Hidden Risks of Nail Salons: What Your Feet Wish You Knew
A pedicure might seem like the perfect way to unwind and refresh your feet, especially in the summer. But not all nail salons prioritize hygiene and gentle care. What many people don’t realize is that pedicures done improperly can lead to more than just smudged polish. They can cause serious foot problems, especially for those with existing medical conditions.
At Dyker Park Footcare, PLLC, our podiatrists frequently treat patients with infections, ingrown toenails, and foot pain that began with what seemed like a routine salon visit. If you love pampering your feet, here’s how to do it safely.
Why Pedicures Can Pose a Risk
Pedicure tubs, nail tools, and even foot scrubs can harbor fungus, bacteria, and viruses if not properly sanitized. These microorganisms can easily enter through small cuts, cracks, or even your nail bed (especially if you're already at higher risk due to medical conditions).
Foot Conditions to Be Aware Of
Certain health concerns require extra caution when it comes to nail salon treatments:
Ingrown Toenails: Poor trimming technique or rounded edges can push nails into the surrounding skin, causing swelling, pain, and sometimes infection.
Toenail Fungus (Onychomycosis): Fungal infections are common in salons that don’t sanitize tools or tubs properly. They can spread from nail to nail—or from person to person.
Diabetic Foot Conditions: People with diabetes often have reduced sensation in their feet and poor circulation, making even minor cuts a potential gateway to infection or ulcers.
Peripheral Neuropathy: Those with nerve damage may not feel pain during aggressive nail trimming or foot filing, leading to unnoticed injuries that worsen over time.
Psoriasis or Eczema: These conditions make skin more fragile and prone to irritation, especially from harsh chemicals or tools.
How to Spot a Safe Nail Salon
Before booking your next pedicure, ask:
Are tools sterilized in an autoclave or single-use?
Are foot baths lined or pipeless and cleaned between clients?
Does the pedicurist avoid cutting cuticles or using blades?
Are they receptive to feedback and gentle with your feet?
Even in clean environments, you can reduce your risk further by bringing your own tools and avoiding services that involve skin cutting or aggressive filing.
Don’t Ignore Your Feet—Protect Them
Have you noticed foot pain, swelling, or a nail change after a recent pedicure? Are you living with a condition that puts your feet at risk? Don’t wait until it becomes a bigger problem.
Call (718) 745-6220 or fill out a online appointment request form to make an appointment with our Podiatrists at Dyker Park Footcare, PLLC, conveniently located in Brooklyn, NY. We’ll evaluate your feet, treat any issues, and help you enjoy safe, healthy pampering all year long.
Call Dyker Park Footcare, PLLC at (718) 745-6220 or fill out a appointment request form today to schedule your consultation. We're proud to serve the Brooklyn community with expert, compassionate podiatric care from our expert Podiatrists.