January 01, 2021
Cosmetic nail care
A trip to the nail salon can be a relaxing escape. But health concerns — including bacterial and fungal infections — can occur, resulting in nail thickening, swelling and discomfort. In addition, COVID-19 pandemic precautions are critical.
To ensure that your trip is remembered for the right reasons:
- Make an appointment and keep your distance — Appointments allow salons to better control capacity. If possible, wait outside or in your car for services to start.
- Wear a mask — A face covering is recommended and often required. If the salon is not following pandemic protocols, cancel your appointment and look elsewhere.
- Check the walls — Stick to salons that display a current state license, and work only with technicians also licensed by the state board.
- Ask about sanitizing — All tools used should be washed and sanitized between customers. Technicians' hands should be washed and dried. Chairs and tubs should be sanitized.
- Bring your own nail file or request a brand-new one — Do so because files can't be sterilized.
- Shave after, not before — If you're getting a pedicure, don't shave your lower legs for 24 hours prior to your appointment. Shaving can cause nicks that may get infected.
- Ask that cuticles be left intact — They're an important seal against infection.
- Avoid artificial nails — Artificial nails — such as acrylic or gel-style —...
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