What’s not to love about a spa pedicure? The soothing bubble jets, the massage chair, and the satisfaction of perfectly polished toenails make it a go-to for millions of Americans seeking a little pampering. While nail salons have existed for just over a century, pedicures have been used to refresh and beautify feet for thousands of years. In ancient times, they were essential for nail care—trimming toenails, preventing infections, and removing dead skin, corns, and calluses.
Nowadays, pedicures are a common part of self-care for many people, even with health professionals occasionally recommending them. But alongside the benefits, there are a few risks to consider. Let’s dive into the pros and cons of pedicures and how to pick a salon that’s right for you.
### Benefits of Pedicures
Pedicures do more than make your feet look good—they can be a stress reliever, improve nail hydration, and help remove rough patches like calluses and corns. The massages that are often part of the process can boost circulation, improve skin moisture, and soothe tired or achy feet.
For people with limited mobility or difficulty reaching their toes, regular pedicures can be a practical solution for maintaining foot health. A skilled nail technician may even catch signs of potential foot problems that need attention from a podiatrist or doctor.
### Risks of Pedicures
Despite the perks, pedicures can pose some health risks, particularly for those with underlying conditions like diabetes or poor circulation. Any break in the skin during the process can lead to bacterial or fungal infections. That’s why experts advise against shaving your legs right before a pedicure, as even small nicks in the skin can increase the risk of infection.
Infections can also happen if salons don’t stick to rigorous cleaning procedures. Tools and footbaths that aren’t thoroughly sanitized between customers may harbor bacteria or fungi, leading to issues like athlete’s foot, warts, or toenail fungus.
Certain techniques can also be problematic. Using sharp tools to scrape off dead skin has the potential to cause cuts, while improper nail cutting may result in painful ingrown toenails. Removing the cuticle can also irritate the nail bed and invite infection.
### Are UV Nail Machines Safe?
Some studies suggest that UV light exposure, such as what’s used in some nail salons, can harm human cells. Though this research was conducted in a lab setting and not on real people, it raises enough concerns that it’s worth being cautious. If you frequently visit salons that use UV or LED lamps, consider applying sunscreen or wearing UV-blocking gloves to protect your skin.
### How to Choose a Safe Nail Salon
Pedicures can be relaxing and safe if you choose the right salon. Here are some tips to ensure a positive experience:
– **Check Cleaning Practices:** Make sure the salon sterilizes tools between customers, ideally using an autoclave. Avoid salons that rely only on UV light machines or liquid disinfectants.
– **Bring Your Own Tools:** Individual kits or personal supplies, like emery boards and pumice stones, can reduce the risk of cross-contamination. These items are hard to clean due to their porous nature.
– **Look for Foot Bath Liners:** Ensure the salon uses disposable plastic liners in their footbaths to prevent any risk of bacterial transfer.
– **Protect Your Cuticles:** Your cuticles act as a barrier against infections. Instead of having them cut, ask the nail technician to gently push them back and apply moisturizer.
– **Communicate Clearly:** Let your nail technician know up front if there’s anything you don’t want them to do, like cutting cuticles or addressing ingrown toenails. Sticking with the same salon and technician can also help you maintain a consistent and safe experience.
– **Limit Foot Peels:** While chemical peels can soften your feet and remove dead skin, they should be done sparingly—about every few months—and only if your feet are otherwise healthy.
### The Bottom Line
While there are some risks associated with pedicures, there’s no reason you can’t indulge in a little self-care. By taking the right precautions and choosing a clean and reputable salon, you can enjoy the benefits safely and confidently.
If you experience issues after a pedicure, like an infection or a deep ingrown toenail with redness or drainage, see a podiatrist to have it properly treated. Don’t let a nail technician attempt to dig it out.
For any ongoing foot concerns, booking an appointment with a podiatrist can help ensure your feet stay healthy and problem-free.