Pedicure Safety

Pedicures are great ways to give your feet a well-deserved, pampering deep cleaning. Most people love the pampering and relaxed feeling that accompanies a pedicure. However, your pedicure can turn into a nightmare if the footbath is not cleaned properly. When footbaths aren't cleaned and disinfected properly, skin can gather in the tub basin, drain and aqua jets; and bacteria can grow to unusually high levels.

Pedicure Risks If the footbath is improperly cleaned, it may contain bacteria called mycobacterium fortuitum or other types of fungi. Symptoms of a Mycobacterium Fortuitum Infection Some of the most common symptoms of a mycobacterium infection are boils that usually start out looking like a spider bite but gradually grow in size, eventually producing pus. Can a Mycobacterium Fortuitum Infection be treated? Yes. The infection can be treated with antibiotics and some boils will heal on their own. Treatment may require several weeks to complete. Depending on the severity, treatment may include multiple rounds of antibiotics lasting up to several months. Tips to getting a Safe Pedicure? We discussed this in great detail last week in the Nail Issue of Spavelous “Now You are In The Know”  here is a brief overview:

• Ask the manager how often the footbaths are cleaned. The footbaths should be cleaned at least once a day. The bacteria is usually present in the filter. The filter should be removed and free from debris.  Ask to see the filter to make sure it is clean.
• Ask the manager how the footbaths are cleaned. The footbaths should be cleaned with a bleach solution for 15 minutes.
• Don't shave your legs 24 hours before your pedicure. A shave can create tiny nicks that allow the bacteria to enter your skin.
• Make sure the salon sterilizes metal equipment between appointments. Some salons will allow you to bring your own metal equipment.  Or bring your own equipment.
• Make sure the salon has posted a current license from the Board of Cosmetology, as well as the Board's Health and Safety poster.
• Make sure your pedicurist has posted their license.
• Trim only your toenails. Do not let your pedicurist cut your cuticles. Cut cuticles provide an opening to bacteria.
• If the footbath basin looks dirty, ask your pedicurist to wash and disinfect the footbath and the metal equipment.  If you have any concerns.  Leave it is not worth the risk.