What is antiseptic used for?

Antiseptics are specifically formulated to reduce the risk of infection by killing or inhibiting the growth of microorganisms on the skin. In the context of esthetics, using an antiseptic to clean the skin prior to a service is crucial. This step helps to ensure that the skin is free of bacteria, dirt, and oils, creating a safe and clean environment for treatments like facials, extractions, or other skin care procedures.

While antiseptics may also play a role in treating infected wounds (addressed in another answer option) or could be related to surface disinfection in other contexts, their primary function in the esthetic setting is to prepare the skin properly for services. This is vital for preventing infections and complications during treatments.