A little bit of foot pampering can be good for both body and sole … oops soul.
While all the usual basic foot care tips apply, there are some particular points to consider before you treat your tootsies to a professional pedicure:
- Avoid shaving your legs for a day or two before your pedicure, as this can leave microscopic cuts in your skin, increasing the risk of infection.
- While we’re on the topic of razors – they should NEVER be used in a pedicure. An exfoliation treatment is a much gentler and safer way to remove dry skin.
- Look for a salon that is clean and pays careful attention to hygiene. For example:
- All metal tools should be properly sterilized before use.
- Non-metal pedicure tools should be disposable so they can be thrown away after use.
- Be cautious of the popular pedi-thrones with jets. While the basin may be disinfected between clients, the jets are not as easily cleaned and can be a breeding ground for all sorts of nasties.
- Make sure that the area between each toe is dried thoroughly, as moisture provides ideal conditions for bacteria and fungus to flourish.
- Cuticles should be gently pushed back to neaten them up and remove any excess growth, rather than clipped. Only hangnails or jagged cuticles should be carefully trimmed away. Your cuticles are designed to protect the delicate nail bed; cutting them increases the chance of infection.
- Your nails should be cut straight across – no rounding – to prevent painful ingrown toenails.
- While polish is pretty, avoid gel or acrylic which damage the nails. This is due to a combination of factors, including the buffing that is done to prepare the nail for better adhesion, as well as the glue and other chemicals used.
- Your pedicure should NEVER hurt. If you are in pain, ask your beauty therapist to stop, as they have likely broken the skin which increases the chances of infection.
When NOT to have a Pedicure
If you have diabetes, circulation problems or a compromised immune system, you should check with your doctor or local podiatrist first, as these conditions increase your risk of infection and developing serious complications.
And finally, don’t go for a pedicure or other beauty treatment if you have a cold, an ingrown toenail, skin infection or similar, as you are then placing the health of others at risk.
When you walk away from a pedicure treatment, you want it to be with pretty feet, not with tinea, plantar warts, nail fungus and other conditions which can be unsightly, uncomfortable or even dangerous. Put your feet in the hands of a reputable salon – like Jaibe Beauty Thornlands – for your next professional pedicure!
