It is summer in Arizona and time to break out the sandals.  Along with wearing sandals, you might want to treat yourself to a pedicure at a nail salon.  But have you ever thought of how safe and clean a nail salon is?  Or wondered what causes potential complications resulting in a bad pedicure?  We discuss tips on how to get a safe pedicure.

The 24-Hour Rule

it is not recommended that you shave or wax your legs 24 hours before your pedicure.  Shaving and waxing causes tiny micro-cuts on your legs.  These micro-cuts could be the perfect environment for bacteria to enter.  Waiting at least 24 hours will allow time to heal and decrease your risk for infection.

Choosing The Right Salon

When walking into the nail salon, pay attention to the surroundings.  Does the salon look clean?  Do you see the nail technicians disinfecting the foot stations between clients?  Are the nail technicians cleaning their instruments?  Do you see the nail technicians washing their hands? If you are in doubt, ask questions.   It is important to take a note of these things before you sit down for your pedicure.  

License to Give Pedicures

Ask if all the nail technicians have a state issued license.  With this license, you know that the nail technician has taken a test to on how to decrease the spread of foot infections.

Careful with Cuticles

Ask your nail technician to not cut your cuticles.  The cuticle acts as a protective barrier to your skin and nail and are essential for your nail to grow.  If the most sterile instrument is used to cut your cuticle, this can create an environment for bacteria and fungus to enter.  Your cuticles serve as a protective barrier to your skin and nails and without them you are at a greater risk of getting an infection.

Diabetic Patients

We urge you to be careful if you decide to get a pedicure.  If you currently have any infections, cuts, any open sores on your feet, toenails, and legs, please do not get a pedicure.  This also includes if you have neuropathy, or loss of feeling in your lower extremities, because if you get a nick or cut from receiving a pedicure, you might not feel it and you might run the risk of getting an infection.

After Care Routine

When you come home, wash your feet with antibacterial soap.  Even though most salons disinfect the foot baths between clients, some salons re-circulate the water between clients, and this can increase your risk of getting an infection. 

Getting a pedicure should be a safe experience and your feet will enjoy it.  However, if any type of complications arise, please consider making an appointment with Dr. Margaret Withrow or Dr. Dylan Kaumaya  at Roadrunner Foot and Ankle in Peoria, Arizona.  We want to make sure that you are well and enjoying all of your summer activities.