To destroy or kill certain microbes on nonporous surfaces, the process is referred to as:

The process referred to as disinfection is specifically aimed at destroying or killing certain microbes on nonporous surfaces. Disinfection is commonly used in various settings, including salons, to reduce the number of pathogenic organisms present on surfaces and tools, making them safe for use. Nonporous surfaces, such as metal or plastic, do not absorb liquids, allowing disinfectants to effectively act on the surface and eliminate harmful microorganisms that can cause infections or other health issues.

Sanitization, while similar, lowers the number of germs to a safe level but does not necessarily kill all microbes; it primarily focuses on cleanliness rather than microbial destruction. Sterilization goes further than disinfection; it entails the complete elimination of all forms of microbial life, including spores, and is typically applied in medical settings rather than through routine salon practices. Antiseptics are substances used on living tissue to reduce the risk of infection, but they do not apply to the context of nonporous surfaces. Thus, disinfection is the correct process for effectively managing microbial presence on such surfaces in the cosmetology field.