Will nail salons do pedicures if you have toenail fungus?
You may be thinking about it after noticing a discolored toenail. But, before you let your imagination go wild, are you sure it’s really toenail fungus?
Fungus infections of the nails are very prevalent. In its earliest stages, it appears as a small, white, or yellow-brown patch directly under the nail tip.
Nail discoloration, thickening, and crumbling at the nail’s edge are all symptoms of a fungal infection’s progress.
The fungus that causes nail problems can spread to multiple nails.
Toenail fungus is unsightly and embarrassing to display in open footwear. You might consider getting a pedicure to hide the toenail fungus.
The question is, “Can you get a pedicure if you have nail fungus?”
Well, yes, you can go for a pedicure. But, will nail salons entertain your request?
Most of them won’t, but some may offer their services if you inform them well ahead of your appointment and get your own kit.
Tip: Don't always try to hide your infected toe with nail polish, as it seals the infection in and aggravates the condition.
Will Nail Salons Do Pedicures If You Have Toenail Fungus And Discoloration?
Manicurists have seen everything when it comes to nail infections, so don’t be embarrassed about your toenail or fingernail fungus.
Nail fungus, known medically as onychomycosis, can affect either the fingernails or the toenails. Will nail salons do toenails with fungus?
It depends.
Many nail salons will still give you a manicure or pedicure if you bring in an infected nail.
Even because they can, that doesn’t mean they necessarily should.
While getting a manicure or pedicure won’t cure an existing fungal infection, it won’t make it worse, either.
However, it is possible to spread the infection to other patrons at the salon.
So, yes, you can go for a pedicure, but whether or not your salon entertains your request depends on its own rules.
Is It A Good Idea To Do Pedicures If You Have Toenail Fungus?
Generally, speaking, going for a pedicure when you have toenail fungus is not recommended.
Toenail fungus can be transmitted through contact with an infected object or surface.
Once the fungus makes its way onto your skin, it feeds on the upper dermis, resulting in ragged and flaking skin that itches a lot.
Tying an infected toenail with your fingers can increase your risk of contracting a fingernail infection.
This method of transmission is most likely to occur in nail spas and salons, where instruments used on an infected person may be reused on another individual.
So, what’s the point here?
Well, you can certainly go for a pedicure and the salon may also agree to help. But, it’s better to avoid it to save others from becoming infected.
What To Do When You Have Toenail Fungus And Want A Pedicure?
Your best bet is to give the staff advance notice so they can disinfect instruments like files and nail clippers after each use.
You may have to bring your own nail kit, in which case you will be given specific instructions on what to bring.
Ask if the foot bath has been cleaned and disinfected before dipping your toes in it during your pedicure.
Note that nail salons cannot cure onychomycosis since it’s a persistent infection.
It’s true that an athlete’s foot infection may usually be treated with an antifungal or other nonprescription medication.
But, a toenail fungus infection is best treated by a doctor. And those manicurists are no doctors, are they?
Tip: React immediately on the first indication of toenail fungus and don't delay it or it will be difficult to get rid of it.
What To Do When A Salon Says No Due To Toenail Fungus?
So many times, people have been denied a pedicure because of toenail fungus. Therefore, if you are rejected, you shouldn’t take it personally.
Nail technicians may even recommend contacting a doctor if they have doubts about giving you a passable manicure.
You should do the sensible thing and get checked out for toenail fungus, as has been suggested.
After you’ve had your checkup and received the all-clear, you can return for a pedicure without fear of rejection.
Why They Say No?
Keep in mind that when salons say “no,” it’s not because they don’t want to paint your toenails.
Rather, it’s because they may not have the necessary sterilization equipment to give you a pedicure.
What To Do In Case You Get Refused?
Either go to a different salon with better resources and without risking spreading the fungus that causes it.
Or, take your time to cure your condition and then return for a pedicure.
Research your options if you really need to get a pedicure with toenail fungus.
Look for a nail salon where they use disposable tools and soak tubs.
Even in that case, you may not be able to get Shellac pedicures because salons won’t share a polish bottle with you. Bringing your own may resolve the issue though.
Tip: Be sure to replace your old socks and shoes after you've cured your condition to lower the chance of another infection.
How Do You Get A Fungal Toenail Infection?
Anyone can get a fungal nail infection from anywhere. In fact, it’s more common than you think.
Statistics reveal that:
- Up to 80% of the population may develop fungal nail infections
- The infection can affect anyone irrespective of age or ethnicity.
- Being an adult raises your risk of infection by 30%
- The condition affects up to 90% of adults over 70.
People with immune system disorders are more likely to develop fungal nail infections.
Also, it’s more common in people with diabetes and other disorders that weaken the immune system.
Living in a warm, humid climate is another risk factor for developing a fungal nail infection. Toenail fungus can infiltrate the nail through a cut or scrape that has already healed.
Also, keep in mind that it’s more likely that you will develop a fungal nail infection if you have an athlete’s foot (Tinea).
What Role Does Salon Play In Promoting Toenail Fungus?
So many times, your infected toenail is the result of visiting a nail salon with unhygienic conditions.
It is easy for germs and fungi to get under the nail whenever it is wet, cut, or filed, or when the cuticle is clipped.
Nail infections are prevalent due to the presence of bacteria and fungi in the natural environment.
Nail fungus, in particular, is very contagious and may be picked up almost anywhere, including on the gym floor, at the pool, in the soil, or even from a close family member.
At a salon, you can get toenail fungus in many ways, but be very careful with the following two treatments:
Practice Care When Using Acrylic Nails
Acrylic nails are a fixture in any nail shop since they last a long time and look great.
Manicures and pedicures can help prevent fungal nail infections. But even the best care might not be enough if you wear acrylic nails longer than 3 months.
It’s simple for bacteria, fungi, or viruses to infect under your acrylic nail if moisture is allowed to pool there.
Be Careful With Footbaths
A foot bath can be an extremely relaxing experience.
But, the problem is that you’re not the only client your nail salon has, so you’ll naturally be sharing stuff with others.
You’re more likely to get a case of nail infection while walking barefoot around a swimming pool or in a locker room.
But, you can easily get infected when you use a foot bath at your salon without your knowledge.
So, practice special care and put some thought into selecting a nail salon.
Tip: Always visit a salon in-person and check their standards for sterilization to avoid getting a toenail infection in the first place.
Takeaway
Dealing with toenail fungus can be hard, as it’s so stubborn and would come back after a while.
So, thinking about a pedicure to hide those unsightly toes is natural. But, you may wonder, “Will nail salons do pedicures if you have toenail fungus?”
Well, most of them won’t, but some may, especially when they use disposable tools.
Look for the right salon and ensure you don’t end up spreading the infection while trying to hide yours.
So, seek treatment and get it fixed before going for a pedicure.
