1. Make sure the nail salon is licensed to sterilize their instruments and be sure that the instruments are as clean as possible. Find your salon at http://www.cnd.com/find-salon to check their certifications.
2. Make sure sterilized equipment are put into an autoclave. At the very least, equipment should be removed from sterile packaging in front of you. If it isn’t, don’t be afraid to speak up.
3. Leave your cuticles alone. Cuticles grow to protect us from bacteria. Ask your manicurist to push your cuticles back instead.
4. The pedi tubs are a potential germ farm of trapped dead skin. Make sure your salon uses a new plastic covering after each appointment. Also, avoid salons that use jets in their tubs, as these can be filled with bacteria if not routinely cleaned.
5. Be aware of salons that use community nail polish. Reusing the same nail brush can spread fungus and bacteria from person to person. Worst case, bring your own nail polish or purchase a new bottle at the salon.
When Should You Avoid Pedicures?
- Diabetic patients should never go to the salon for a pedicure, especially those with poor circulation.
- If you have any cuts or lesions on your feet it is best to avoid the risk of infection.
- If you have any warts, ingrown nails, or recent skin infections.
What Are Common Signs of Infection?
- Nails: Scaling under the nail, white or yellow streaks on the nail, or a crumbling corner of the nail.
- Skin: Redness, swelling, warmth, development of a rash, redspots, blisters, and cracked skin.