12 Things Your Nail Salon Doesn't Want You to Know

This is why I no longer go to a nail salon.

by cyndi_albritton_hall Wednesday, April 3, 2013 at 08:02PM Report as inappropriate

This is why I do my nails and spas myself! :)

by BlondeCupcake Friday, March 29, 2013 at 11:21AM Report as inappropriate

So scary what can happen when you think you're relaxing and enjoying a pampering treat! I love my pedicures, but maybe it's time to reconsider!

by PrincessKim81 Wednesday, March 20, 2013 at 08:51AM Report as inappropriate

After reading this, I no longer feel bad that I can't afford salon mani-pedis and have been learning to do my own at home!

by purple9a Sunday, March 17, 2013 at 10:59AM Report as inappropriate

interesting

by luxe Sunday, March 17, 2013 at 09:44AM Report as inappropriate

Think I will stick to home treating.

by Candice11 Sunday, March 17, 2013 at 12:56AM Report as inappropriate

Okay, i am a licensed nail tech, and some of this is paranoia talk. Tho, it does have some truth behind it, some of these cases are very rare. We DO know the difference between disinfecting and sterilizing, dont insult out intelligence. We have to go through extensive schooling on disease control. In Texas it is the law to use an autoclave. Most nail techs dont use polish remover to dilute the polish. There are special products out there that are made for thinning the polish after it has been overexposed to the air, this doesnt affect the quality. But i wouldnt put it past some people to just throw some remover in there. Dont just. Go to any salon, you never know if they are following protocol, like this article states. I would suggest going to a high end spa, you will be paying more, but you will be paying for quality and better service. I know the one i Work at has extensive cleaning protocol. We dont care if your legs are hairy =) If your are going to a reputable spa, we dont just refill our product bottle, though, i do know some salons that do this.

by sara_christine_killough Monday, February 11, 2013 at 04:55AM Report as inappropriate

of course they are talking about you.... and saying things like " i hope this one tips better than my last client."

by smallio13 Saturday, February 9, 2013 at 12:54PM Report as inappropriate

That was pretty nasty to read!!! This is good information and this makes me weary of going to a salon to get my summer pedicure. Might as well do it myself.

by darkangel81 Thursday, February 7, 2013 at 08:05AM Report as inappropriate

Gross you guys!

by LittleBunny Monday, February 4, 2013 at 09:29AM Report as inappropriate

Manicures don't seem so luxurious anymore.

by Helmi Thursday, January 17, 2013 at 02:46PM Report as inappropriate

I'm glad I read this...I've only been to a salon three times for nails but you won't be seeing me in the salon for that anymore!

by trishsterette Thursday, January 17, 2013 at 09:23AM Report as inappropriate

Excellent information to be aware of. Kind of makes me want to skip the salon and do my own nails....

by inthemiddles Sunday, January 13, 2013 at 06:04PM Report as inappropriate

Very S C A R Y!!!

by Mommy_of_Ethan Thursday, January 3, 2013 at 07:02PM Report as inappropriate

Scary!

by Hcaddy15 Thursday, January 3, 2013 at 03:32PM Report as inappropriate

This is more scary than anything else. I thought this article would be more about the secrets to a great salon manicure at home. Still, it is good to know, although it doesn't seem like there is much we can do about these issues.

by HeathRene Thursday, January 3, 2013 at 10:22AM Report as inappropriate

Good info

by EricaF123 Saturday, December 29, 2012 at 11:51AM Report as inappropriate

I used to work as a receptionist in a salon. And to be honest, most of these (well all i think) are completely true. I do go to salons and always think of all the bacteria im allowing to come into my body. The more i think about it i think about how its not worth paying someone else to do it when i can buy a beautiful nail polish for 15 dollars that i can do my nails countless amounts of times and i do a much better job. well maybe not much better, but im pretty good at doing my nails and toe nails. Actually the one about manicurists talking about you in a different language is true, they always talk about customers.

by rayshaviolet Saturday, December 22, 2012 at 02:24PM Report as inappropriate

LOL I'm never going back to one. Better learn from TB or YouTube!

by yestfl Friday, December 21, 2012 at 02:24PM Report as inappropriate

This is why I "trained" my husband to polish my toenails......hehehehe I'll be honest, I was a manicurist back in the 80s and was mortified by what I saw and was expected to do mainly to save a buck. I'm sorry ladies but everything in this article is true and even worse. I suggest taking all your own tools and polish if you're going to have a mani or pedi in a salon!! Do yourself a big favor and BUY a glass file!!

by sharon_siqueiros Friday, November 30, 2012 at 03:47PM Report as inappropriate

nail salons are usually pretty gross

by LittleBunny Sunday, November 25, 2012 at 06:06PM Report as inappropriate

Very thorough! I've read articles like this before. I used to rationalize and get pedis in denial but it's been about six months since I've gone and I will not ever go again thanks to the information in this article.

by Nursetre Wednesday, October 24, 2012 at 03:50PM Report as inappropriate

Oh my god, I had absolutely no idea so many of these things could happen. I'll stick with doing my own nails from now on...

by GingerDrink Thursday, October 4, 2012 at 04:15PM Report as inappropriate

well, it is all true but I am not that talented to do my own mani-pedi.

by lilas Tuesday, October 2, 2012 at 02:49PM Report as inappropriate

I've never had my nails done at a salon, and this article makes me not want to start. Wow! But it's very informative, so thanks!

by KarasuSparkle Monday, October 1, 2012 at 10:24PM Report as inappropriate

i got a fungus in my toenails from a salon. so gross. three months of medication to get rid of it and now i use anti-fungal polish that i order from my podiatrist's office. the product line's not huge, but it does have some pretty colors.

by bink Friday, September 28, 2012 at 02:17PM Report as inappropriate

oh god....

by michellefuentes Saturday, September 1, 2012 at 05:59PM Report as inappropriate

