Getting a manicure or pedicure is arguably one of the most relaxing ways to pamper yourself, and no one can deny that. But it turned out to be life-threatening for a woman who went to get a pedicure at a nail salon in Florida and lost her leg due to an infection after the session. The incident took place in 2020. The salon had to shell out a whopping $1.75 million (Rs 146,559,700) after losing the court battle in 2021, but nothing can make up for a lost leg, and you would agree.

So how do we do this then?

Salon red flags you should consider

No, it’s not just your boyfriend; even your favorite salon could be showing some serious signs you’re overlooking. While we can’t help you with the first sign, we can certainly tell you how to spot the second.

If the pedicure tools and tub are not clean: Dr Kiran Sethi, author and founder of Isya Aesthetics, says, “It is a red flag to see equipment lying around in nail salons without any sterilisation marks. Dirty or unsterilised hands and not wearing gloves are also a big concern. Hygiene is key.”

Imagine a salon that has so many people visiting it every day who may have a variety of skin problems. In such a situation, when these pedicure tubs and equipment are not sterilized after every use, it can wreak havoc on your skin. Ideally, the tubs should be cleaned after every use, but not many follow these norms. Most salons are very careless about the health of the clients, especially what happens to them after the session.

Dr Kiran says, “Infection is a big concern, especially when you visit an unhygienic salon. Not only can you get infected with a fungal toenail infection, but there have also been rare cases of blood-borne diseases being transmitted. For example, when the tools used for cuticle cutting and fixing are not properly sterilised between clients, there is a risk of transmitting diseases like hepatitis C. It is important to maintain high hygiene standards in nail salons to prevent such serious health risks.”

If hygiene is the last thing a salon cares about, then you know when you should last go there.

If you experience a bad reaction after a session: Whether it is an allergic reaction to a product or an infection – it might be time to reconsider going to your “most trusted” salon. Clearly, they are not following the required standards of care and hygiene. Any kind of pain or even a small cut after the session should be considered a red flag. The session is meant to help you relax, not cause you more pain (as if life isn’t enough).

Are you diabetic? So listen to us

Foot tubs used during pedicures can be hotbeds of microbial contamination. If the tubs are not cleaned thoroughly and regularly, they can harbor harmful organisms. This is particularly worrisome for individuals with weakened immune systems, diabetes, or circulatory problems, who are more susceptible to infection.

If a person has diabetes, he or she can face a lot of problems. Getting a pedicure increases this even more. How? Well, unless diabetics have ulcers, minor cuts or infections on their feet, it is okay to get a pedicure. But even then, hygiene is a priority. Dr Kiran says, “Diabetics should be cautious about getting a pedicure, especially if it is not hygienic, as they are at a much higher risk of fungal infections, as their immune system is weak.”

If you have diabetes, inform the pedicurist. Request that the water is not too hot and that they do not cut your cuticles or scratch your heels and calluses. It is better to avoid shaving your legs right before a pedicure, as small cuts can give bacteria a chance to enter. You can shave afterwards instead.

But a pedicure is important

The point is not to scare you to the point that you stop getting pedicures. It is just to make you aware of what you should keep in mind while getting a pedicure, because pedicures are not a luxury. It is very important to keep your feet clean because our feet reflect our overall health.

“There are many problems like fungal issues, warts, corns and calluses that can be avoided by paying proper attention to the feet,” says Dr Seema Oberoi Lal, consultant dermatologist at CK Birla Hospital, Gurugram. It also helps improve blood circulation. The massage component of a pedicure stimulates blood flow in your feet and lower legs. Improved blood circulation can reduce pain and swelling and contribute to the overall health of the feet. It not only helps you de-stress but it also helps you get rid of dead skin that may accumulate and cause bunions or corns.

what can you do

Do you want to get a pedicure but are still skeptical about hygiene? We have got you covered. Just follow our instructions:

Research Salon: Choose a reputable salon known for its hygiene standards. Online reviews and word-of-mouth recommendations can be invaluable.

Take care of hygiene: Pay attention to the cleanliness of the salon and its equipment. Sterilized equipment and clean foot baths are non-negotiable.

Bring your own equipment: Does that seem like a lot? Think about losing a leg if that helps. When you bring your own tools, it reduces the risk of cross-contamination.

communicate: Don’t hesitate to discuss your concerns with your pedicurist. Make sure they know about any allergies or medical conditions you have.

Choose natural products: As far as possible, choose salons that use non-toxic and natural products.

Homemade pedicure hacks

Soak your feet: Fill a basin with warm water and add a few drops of your favorite essential oil or a little Epsom salt. Soak your feet for 10-15 minutes to soften the skin and relax the muscles.

Exfoliate: After soaking, use a foot scrub or pumice stone to gently remove dead skin cells from your feet, paying attention to the heels and any rough areas. This helps smooth your skin and prepare it for the next steps.

Cut and file your nails: Dry your feet thoroughly and cut your nails straight across to prevent ingrown nails. Use a nail file to shape the edges and smooth out any rough spots.

Maintain moisture: Apply a generous amount of moisturizer or foot cream to your feet, massaging well. Pay special attention to your heels and any dry areas. For extra treatment, wear socks to help the moisturizer penetrate deeper into your skin.

Apply the color to your nails: This is an optional step, but who wouldn’t want a splash of colour on their feet? So, choose the nail paint of your choice and your feet will look just like the salon ones.

Finding a good salon is no rocket science. You just need to make sure there are a few things in mind like clean foot tubs and equipment. Then, you are good to go.