Having great-looking nails isn’t based on luck. It’s about taking the time to care for them correctly.
At MacMed Spa, Salon & Medical in Milford, Framingham and Hopedale, our highly-professional and talented staff can help you get beautiful nails – and keep them that way. To learn more, or to make an appointment with us, contact MacMed today.
The American Academy of Dermatology recently offered manicure and pedicure tips from top dermatologists:
- Use a cream to moisturize nails, especially after you remove nail polish. Many polish removers have chemicals that can dry nails.
- To reduce the risk of infection, don’t cut or push back your cuticles forcibly. If you have to push them back, do so gently, and only after you shower or bathe.
While MacMed follows strict guidelines for cleanliness and disinfection, look for the following when you visit a salon while out of town, or one you are not familiar with:
- Is the nail technician experienced and have the proper license, if one is required?
- Are nail stations clean?
- Do nail technicians wash their hands in between working with clients?
- Do you see any dirty tools lying around? Don’t be shy about asking how they clean their tools.
Some other AAD tips include:
- Shave your lower legs after you get your pedicure, not before. This means you should not shave lower legs for at least 24 hours before going for your pedicure. If you cut or nick yourself when shaving, pedicures can put you at risk of getting an infection.
- Check to be sure pedicure filters and foot baths are properly disinfected before you use them. If they are not properly cleaned, they can contain fungus and bacteria. If a salon appears unclean, move on!
- If you choose to wear bright red, or an orange polish, you can prevent discoloration by using an extra layer of base coat. If nails become yellow and discolored from polish, they should eventually return to their normal color over the next several weeks if the same color is not used again.
- While many people may say otherwise, there is no scientific evidence that immersing your nails in gelatin can make them stronger. Polishes with strengthening ingredients can increase nail stiffness, which in turn can make nails break more often.
- Don’t use artificial nails to hide nail problems – they could make them worse. Artificial nails should not be used by those who may be prone to fungal infections, or those with brittle nails. For those with healthy nails, artificial nails are fine to use, as long as they are not used on a continuous basis.
- Know which products are used in artificial nails. Some substances can prompt allergic reactions in some people. If you break out in a rash or have some other reaction, tell your doctor which products you used.
If you have questions or concerns about how to care for your nails, contact our staff at MacMed today. We’re ready to help you achieve beautiful nails!