I've been getting my nails done professionally for almost 15 years. The two times I had the beginning of fungus under a nail (from water sitting in a tiny pocket that had lifted off the nail bed, which is often how these things get started) the nail was immediately removed and treated. I've only had those two minor mishaps and I know full well that I am lucky. My state has instituted new rules for salons, so the spa pedicures are completely disinfected between which use and wiped dry before they let someone else sit down in one of those chairs. Everyone gets their own tools and they come straight out of the autoclave, just like new needles at a tattoo studio. Everything is opened in front of you. You are given your own nail files and other tools and they keep them on site in a box that is numbered with your name on it. I try to avoid cross contamination by always bringing my own base & top coat, as well as my own nail color. I only get my nails done there, I do my toes/feet at home myself and I'm often complimented on how professional my feet look, people are always stunned when I say I do them myself. It's no big deal if you know what you're doing and it becomes routine to you. It's good advice to always make sure your salon hasn't had any health code violations. Mine is cleanee than most doctor's offices, so I'm not worried about going, but if I ever saw anything questionable I would report it to the proper authorities so that no one else had to suffer, and then I'd heavily research the next place I went to before committing as a customer.

by MissPoison Friday, August 17, 2012 at 04:50PM Report as inappropriate

I WORKED IN AN ER AND A GUEST CAME IN WITH A TOE INFECTION AND THEY HAD TO PUT A PIC LINE THROUGH HER ....UGGGH JUST FOR SOME NICE LOOKING TOES I TOOK A BEAUTY CLASS AND I LOOKED AROUND MY SALON AND ALMOST VOMITED I STARTED DOING MY NAILS AND FEET ONCE A WEEK AT HOME IT WAS A LITTLE PRICEY AT FIRST TO BUY ALL THE STUFF BUT I WENT ON LINE AND SHOPPED AROUND IM GETTING BETTER AT IT .....TIP IF YOU LIKE YOUR TOE NAILS REALLY SHORT PAINT THEM LONG THEN CUT THEM THAT SEEMS TO DO THE TRICK FOR ME AND NO FINGER NAIL BITING !!!! :) SAME FOR WAXING I BOUGHT THE STARTER KIT AND I READ UP ON THE WAXES I BUY AND USE .

by YORKIENYC1149 Monday, July 30, 2012 at 12:29PM Report as inappropriate

This made me pretty paranoid re: bacteria... I've only been to a salon twice, once before my 18th and once when I had problems removing acrylics. Both seemed good but I can't rationalise spending that much when I've gotten pretty good at doing it myself!

by catherine_bouris Wednesday, July 18, 2012 at 07:43AM Report as inappropriate

i only go nail salon every once in a while ant this really got me dumb founded. I'll keep doing my nails myself for now on.

by jaye_tyler Sunday, July 15, 2012 at 02:15PM Report as inappropriate

great....i just got my nails done yesterday...... I usually either take my own polish or paint my nails myself when i get home...now i think i wan to invest in acrylic and do my nails myself.

by GlamDoll Monday, May 21, 2012 at 11:22AM Report as inappropriate

I've heard these things before and I have thankfully never suffered any infections or had any problem, thank god!

by valeria_burton Monday, April 30, 2012 at 02:13PM Report as inappropriate

Since I stopped getting gels a few years ago, I rarely step foot in a nail salon now. Thanks for the info!

by DTalksAll Tuesday, April 24, 2012 at 03:21PM Report as inappropriate

an eye-opener... good thing i've always wanted to do my mani-pedi by myself...

by charlize_adrienne Monday, April 23, 2012 at 08:36PM Report as inappropriate

That is helpful:)

by christiepaolini Saturday, April 21, 2012 at 08:00PM Report as inappropriate

Great article, I think I am going to just do my nails at home. I do take my own color to the salon, but there are just too many other issues to contend with...Yuk!

by roberta_morehouse Saturday, April 21, 2012 at 01:38PM Report as inappropriate

Very good to know, even though I usually do them myself

by LittleBunny Tuesday, April 17, 2012 at 11:07AM Report as inappropriate

Awsome !

by Areta Friday, April 13, 2012 at 09:03AM Report as inappropriate

Gross! I rarely go to a salon to get my nails done, mostly because it is an extra expense that I can't always afford, but I always enjoy being pampered... Some of these things are just yucky! Hopefully the salon I visit when I do go is as clean as it looks!!

by CCochran Tuesday, April 3, 2012 at 07:05AM Report as inappropriate

I already knew most of these and I also almost always bring my own bottle of nail polish. Not just so I don't get stuck with old, diluted polish, but also because I like to be able to fix small chips at home if I need to, so I need to own the color.

by tallredamanda Thursday, March 22, 2012 at 06:57AM Report as inappropriate

I do my nails myself, but it's good to know what is going on out there, you just can never be too careful.

by hananoire Thursday, March 22, 2012 at 06:37AM Report as inappropriate

Ewww. This article made me glad I've never got a professional mani/pedi. That really is disgusting to think about. If I ever get a mani/pedi I'm personally going to my good friend who does it for a living--I trust her.

by catalinahx Tuesday, March 20, 2012 at 11:44AM Report as inappropriate

Yes, I agree the nail salon always has such expensive prices. I went there a couple times to get my nails done and I remember seeing that it was a dollar each for one flower/ design on one nail! So that would mean if you got designs on all 10 nails, it would be ten extra dollars, with your already incredibly expensive bill.

by pookybear43 Sunday, March 18, 2012 at 07:08AM Report as inappropriate

I think common sense helps dictate one's choices; going to a spa, while a bit more expensive, may ensure that proper procedures are in place, as opposed to mass-market nail salons in malls. Nail care is a part of looking and feeling healthy; certainly worth a few more dollars for a safer, cleaner environment.

by imageinn Friday, March 9, 2012 at 03:03PM Report as inappropriate

I visit salons rarely, but when I do, I check the salon for cleanliness and bring my own tools. No place is truly safe so I usually do my mani and pedi myself. I actually had a Dr. look at a bump on one of my toes and he froze it which then turned into a terrible staph infection! I have yet to get something like that from a reputable salon! Ironic!!

