QuestionQUESTION: I am new to having my nails done and I am worried about getting an infection or bacterial problem as I have heard about others. What can I look for when I'm trying out a salon for the first time? Is it okay for them to use a nail file that has been used on someone else? What kinds of questions can I ask? What can I check for?
ANSWER: Louise,
I would say your number one concern should be the pedicure tubs. I would never ever go in a spa chair because the jets are not sanitary and the bacteria builds up inside the jets. Avoid this situation all together by choosing a pedicure bowl with plastic liners or plastic bags. Also a stainless steel bowl is a great choice.
As for the files and buffers, The state requires them to use a brand new file and buffer every single time for everybody! So no you should never let anybody use a dirty or old nail file on you! However most places do not follow this because of cost issues so you can bring your own or you will need to get and expensive pedicure i.e. 40$-60$. When you pay that price they have the money to do a proper pedicure with new tools... Obviously if you get a 20$ pedicure theres just no money left for products or cleanliness.
And Same goes for the toold like the pusher nipper and toenail clipper.. They should be submersed into a liquid (barbacide) for 10-15 min after every use. You can ask them or again bring your own.
Just remember the pedicure situation because thats were 90% of infections start. DIRTY pedicures
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QUESTION: Thank you for the info on pedicures.
What about fingernails? Should I bring my own file each time? I've been to 4 different places and they all use old ones. I have heard of people get bad fungi and diseases from manucures.....
AnswerYes same exact thing goes for finger nails . bring your own file. If you have acrylics or gels though it is ok to use an old file becuase it touches the product not your natural nails and that is fine. If its natural nail manicure then you need a new file everytime.
