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Having a podiatrist attend to your feet is a very different thing from having a pedicure. In reality, a pedicurist is only really allowed to trim your toenails and file a bit of dry or hard skin. For some people, this may be all they need, but there are other reasons why you might want to consider a podiatry treatment over a pedicure.

  • A podiatrist has done a 3-4 year university course and has the knowledge and skills to address just about every foot problem you have.
  • Podiatrists adhere to the national infection control standards. The instruments used are autoclaved to ensure they are completely sterile so that there is no chance of cross contamination between clients.
  • Podiatrists have the equipment and skills to remove any corns, callouses or dry skin you have completely, so the overall result is much better and longer lasting.
  • Podiatrists have knowledge and experience in cutting toenails of all shapes, sizes and thicknesses so you can be assured that they will cut yours in the way that is most suitable for your nail type, avoiding ingrown toenails in the future.
  • Podiatrists have the expertise to pick up any potential foot issues you may have that you may not have been aware of, and help you treat them.
  • Podiatrists can advise you best on the ongoing care of your feet, such as what foot creams to use or best shoe types for you.

Tips…

Whilst the occasional use of nail polish is not likely to be too harmful to your nails, it is not advisable to use it on an ongoing basis. The polish on the nail prevents oxygen from getting to the nail which can result in deterioration of the nail plate. This is commonly seen as white marks on the nails, or a yellowing of the nail plate. Nail polish on a nail also provides an excellent environment for fungus to grow and it is not advisable to use it on nails which have a fungal infection

When trimming nails use a toenail clipper with a straight edge to ensure your toenail is cut across. Other tools like manicure scissors or fingernail clippers increase the risk of ingrown toenails because of their small, curved shape.

If you do have regular pedicures bring your own pedicure utensils to the salon. Bacteria and fungus can move easily from one person to the next if the salon doesn’t use proper sterilization techniques.

Schedule your pedicure first thing in the morning. Salon foot baths are typically cleanest earlier in the day.

Peter Barker
Senior Podiatrist
The Foot Practice @ Body With Soul

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