pathogens.

Chemical products approved by the EPA designed to destroy most bacteria (excluding spores), fungi, and viruses on surfaces.

Capable of destroying fungi.

A disease caused by bacteria that are transmitted through coughing or sneezing.

A microscopic germ that normally exists in tap water in small numbers.

Bacteria capable of producing a protective coating that allows them to withstand very harsh environments, and shed the coating when conditions become more favorable.

Determination of the nature of a disease from its symptoms and/or diagnostic tests. Federal regulations prohibit salon professionals from performing a diagnosis.

Also known as barbers itch, inflammation of the hair follicles caused by a bacterial infection from ingrown hairs.

A fungal infection of the scalp characterized by red papules, or spots, at the opening of the hair follicles.

Organisms that grow, feed, and shelter on or in another organism (referred to as the host), while contributing nothing to the survival of that organism.

A type of fungus that affects plants or grows on inanimate objects, but does not cause human infections in the salon.

Immunity that the body develops after overcoming a disease, through inoculation (such as flu vaccinations) or through exposure to natural allergens such as pollen, cat dander, and ragweed.

A bloodborne virus that causes disease and can damage the liver.

The process that completely destroys all microbial life, including spores.

Self-movement.

a type of infectious bacteria that is highly resistant to conventional treatments due to incorrect doses or choice of antibiotic.

Disease produced by organisms, including bacteria, viruses, fungi, and parasites.

Reaction due to extreme sensitivity to certain foods, chemicals, or other normally harmless substances.

A parasitic submicroscopic particle that infects and resides in cells of biological organisms.

Chemical germicide formulated for use on skin; registered and regulated by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA).

Workers must assume that all blood and body fluids are potential sources of infection, regardless of the perceived risk.

Disease-causing microorganisms carried in the body by blood or body fluids, such as hepatitis and HIV.