STYLE

The real dirt

Let’s be honest, we all have pretty dirty feet. And when you’re at the salon, methods of sterilizing the tools and footbaths are not as effective as we’d like to think. Many salons soak their instruments in liquid disinfectants, but unless they’ve been treated for at least fifteen or twenty minutes, they could still be carrying tons of germs. Using tools that aren’t completely clean can easily spread infection. And as for footbaths? Those are especially hard to sterilize, as germs love damp, warm environments.

Trash files

Some instruments your pedicurist is reusing should really have been thrown in the trash. Tools like orange sticks, files and buffers can’t really be sanitized and are used so much all over your nails that they should be tossed after each client. Contrary to this, many salons will reuse these tools for several clients—a major no-no!

Shave story

Nicks and cuts from shaving your legs right before a pedi could be a gateway to infection. The pedicurist will be applying lotion and other body products up and down your calves, and if the formula comes into contact with razor cuts your skin could get very irritated or even infected. If you’re not extra gentle with your legs around the time of your pedicure, you could be in for some trouble. Always wait at least a couple days after shaving before getting a pedi.

Know your stuff

While these things may seem like automatic turn-offs from pedis, there are steps you can take to ensure your health and keep your pedicure safe. It’s perfectly acceptable to ask your technician how long tools were washed and what was used to do so. If their answer isn’t quite up to par with your sanitary needs, request a longer soak in the disinfectants before you start. You can also always ask for new orange sticks, files, etc., if it looks like the ones you’re getting are being reused. So, it’s okay to get a pedicure—as long as you proceed with caution!

pedicure kit

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by Alyson Katz | 2/1/2016