What Can Go Wrong When You Get a Pedicure: A Podiatrist’s Cautions and Recommendations

A pedicure is a relaxing and pampering experience that many people enjoy as part of their self-care routine. It can leave your feet feeling refreshed, your nails looking polished, and your skin soft. However, while pedicures are typically safe, there are certain risks involved that you should be aware of—especially if the salon or spa is not following proper hygiene practices or if your feet have underlying health conditions. As a podiatrist, I want to share some of the common issues that can arise during a pedicure and provide recommendations on how to ensure a safe and pleasant experience.

Common Risks of Pedicures

What can go wrong if you get a pedicure? Here are the most common risks:

1. Infections from Poor Hygiene One of the most significant risks when getting a pedicure is exposure to infections. The tools used during pedicures, such as nail clippers, pumice stones, and foot basins, can harbor harmful bacteria, fungi, and viruses if not properly sanitized. If the salon doesn’t follow strict hygiene protocols, you could be exposed to skin and nail infections, such as fungal infections, athlete's foot, or even a bacterial infection like cellulitis.
   

2. Cutting or Damaging the Skin During a pedicure, there is always the possibility of cutting or damaging the skin, especially when filing the nails or trimming the cuticles. If the technician uses instruments that are too sharp or aggressive, or if they don’t know how to handle delicate areas around the nail bed, it could lead to cuts or abrasions. These open wounds can easily become infected, especially in warm, moist environments like a pedicure basin.
   

3. Bloodborne Pathogens If a tool has been used on a client with a bloodborne illness, such as HIV or Hepatitis B or C, and isn’t properly sterilized, you could be at risk. Bloodborne pathogens can be transmitted through even a small nick or cut. While this risk is low if proper sterilization procedures are followed, it’s always something to keep in mind.
   

4. Allergic Reactions to Products Some pedicure products, such as nail polishes, gels, and lotions, may contain chemicals or fragrances that can trigger allergic reactions. Common symptoms include redness, itching, swelling, or a rash. People with sensitive skin or allergies to certain ingredients should be cautious about what products are used during their pedicure.
   

5. Ingrown Toenails In some cases, improper trimming of the toenails can lead to ingrown toenails. This happens when a toenail is cut too short or too rounded at the edges, causing the nail to grow into the skin, leading to pain, swelling, and potential infection. A pedicure technician should be trained in proper nail trimming techniques to avoid this risk.
   

6. Exacerbation of Preexisting Foot Conditions For individuals with certain foot conditions, such as diabetes, neuropathy, or poor circulation, a pedicure can sometimes worsen their symptoms. These conditions can make it more difficult for the feet to heal from even minor injuries. In addition, people with diabetes are more susceptible to infections, which can result in complications. It's important for people with these conditions to take extra precautions when getting a pedicure.
   

Recommendations for a Safe Pedicure

To ensure your pedicure is both relaxing and safe, here are some key recommendations:

1. Choose a Reputable Salon Select a salon that maintains a clean and sanitized environment. Check if they follow appropriate hygiene practices, such as sterilizing tools between clients, using disposable liners in foot basins, and ensuring that the technicians wear gloves when needed. Don’t be afraid to ask questions about their sanitation practices before booking an appointment.
   

2. Avoid Shaving Your Legs Before a Pedicure Shaving your legs immediately before a pedicure can leave small nicks or cuts that make your skin more vulnerable to infection. It’s best to shave your legs at least 24 hours before your appointment, or even consider skipping shaving altogether for added safety.
   

3. Inspect Tools and Equipment Before your pedicure begins, ask the technician if they are using sterilized tools. All metal instruments, including clippers, scissors, and cuticle pushers, should be properly sanitized between each use. If you notice any tools that look worn, rusty, or unclean, it's best to speak up or consider going to another salon.
   

4. Communicate with Your Technician If you have any specific foot conditions, such as diabetes, athlete’s foot, or thickened toenails, make sure to inform your technician beforehand. They may need to modify their techniques or take extra care to avoid further complications. It's also important to let them know if you feel any discomfort during the pedicure, so they can adjust their approach.
   

5. Choose Hypoallergenic Products If you have sensitive skin or allergies, opt for hypoallergenic or fragrance-free products. Many salons offer options for those with allergies or sensitivities. If you're unsure, ask about the ingredients in the products they plan to use.
   

6. Avoid Excessive Cutting or Scraping Be cautious if the technician begins cutting your cuticles or scraping your feet too aggressively. This can lead to cuts, bleeding, and infections. It’s important to allow the technician to work gently and never forcefully remove dead skin.
   

7. Inspect Your Feet Post-Pedicure After your pedicure, inspect your feet for any signs of cuts, redness, or irritation. If you notice anything unusual, take immediate action and consult your podiatrist. Keeping your feet clean and moisturized after the pedicure will also help prevent potential complications.

In closing, pedicures can be a wonderful way to care for your feet, but it's crucial to be aware of the risks involved. By choosing a reputable salon, communicating your needs clearly, and following safe practices, you can minimize the chances of any issues arising. Always prioritize hygiene and the health of your feet above all else, and your pedicure experience will be both enjoyable and safe!