by powerwoman033 Wednesday, March 7, 2012 at 09:27AM Report as inappropriate

I've never been to a salon before, but they do sound just as bad as makeup counters lol. I'll stick with using my own tools at home.

by jezhicka Tuesday, March 6, 2012 at 08:52PM Report as inappropriate

A cosmetologist studies hair, feet, and nails. Does a doctor take your shoes off and look at your feet? Say if some ones big toe nail fell off and during the 4-6 months it takes for a new nail to form, it always kept this bruised color. That person goes to get a pedi and he/she tells the nail tech that it’s discolored and growing in weirdly because his/her nail fell off a couple months ago. Now the nail tech decision based off of what they see and what the client is saying. I personally would never want to risk or touch any possible type of infection so I would not do he service. Then the client goes to the doctor in concern about his big toe. Shouldn’t that be something all nurses and doctors look for from the beginning? The most common fungal skin infections are found in skin, hair, and nails. Not to mention how common they are, affecting between 1 and 2 in 10 people at some point in their lives. What are clients and patients paying for.. The services. But if I go into the doctors, they treat you like crap because they know they can. Everyone is paying monthly health insurance ($), an office visit co pay ($), prescriptions ($) and lastly the doctor possible wants to run more test on you ($.) Finally we all go through the waiting stages to see if my “trust-worthing” doctor just put me on medicine that can potentially make my situation worse or better. So people can waste hundreds or thousands of dollars from one doctor’s visit but are too cheap to pay no more than $50 for a mani AND pedi and let me tell you not everyone tips. If anything, all doctors have is bad news. I should make an article, “12 Things Your Doctor Does NOT Want You To Know.”

by mercedegee Monday, March 5, 2012 at 08:34PM Report as inappropriate

Maybe nurses are trained to look for diseases, but they leave out the little details. I have never had a nurse or doctor go through my scalp, hands, or feet and seriously look for abnormalities. The only person who knows my scalp better then me is my hairdresser. I knew a 14-year-old girl who was questioned if she noticed this unusual red depressed sore on the top of her head or if she had seen them anywhere else on her body by her hairdresser. And since the hairdresser also cut her mom’s hair, the hairdresser knew her family background of skin cancer. The hairdresser was not trained to diagnosis her, even though she knew it was basal cell skin cancer, she referred the girl and mom to go see a doctor. Correct, Cosmetologists are not trained to treat the issue, but that’s why they go to school to learn all the different skin diseases, disorders, and infections so they can also tell them that they are not allowed to do the service and refer them to a physician.

by mercedegee Monday, March 5, 2012 at 07:55PM Report as inappropriate

In reference to another post about how doctors don't look at your nails, hair or scalp... although they do not appear to be looking, they are. As a nurse, who works closely with doctors, we are trained to look for anything unusual, so if we see nail fungus we will say something. Also another tip you should see a healthcare professional to take care of your feet if you have nail infections/fungus or diabetes. Cosmetologists are not trained to treat nail issues, and they will work with an infected client because they do not know any better.

by emilyvonrosco Monday, March 5, 2012 at 04:17PM Report as inappropriate

HAHA this article is a joke. Obviously the writer of this article looked at one side of this story... From a doctor. When was the last time you have gotten a physical and the doctor looked at your nails, the texture of your hair, or in your scalp? Never. Because it is not a part of their client consulate like it is for nail tech and/or hairdressers. A hairdresser can look at your scalp and will be able to determine if you have a scalp disease, cancer, sick, ect. That’s why you have to go to Cosmetology school to study if you are able to perform a service on a client or not. And on top of that they have to renew your nail/hair license every two years, and follow State Board rules and Laws or else the shop gets closed down. This person who wrote this article should of paid just a little more attention to the facts on how it is to run/work in either a Hair or Nail Salon.

by mercedegee Monday, March 5, 2012 at 03:21PM Report as inappropriate

this doesn't really stop me from getting mani's and pedi's. i've gone to the same nail tech for about 8 years and i feel totally comfortable with her. i don't mean for this to come out negative or anything, but i think most of these tips are for the quick nail salons where the workers don't really speak english. just a suggestion, i wouldn't ever get my eyebrows waxed there either. there's no reason that you have to ask for a new stick to be used on you when you go in for a brow wax. that should automatically happen with every person that comes in to get them done and once it touches the skin, it goes in the garbage and a new one is used if more wax needs to be applied. first rule i learned in beauty school when we learned how to wax. sorry for my rant. good article though.

by LMarie27 Saturday, March 3, 2012 at 07:54PM Report as inappropriate

I knew most of the info about peds but was surprised about the manis! I think I'll just save the money and do my own . . .

by librarybug01 Thursday, February 16, 2012 at 06:38PM Report as inappropriate

I most definately will not be going back to a salon, my oldest daughter and I usually do a salon day. Not anymore!

by leannda_fazzio Friday, February 10, 2012 at 07:46PM Report as inappropriate

Sadness :/

by queenphoto Friday, February 10, 2012 at 03:03PM Report as inappropriate

I have Lupus and was always nervous about having my nails done in a salon because of the meds I take that suppress my immune system. I'm so glad I listened to my gut instinct and do them myself at home. Great article, full of good info.

by bagladybetty Monday, February 6, 2012 at 06:21AM Report as inappropriate

omg ew! I spend $50 on a mani/pedi/and eyebrow wax to find this out! when they wax my eyebrows I always ask for new stick for the wax. I might still go back for that, but I don't have a problem investing in my own supplies and doing my nails myself! Just gross!

by cece1214 Thursday, January 26, 2012 at 08:32AM Report as inappropriate

thx god i don't go to nail salons but it is important to remain doing our nails at home :)

by DianaR. Friday, January 6, 2012 at 09:15AM Report as inappropriate

This article definitely makes me not want to go to salons to get my nails done anymore. I just give myself a decent manicure here and there.

