There’s a deal on at the local salon or that cute little spa in your hotel — should you take advantage of the discounts and indulge in a little pampering? Is your favourite salon doing their best to keep its clients healthy and happy?
Manicures and pedicures have become a popular way to treat ourselves to a little luxury and many men and women even consider them a grooming essential. Unfortunately, these treatments aren’t without their risks. Bacteria and fungus spread easily from person to person through contaminated tools, not to mention the hazard of unsanitary conditions. While rare, there’s even some risk of catching illnesses like hepatitis B which are transmitted through bodily fluids.
Should you be paranoid? No, but it does pay to be careful to ensure you get the best experience for your dollars. Here’s what you need to know for a happier, healthier salon treatment.
The right salon: what to look for
A salon’s attractive price and convenient location may get you through the door, but that’s not enough to guarantee a safe and pleasant experience. Take a good look around and ask:
- Is the business licensed and are staff qualified? Depending on where you’re living or travelling, most places require a special business license for the salon as well a license for staff members, following a required training and apprenticeship regime, of course. In North America, this documentation is usually issued by the state or province, and is supposed to be posted on the wall and at work stations. (If you don’t see it, ask.)
- Is it clean? Make that spotless . They may be better decorated, but salons should be as sanitary as other health clinics where skin is touched and tools are used. Look for signs of cleanliness like covered trash cans, tidy surfaces, plenty of fresh towels and disposable items and sinks with running water nearby.
- What policies and procedures are in place to protect clients’ health? For instance, do staff wash their hands regularly, or just rely on gloves? Are technicians allowed to wear acrylic nails and jewellery which can harbour contaminants?
- How are tools and equipment cleaned? Some places only disinfect their equipment rather than sterilize it, and the chemicals may not be strong enough. Make sure the tools get at least a ten minute bath — that’s how long it takes to get the job done — and look for words like “germicidal” on the label.
Better yet, look for an autoclave — a device which sterilizes items with high pressure steam.
- Are the smells too strong? No, it’s not just you — strong smells can be a sign of poor ventilation, and the fumes can make you feel unwell.
Not sure where to start with your search? Ask for recommendations from people you know, or look for online reviews from clients. Nail salon websites can also give you a glimpse into their policies and procedures.
