Infections
"What you can get at an unsanitized Nail Salon"

It's important to feel comfortable asking a salon about its cleaning practices to ensure they follow proper guidelines.
Health experts link issues to spa pedicure whirlpool basins, which are more challenging to clean. The pipe systems in many spa pedicure chair models can allow water and debris to stagnate, and the filters in these chairs may not be cleaned adequately, leading to a buildup of contaminants.

Hepatitis B and C can be transmitted in nail salons if tools are inadequately cleaned or if there is exposure to infected blood. The use of non-single-use instruments without proper sterilization presents a significant risk for the transmission of these viruses.

Nail salons need to adhere to stringent hygiene practices to mitigate this risk.

The most prevalent infection associated with visits to nail salons is athlete's foot. This condition can arise from the use of unclean tools or unsanitary foot spas. Symptoms of athlete's foot include itching, burning, dryness, and flaking of the skin. Due to the highly contagious nature of this infection, it is imperative that individuals take appropriate precautions to mitigate its transmission.

Staphylococcus bacteria are significant contributors to a range of infections, particularly skin infections, which are the most prevalent. These bacteria can trigger bacteremia, a serious bloodstream infection that can escalate into sepsis, a critical and potentially life-threatening immune response to infection. It is essential to recognize risks posed by these bacteria and take appropriate measures to address them.

Contact dermatitis occurs from direct contact with allergens or irritants. Those allergic to nail polish, gel, or acrylics may develop rashes on the nail folds, face, eyelids, and neck. Allergies to massage oils or manicure products can also cause localized rashes. Prompt recognition of these reactions is essential for effective management and prevention of further irritation. 

MRSA (methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus) is a type of staph bacteria that is resistant to many antibiotics, and while uncommon, it can be contracted at nail salons through unsanitized tools or contact with an infected person

Mycobacterium fortuitum, a rapidly growing mycobacterium, has been linked to skin and soft-tissue infections, particularly furunculosis, after pedicures involving whirlpool footbaths in nail salons. 

Nail salons can be breeding grounds for bacteria and fungi, potentially leading to infections like nail or fungal nail infections if tools aren't properly sanitized or if footbaths aren't cleaned thoroughly. Shared tools like nail files, clippers, and foot spa equipment can harbour bacteria and fungi that can be easily transmitted between clients.

A Pseudomonas infection, commonly known as "green nail syndrome" or "greenies," can occur after a nail salon visit, especially if artificial nails are involved, due to the bacteria thriving in moist environments under lifted or damaged nails. 

Warts, specifically periungual or subungual warts, can be contracted at nail salons due to the contagious nature of the human papillomavirus (HPV) which causes them, and can spread through contact with contaminated tools or surfaces.  If a salon uses the same pumice stone, nail files, or cuticle sticks on multiple clients without proper disinfection, HPV can spread

While rare, it's possible to contract herpes, specifically herpetic whitlow, from a nail salon due to poor hygiene practices, such as the use of non-sterile instruments or a nail technician with a herpes infection. A manicure can weaken the skin's natural protection, allowing the herpes virus to enter. Unsanitized tools or failure to properly clean foot spas can also contribute to the spread of infections, including herpes. 

Unsanitized nail salon equipment, particularly whirlpool footbaths, can lead to infections, with Mycobacterium fortuitum and other rapidly growing mycobacteria being a common cause of skin and soft-tissue infections, including furunculosis.  These infections can present as recurrent furunculosis, causing scarring, delayed diagnosis, and the need for long-term antibiotic therapy. 

Warts, specifically periungual or subungual warts, can be contracted at nail salons due to the contagious nature of the human papillomavirus (HPV) which causes them, and can spread through contact with contaminated tools or surfaces.  If a salon uses the same pumice stone, nail files, or cuticle sticks on multiple clients without proper disinfection, HPV can spread