Gregory MacMillan

They seem so safe. Only small glass bottles filled up with brightly colored fluid. But nail polish may possibly contain dangerous chemicals, such as for instance formaldehyde, or hide viruses, germs and fungi. Visiting glass nail files maybe provides suggestions you might use with your co-worker. Buyer beware!

The risks of nail polish, though, are only half the story. One other half can be your nail salon. How clear can it be, really? How well does it protect you from illness?

Several nail salons aren't what they appear to be. Despite clever interiors and happy professionals, many places do not follow proper hygiene techniques.

A new concept have been created by btg Cosmetics Inc., manufacturer of the Toma brand of nail polish known for its formaldehyde-free formula, in nail care: a, never-used personal-size bottle of polish that consumers arrive at take home with them after their service is complete. BTG Cosmetics shows that you ask these questions before you sit back for the next manicure or pedicure:

* Is everything up to speed? Be sure that your salon is operating under existing licenses and that the specialists are properly qualified. Such files must certanly be shown.

* How are the tools sanitized? Clippers, scissors, documents and other devices must all be sterilized after each use. The tiny machine that exposes tools to ultraviolet light has yet to be accepted by OSHA, and barbicide, the huge blue liquid solution, is just a disinfectant just and won't destroy viruses such as for example hepatitis C.

Several sites use chemical sterilizers with germicides and fungicides, but only metal items can be sterilized by a medical-grade autoclave adequately by subjecting them to extreme heat under extreme pressure. Also better: Some salons use new, independently covered instruments for every single customer.

* How safe may be the nail polish? Your nail polish ought to be treated like your brush - do not share. In the place of risk disease using a previously opened bottle of polish, obtain your salon to carry the Toma SlimLine particular polish selection or provide your own polish. As an added advantage, you can easily and quickly repair these expected chips between nail services..