This holiday season, you are undoubtedly going to be busy doing so many things for so many other people – which means you should consider taking some time for yourself.

Holiday Pedicure | Surprise, AZ Skin Podiatrist

Now, how you use your “you” time will depend, naturally, on your own natural preferences and lifestyle. Exercise and guided meditation are both outstanding options to help you feel rejuvenated, but some people prefer to have a little pampering – and that’s okay! If you are thinking about pampering yourself with a visit to the nail salon for a pedicure—or even if you are planning on doing one at home yourself—there are some things you should keep in mind for the health of your feet.

Prevent Dangers During a Pedicure

  • Don’t shave your legs beforehand. Any small nick or cut can open you to an infection, so wait until afterwards to use that razor.
  • Tool safety means using the right ones and making sure they are clean. Disinfect them with rubbing alcohol before and after use at home. In a salon, ask how they sanitize their tools—including the foot bath and filter—between each customer, or even bring your own tools along.
  • Use only a pumice stone or foot file to remove calluses and dead skin—never something sharp. The risk of injury from a sharp object, and the resulting infection, is too great. For this reason, we never recommend performing “bathroom surgery” to address any kind of skin condition.
  • Never cut or force back your cuticles. You can use a soft cuticle stick to gently push them back after your bath or shower when they are soft. Anything else is asking for trouble.
  • Trim nails straight across, not too short, and not too long. File any ragged edges with a metal file or emery board, but don’t cut down the corners. That could lead to ingrown toenails.
  • If you use polish remover, moisturize your nails afterwards. These harsh chemicals can dry out the keratin and make it more brittle. Give your nails a rest from polish, too, now and then. It is not healthy for them always to be covered, and deep tones can discolor the keratin unless you use a couple of base coats first.

Why Do Podiatrists Not Recommend Pedicures?

Many people assume podiatrists don't recommend pedicures. However, podiatrists simply want people to be safe during their pedicures. Podiatrists often treat people who were not safe during their pedicure and end up with conditions such as ingrown toenails, athletes foot, and toenail fungus. By following our simple tips, you can be sure to have a safe and relaxing pedicure, whether at a salon or in your own home.

Pedicures Will Not Treat Foot Problems

A concern for podiatrists is when people assume a trip to the nail salon will treat foot problems such an ingrown toenails. A nail salon should not be used to treat any foot or ankle problem. Podiatrists are experts in foot and ankle care. They have the tools and treatment to safely treat foot problems such as ingrown toenails, nail fungus, dry, cracked feet and all other foot or ankle problems. If you are suffering with pain or problems, you should visit a podiatrist and not a nail salon.

We hope you are able to enjoy your beautified nails, but continue pedicure safety by keeping an eye on your feet the next few days. Make sure you don’t have any red pimples, skin rashes that itch, or yellow spots on your nails that could signal a bacterial or fungal infection.

Dr. Peyman A. Elison
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Founder and Managing Partner of Fixing Feet Institute
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