by MissXu Monday, January 2, 2012 at 09:11PM Report as inappropriate

I totally agree with this! I used to go to a salon all the time until I got the no-chip manicure. They told me that it would last at least 2 weeks. Mine chipped within a couple of days! They are rude sometimes and you can tell they talk about you! I do not think nail salons are very sanitary. It grosses me out how many fingers touch the nail polish and utensils. I suggest doing your own nails!

by michelle_rago Monday, January 2, 2012 at 08:43PM Report as inappropriate

I hate when they speak another language and they talk to another worker constantly

by kitten94 Sunday, January 1, 2012 at 07:43PM Report as inappropriate

Thanks for the reminder of why I should continue doing my own nails!

by sweettpea29 Sunday, January 1, 2012 at 06:13PM Report as inappropriate

I read this story and was reminded of why I would rather do my own nails!

by sweettpea29 Sunday, January 1, 2012 at 05:59PM Report as inappropriate

Interesting.. some of those facts were gross. good to know!

by eugenia_lung Sunday, December 18, 2011 at 05:35PM Report as inappropriate

This is why I do my own pedicure/manicure and it turns out great! I never trusted salons!

by sosaveurbreath Tuesday, December 13, 2011 at 10:46PM Report as inappropriate

gtrat to know!!!

by Jiana Monday, November 28, 2011 at 10:24PM Report as inappropriate

That's scary...I never thought about all of these things.

by dash23 Saturday, November 19, 2011 at 05:00PM Report as inappropriate

This is why I clean my own nails and not go to salons much..

by grass Saturday, November 19, 2011 at 03:41AM Report as inappropriate

thanks for the info.

by shar_r Wednesday, November 9, 2011 at 02:18PM Report as inappropriate

I started doing my own and now i am ready to start practicing on my mom.

by melissa_thiemann Friday, October 28, 2011 at 07:29PM Report as inappropriate

I have only ever had 1 pedicure and about 5 manicures and I found I give myself a better mani/pedi

by Flicky_95 Wednesday, October 26, 2011 at 10:23PM Report as inappropriate

Good to know... I guess I'm lucky I'm good at doing my own nails

by MysticMeercat Friday, October 21, 2011 at 02:18PM Report as inappropriate

I'm glad that I read this, but also kinda sad. I do my own nails and toes, but on occation I like to get a mani-pedi. I guess this means I have to have a party with my girlfriends and do a mani-pedi night.

by Only1KimmieD Wednesday, October 12, 2011 at 07:23AM Report as inappropriate

Thank goodness I do my own nails!! This is so scary!

by naomihy Saturday, October 1, 2011 at 08:15PM Report as inappropriate

Gross, this why I am glad I can do a good job at home and have the various tools I need.

by Agrimony Friday, September 9, 2011 at 01:36PM Report as inappropriate

Uggh... Need to know.

by muellsrus Monday, September 5, 2011 at 04:25PM Report as inappropriate

Going to make sure my salon has an autoclave now. This article gave me the HeeBeeGeeBees

by Beautyrae Sunday, August 21, 2011 at 05:55PM Report as inappropriate

Really interesting, but also freaky to read!

by queenofthegreen Thursday, August 18, 2011 at 09:01AM Report as inappropriate

Wow, I think I'm going to rethink the pedicure I was going to get this weekend.

by taryn.romero Tuesday, August 16, 2011 at 08:44AM Report as inappropriate

love manicures I wish they didn't break the bank!

by Bon_Bon Monday, August 15, 2011 at 02:22AM Report as inappropriate

I have been going to the same nail salon for the last 10 years, and get a monthly pedicure and manicure or fill if I am wearing acrylics. They are Vietnamese and many of them are not fluent in English but they are a wonderful group who work together and have built an incredible business. I have had acrylics on many times over the last 5 years. One day when I went in for a fill they told me no, the technician saw what looked like the start of an infection or fungus. They took off the acrylic nails and told me that I needed to keep them unpainted for a few days and visit the Dr. The problem cleared up quickly but it was still a couple months before they would put colored polishing on my finger nails. I have also had crappy pedicures and manicures at fancy spas that aren’t worth the tip.

by Radgalut Wednesday, August 3, 2011 at 01:21PM Report as inappropriate

Wow, this is incredible, I was looking forward to another manicure, but after reading this article, I am seriously contemplating never to go the salon for a mani or pedi again... gah!!!

by MissXu Wednesday, July 27, 2011 at 12:50AM Report as inappropriate

I rarely get manicures and pedicures, usually only do it once every so often as a special treat, but last time I got my nails done the lady accidentally filed off some of the skin below my cuticle on my pinky finger. A visit to the dermatologist and some antibacterial cream ensured I would heal without scarring and I'm very relieved that it didn't get infected, BUT it was a good learning lesson-from now on I will watch the nail lady like a hawk and I will most likely not be going back to a nail salon for a very long time.

by Kamala_Kirk Tuesday, July 19, 2011 at 04:05PM Report as inappropriate

I've had a couple manicures and pedicures, even though I am perfectly capable of doing my own. It's nice and relaxing, and they do it much faster than I can! Funny thing I noticed - dedicated "nail salons" do my nails MUCH better. I spent twice as much on a spa manicure and a spa pedicure once, and I thought the nail salon did a much better job, for half the price! It killed me to pay $25 for my manicure (with one nail smudged, and cuticles weren't as neat and perfect as the other place does them) when the nail salon only charges $12.

by dark_beauty Tuesday, July 19, 2011 at 12:17PM Report as inappropriate

This is scary, always go get manicures and pedicures. know the risks, guess we often oversee them and dont realize how serious it can be. I've only had one manicure done in a nail salon. Luckily didn't get infected or sick, or etc. This is a great article! It will make me think twice before I want to go and have my nails done! Best to do myself! Wow, I never knew there were that many risks. I think It's worth it every once in a while though, I don't do the work as good myself. However, I hate when they talk so much. A little bit I could deal with, but when they constantly talk back-and-forth it makes me feel unsafe, like they're not paying attention to their work and will mess up.

