What You Should Ask Before Sitting Down For a Pedicure

    This time of year many salons are running Valentine's Day specials on deluxe pedicure services.  Before you treat yourself to another pedicure make sure you ask these questions so you can be safe as well as pampered on your next spa visit.  Feel free to call them first.  If you don't feel comfortable with the answers they are giving you over the phone, keep calling other salons.  Chances are if they can't answer your questions with confidence, they may not be doing their best to keep clients safe and healthy. If you receive good answers on the phone, don't hesitate to ask them for a tour of the facilities before you set up an appointment.  If they are doing everything right, they will be happy to show you around to try and gain your business.

    First, ask the salon how they disinfect their foot baths.  Not only should they be cleaning the water in the foot bath area but they should also be using a procedure to clean the pipes and drain area where bacteria can build up. If you sit in a foot bath after someone with a bacterial infection on their feet and it hasn't been properly cleaned your personal health could be at risk.   

Next, ask if they use disposable files and buffers.  If your technician is using a cardboard file and buffer they should be discarded after one use.  They can also collect dangerous bacteria and should not be used on several clients.  If they are not disposable instruments, make sure they let you know if they are sanitizing them after each use with a product that is antibacterial.   If you still feel unsure, ask the salon if you can bring your own instruments.  Any quality salon should have no problem letting a client bring their own instruments for the technician to use. 

    Then, ask if the technician's hands are cleaned properly after each client.  If the technician isn't properly cleaning their hands, they can pass any bacteria from a prior client to you.  Also, if you notice your technician has any cuts, warts or other issues with their hands, ask for another technician or simply leave the salon.  It might be hard to do, but if you don't you could end up with a problem you really don't want.  Warts are contagious and can spread if you get them on your feet. Also, if there are open cuts on your technician's hands and you have an open cut, you can pick up any germ or bacteria from the technician.  It's better to be safe than sorry.

    Also, ask if the salon technicians are aggressive with nail cutting.  If they are, they could cut the nails too low which could cause an infection or ingrown toe nails. Nails should be cut straight across and cuticles should never be cut.


    Finally, don't be afraid to ask where the nail technicians receive their training.  You are looking for some kind of accreditation or licensing.  That way you can be sure they have been properly trained on how to care for clients and give you the best service you deserve.

    It is a wonderful treat and truly should make you feel good and look good once you leave the salon.  If you are getting your Valentine Day special treat, ask these questions above and you should have a positive and wonderful pedicure experience!

                                                                    Pictures courtesy of Pinterest.