Which statement is true regarding safety when a client has shingles?

Which statement is true regarding safety when a client has shingles?

• A. Shingles is a contraindication for waxing
• B. Shingles is a minor concern and can be waxed with precautions
• C. Shingles requires only patch testing before waxing
• D. Shingles has no impact on waxing decisions

Answer: (A)

Shingles involves an active, contagious viral outbreak. The vesicles and fluid contain the varicella-zoster virus, and waxing creates abrasion of the skin. This combination can spread the virus to the esthetician or other clients and can worsen healing for the client with shingles. Because of this risk, waxing should be postponed while the outbreak is active, and only resumed once the lesions are crusted over and fully healed. Patch testing doesn’t address contagious spread or skin disruption, and proceeding with waxing during an active shingles outbreak is not considered safe.

Shingles involves an active, contagious viral outbreak. The vesicles and fluid contain the varicella-zoster virus, and waxing creates abrasion of the skin. This combination can spread the virus to the esthetician or other clients and can worsen healing for the client with shingles. Because of this risk, waxing should be postponed while the outbreak is active, and only resumed once the lesions are crusted over and fully healed. Patch testing doesn’t address contagious spread or skin disruption, and proceeding with waxing during an active shingles outbreak is not considered safe.