by nikita_tadri Sunday, July 17, 2011 at 07:41PM Report as inappropriate

Thank God I do my own nails!

by selma Friday, July 15, 2011 at 06:24AM Report as inappropriate

Horrid, thank God I do my own nails.

by MissPurple Wednesday, July 13, 2011 at 04:08PM Report as inappropriate

i have never had my nails done, and now i think i have been put off for life

by lunaremus Monday, July 11, 2011 at 06:10AM Report as inappropriate

That's horrible that they're scamming people like that.

by eatinglipstick Thursday, July 7, 2011 at 09:51AM Report as inappropriate

I've only had one manicure done in a nail salon. Luckily didn't get infected or sick, or etc. This is a great article! It will make me think twice before I want to go and have my nails done! Best to do myself!

by dianach Sunday, July 3, 2011 at 10:58PM Report as inappropriate

This is scary! ohh know but true.

by maribel_madera Tuesday, June 28, 2011 at 05:19PM Report as inappropriate

Whoa this is scary

by naughtnone Thursday, June 9, 2011 at 04:42PM Report as inappropriate

That's so true that many nails salons, just like many hair salons, don't turn away paying customers. I've seen this happen so many times that I'm insanely picky about where I'll go now!

by bukiyounahito Thursday, June 9, 2011 at 08:11AM Report as inappropriate

Wow, I never knew there were that many risks. I think It's worth it every once in a while though, I don't do the work as good myself. However, I hate when they talk so much. A little bit I could deal with, but when they constantly talk back-and-forth it makes me fel unsafe, like they're not paying attention to their work and will mess up.

by shelbyv Saturday, June 4, 2011 at 11:31PM Report as inappropriate

This is scary, i always go get manicures and pedicures. I know the risks, but i guess we often oversee them and dont realize how serious it can be.

by gaej19 Wednesday, June 1, 2011 at 11:22AM Report as inappropriate

I always bring my own polish, and will start bringing my tools as well after reading this. I usually will get a salon pedicure, then maintain it at home to save money.

by attagirl Wednesday, June 1, 2011 at 08:24AM Report as inappropriate

DEATH BY PEDICURE. I would love to stand outside salons and hand them flyers with this information. Thank god i do mine at home. Ugh.

by luxylexi Sunday, May 29, 2011 at 10:07PM Report as inappropriate

Hmm! I can't afford manicures and pedicures at the shop, anyway, but it really sounds like you're much better off with the DIY method!

by dawnrager Sunday, May 29, 2011 at 11:12AM Report as inappropriate

The lotion got me o no I have dry skin some lotions don't do me right

by doglova Sunday, May 29, 2011 at 04:14AM Report as inappropriate

The swapping good lotion for cheap lotion is what gets me. I would notice if someone was using cheap watery lotion on me versus a thick silky lotion. Wouldn't most people? I do my own nails now but do miss the paint job lasting for 2 weeks versus 2 days. It just takes sooo much time to do your own. Does anyone know of a good topcoat that'll make my polish last longer? It stays on my toes forever but then I have to paiint my nail probably 4 times as often. Why???

by luvlemons Sunday, May 29, 2011 at 12:51AM Report as inappropriate

Ewww. Good thing I do my own nails at home!

by LipglossandSpandex Saturday, May 28, 2011 at 09:43PM Report as inappropriate

I know I should do them myself, but pedicures are so much nicer from a tech. On the talking thing, they're at work and should be paying attention to what they're doing, not gossiping at all, regardless of subject.

by krycekov Saturday, May 28, 2011 at 07:19PM Report as inappropriate

oh god didn't know an innocent nail spa visit can be so scary lol.

by elsie_fun Friday, May 27, 2011 at 12:16AM Report as inappropriate

Well it's a good thing that I haven't gone in about 2 yrs!! Last time was traumatizing for me- some of my nail got yanked off & the technician said it was "Skin" :(

by martha85 Tuesday, May 24, 2011 at 06:38PM Report as inappropriate

Hmmmmm, guess I will be doing my own...

by MissPurple Monday, May 23, 2011 at 11:16AM Report as inappropriate

I ALWAYS knew they were talking about me when I left!!! ;-P

by BellezzaBeauty Sunday, May 22, 2011 at 05:06AM Report as inappropriate

That is so gross! I never thought about how they don't turn anyone away. I already don't like having my feet touched as it is. Scary and it's all common sense but you just don't think about it until it's pointed out.

by Madrigaliv81 Wednesday, May 18, 2011 at 01:09AM Report as inappropriate

That's why I do my nails at home! Ah :D

by red.louboutin Friday, May 13, 2011 at 11:45AM Report as inappropriate

Interesting!

by autumnblues Thursday, May 12, 2011 at 10:45PM Report as inappropriate

All i can say is , WOW .

by Justyne318 Sunday, May 8, 2011 at 09:40AM Report as inappropriate

Doing my nails my self i easier in the long run, I don't have to drive to the salon or make time to go and spend there. Plus I have a nail fungus from Greece and refuse to let anyone uneducated about it touch my feet; and I don't want to share it with anyone either.

by howlATthemoon Monday, May 2, 2011 at 10:49PM Report as inappropriate

really good list. most of which i already knew, but its good ot put it out there.

by KelseaT Monday, May 2, 2011 at 01:18PM Report as inappropriate

Had always suspected this of nail salons. I have gotten a mani & pedi at a salon only 1x in my life & don't feel it's worth the price even though I got a 40% discount as a first time customer.

by SubCulture Wednesday, April 13, 2011 at 12:14AM Report as inappropriate

Thats why I learned to do my own nails and pedicure. I laugh at my friends that make it a big deal that they are or have been to the spa (nail salon). I try to tell them now I will show them this article hopefully they will now believe that this is a serious matter.

by NBAWife Tuesday, April 12, 2011 at 02:21PM Report as inappropriate

I had an injury to my big toenail that caused it to fall off and a new one grow in but there was a space between the nail and the skin underneath. I went to a very expensive salon in ann arbor, michigan and got a pedicure. Guess what my big toe got? A fungal infection from the pedicure. So you have to be careful no matter where you go, even an expensive salon.

