Nothing beats the feeling of confidence that comes with a fresh set of nails or a pedicure, particularly when you’re prepping for a special occasion or jetting off on holiday.
However, beauty experts have issued warnings that this staple of your grooming regimen could carry hidden health hazards if salons don’t adhere to safety standards.
Brits are known to splash out approximately £4.5k annually on self-care, making nail salons a regular fixture in many individuals’ lives. However, questions arise about the cleanliness of the tools at your local salon and whether your well-being is truly being safeguarded.
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Mariana Eidelkind, the brains behind Oblique House of Nails, has highlighted the potential dangers lurking if nail salons skimp on equipment hygiene – and she’s offered tips on how to stay safe during your next manicure session, reports Surrey Live.
She explained: “Improper tool sterilisation is a serious concern because it increases the risk of transferring harmful bacteria, fungi, and viruses from one client to another. When tools like nail clippers, files, and cuticle pushers are not adequately cleaned, they can carry harmful pathogens that may lead to infections such as fungal infections, bacterial infections, and even bloodborne diseases like Hepatitis B, Hepatitis C, and HIV.”
The nature of these infections means they might not be immediately visible, posing a greater threat as clients could unknowingly be at risk. Unclean tools can not only result in unsightly cuts or nicks but also open the door for dangerous microorganisms to enter your body.
Mariana also shed light on several ‘red flags’ that should signal caution.
She said: “One of the most obvious is the use of visibly dirty or unclean tools. If your technician uses tools that are left out on the countertop, it’s likely that bacteria, dirt, and oils have accumulated on them. Clean, sterilised tools should be kept in sealed and sterile pouches until they are ready to be used.
“Also, check whether the salon uses single-use items, like nail files, buffers, or even towels. These items should never be reused across clients unless they are thoroughly sterilised in between.”
Enquiring about your salon’s hygiene practices is a key step towards ensuring your utmost safety.
Mariana advised: “A lot of people feel rude or uncomfortable to ask about the salon’s sterilisation process, but a reputable salon should have no problem explaining how they clean and sterilise their tools. Ask whether they use an autoclave or medical-grade sterilising equipment, as these are the most effective methods for ensuring proper hygiene.
“As well as this, be aware of the general cleanliness of the salon. The station where your manicure is done should be clean and free of dust, debris, and leftover nail products. The technician should also wash their hands before starting your manicure and wear gloves to ensure hygiene.”