Biosafety standards in cosmetology centers: systematic review of risks, protocols, and international compliance.

Abstract

Biosafety in cosmetology centers is a growing challenge due to the diversity of biological, chemical, and environmental risks that converge in these spaces. This systematic review compiled 19 studies published between 2008 and 2025 to analyze compliance with standards, waste management, the use of protective barriers, and the perceptions of users and professionals. The results show marked heterogeneity: while countries such as New Zealand achieve up to 80% compliance with disinfection measures, in Latin American contexts only 27% of establishments have specific areas for hazardous waste. Likewise, it was documented that only 33% of workers in Turkey consistently wore gloves, and that 72% of European consumers relied solely on visible cleanliness, without knowing the internal biosafety protocols. Evidence shows that technological innovations, such as biosafety cabinets or automated autoclaves, significantly reduce microbial load, although their implementation depends on the economic capacity of the centers. In contrast, countries with weak regulatory frameworks maintain high levels of risk for workers and customers. This study provides a comparative analysis with quantitative data that highlights international gaps and raises the need for specific public policies for the beauty sector. It is recommended that future research focus on the effectiveness of adapted manuals, the evaluation of new technologies, and the role of consumers in consolidating safe environments.