Thursday, January 17, 2013

Winter Pedicures – Are They Safe?

Pedicures can be traced back 5000 years to India when people polished their nails with henna. Nail polish was used to show status in 3000 B.C. China. Wearing red or black gave you elite status. The Egyptians in 2300 B.C. also colored their nails.

A pedicure = foot care

In Latin, “pes” means foot and “cura” means care, meaning getting a pedicure is ultimately caring for your feet. There are some important rules to follow though to ensure feet stay safe and healthy. In the winter feet can get dry with less moisture in the air. A pedicure can slough away rough skin and calluses but never allow a technician to use a razor. It increases the risk of injury and infection. If dry feet have resulted in cracks in your skin, avoid a pedicure entirely. Cracks in your skin are at great risk for infection if any bacteria gets in.

As tempted as you may be, don’t shave before heading to the salon. Shaving can leave tiny nicks in your skin and the bacteria in a dirty foot bath is not something you want near them. Invest in your own tools as well. Even if a salon looks inviting, they may not sterilize their equipment well and germs can linger on old tools.

Here is a handy winter pedicure tip: To avoid wasting your money on a great winter pedicure, ask the technician to put cuticle oil on your toenails and put plastic around them before putting your shoes or boots back on.

If you have an injury that needs treatment before being able to get a pedicure or if getting one has given you an injury, contact Dr. Tejas Pandya, a foot specialist in Troy, NY. Call our podiatric office at (518) 273-0053 or visit us at www.capitaldistrictpodiatry.com.
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