by Linboys Tuesday, April 12, 2011 at 12:58PM Report as inappropriate

Provided me with info I was not aware of. I plan to share it with others.

by KVaughan Tuesday, April 12, 2011 at 12:25PM Report as inappropriate

All the more reason to not go to nail salon. I don't go anyway but now I have to forward this for all my friends!

by conniecoe Sunday, April 10, 2011 at 08:40AM Report as inappropriate

Of course the title “Six things your nail salon doesn’t want you to know” is a bit of a come on. In the nail industry more often than not, you get what you pay for. This is not to say that it is impossible to find a quality discount salon nor is it to say that if you are paying top dollar you will get top service. However in most cases discount salons need to cut corners somewhere. You simply can’t charge $15 for a full set and use professional supplies and have professional sanitation procedures. A quality Professional Nail Technician doesn’t have any secrets. There is nothing they “don’t want you to know” in fact they prefer it if their clients are educated so they know the difference between quality and not. Nail Technicians are an important part of the community. They are mothers, teachers, small business owners, husbands, wives and health care providers. They are a group of people that are hardworking, intelligent and give back to the communities in which they live. Visiting your professional nail technician on a regular basis is an important part of any health care regimen. They are trained to spot diseases and disorders of the nails and surrounding areas. They can help you with challenges like hangnails, dry skin and callouses. They keep you looking and feeling good. Members of the United Federation of Nail Technicians have pledged an oath to their clients. They are well educated in proper procedures and state laws. None of the things in your article that Dr. Spalding said in your article are true of our members. We do not use Windex for a disinfectant solution. We never refill bottles with an inferior product. Our implements and files are properly disinfected between every client. We do not nickel and dime you to death with “nail strengtheners” and other hidden costs. And our foot baths are always disinfected as per state law. While it is true that some salons are not as meticulous as our members are, when you do choose a nail technician know that the members of the United Federation of Nail Technicians are the most well trained, safest and conscious nail technicians in the world. They have joined together to battle other salons that don’t follow the rules. We are the good guys. Find out more by searching for United Federation of Nail Technicians.

by UFONT Friday, April 8, 2011 at 09:24AM Report as inappropriate

An unsanitary nail salon is like a unsanitary operating room. Would you allow someone to operate on you with unsanitary tools?

by staxof4 Thursday, April 7, 2011 at 07:22PM Report as inappropriate

I want to say this coming from a nail technician point of view. Yes, I am Asian, and I have worked at a couple of nail salons and I think some of the content in this article is picking on our type of salons. Although there are some salons out there that fail to keep it sanitized, not all are like that. We all went to school, passed the practical and written test, so we know how important it is to be clean. Twice a year, we get surprise visits from the state board and if we are to do as bad as Total Beauty make us seem, we wont' be in business because the State Board will shut us down or make us pay a heavy fine. the salons that TB mentioned are from a decade ago, now in order to run a nail salon, we have to meet many requirements, and one of them is to let the pedi tub run with water for 15 minutes in between each client. On top of that, I used to work for an american salon in 2009, and let me tell you, their way of sanitizing is to dip the solution in barbicide, that's it. They didn't even have a sterilizer machine, and for the price of $45 for a plain pedicure, you're just paying for the atmosphere. So just to let you know, going to a nail salon is just like a hair salon, you have to find what's comfortable to you. Nail salons are not bad! I'm sorry for any fungus caused, but you have to know that acrylic nails isn't for everyone. If your nail bed is naturally slick and you are in the water often, then 75% of chances are you will get a fungus. Not all fungus and disease are caused from going to nail salons.

by lylycheena Thursday, April 7, 2011 at 07:13PM Report as inappropriate

Doesn't anyone here realized that is the fact of life. Whenever you go out to have fun or do something, there are always risk involved. Do you know that if you to a restaurant and somehow get the waiter or waitress mad they might spit or better yet scuffle their hair to get some of the dandruff on to your food for better tasting. i knew of a character did that only beautiful girls beacuse they are demanding he said.

by trinity1111 Thursday, April 7, 2011 at 06:32PM Report as inappropriate

My dermatologist will not have a pedicure in the state of California, stating that they are not careful about disinfecting their instruments.

by janicegayp Thursday, April 7, 2011 at 04:17PM Report as inappropriate

My daughter got a nail infection & had to have all her natural nails removed by a doctor & take a fungus prescription for at least a year because the infection had gotten into her bloodstream & spread.

by Marilyn48 Thursday, April 7, 2011 at 12:15PM Report as inappropriate

There is a name "Sani-Tablet" can eliminates 100% of bacteria and fungus. The only EPA-registered sanitizing tablet safe for use in whirlpool foot bath(search key word: sani-tablet). When you go to pedicure, why don't you ask the salon drop one "Sani-Tablet" in front of you to make sure the bath water clean? If your salon don't have it tell them you will never go back. that is the way all my family and friends are doing.

by jessliu Thursday, April 7, 2011 at 11:27AM Report as inappropriate

I personally enjoy going to the salon to have my nails done and they have to make a living just like you do. I have been using the same person for 4 years and have not had a problem. I call make an appt walk right in and am taken care of immediately. There is nothing wrong with having a professional license nail technician do a manicure and pedicure. It does not make me lazy cuz I pay someone who went to school and that is what they do for a living. That is saying cuz you use a taxi your too lazy or stupid to drive which is nonsence,

by RandiKay Thursday, April 7, 2011 at 11:05AM Report as inappropriate

so i guess having a nice dinner out is being lazy too i mean why pay some one to do all the cooking for you when you can do it at home your self i mean what women wants to be pampered eww yuck ME I am i mom of 3 wonderfull little boys and going to get my nails done at the salon is my time I am a mom 24 hours a day 7 days a week and LOVE it but that 30 minutes I get doing my nails is not me being lazy it me being a pamered women for 30 minutes once a month and about the threat of infection please you go out the door of your house you have to worry about every thing from disease to infection to getting hit buy a bus does that mean hide in your house not a way to live

by jane_artis Thursday, April 7, 2011 at 07:23AM Report as inappropriate

And just for the record...just because someone gets their manicures professionally done does not mean they are lazy...you can tell the difference between a professional manicure and one done at home. I am in no means lazy..I'm a very hard worker and like to look nice. I do agree there are many rip off salons out there that do not clean their tools and do not really care about the health and safety of their clients, I experienced that in what I thought was a legite salon...however you just have to find one that does put cleanliness and safety first...I did. So what if you have to pay a few extra dollars...to me its worth it.

