Every year, many women flock to nail bars for pedicures. And every year, podiatrists see how they can go wrong.
We know it’s tempting to have your feet looking pretty for the summer, so we’ve compiled some info to keep you safe.
Ensure your nails have a break where there is no nail polish on them for at least a week between pedicures. Fungus is anaerobic (doesn’t need oxygen) and loves darkness – this is exactly the environment nail polish is promoting
Check your nails after removing nail polish – a common myth is that nail discolouration is caused by having the nail polish on. Whilst this doesn’t help, the real cause of white spots or yellow/brown patches on the nails is likely to be a fungal infection
If you suspect a fungal infection in the nails, see a podiatrist ASAP. The quicker we get onto the infection, the more likely it is to clear up. Many people spend years fighting these infections once they’re well-established
Do not share nail polish with others and never use a toenail polish for your fingernails
If you receive a cut or a graze when receiving a pedicure (or a manicure) do not continue. It is the law for the technician to cease treatment if this happens, as there is a chance of blood-borne disease spreading. Take good care of the cut with an antiseptic cleanser and ointment.
