How to Avoid Nail Infections Now

By Suzanne Roberta, MBA

We’ve all been there…

You look forward to your weekly mani-pedi and as you walk into your favorite nail salon with anticipation of a fresh new look and some much needed me time, you silently hope that the salon is as clean and sanitary as it looks. That little nagging voice in your head worries because in the back of your mind, what you’re really thinking about is how to avoid nail infections.

According to research conducted by Statista; the number of nail salons in the United States has been shrinking from 69,738 in 2016 to 56,886 in 2017 to 54,386 in 2018. With fewer salons available to service clients, technicians are often rushed and may not be taking the proper amount of time to sanitize instruments which could increase the risk of nail infections.

One of the most common nail infections, Paronychia (pear-ah-NIK-ee-ah) is an infection that develops along the proximal edge of the nail. Paronychia is most often caused by common skin bacteria called staphylococci that enters through a break in the skin.

These breaks are most commonly caused by cutting the cuticles; a practice that is largely practiced in nail salons across the US. But cutting the cuticle greatly increases the risk of nail infections because it allows bacteria to enter. In fact, in many states, cutting the cuticles is actually illegal.

Signs & Symptoms

Paronychia typically starts as redness and swelling around the nail. It is sore to the touch and at times, may have a yellow-green color; indicating an abscess has formed. If you have these symptoms, contact your doctor immediately because if left untreated, they will only get worse.

So, to keep your nails and cuticles healthy, stop cutting your cuticles. Period. The next time you get your nails done, bring in a bottle of Nail & Cuticle Energizer and ask your technician to apply it to your nails and cuticles and gently push back your cuticles. Not only will this soften your cuticles, but our proprietary blend of Green Tea Extract, Vitamin E, Peppermint Oil, Aloe, Jojoba, and Argon Oils will soothe and nourish your dry nails & cuticles. This simple step is one of the most effective ways of how to avoid nail infections.