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Progressive Foot Care

How to Protect Yourself from an Unsafe Pedicure

There is nothing more relaxing or important to some than a pedicure. However the fancy nail polish and relaxing foot bath can sometimes be more trouble than what they are worth. There are quite a few potential problems that can be caused from pedicures. Ingrown toenails, fungal infections, and possible skin infections are just a few of the issues podiatrists often treat from pedicures gone bad. Despite the potential problems, there are several preventative measures that can be taken to prevent issues.

Preventative Measures:

  • Makes sure you do not get a pedicure while there are cuts or abrasions on your legs and feet. This includes not getting a pedicure the same day that you shave your legs because of the possibility of infection in the small cuts from shaving.
  • Ensure that the instruments that are to be used on your feet have been properly sterilized. The best practice would be to have your own set of instruments.
  • Make sure the nail technician does not cut toenails too short or cut corners off your nails. Improper cutting techniques can lead to ingrown toenails. Nails should be cut straight across.
  • Do not allow the nail technician to cut your cuticles. The cuticles serve as a seal between the skin and toenail.
  • Make sure the establishment where you are having a pedicure is clean.
  • Make sure that your nail technician is properly licensed. This means your technician has been approved by the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) when it comes to sterilization of nail instruments.
  • Individuals with compromised immune systems, such as diabetes or poor circulation, should avoid getting pedicures.

With the right safety precautions, pedicures can be relatively safe. If you received a pedicure and notice any changes to your feet or toes, call the doctors at Progressive Foot Care to have your feet evaluated.