Because so much research has been done in recent decades, speaking generally, we’ve learned a lot about the right ways and wrong ways to do things.

Things that weren’t recommended when you were a child have now become the norm and vice-versa.

That’s certainly the case with pedicures also.

The APMA (American Podiatric Medical Association) has released its own guide for getting a pedicure. And here’s some of their top recommendations:

1. Top Dos

If you have diabetes or poor circulation, talk with your podiatrist before getting a pedicure. This allows them to recommend a customized routine that keeps your feet in optimal health.

Remember, you have unique conditions affecting your feet that the typical salon may not know how to best approach.

Next, schedule your pedicure first thing in the morning.

Why?

This is the time before many customers have been helped, which means that the salon has the cleanest water.

If you simply can’t make it in early in the day, then ask your salon if they change the foot bath water between clients.

When you do go to the salon, bring your own pedicure utensils. Bacteria and fungus can easily move from one person to the next. And your salon, though well-intended, may not perfectly sterilize their utensils.

Finally, when caring for calluses, use a pumice stone, foot file, or exfoliating scrub. First soak your feet in warm water for five minutes. Then use your chosen utensil to smooth out your calluses.

2. Top Don’ts

It may feel nice to shave your legs before your pedicure, but it’s a big mistake. The small cuts you make in your legs can be perfect entry points for bacteria.

If the salon technician wants to use a foot razor to remove dead skin, politely decline. If used incorrectly, it can cause permanent damage to your feet. Even if it doesn’t cause such damage, it can result in infections if the salonist removes too much dead skin.

Never round the edges of your toenails. Always clip straight across. Rounding can lead to painful ingrown toenails.

Never share emery boards with friends and always bring your own for use at your salon. They can’t be sterilized.

Never allow your cuticles to be cut. Not only does this increase your risk of infection, but cutting them and pushing them back in an attempt to remove them only makes them thicker.

Finally, if you suffer from thick or discolored toenails, don’t paint them. This could be a sign of fungal infection. And your feet need to allow air in (which paint prevents) to combat the fungus. You’re better off working on the underlying issue.

Those are the top things to concern yourself with. You can read the full list at the APMA website.

Now you can go to your local nail salon without any worries and have a fun, relaxing time!