We love a good mani-pedi, but not at the cost of our health. An impressive display of nail polishes in every color may seem important, but cleanliness is the most important factor when it comes to your nail salon. Manicure and pedicure tools that aren’t properly sanitized can spread bacteria, fungus, and even certain blood-borne diseases, such as hepatitis or HIV. To help you determine whether or not your go-to salon is clean, safe, and hygienic, we came up with 5 things to pay attention to during your next salon visit.
1. Tainted Tools
If your nail technician pulls out dirty or used nail files, buffers, or cuticle nippers, do not continue with your treatment. Metal tools like clippers, scissors, or cuticle removers should be in a sealed package and opened when you are about to receive your manicure or pedicure service. Clean, hygienic salons use brand new nail files and buffers on every customer. Safe salons use either an autoclave or dry heat and hospital-grade disinfectant to sterilize their metal tools and kill any harmful bacteria.
2. Dirty Foot Basins
Jacuzzi jets can be a breeding ground for harmful bacteria. Find out if your salon uses pipeless foot baths or ones with jacuzzi jets. Try to avoid salons with jacuzzi-style foot baths or ask your technician for a disposable liner to place in the foot bath to avoid direct contact with the basin, drain, or jets. Be sure to also take notice of the ways in which employees clean stations in between clients.
3. Contaminated Nail Polish/Products
If you see a nail technician working on a client with open sores or nail fungus, do not stay. Shared nail polishes and spa products can become contaminated and easily spread diseases or bacteria. Microscopic cuts on hands or feet can allow for dirt and bacteria to enter and cause infection. That is why it is important to remember not to shave your legs prior to your pedicure service. Feel free to bring your own nail polishes and tools so you don’t have to worry.
4. Unpleasant Odors/Strong Fumes
A slight chemical smell is considered normal for a typical nail salon, but a long-lasting, potent chemical smell can be hazardous to your health, and may even lead to cancer. If the fumes are extreme, it is best not to spend an extended amount of time in that salon.
5. Shared Spa Products/Do they use VOESH?
How to ensure your spa products are germ-free and safe for use? Bring your VOESH single-use Mani in a Box and Pedi in a Box kits to your salon, or find a salon that uses VOESH products. Our patented, pre-packaged kits are machine-filled and measured for the perfect amount for your manicure or pedicure service and disposable after use. No more sharing products!
Overall, trust your instincts. If you see something that doesn’t look quite right, it might be time to find a new salon. There are hundreds of nail salons everywhere that will be happy to have you as their client! Need help finding a salon near you that uses VOESH products? Click here.
