The Essential Guide to Pedicure Safety: Tips for Healthy, Beautiful Feet

Pampering your feet with a professional pedicure is a relaxing treat, but did you know that improper techniques and unhygienic practices could pose risks to your foot health? Whether you’re visiting a nail salon or indulging in a DIY session at home, understanding pedicure safety is vital. Follow these essential tips to enjoy healthy, fabulous feet while avoiding common pitfalls.

Salon Safety First

Before sitting in the pedicure chair, take a moment to inspect the salon’s hygiene practices. Unsterilized tools and footbaths are among the leading culprits for spreading bacterial and fungal infections.

• Ask Questions: ask the salon what they use to sterilize the footbaths and instruments. Footbaths should be sprayed with an antimicrobial solution and wiped dry. Instruments should be washed and placed in a sterilizing solution or in a heated sterilization unit.
• Bring Your Own Tools: If unsure about the salon’s practices, consider using personal pedicure tools.

Pro Tip: Avoid salons that reuse disposable tools or don’t openly discuss their sanitation methods.

Mind Your Cuticles

Your cuticles act as a natural barrier against infections, so it’s essential to handle them with care.

• Do This: Gently push back cuticles using a wooden or rubber manicure stick. Apply cuticle oil daily to maintain cuticle and nail health.
• Avoid This: Don’t allow overcutting or aggressive pushing, which can lead to inflammation or infection?.

Avoid Foot Razors

While some salons offer foot razors and “cheese grater” tools  to remove calluses, they carry significant risks. They can cause cuts and micro abrasions that increase the chance of infection and may even stimulate thicker skin regrowth. Instead, opt for safe alternatives:

• Use pumice stones, foot files with grit or exfoliating scrubs.
• Try a podiatrist-recommended callus cream, like Gehwol Callus Cream (available for purchase at CleanSpa).

Avoid Shaving Before Your Pedicure

Freshly shaven legs or small nicks in your skin can create entry points for bacteria. To reduce the risk of infection, schedule your pedicure at least a day after shaving. 

Trim Your Nails Properly

Nail trimming seems straightforward, but improper techniques can lead to painful problems like ingrown toenails.

• Do This: Trim nails straight across or follow their natural contour.
• Avoid This: Don’t cut nails too short or round the edges, as this can encourage nails to grow into the surrounding skin.

Moisturize Wisely

Moisture is key to keeping feet soft and smooth, but excess moisture between toes can create a breeding ground for athlete’s foot. Use an emollient-rich cream like Gehwol Salve for Cracked Skin* to hydrate while avoiding buildup between the toes.

*Gehwol Salve for Cracked Skin is available for purchase at CleanSpa

Monitor Nail Health Regularly

Discolored, thick, or brittle nails may signal a fungal infection. If you suspect a problem:

• Don’t get a traditional salon pedicure! This is one of the most common infections passed on in salon settings. It may also compound your problem.
• Avoid applying nail polish, which can trap the infection.
• Schedule a consultation with a podiatrist? immediately. 

When to Seek Professional Help

Certain foot conditions, such as plantar warts, ingrown toenails, severe calluses or fungal infections, require medical attention. Schedule a consultation with Feet for Life to get started on treatment today. 

Visit CleanSpa

CleanSpa is a podiatrist-owned medical nail spa that offers unparalleled services for the hands and feet. From advanced medical technicians, surgical grade sterilization techniques and environmentally friendly products used, you can relax knowing your health is our first priority. Book an appointment at CleanSpa today!