Is reusing nail/foot files...

[sigfey]

...considered normal in spas / beauty salons etc?

Last two places I've been to for a pedicure they've gone to use a nail file that was dusty as if it had previously been used on another customer. Are there guidelines around this? When I asked if a fresh one could be used they looked as if I was making a bit of a fuss.

So as not to dripfeed, I got cellulitis in my toe after a pedicure which needed antibiotics. The GP blamed the pedicure, but who knows! It has however, given me a healthy dose of paranoia around beauty treatments

I've just been giving a really generous voucher from collegues for a full pedicure to one of the salons above (scrubbing, filing of hard skin, trimming cuticles etc) so I wanted to check now. What tools can be reused? What should definitely only be single use? Does it even matter?

Can I just throw caution to the wind and get nice new shiny feet for summer?

Had a pedicure recently and noticed they used a nail file that had obviously been used previously.

I wouldn't mind them reusing if they had disinfected it between customers... otherwise surely it's a great way to get athletes foot or whatever?

So I started reading up on this (too much time on my hands) and I believe you can disinfect metal tools like clippers, but things like files or anything sandpapery you cannot.

Would appreciate someone knowledgable weighing in though!

Yes! I hate that after I got cellulitis I starting watching like a hawk and noticing everything seemed like it had been used

Urgh. Surely that can't be ok? Athletes
Foot, fungus, verrucae...

Yes! This is why I'd like to know what they should be doing, so I know I'm not being U in the salon....

I bet lots of places do but it’s not very sanitary

There are disposable sticky foot file abrasives that can be attached to a stainless steel handle for hygienic use. No one should have nail dust or dead skin cells from another client on their own feet. Definite risk of infection especially with heel fissures.

I’d call ahead and ask the salon about their hygiene procedures and which equipment is single use. I’ve never had brand new files used for a manicure or pedicure, and it’s never bothered me because I put my hands and feet in lots of unhygienic public situations anyway; but it probably depends where you go. The average high street nail bar where pricing is quite low and I imagine the staff have relatively basic beauty therapy diplomas, less likely. A dedicated beauty salon or spa, more likely.