The official start of summer is upon us, and at Podiatry Center of New Jersey, we know that’s when many of our patients head to the nail salon for a pedicure for a pretty look with summer shoe styles. Although a professional pedicure can be a relaxing treat, it can also lead to an unwanted fungal foot infection, such as toenail fungus or athlete’s foot.
Follow the do’s and don’ts below for safer pedicures:
Do: Be sure that the salon you choose is licensed by the state. A certificate should be prominently displayed in the shop.
Do: Observe how whirlpool baths and nail tools, such as clippers, cuticle trimmers, etc., are sanitized. Fungal infections are spread by direct contact.
Don’t: Be afraid to ask questions about sanitary procedures at your salon. A reputable salon should have no problem telling you what they do to protect their clients.
Do: Consider bringing your own nail tools to lower your risk of infection.
Don’t: Walk barefoot in the salon. Bring a pair of flip-flops or ask for a disposable pair at the salon.
Don’t: Shave your legs the morning or the night before a pedicure. Shaving can create micro-cuts in the skin, which provide an easy entry for bacteria.
Don’t: Stay in a salon that does not appear clean. From the waiting area to the restrooms, if you don’t see good cleanliness standards being followed, it’s a strong possibility that they are not being observed in the care of your nails either.
Do: Contact us if you notice any unusual symptoms on the skin of your feet or your toenails. Discoloration or deformity in nails, itchiness, redness, flakiness, or skin discoloration can all be signs of an infection. Get your symptoms evaluated and treated promptly to prevent the infection from spreading.
At the Podiatry Center of New Jersey, our team of doctors treats various conditions such as sports injuries, diabetic foot problems, pediatric foot conditions, toe deformities, arthritis, nail fungus, arch problems, and heel pain. Equipped with advanced technologies and dedicated staff, our 16 conveniently located offices provide individualized high-quality care for patients across Essex, Hudson, Middlesex, Ocean, Passaic, and Union Counties. For all your foot and ankle problems, contact our Wayne, NJ office at (973) 925-4111 for an appointment.
