Be sure to be very attentive while you’re at the salon. Particularly, while
you’re waiting to be seated.
• Take note of the common practices of
each technician. Particularly her station cleaning habits. Is she thoroughly
cleansing the pedicure tub? Not just rinsing it with water, but is she spraying
or using a disinfectant and then wiping it dry before she fills it up for the
next patron? Bacteria and fungus and yeast have all been found in pedicure tubs.
And even more important than washing the tub itself is thoroughly washing and
sanitizing the drain area…because that’s where bacteria and debris live and
thrive the most. The drain needs even more attention and detail when it comes to
disinfecting.
• Next watch to see if the manicurist grabs a clean set of
implements (directly from an autoclave or UV sanitizer or packaged and ready to
go for the next client). If the same implements are sitting there from the last
client, be sure and ask for a new clean set. Or even better, you may want to
consider bringing your own.
• A common way to get infections is through
nicks and cuts from freshly shaved skin. Do not get a pedicure if you have any
recent wounds because they are a direct thoroughfare for bacteria to enter.
Additionally, do not allow your cuticles to be cut…this is another opportunity
for bacteria to make their way into the body. Cuticle cutting is actually
illegal in many states. Cuticles are there for a reason…to protect!
• Also
be sure that if the same files, buffers and orangewood sticks, etc. are still
sitting on the tray from the last customer, you should mention it to the
technician and state that you would like a fresh new set for your treatment.