Harping about infection again.
This is one of those rare times that I don’t care if you are tired of hearing about me going on and on about something. ;) Infection is real and can be deadly, and is much easier to acquire than you would think.
Nail salons are really back in the news, as they should be, because with their environment it is very easy to acquire an infection that you cannot rid yourself of. The Clarion-Ledger had an article yesterday that should be eye-opening and is full of good tips to assure you are going to be safe, whether you are getting a service in a salon, or doing it yourself.
My best advice to you is to educate yourself about sanitization and disinfection, and ask your nail tech how she sanitizes her implements, and to ask to see the process first hand. She needs to have at least a couple of sets of tools , or have at least 30 minutes scheduled between clients to insure that sanitization is performed properly. It is always a good idea for her or you to keep your files seperate from other clients. I always kept my disposable nail files in bags marked with each clients name, because brand new files are sharp and easy to cut skin with, so it is difficult to use a new one for each client. But you either need to have your own files, or she must use a new file on you. And don’t forget about electric files - the barrel file on those must be new as well. Make sure (ask!) she has thoroughly and properly washed her hands between clients. Look at the disinfectant she is using. It should be hospital-grade and if it is cloudy, it is no good. And one more time - do NOT use a plumbed pedicure tub, please.
And finally, if you have a nail tech that you love, that does a great job and is nice and sanitary, do her a favor and tell all of your friends about her. Good people deserve to be rewarded for their efforts!
6 opinions for Harping about infection again.
Aging Fabulous » It Just Makes Me Cringe
Mar 9, 2006 at 9:45 am
[...] I was at the mall yesterday (I know, I’m always there), but I couldn’t help noticing how many women stop at the nail salons to have their nails manicured. But after reading what Christina (EbeautyDaily) had to say about infections, you have to wonder just how careful some of the technicians are. Here’s what she has to say… My best advice to you is to educate yourself about sanitization and disinfection, and ask your nail tech how she sanitizes her implements, and to ask to see the process first hand. She needs to have at least a couple of sets of tools , or have at least 30 minutes scheduled between clients to insure that sanitization is performed properly. [...]
Gail Ables
Mar 10, 2006 at 10:56 am
I have never treated myself to a professional manicure or pedicure, but this rash of stories in the news lately about poor sanitation in some nail salons doesn’t exactly make me want to run out and pamper myself this way. Christina, we’re both in Texas, I was wondering if you have heard if this is a big news topic nationwide, or just something Texas media has latched onto lately?
Christina Jones
Mar 10, 2006 at 11:20 am
It is big in Texas at the moment, because the woman who died was in Dallas, but it has made national news (Good Morning America last week) and is a hot topic in CA as well - if you remember a few years back they had a rash of salon infections. I know I am very paranoid about MRSA from my experience with it, but after many years in the nail biz, I know from that side of things as well that it IS something to really be careful of and concerned about. Hope you are doing well, Gail, its nice to see you again - I miss you when you aren’t around. ;) LOL
Gail Ables
Mar 10, 2006 at 2:20 pm
Awww….well I’m glad to be back. I’ve actually been reading daily, just haven’t been in the mood to respond. I’ll make up for it today.
Speaking of MRSA, I read your journal about your dh’s illness last year. I found it very interesting and compelling reading. You should turn it into a book. I’m sure most people haven’t heard of this infection and don’t take little irritations like ingrown hairs or boils, etc. too seriously. How did the taping go last weekend? For PBS, right? You’ll have to let us know when it will be aired. How is your husband doing now? Completely recovered, I hope.
eBeautyDaily - The Beauty Blog - A beautifully full plate!
May 24, 2006 at 8:52 am
[...] So, I hope you never have to deal with MRSA (which is a very dangerous and antibiotic resistant Staph infection by the way), but regardless, it never hurts to know a little about it, as it is here and deadly and you can do a lot to keep from catching it, if only you are aware of its existance in the first place. [...]
MRSA Notes » Another Warning for Salon Customers
May 30, 2006 at 4:04 am
[...] As you may or may not know, MRSA in salons holds an extra sensitive place in me, as I have been a nail tech for more than 20 years now. Rather than totally repeat myself, which I love to do on this subject, I will just tell you what WFAA TV in Dallas wants you to be reminded of, which is: [...]
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