Dr. Maislos shared the key "red flags" to look out for in a nail salon – things that all customers should look out for to determine if the establishment is taking unnecessary health risks. These include three primary categories:
- Hygiene and sterilization technique – All nail salons are required by law to have and use an autoclave for sterilizing equipment. However, some salons still don't use the autoclave as intended, sometimes faking it by removing instruments from an autoclave bag that wasn't actually run through the autoclave's steam sterilization process. Common hygiene problems also include contaminated foot basins, not wearing gloves, and re-using disposable implements and liners.
- Unsafe treatments – Nail salon technicians should never handle a sharp instrument around a customer's hands or feet. This includes the "grater"-like blade tools sometimes used on calluses. Technicians are also not prepared to treat ingrown toenails, as they may temporarily reshape the nail only to increase one's risk of infection or gradual worsening of the nail problem.
- Toxins – Prolonged exposure to chemicals like acetone can cause breathing problems, including asthma and even an increased risk for cancer. While an effective ventilation system is required by law, some nail salons aren't as careful in the maintenance and operation of their systems. Customers who experience dizziness or light-headedness upon entering an establishment are advised to think twice about going in.
https://youtu.be/Ql4pOq357gI
"At my Houston podiatry practice, we see a lot of patients who have developed all types of problems because the nail salons they frequent did not operate at the highest standards for hygiene," says Dr. Gabriel Maislos, DPM, FACFAS. "Some of these establishments are among the so-called 'high-end' nail salons, but they've failed customers by not implementing all the measures designed to prevent infection, cross-contamination and other issues."
Dr. Maislos points out that the state of cleanliness of a salon and its bathrooms can say a lot about other hygiene practices. It's also recommended that a customer ask to see the salon's autoclave machine. Furthermore, as service starts, the autoclave bag will have an indicator showing that the tools inside have undergone sterilization.
Dr. Maislos, a leading, board certified Houston podiatrist, encourages individuals suffering from ingrown toenails or fungal infections to carefully evaluate their nail salon to ensure that its hygiene practices are safe and effective. In addition to treating infections and ingrown toenails, Houston Foot and Ankle Care provides treatment for a wide range of disorders, including bunions, heel spurs, plantar fasciitis, hammertoe and more.
Media Contact
Dr. Gabriel Maislos
contactus@houstonfootankle.com
(713) 541-3199
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