How to Control Infections at Nail Salons

Whether you're a professional nail technician or a consumer who frequents nail salons, you know the importance of keeping tools and equipment sanitary before, during and after each client's visit. Serious fungal or bacterial skin infections can result from using nail clippers, cuticle cutters, files or foot spas that have been infected and not sanitized after use. Infections such as athlete's foot and cellulitis can be difficult to treat and can require a physician's care and antibiotics.

Things You'll Need

• Hand sanitizer
• Autoclave
• Disinfectant

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Instructions

Salon Professional

• 1

  Keep a waterless hand sanitizer on your station at all times. Wash your own hands with it after each client.

• 2

  Clean tools with a professional grade of cleaner after each client. Use a state-approved disinfectant. Properly sterilize your equipment in an autoclave or disinfectant labeled "tuberculoidal."

• 3

  Keep your salon clean and free of dust, debris and nail clippings. Show your clients that cleanliness is important to your salon and that they need not worry about infections.

• 4

  Wash foot spas with hot, soapy water and spray with a disinfectant after every client.

Customer

• 5

  Use nails salons that are licensed by their state. Check that all licenses are up to date.

• 6

  Skip a pedicure or manicure if you know you have an active skin infection, or if you have any cuts or lesions on your hands or feet. Shave your legs after your pedicure, not before.

• 7

  Observe the operator to make sure she washes her hands between client visits and that the foot spa is empty and sanitized prior to your use. Look for tool sanitation equipment and ensure that it is utilized before salon tools are used on your nails. Bring your own nail tools to the appointment if possible.

• 8

  Ask the nail technician to clean the chair before you sit on it if it has not already been cleaned.