Pedicures are commonly associated with hygiene, cleanliness, and cosmetic appeal. However, there are many disease- and injury-related risks associated with pedicures that people are not aware of. In this article, we at Podiatry Center of New Jersey will explain these pedicure dangers and go over 8 different groups who are particularly susceptible to them.

The Risks of Pedicures

One of the primary concerns with salon pedicures is the potential for contracting fungal infections, such as athlete’s foot or nail fungus, which both thrive in warm, moist environments. Shared equipment such as foot baths, nail clippers, files, and buffers can harbor microorganisms if not properly cleaned and sterilized according to medical standards between each client.

Viral infections, including plantar warts, can also be transmitted in pedicure environments. HPV that causes warts can survive on surfaces, and walking barefoot in communal areas like pedicure stations increases the risk of contact and subsequent infection.

Also, keep in mind that not all salon technicians have extensive training in hygiene and infection control.

At Risk Groups

Several groups of people are at a higher risk for developing complications from pedicures:

  • Individuals with Diabetes: Diabetes can cause nerve damage and poor circulation in the feet. This means they may not feel minor cuts or infections that occur during a pedicure, and their bodies may have difficulty healing. Even small infections can become serious quickly in individuals with diabetes.
  • People with Compromised Immune Systems: Those with weakened immune systems due to conditions like HIV/AIDS, cancer treatment, or organ transplant medications are more susceptible to infections from bacteria and fungi that may be present in salon environments.
  • Elderly Individuals: Older adults often have thinner skin, poorer circulation, and a higher prevalence of underlying medical conditions, which makes them more vulnerable to injury and infection during pedicures.
  • People with Poor Circulation: Conditions like peripheral artery disease can impair blood flow to the feet and increase the risk of complications from minor injuries sustained during a pedicure.
  • Individuals with Existing Foot Conditions: Those who already have fungal infections, open wounds, cuts, or psoriasis on their feet are at a higher risk of their conditions worsening or spreading in a salon setting.
  • People with Thick or Ingrown Toenails: Attempts to aggressively trim or treat these conditions during a standard pedicure can lead to injury and infection. These issues often require specialized care from a podiatrist.
  • Individuals with Sensitive Skin or Allergies: Certain lotions, scrubs, or polishes used in salons can cause allergic reactions or skin irritation in susceptible individuals.
  • Those Who Shave Their Legs Before a Pedicure: Shaving can create tiny nicks and cuts on the skin, which can provide entry points for bacteria and increase the risk of infection during a pedicure.

If you have more questions about foot care or want to address specific concerns, don’t hesitate to reach out to the expert team at Podiatry Center of New Jersey! Give us a call at (973) 925-4111 or make an appointment online.