by Beachsparkle Thursday, April 7, 2011 at 06:54AM Report as inappropriate

And just for the record...just because someone gets their manicures professionally done does not mean they are lazy...you can tell the difference between a professional manicure and one done at home. I am in no means lazy..I'm a very hard worker and like to look nice.

by Beachsparkle Thursday, April 7, 2011 at 06:49AM Report as inappropriate

I actually got a nail infection from the nail salon I went to for several years...the nail tech, in my opinion, knew I was going to get an infection because he said "I'm not responsible if you get an infection." I had asked him to remove the nail tip and he refused saying "I already put the acrylic on"...and a few days later my nail was severly infected...I couldn't even touch it..had to go on antibiotic for 10 days! I still get my nails professionally done but not at that place!

by Beachsparkle Thursday, April 7, 2011 at 06:42AM Report as inappropriate

i must agree with some of the previous commentors....i used to go to salons and get acrylics....once i got a mani pedi....my feet were still rough, my paint chipped within a week, and they always shaped my acrylics oddly. furthermore there always are these nasty asian smelly ladies who you cant even understand who are rude and chit chat in harsh tones to one another all the while your in the salon, i for one am not handicapped or lazy i think some of you women are so pathetic ....i do my own nails and they always look perfect....for the cost of a mani, pedi, etc. you could own millions of polishes and your own tools....i also am not into helping putting money into the pockets of nasty rude foreigners, anything i can do myself i do, and for free.

by sarbear86 Thursday, April 7, 2011 at 06:16AM Report as inappropriate

Exactly why I published the book 3 years ago Google Nail Care Nightmares

by lisa_ann_bowles Wednesday, April 6, 2011 at 10:44PM Report as inappropriate

It's not shocking to me that nails salon don't follow protocol. Because most of the nail salon in my town are Chisense and they probably don't care about there coustomers any way. I get my nails done and try to pay close attention to the products they use and when I see something I don't like I let them know. But what do you think about all the germs you can get from eating out, people not washing there hands who knows what goes into our body. So you can't go around worring about every little thing. You have to pray each day for protecting from god, to watch over your body and to protect you from harmful disease.

by dalshanna_ross Wednesday, April 6, 2011 at 10:16PM Report as inappropriate

You can go to any major retail store or pharmacy to get the products you need to do your own nails putting the power in your hands..literally

by shannon_galat Wednesday, April 6, 2011 at 01:04AM Report as inappropriate

NEVER AGAIN

by doana_marcellus Tuesday, April 5, 2011 at 04:24PM Report as inappropriate

Why would an adult even need someone else to take care of their hands and feet? How lazy and useless can you be? I've never had a manicure or pedicure done by someone else and I never will. It's just silly. And I didn't need this article to tell me that it can also be dangerous. It's just common sense. Anyone, and I mean, anyone can do their own manicure and pedicure. And don't tell me you don't have the time. It takes much longer to actually go to a salon, wait for your turn and get a manicure. It takes me 10 minutes at home. Come on!

by maja_furlani Tuesday, April 5, 2011 at 04:07PM Report as inappropriate

I would think to eleviate much of this 'worry' over sanitation, take your own 'sanitized' tools, possibly have a second set of salon nail 'tools' in case one of your tools gets dropped on the floor. Further, it seems to me that 'no one wishes to bring the situation up' to the Salon Manager or Owner. Unless we all start speaking up, these practices will continue....as with the rest of life 'just DO something' and be responsible for yourself. Further people spend hundreds of thousands of dollars to own 'pool shoes' specifically so that their feet do not touch the pool deck or the tile floors in the locker room; and most of them have beautiful pedicures....

by gnatelee Tuesday, April 5, 2011 at 02:40PM Report as inappropriate

This is terrifying. I'm pretty glad that I don't go to nail salons often now.

by mkgx7 Tuesday, April 5, 2011 at 02:22PM Report as inappropriate

I think any game you go to nail salon, you should bring your own utensils

by ZUrsery Tuesday, April 5, 2011 at 01:33PM Report as inappropriate

We have a beauty school in town that pulls out a new set of tools and polish and then gives it all to you when you leave, all for the lovely price of $12! Love it! Helps put my mind at ease!

by ladyboarder9669 Tuesday, April 5, 2011 at 01:10PM Report as inappropriate

I haven't had a "professional" mani/pedi in years. I like to pamper myself, And I have to say I am pretty great at it now.

by jaydubu02 Tuesday, April 5, 2011 at 01:07PM Report as inappropriate

Here is the solution for NY ladies: Polished beauty bar (website: polishedbb . c o m) guaranteed the cleanest nail salon ever. They even use the autoclave system and bacteria-resistant pedicure stations! I haven't been there yet, but I am making my appointment right after pay-day!

by ajhutch Tuesday, April 5, 2011 at 12:01PM Report as inappropriate

to those who think this is fear-mongering, you should thank the author that they provide this information! As a nurse & friend of someone who got VERY sick (needed IV antibiotics for 3 weeks)from a pedicure due to lack of appropriate precautions, I believe the more information, the better. You can decide for yourself after you have the information, just pay attention to what the nail techs are doing.

