Keeping it clean
These tips can make your spa time more relaxing—and safe
- Watch out for wax double-dipping. To avoid contamination, a new spatula should be used every time the technician hits the vat.
- Never shave your legs right before a pedicure. Any germs in, say, the footbath, can more readily get into your skin through tiny nicks and cuts.
- Many spas now offer laser services (hair removal, skin resurfacing)—but equipment can be temperamental and, like computers, the technology quickly goes out of date. To avoid burns, discoloration and potentially lifelong scarring, only book with outfits that are overseen by an M.D. or nurse practitioner.
- Don’t go barefoot. Some of the slickest, most Zen-like locations use jute rugs and bamboo flooring. Both are porous, mold-prone surfaces that are very difficult to clean and can spread fungal infections to bare feet.
- When going for a manicure or pedicure, be sure staff thoroughly sanitize hand and foot bowls between appointments.
- Make sure nail files and tools are either sterilized metal or are new for each customer. Paper files and foot buffers that cannot be cleaned might harbor bacteria and should be discarded after each use. (You can always bring your own gear.)
- For pedicures, no razors allowed. Gentle cuticle removal is considered safe, but no callus-shaving with a razor blade should ever take place outside a podiatrist’s office.—Lynn DeFelice
