Are Pedicures an Easy Way to Get a Nail Fungus?

Fungal infections of the nails are unpleasant but extremely common. In fact, approximately 14% of the American population suffers from nail fungus, and up to 40% of adults over the age of 60 deals with fungal infections. The causes for nail fungus, also known as onychomycosis, are numerous, but some are more common than others. Many people experience infections following pedicures, leading them to ask, “Are pedicures an easy way to get a nail fungus?”

Getting A Pedicure Can Be An Easy Way to Get A Nail Fungus

Getting a pedicure can be an easy way to get a fungal infection if you choose the wrong salon. Infections are spread through the use of pedicure tools that have not been properly sanitized in between customers. Fungus thrives in warm, moist environments. Since technicians use warm water to clean the feet during a pedicure, a nail salon can be the perfect breeding ground for fungus. The pedicure foot bath can be especially dangerous if it is not properly disinfected in between customers.

Can I Decrease The Risk of Getting a Nail Fungus From A Pedicure?

While the answer to the question, “Are pedicures an easy way to get a nail fungus?” is technically “yes”, there are ways to decrease your risk. That majority of professional nail salons follow the recommended safety practices, but mistakes can still happen. If your salon disinfects tools by placing them in some type of solution, they are not fully eliminating bacteria and fungus. For full disinfection, tools need to be sterilized using an autoclave. Make sure your salon has this equipment before scheduling your appointment. Or, to best ensure your safety, bring your own tools. Since foot baths are thoroughly disinfected at the end of the business day, it might be a good idea to schedule your appointment first thing in the morning. This is the time when the baths are cleanest. Don’t let your technician use a foot razor or grater on you, EVER. Pumice stones and foot files are fine, but razors and graters can remove too much skin or cause cuts that open you up to infection and the utensils are often never sterilized. Also, wait to shave your legs after your pedicure instead of before. If you accidentally nick yourself before your pedicure, you are also opening yourself up to potential infection.

Getting a pedicure can be an easy way to contract a fungal infection, but in most cases, infections are avoidable. Choose a reputable salon. Do a bit of research, and check online reviews before booking your appointment. When visiting a new salon for the first time, ask about their sanitation practices and if they have an autoclave. If they say they do, ask to see it. Since infections are often spread via unsanitized tools, it is a good idea to bring your own. By taking a few simple precautions, it is possible to greatly reduce your risk of getting onychomycosis following a pedicure from a nail salon.