A pedicure is a great way to indulge in a little self-care, get your feet ready for beach and sandal season, and keep your toenails looking neat and trimmed. However it’s important to take a few precautions to lower your risk of getting an infection or worse.
At the Family Foot and Ankle Center of South Jersey, our team of podiatrists offers a range of services at our office in Cherry Hill, New Jersey. Here, we talk about the potential risks of a pedicure and what you can do to stay safe.
Pedicures are generally safe when you go to a clean, properly licensed salon with experienced staff. However, there are always risks involved. Some of the most common health risks involved when getting a pedicure include:
People with diabetes are more susceptible to nail infections and issues that can cause serious health complications. If you have diabetes, coming to see our team of podiatrists for regular diabetic foot care is the safest option.
Before you sit down in the chair to get a pedicure, make sure that the salon is properly licensed. If you’ve never been there before, take a few minutes to check their online reviews or get a recommendation from a trusted friend or acquaintance.
Even if you’re a regular at your salon, it’s always a good idea to make sure that the chair and foot tub has been thoroughly drained and cleaned before and after each client and that all tools and utensils are sterilized. If you get pedicures regularly and want to be extra cautious, consider investing in your own pedicure kit and nail polish.
The American Academy of Dermatology recommends that you shave your legs after getting a pedicure, not before (or wait at least 24 hours after shaving). A fresh nick or cut from your razor can increase the risk of infection from a pedicure since your ankles and lower calf get wet during a pedicure.
Remember that your cuticles are there to protect you, so avoid cutting them or aggressively pushing them back to lower the risk of infection.
Keep a pair of flip flops in your car so you can wear them to the salon to get your pedicure and never walk in your bare feet, even if the floor looks clean.
For more information about pedicure safety and treatment for foot and ankle injuries, contact us today to schedule an appointment at our office in Cherry Hill, New Jersey.
