Ladies, we know you truly enjoy going to your favorite nail salon to get a pedicure.  But did you know that you can easily contract a skin infection from an average spa experience? In fact, it is not uncommon for patrons of nail salons to contract skin infections caused by rapidly-growing mycobacterium fortuitum. 

Don’t shave your legs right before going to get a pedicure! The problem begins when the patron shaves before getting the pedicure. Trust me; I get it. You do not want to have hairy legs while the pedicurist massages your legs and polishes your toes. However, the act of shaving your legs causes microscopic cuts and abrasions.  Now, unbeknownst to you, the foot spa you are about to put your feet in has not been properly disinfected.  As a result, the foot spa has become a festering cesspool of bacterial growth.  As you put your feet into the bacteria-ridden water, the bacteria will enter your skin through the microscopic cuts and abrasions caused by shaving. 

According to Board Certified Infectious Disease Specialist Dr. Juan Diaz, “initially, the infection may look like insect bite.”  If left untreated, the site of infection may increase in size and become filled with puss.  Sadly, the infection can lead to serious illness or even death.  In fact, patients may require having to undergo surgical removal of the infected skin.  Fortunately, there are things one can do to prevent infection. 

According to the Environmental Protection Agency and the Centers for Disease Control, here are a few tips to avoid infection:

• Microorganisms in foot spas can enter through the skin, so broken skin (i.e. cuts and abrasions) should not come into contact with foot spa water.
• Do not shave; use hair removal creams, or wax your legs 24 hours before receiving treatment in a foot spa.
• Do not use a foot spa if your skin has any open wounds such as bug bites, bruises, scratches, cuts, scabs, poison ivy, etc.
• Ask salon workers how the foot spas are maintained and how often.
• Make sure your salon uses an EPA-registered hospital disinfectant.

If you’re afraid you might have an infection from an unsanitary salon, contact attorney Rafael Diaz for a free consultation to learn your legal options. 

Photo courtesy of TiffaniKimInstitute.com