A pedicure can be a wonderful way to relax and pamper yourself, leaving your feet feeling refreshed and looking fabulous. That said, the team at Advanced Foot Care of NJ has seen the unfortunate consequences of unsanitary salon practices, from fungal nail infections to bacterial skin infections. To help you avoid a similar fate, we’ve put together the info below. Read on to learn what you should watch for to ensure a good pedicure!

Your Pedicure Safety Checklist

You don’t need to be a germophobe to enjoy a pedicure, but you do need to be informed and proactive. Here’s what to look for and ask about before you settle in:

Licensing:
- Look for: Salon and individual technician licenses, clearly displayed. These should be issued by your state’s governing board (often the Board of Cosmetology).
- Why: Licensing ensures that the salon and technicians meet certain safety and sanitation standards.
Instrument Sterilization:
- Ask: “Do you sterilize your instruments in an autoclave?”
- Why: Sterilization with an autoclave is the gold standard, killing all bacteria, viruses, and fungi. Disinfection alone is not sufficient.
- Best Practice: You’re the person most responsible for your own foot health, so consider bringing your own instruments: nail clipper, cuticle nipper, cuticle pusher, and curette cleaner.
Footbath Type and Cleaning:
- Ask: “What type of footbath do you use, and how is it cleaned?”
- Why: Piped whirlpool footbaths can harbor bacteria in their pipes and jets. Pipe-free footbaths are generally easier to clean thoroughly.
  - Look for single-use footbath liners.
- Best Practice: Ensure a new liner is used for your footbath, or that the basin is thoroughly cleaned and disinfected between clients.
Disposable Items:
- Ask: “Are items like nail files, foot files, buffers, and toe separators used only once?”
- Why: These items can harbor bacteria and fungi and should never be reused between clients.
- Best Practice: Consider bringing your own disposable items to ensure they are brand new.
Technician Hygiene:
- Observe: Does the technician wash their hands (or wear fresh gloves) before starting your pedicure?
- Be Cautious: Be wary of technicians with artificial nails, as it can be difficult to clean thoroughly underneath them.
- Why: Proper hand hygiene is essential to prevent the spread of infection.
Shaving and Open Sores:
- Avoid: Shaving your legs within 24 hours before your appointment.
- Why: Shaving can create tiny nicks and cuts, providing entry points for bacteria.
- Postpone: If you have any open sores or cuts on your feet or legs, wait until they have completely healed before getting a pedicure.

Proactive, Not Paranoid!

A pedicure should be a relaxing and enjoyable experience, not a source of anxiety about potential infections. Don’t be afraid to ask questions and advocate for your safety!

At Advanced Foot Care of NJ, LLC, our doctor and staff look forward to resolving all of your family’s podiatric healthcare needs. We proudly serve the communities of Little Falls, Cedar Grove, Verona, Stoney Road, Sandy Hill, Albion Place, and Great Notch. Contact us today to schedule an appointment!