Does your salon disinfect the foot baths after every use?  Do you know how many other patrons use the same equipment?  A pedicure may seem relaxing and fun but the oozing boils that may result are not.  A dermatologist’s report shows salon pedicures can be, leg threatening.  The study shows 110 women developed severe boils all over their legs after salon pedicures.  The boils found on the legs of the pedicure victims were the result of a skin disease known as, mycobacterium furunculosis.  This disease can not be passed from person to person.  Rather, humans become infected through their environment and in this case, nail salon foot baths happen to the environmental breeding ground for this harmful bacteria.

You probably assume you’re safe because you go to an “up-scale” salon with “throne-like” pedicure chairs, but watch out, that makes you an accessible target for this hideous infection.  The throne-like chairs are the most difficult to clean, and portable foot baths are easier to clean in a sink.  If not cleaned properly, your legs (and other parts) run the risk of contracting this infectious disease.  When you’ve been waiting 20 minutes, it’s probably the last thing on your mind but make sure your foot bath is clean, or ask for a plain foot bath!

Another factor that worsened the situation was 70% of the women who contracted the disease, had shaved their legs prior to the pedicure.  I know, I know, you’re embarrassed, the woman cleaning your toe nails now has deal with your sand paper legs too, but swollen red boils may be a little humbling.  Remember, when you shave you create microscopic cuts just large enough to allow harmful bacteria to infiltrate your vulnerable skin, it is best to avoid shaving and the risk of infection when you go for a pedicure.

The Beauty Brains have provided some simple tips on how to protect your self during a pedicure:

1. Get off the throne
The common denominator in these cases was the throne type foot bath.  So get off the “throne” and use a plain foot bath that is thoroughly washed and disinfected between uses.

2. Wait until after your pedicure to shave
Since shaving your legs can open up tiny cuts in the skin through which bacteria can enter, you’re much safer if you shave AFTER your pedicure.  Remember, shaving was a risk factor for infection in 70% of the patients.

3. Don’t be promiscuous with your choice of salon
The salon in this study had 110 customers who became infected.  Knowing the people who run the salon and knowing others who use their services will increase your chances of being tipped off to a problem before you’re the next victim. If you consistently use the same salon you’ll be better off in the long run.

[ Via BeautyBrains.com ]

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