I am asked by women all the time about pedicures: Can I have them? How often should I go? Is there anything that I should avoid? Here are some guidelines to think about:
DO have a pedicure! I am not against women having pedicures, it’s ok to have your feet pampered. For many women pedicures are a ‘treat,’ a time to socialize and relax. As for how often to go, keep in mind that toenails grow slowly, thus going more frequently than once a month is discouraged.
DON’T allow the pedicurist to ‘cut out’ ingrown toenails-if you have ingrown toenails, it is best to have them evaluated and treated by your podiatrist.
DO bring your own pedicure instruments to the salon or ensure that the salon has methods in place to clean and sterilize their instruments.
DON’T let a pedicurist use sharp instruments (i.e. blades) to remove dead skin or callouses. These are best treated with pumice stones or foot files after bathing. There are also some topical creams which can help manage thick or calloused skin.
DO bring your own polish to the salon. Who wants to ‘share’ bugs with everyone else by using the ‘community’ nail polish from the salon. Our clinic carries an all natural line of polishes which provide for healthier nails while also reducing potential fungus on toenails.
DON’T shave your legs before going for a pedicure-this can cause small cuts or openings which may be an entrance point for bacteria or other organisms, which could lead to an infection.
DO ask the salon workers how often the foot baths/spas are cleaned and ensure that they are disinfected between customers.
DON’T apply nail polish to cover up thick or unsightly toenails. Have those toenails evaluated professionally-many times we can offer treatments to reduce the thickness or eliminate negative appearance to toenails.
So, get out there and make your feet and toenails pretty! If you have any foot conditions which are concerning or embarrassing to you, please call us at 406-721-4007 so we can help you.