A recent study by the University of Cape Town revealed that getting a clean shave hair cut exposes customers to various infections such as Hepatitis B.

The risk of HIV was also prevalent.

After studying 50 barbershops, examining the clippers and noting down the methods of sterilization, the research showed that 42% of the clippers collected tested positive for Hepatitis B.

Should a customer's skin get broken, the risk of transmission is high.

Not only are viral infections a problem, there is also the risk of skin infections such as scabies, fungal infections, ringworms, and warts.

Doctors even say that it's possible to leave a barbershop with bedbugs and lice.

For some barbers, sterilization is an expense they can't cater to. So they dilute methylated spirit with water.

Barbers may also fail to properly clean the clippers between clients due to high traffic.

This is what barbers should do to reduce chances of infection.

1. Sterilise clippers after every haircut. Use fire or cotton dipped in antiseptic.

2. The cutting edges of the clippers should be replaced after every three months.

3. Wear gloves and/or a face mask.

4. Ensure sterilisation equipment is functional.

5. Cover the furniture with a protective cover.

6. Use warm water to clean the customer's head.

This is what clients should do to reduce chances of infection.

1. Use your own shaving kit if you have the capacity to own and maintain one.

2. Check if the establishment has a valid licence.

3. Insist on sterilisation of the clippers.

4. Check if the sterilization equipment is functional.