by jwmed Tuesday, April 5, 2011 at 11:50AM Report as inappropriate

I don't think this is "fear mongering" at all. But it does encourage the reader to use and exercise common sense. Many different viruses and fungi can live on these surfaces for various lengths of time. Personally, I won't risk my health in pursuit of beauty due someone else's lack of care, especially if I'm plunking down my hard earned cash for their services.

by sweetolyve Tuesday, April 5, 2011 at 11:46AM Report as inappropriate

this is just why I do my own mani-pedi. First off it's cheaper, I'm saving so mcuh more money now, plus the germ factor. I saw a salon in a Atlanta do this woman feet. She clearly had fungal infection. Did the girl clean out the foot bath after, NOPE!!! She rinsed it with water and filled that bath up for the next customer. That girl didn't even noticed becasue she was too buy on her crackberry. It was sad and I vowed never to go again. I've been doing my nails now for over a year and they look better than ever.

by tracey_johnson Tuesday, April 5, 2011 at 11:23AM Report as inappropriate

Geez, thanks for taking the fun out of a pediure.

by ksmall Tuesday, April 5, 2011 at 11:15AM Report as inappropriate

I went for a pedicure and ask the guys that worked there if they sanitized their equipment before each customer and they assured me they did. When I left there I broke out from head to toe and ended up in the doctor's office. Haven't had one since.

by angel62 Tuesday, April 5, 2011 at 11:13AM Report as inappropriate

I am SOOOOOO glad I don't get my manicures or pedicures done in a salon!! I bit my nails for years and almost 2 years ago I stopped and started giving myself manicures. I always gave myself pedicures and mostly it was because I always got grossed out thinking about the germs in the foot bath and how unsanitary nail salons can be. Boy was I right to go with my gut on that one!! My mom used to go to a spa in our area to get her pedicures and I convinced her to let me do them because at least she knows the tools we have at home are properly cleaned and sanitary, AND it was a mother/daughter bonding thing (which she loves).

by lisa2683 Monday, April 4, 2011 at 11:23PM Report as inappropriate

I went to a modeling school years ago and learned to do my own pedicure and manicure - you'd be amazed at how many people ask me "Who is your manicurist/pedicurist? I gotta know! I need to make an appointment with her!" As soon as they learn I do my own, they're impressed as heck.

by Mary_DellaValle Sunday, April 3, 2011 at 04:31PM Report as inappropriate

wow, this is really something; ppl who are too afraid of germs.

by denim16 Wednesday, March 30, 2011 at 07:58PM Report as inappropriate

This is why I don't do my nails. I'm diabetic so I have to be careful.

by azalia_vargas_conde Wednesday, March 30, 2011 at 07:40PM Report as inappropriate

thats why i do my own nails

by kiofairy Tuesday, March 29, 2011 at 06:15PM Report as inappropriate

i have to agree with some posters that this seems like a lot of fear mongering. there are always risks when you do anything. do the things you can control (bring your own polish/tools, etc.) but constantly worrying doesn't help anything.

by mlenaei Tuesday, March 29, 2011 at 08:57AM Report as inappropriate

this is a very informative article, thanks!

by vanitychild Monday, March 28, 2011 at 10:44PM Report as inappropriate

I know all of this, which is why I stopped going to these places to get worked on. Plus, I think I do a better job than most of the people who have done my nails! Definitely not worth $20 a visit. I have no idea how some women can happily splurge weekly; if they're happy that's cool, but I think it's crazy!

by volta Friday, March 25, 2011 at 12:21AM Report as inappropriate

Thanks for a very informative article. I used to be a cosmetologist and I KNOW that many salons skimp on sanitation; it is horrible. I worked in one ( a full service salon) where they over cut the Barbicide - I didn't I bought my own (as I did most things) and made sure my combs, brushes, etc were properly sanitized and disinfected cause I care, but the salon didn't. This is why, even though I was not a nail tech, and, would dearly love a mani/pedi at a salon this is one thing I am glad I can do well myself. A cousin of mine had a bad experience with callous removal going to far, and got a nasty infection, with considerable pain (at one of her towns "better" salons.) She always teased me for paranoia, now she doesn't.

by Agrimony Thursday, March 24, 2011 at 10:54PM Report as inappropriate

This is so disturbing that I find it hard to comment. It makes me sick and they didn't even mention the toxicity of the chemicals some of the salons use.

by alictasia Thursday, March 24, 2011 at 05:40PM Report as inappropriate

I'm glad that I do my own manis and pedis, I feel a lot safer and I save $$

by RoleModel Thursday, March 24, 2011 at 04:04PM Report as inappropriate

This makes me think twice about the cheapo nail salons my sister insists on going to

by MeghanL Thursday, March 24, 2011 at 03:14PM Report as inappropriate

Excellent points, and some good tips. It's always a good idea to bring your own tools, emery boards, polish, etc. with you to the salon. I keep mine all in a small plastic box that I just tuck in my purse before having my nails done.

by Jewelrydesigner Thursday, March 24, 2011 at 12:27PM Report as inappropriate

this is quite some fear mongering. Yes, all of these are possibilities, and the possibilities are only higher if you are working with a newbie tech or someone who isnt licensed at all. Most techs will porudly display their active state-issued license.

by Georgie1 Thursday, March 24, 2011 at 07:55AM Report as inappropriate

Wasn't aware of this but nevertheless I always preferred doing my own nails,I enjoy grooming myself,applying nail polish,that's like therapy for me.

by selma Thursday, March 24, 2011 at 05:38AM Report as inappropriate

i'm totally going to have nightmares now

by Beth_totalbeauty Wednesday, March 23, 2011 at 08:07PM Report as inappropriate

Ooh wow...those are a lot of reasons not to go to a salon...

by kat_hamilton17 Wednesday, March 23, 2011 at 07:06PM Report as inappropriate

greattttt tips! now i know to look out at the salon!

by brendag20127 Wednesday, March 23, 2011 at 05:38PM Report as inappropriate

Jesus that's scary!

by Aphrosie Wednesday, March 23, 2011 at 05:19PM Report as inappropriate