Do you have unattractive yellow, brittle toenails? Sounds like you may have nail fungus. Fortunately, you don’t have to live with it. Learn what causes this common nail infection and how to prevent it.
Pedicures are a great way to relax and pamper yourself at the end of a long day. Unfortunately, they can also be a great way to get a fungal infection if you aren't careful. Don't skip the pedicures altogether. Simply follow these tips for a better pedicure from your foot doctor at Associated Foot & Ankle Centers of Northern Virginia, PC in Stafford and Lake Ridge, Va., to keep your feet looking and feeling their very best.
1. Visit First Thing in the Morning
When salons are busy, your beautician may not have enough time to properly clean the instruments in between appointments. Visit at the end of the day and she may be using tools with a full day's worth of germs on them. Visiting first thing in the morning (or making sure the tools are properly sterilized) is the best way to avoid this.
2. Wait to Shave Your Legs Until After Your Appointment
While freshly shaven legs are softer and smoother, it is best to wait until after your appointment to shave. Shaving can cause small nicks and cuts in your skin, which provide the perfect entry points for bacteria. Let bacteria in your skin and it won't be long until you're making an extra visit to see your foot doctor at Associated Foot & Ankle Centers of Northern Virginia, PC in Stafford and Lake Ridge, Va. for treatment.
3. Don't Cover Up Discolored Toenails
If your toenails are thick or discolored, you may be tempted to have them painted to cover them up. This is a bad idea. Thick and discolored toenails often indicate a fungal infection which needs to be properly treated, not disguised.
4. Dry Your Toes Thoroughly At the End of Your Visit
Once your appointment is through, be sure to thoroughly dry your toes, including the spaces in between them and underneath your nail beds. Bacteria thrive in warm, wet environments. Don't give them a chance to make you their home.
While most Stafford and Lake Ridge, Va. residents are able to enjoy a relaxing pedicure without any problem, if you do notice any signs or symptoms of a foot problem after visiting the salon, don't hesitate to give your foot doctor at Associated Foot & Ankle Centers of Northern Virginia, PC a call. The sooner you come in for treatment, the sooner we'll have your feet both looking and feeling fantastic again.
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