Pedicures and Problem Feet: When to Skip the Salon and See a Specialist

A relaxing pedicure at your favorite nail salon might seem like a harmless way to treat yourself—but for many people, especially those with existing foot conditions, it could do more harm than good.

At Restore Foot and Ankle Specialists, we often treat patients whose foot or nail conditions were worsened—or even caused—by salon visits. If you have certain foot problems, it’s best to skip the salon and seek professional foot care from a licensed podiatrist.

Here’s what you need to know before you book your next pedicure.

Common Foot Conditions That Shouldn’t Be Treated at a Salon

Salons are not medical facilities, and their staff are not trained to treat or diagnose health conditions. If you have any of the following issues, a podiatrist—not a pedicurist—should be your first stop.

1. Ingrown Toenails

If you have an ingrown toenail, getting a pedicure can make the condition worse. Many salons will cut or dig into the nail edge, increasing the risk of infection, inflammation, or long-term nail damage. Ingrown toenails are best treated by a podiatrist using sterile tools and proper technique.

2. Toenail Fungus (Onychomycosis)

Thickened, discolored, or brittle toenails are often a sign of fungal infection. If you visit a salon with fungal nails, you risk spreading the infection to others—and picking up additional bacteria from communal foot baths or non-sterile instruments.

At Restore Foot and Ankle Specialists, we offer safe and effective treatment options for toenail fungus, including oral medications, topical therapies, and laser treatments.

3. Diabetic Foot Concerns

If you have diabetes, even a small nick or cut during a pedicure can lead to serious complications. Reduced circulation and nerve damage mean that wounds may not heal properly, increasing your risk of infection and ulcers. Diabetic patients should avoid salons and instead schedule routine foot care with a podiatrist who understands diabetic foot health.

4. Open Sores or Cracks in the Skin

Any open wound, blister, cut, or cracked heel should be considered a red flag. Salons cannot ensure a sterile environment for treating these issues, and exposure to foot baths or shared tools can introduce bacteria and worsen the problem.

5. Plantar Warts

Plantar warts, caused by the human papillomavirus (HPV), can be spread through contact with contaminated surfaces—including salon floors and foot tubs. Attempting to remove or file them during a pedicure can lead to painful spreading or secondary infections.

Risks of Nail Salons for Sensitive Feet

Even if your feet look healthy on the outside, underlying issues can increase your risk when visiting a salon. Common problems include:

• Peripheral neuropathy (numbness or tingling)

• Poor circulation

• Autoimmune disorders

• Previous foot or nail surgeries

These conditions increase your vulnerability to injury and infection—and often go unrecognized by salon technicians.

What to Do Instead: Medical-Grade Foot Care

If you want beautiful, healthy feet and nails but have underlying conditions, consider medical pedicures or podiatric nail care. At Restore Foot and Ankle Specialists, we offer:

• Clinical nail trimming and debridement

• Fungal nail assessments and treatments

• Corn and callus removal

• Wart evaluation and treatment

• Customized foot care for diabetics and high-risk patients

Our tools are sterilized using hospital-grade techniques, and care is provided by licensed medical professionals in a clean, controlled environment.

Trust the Experts at Restore Foot and Ankle Specialists

Your feet deserve more than cosmetic care—they deserve expert attention from professionals who understand both aesthetics and medical safety. At Restore Foot and Ankle Specialists, we don’t just treat foot conditions—we help prevent them.

If you're experiencing foot or nail issues, or you're at higher risk for complications, schedule an appointment with our team today. We’ll help you maintain foot health safely and comfortably, without the risk of salon-related infections or injuries. Contact our Plano office today with Dr. Gireesh Reddy or Dr. Sirisha Pokala by calling (469) 573-3427 or by booking an appointment online.