The healthy way to get a mani-pedi

There’s nothing prettier than a mani/ pedi – it’s the ultimate in pampering. But you should make sure you aren’t exposing yourself to unnecessary risks. Here’s how to ensure that your manicure is as healthy as it is beautiful.

• Don’t just go for the lowest price point; make sure the salon practices good hygiene, which includes sanitizing instruments, discarding disposable items, and disinfecting all surfaces, whirlpools or tubs in between clients.
• Otherwise, you could end up with a fungal problem or infection.

• It’s a good idea to bring your own polish to the salon.
• Look for a non-toxic polish from a brand that’s labelled 3-free or 5-free, meaning it’s free of the most harmful chemicals.
• Buy polish with UV protection.
• Tip: As a change from polish, check out the vast array of nail stickers available at drugstores.

Acetone, commonly used to remove polish, can be toxic. Look for soy-based polish removers, which are safer for you.

• Yes, they last a long time, but the polish must be hardened under UV lamps, which can be harmful to your health.
• And the polish remover used to remove the gel or shellac is powerful stuff that’s very drying and can actually cause your nails to peel.

• It’s fine to get your hands and feet manicured, but skip a polish application every once in a while.
• Gel manicures can cause nails to be come weak and brittle. As well, polish can hide health problems, such as fungus or infection under the nails on hands and feet.