Which method is often used to sterilize heat-sensitive equipment?

Chemical sterilization is often the method of choice for sterilizing heat-sensitive equipment. This technique employs chemical agents that can effectively kill a wide range of microorganisms, including bacteria, viruses, and spores, without requiring high temperatures that could damage sensitive instruments.

In environments such as esthetic practices, maintaining the integrity of delicate tools like dermal pens, microdermabrasion devices, and other intricate instruments is crucial. Chemical sterilization allows for disinfection without the risk posed by heat, ensuring that the equipment remains functional and safe for use on clients.

Chemical agents such as ethylene oxide gas or liquid chemical disinfectants are commonly utilized for this purpose because they can penetrate packaging and reach all surfaces of the equipment, ensuring thorough sterilization. This method is particularly valuable in settings where heat sterilization methods, like autoclaving, might not be suitable due to the material composition or construction of the tools.

In contrast, other methods like dry heat and steam under pressure are effective for heat-stable equipment, while radiation is typically used for specific types of materials and may not be practical or widely adopted in routine esthetic practice.