Pedicures...The Good, The Bad and The Ugly

Pedicures can be a great way to relax and pamper yourself, but there are also some potential risks involved. It's important to weigh the pros and cons before deciding whether or not to get a pedicure. Benefits of pedicures Improved foot health: Pedicures can help to improve foot health by removing dead skin, calluses, and corns. This can help to prevent infections and other foot problems. Relaxation and stress relief: Pedicures can be a very relaxing and de-stressing experience. The warm water, massage, and gentle filing of the nails can all help to soothe the mind and body. Improved appearance: Pedicures can help to make your feet look and feel their best. The removal of dead skin and calluses can reveal softer, smoother skin. And a fresh coat of nail polish can add a touch of glamour. Risks of pedicures Infection: Pedicures can put you at risk for infection if the tools are not properly cleaned and sanitized. This is especially true if you have any cuts or abrasions on your feet. Ingrown toenails: If your toenails are not trimmed properly, they can become ingrown. This can be painful and may even require medical attention. Fungal infections: Pedicures can also put you at risk for fungal infections, such as athlete's foot. This is because fungi thrive in moist environments, such as footbaths. How to minimize the risks of pedicures Choose a reputable salon: Make sure to choose a salon that is clean and well-maintained. The staff should be properly trained and experienced in giving pedicures. Ask about sterilization procedures: Ask the salon how they sterilize their tools. The tools should be sterilized in an autoclave, which is a special machine that uses high heat and pressure to kill bacteria. Bring your own tools: If you prefer, you can bring your own tools to the salon. This is a good way to ensure that your tools are properly cleaned and sanitized. Inspect your feet before and after the pedicure: Before you get a pedicure, inspect your feet for any cuts, abrasions, or other injuries. If you have any concerns, let the pedicurist know. After the pedicure, inspect your feet again to make sure that there are no signs of infection. For those of you that haven't heard, we have our own pedicure salon right here in our office! Our licensed aesthetician Michelle has years of experience performing pedicures and is supervised by yours truly to make sure every pedicure is professionally performed. All of our instruments are steam sterilized to surgical standards to eliminate the risks of infection. The glass lined soak tub is thoroughly cleaned and sanitized between uses. Michelle uses only organic, non toxic products making the treatments safe for everyone. Treat your feet to a spa day! Call us today to schedule your treatment!