Pedicures are a popular way to keep your feet looking and feeling great, especially when you’re getting ready to slip into your favourite summer sandals. But many people wonder, are pedicures safe?
While salon pedicures can leave you feeling pampered and confident in summer sandals, they also come with certain health risks associated with nail trimming and foot care.
Let’s explore the pros and cons to help you make an informed decision.
The Risks Associated with Pedicures
One of the main concerns with getting a professional pedicure is the risk of developing fungal infections, such as athlete’s foot or foot fungus, which can spread if tools or foot baths aren’t properly sanitised. Most nail salons should follow strict hygiene protocols, but not all do. It’s crucial to ensure that salon employees thoroughly drain, sanitise, and rinse footbaths after each use to prevent infections.
Improper nail trimming can also lead to ingrown toenails, which can be painful and require further treatment. When salon employees cut nails too short or aggressively file them, it increases the risk of developing painful ingrown toenails or nail damage. Additionally, the use of shared tools like foot files or nail files without proper sterilisation increases the risk of infection.
When Pedicures May Not Be Safe
If you have specific conditions like diabetes or ingrown toenails, you may want to reconsider getting a salon pedicure. People with diabetes are at a higher risk of infection, especially if there’s broken skin or if sharp tools like razors are used. For those prone to foot fungus or ingrown toenails, a pedicure can actually worsen the issue if proper care isn’t taken.
It’s important to ask yourself whether you feel comfortable with the cleanliness of the nail salon you visit. If you have any doubts about the hygiene practices of the neighbourhood nail salon, it might be best to seek out a more reputable one or consider an alternative.
How to Make Pedicures Safer
To reduce the risk of developing foot fungus, ingrown toenails, or other infections, there are steps you can take:
Choose a reputable nail salon: Make sure the salon is licensed, that they sterilise tools and follows strict infection control procedures.
Bring your own tools: By bringing your own nail files, clippers, and other pedicure tools, you can reduce the risk of coming into contact with contaminated instruments.
Skip the cuticle clipping: While cuticle clipping is a common practice, it can create small cuts that increase the likelihood of infections. Ask to have your cuticles gently pushed back instead of cut.
Check foot baths: Ensure the foot bath is drained and sanitised after every use to avoid the spread of fungal infections like nail fungus.
A medical-grade pedicure, performed by a podiatrist, ensures your feet are cared for in a safe, hygienic environment, particularly if you’re prone to ingrown toenails, foot fungus, or nail damage.
How Hurst Podiatry Can Help
At Hurst Podiatry, we understand the importance of keeping your feet healthy while enjoying the benefits of a good pedicure.
If you’re concerned about professional pedicures or dealing with foot health issues like ingrown toenails or fungal infections, our podiatrists can provide safe, medical-grade treatments tailored to your needs.
