Manicures and Pedicures
Just about every woman with brown skin has had a manicure
at some point in her life. In fact, professional manicures have become
so commonplace that we do not think about the safety or the health
of our nails. First, any nail salon that you
visit should be licensed (check to see if a state license is posted).
The shop should be clean and orderly. Sinks, manicure stations, pedicure
chairs and soaking tubs should be spotlessly clean and scrubbed between
clients. Instruments must be sterilized either with a cold sterilization
method or with ultraviolet light. Make sure that your manicurist or
pedicurist has clean hands and nails and no cuts or abrasions on the
his or her skin. If he or she wears gloves, a new pair must be worn
with each client. Make certain that the ventilation in the salon is
adequate as strong fumes may develop when acrylic nails are applied.
If at any time you are uncomfortable with the salon’s cleanliness
or ventilation, the manicurist’s technique or sterility, it is
important to leave the salon. For a safe manicure and pedicure experience
follow the tips below.
Manicure and Pedicure
Tips
- Always take your own manicure and pedicure instruments
with you to the salon. That way, you can avoid the possibility of
infections. Your operator will not mind using your own instruments.
- Don’t allow your cuticles to be cut. Removal
of the cuticle can promote bacterial and yeast infections. If you
bleed during a manicure or pedicure, you also potentially expose yourself
to the transmission of diseases such as Hepatitis and HIV. Ask your
manicurist to simply push back the cuticle to give it a neat appearance.
- Don’t allow the manicurist to fine the surface
of your nails. This is commonly done prior to the application of acrylic
nails. Filing of your natural nail will result in thinning that may
require months or years to resolve.
- Don’t shave your legs before a pedicure. Small
nicks in your skin can become infected by bacteria in the pedicure
water.
- Don’t wear acrylic nails for a long period
of time. They can lead to thinning of your natural nail and promote
the growth of bacteria or fungus in your natural nails. The chemical
adhesives used can also trigger an allergic reaction.
Bottom Line
Manicures and pedicures make women with brown skin
feel well groomed, pampered and special. By following a few tips, they
can be done safely and improve the health of your nails.
