Which statement best describes the safety consideration for waxing when a viral infection is present, such as shingles?

• A. Shingles contraindicates waxing
• B. Waxing can proceed with PPE and precautions
• C. Shingles requires a longer waxing session
• D. Shingles is unrelated to waxing safety

Answer: (A)

Active shingles is a contagious viral infection with open vesicles on the skin. Waxing pulls on the skin and can cause microtrauma, which may spread the virus through blister fluid or contaminated surfaces and increase the risk of transmission to the esthetician and other clients. Because of the contagious nature and the compromised skin, waxing should be postponed until the lesions have crusted and healed. PPE and precautions can’t fully mitigate the risk in this case, since the issue is the presence of an active contagious infection and skin reactivity, not just exposure. Other options don’t address the transmission risk or the need to allow the skin to heal before any waxing service.