Skin Care Precaution: How to Protect Your Nails While Getting a Manicure

Manicures are just about every woman's favorite way to relax and get pampered. However, there are some precautions that should be taken when getting your nails done at a salon. Being choosy about where you get your manicure done can mean the difference between having gorgeous nails and having a nail and skin care nightmare.

Who doesn't want to be treated like a queen? Everyday, scores of women flock to their favorite salons and nail shops to indulge in a little beauty treatment. Many women live to get their nails cleaned, shaped and painted--not to mention the popularity of acrylic nails, with its infinite designs and patterns. However, there are instances when getting a simple manicure can turn disastrous.

While the people who handle your nails are professionals, that doesn't mean you should automatically trust just anyone to touch your fingers...or toes for that matter. Nail salons are required to have the cleanest and most sterile equipment to work with, but that isn't always the case. Many people have gotten bacterial infections through the use of dirty equipment and unsanitary practices. This can result in nail discoloration, inflammation of the area and can even cause the nail to fall off. Celebrities like Paula Abdul have been victims of acute nail infections from bad manicures so be on the lookout--it can happen to anyone.

The next time you head to the salon or if you're planning on getting a manicure done for the first time, follow these tips to make sure that you're safe:

Observe your surroundings: Look around the entire salon to check
for cleanliness. Note any dirt, spills or grime in the manicure area. Make
sure an autoclave is present inside the salon. An autoclave is a heat sterilizer
that looks like an ice cream machine with a blue light on the inside of it.
Autoclaves are used to thoroughly clean tools to avoid infection.

Sterilization: Always make sure the tools your manicurist uses are
sterilized. Don't be afraid to ask or bring it to the manicurist's attention.
Check to see that the tools are heated in the autoclave or soaked in anti-bacterial
solution that is clear--if the solution is cloudy that is a sign that it needs
to be changed. Also bring that to your manicurist's attention as well.

Bring your own: There's no harm in bringing your own manicure tools
to the salon. Even nail polish bottles can contain bacteria from multiple
use so bring your own favorite shade to ensure that what touches your nails
hasn't touched anyone else's.

There's no harm in learning to do your own manicures. There are a number of top quality manicure kits that can be purchased at beauty supply stores at affordable prices that offer wonderful results. If there's any doubt in your mind, skip going to the nail salon and pamper yourself in the comfort of your home.

To become your own nail care professional, NeoCeuticals Nail Conditioning Solution is the ideal product to have. This solution protects your nails, helps with growth and prevents infection so you'll have nothing to worry about.

Take care of your nails the right way by treating them to a gentle filing using the Bliss Diamancel #5 Hand File. This professional-grade nail file takes care of your nails as well as troublesome cuticles.

If you're suffering from brittle nails and damaged cuticles, MD Formulations Nail & Cuticle Complex will take away all your problems. In a few days, you'll have strong, beautiful nails and healthy cuticles before you know it!

Source: SkinCare-News.com