Satiny smooth heels, the sheen of healthy buffed natural toenails and the moisture-infusing massage. For all those reasons and more, pedicures remain a favored self-care activity.
Beyond the aesthetic benefits of cosmetic pedicures, there are also health advantages. Foot massages improve circulation, according to the American Podiatric Medical Association (APMA). And moisturizing feet can help guard against calluses, reports Harvard Health. Deep calluses and dry, cracked skin can lead to infection.
But cosmetic pedicures also carry potential risks. Improperly cut nails, the use of sharp implements and inadequate sterilization techniques can lead to injuries and serious infections that could require amputation.
Podiatrists recommend being vigilant, asking questions and making a few inexpensive purchases to help eliminate or mitigate health risks during non-medical pedicures.
Ensure that the nail technician has a license from the state. All 50 states require the licensing and testing of nail technicians. A quick online search will indicate what state agency – a cosmetology board, licensing department, or health agency – oversees the certification, if annual renewal or evaluation is required and if public display of the license is required.
Make sure the salon uses appropriate sterilization techniques. Autoclaves use high-pressure steam to kill fungi, bacteria and viruses that could be on tools the pedicurist uses on many different clients. Salons that don’t have autoclaves should use hospital-grade disinfectant or UV sterilizers. Ask about sterilization and sanitation practices.
Buy a set of personal pedicure utensils, and take them to the salon for the technician to use.
Don’t allow the pedicurist to cut cuticles. They protect against bacteria. Technicians should gently move them back with a rubber cuticle pusher.
Observe if the salon uses porous implements such as pumice stones or emery boards on more than one client. Porous items can’t be sterilized and should be single-use only, APMA advises. Take porous utensils to the salon for personal use.
Avoid foot baths with recirculating water. Pipes could harbor bacteria. Consider a soak-less pedicure, request the pedicurist turn off the jets or make sure the salon uses individual, disposable plastic liners in foot baths.
Skip the “cheese grater.” It’s actually called a foot rasp, but using a metal foot file can lead to over-exfoliation, which can make feet sensitive or cause an injury. Instead, opt for a gentler technique such as pumice.
Some health conditions, such as diabetes or immune disorders, make cosmetic pedicures more risky. People considering non-medical pedicures should always consult with healthcare providers before getting a pedicure.
