Pedicure Infection - Causes and Prevention

Introduction

Most people think of spending time for self-care and end up at nail salons for manicures and pedicures. These procedures give them peace of mind and spare time besides hectic work. However, they may turn negative when they acquire unexpected infections due to these procedures. The causes may be due to unsterile tools and baths used during the procedure. Improper ventilation might also contribute to infection spread. This article deals with the infections acquired during pedicures and how to prevent them.

What Are the Causes of Pedicure Infections?

The infections acquired during pedicure are due to Mycobacterium fortuitum. They usually grow in soil and water. They are also found in footbath systems. The tubes and screens in footbath systems are mediums for bacteria to grow, which form layers of biofilms that are difficult to remove. Hence even after a thorough cleaning, a few harmful bacteria stay in the salon, which infects the individual.

What Are the Pedicure Infections?

Individuals visiting the nail salon for a pedicure can acquire nail and skin infections, which can occur immediately or later after a few months.

The common infections acquired during a pedicure are

• Bacterial Infections: If a person acquires a bacterial infection, the area around the nails may be red, swollen, and warm. Infection may be present with symptoms a few after the pedicure. A pimple-like structure with the above symptoms indicates a bacterial infection, which can be treated with antibiotics. Sometimes, the swelling may be severe and require an incision and drainage.

• Fungal Infections: The nails may turn yellow and begin to lift from the nail bed if an individual acquires a fungal infection. These fungal infections remain dormant for months and can be treated with oral and topical antifungals. Due to its unexpected entry, the point of origin of infection is challenging to identify. It is believed that pedicures in a harsh manner can facilitate the infectious fungi causing the infection.

• Viral Infections: The most common viral infection of the foot is plantar warts, which may be due to a contaminated pool in the salon. The symptoms include dark spots and calluses, usually appearing months after the pedicure. Topical ointments can help treat the condition.

What Are the Hazardous Chemicals in Pedicure Products?

The products used during pedicures contain the following hazardous chemicals that cause severe health issues.

• Acetone: This can be found in nail polish removers, which irritates the eyes and skin, headaches and dizziness.

• Dibutyl Phthalate: This is found in nail polish, which causes nausea and irritates the skin and throat.

• Ethyl Acetate: This chemical can be identified in nail polish and remover. It can cause fainting when exposed to high levels.

• Ethyl Methacrylate: It is an artificial nail liquid causing asthma, difficulty concentrating, and irritated skin and eyes. Also, it can harm the fetus when the pregnant mother is exposed.

• Formaldehyde: It is identified in nail hardeners, which cause asthma-like attacks, wheezing, and allergic reactions.

• Toluene: It is found in nail polish, which can cause dry and cracked skin.

Why Are Respirators Essential in a Nail Salon?

Respirators can be installed in salons as they can protect against inhaling hazardous gases, such as those released from the products or germs. This helps the customers who get the service and the workers at a high risk of contracting the infection. However, if the salon is well organized with good ventilation, the need for respirators can be reduced.

The respirators commonly used in salons are N95 masks and half-facepiece elastomeric respirators. The N95 masks can be worn to protect against dust and germs and are widely used while filing nails or using acrylic power. They are not meant to protect from hazardous chemicals. Thus the half-facepiece elastomeric respirators protect from dangerous gases and vapors released from products while cleaning up the spills. These respirators must be encouraged to prevent workers and customers from acquiring the infection.

How to Prevent Pedicure Infections?

Pedicure infections can be prevented in the following ways.

• Make sure the nail salon is clean and follows proper hygiene practices.

• Check if the instruments are sterilized before use.

• Check if the instruments are not reused.

• Check if the foot bath is disinfected in a hospital grade to avoid contamination.

• It is best to visit a salon with pipeless foot baths as the chance of contamination is lesser.

• If a pedicure is done at home, use a proper cleaning solution to clean the pedicure tools.

• Avoid pedicures if open wounds are present.

• Make sure the technician is well-trained and does not cut the skin.

• Avoid pedicures with rough instruments like metal files to remove the calluses because they can remove the protective barrier and allow the entry of microorganisms.

• Individuals with ingrown toenails must avoid pedicures as they lead to toe infections.

• Dry the feet properly because improper drying can cause fungal growth, especially in the spaces between toes.

• Avoid visiting the salon during busy days.

• Avoid waxing or shaving hair 24 hours before the pedicure.

• Purchase a nail care product only after reading its ingredients on the label.

• Avoid using products with hazardous chemicals, which can damage general health.

• Check if the salon is properly ventilated.

• Use products labeled as acid-free to avoid unexpected skin issues.

• Wear fully covered dresses to avoid the skin getting exposed to dust.

• Wear protective gloves and masks while performing pedicures at home.

• Stop using a nail care product immediately after some signs of irritation.

Conclusion

This article on pedicure infections can change the view on visiting a nail salon next time. However, there is nothing to be worried about if the salons maintain proper sterilized tools and cleaning practices. So try this trick next time. Visit the salon a day before the appointment, get to know the hygiene practices, and then decide to continue the pedicure. Also, a referral from a friend or a relative is helpful to avoid unnecessary acquaintances of infection.