Dodd Bugge

They look so harmless. Just small glass bottles full of brightly colored fluid. But nail polish may contain dangerous additives, such as for instance formaldehyde, or conceal viruses, bacteria and fungi. Buyer beware!

The hazards of nail polish, though, are simply half the story. Another half is your nail salon. How clear is it, really? How well does it protect you from illness?

Many nail salons are not what they appear to be. Despite advanced decorations and smiling professionals, proper hygiene techniques weren't followed by many places.

BTG Cosmetics Inc., company of the Toma brand of nail polish known for its formaldehyde-free method, has established a fresh idea in nail care: a, never-used personal-size bottle of polish that customers reach collect together 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 the technicians are properly qualified and that your salon is operating under current licenses. Such papers must be shown.

* How would be the tools sanitized? Documents, scissors, clippers and other devices must all be sterilized after each use. The little machine that reveals resources to ultraviolet light has yet to be accepted by OSHA, and barbicide, the common blue liquid cleaner, is a disinfectant just and will not destroy infections such as for instance hepatitis C.

Many areas use chemical sterilizers with germicides and fungicides, but only metal items can be sterilized by a medical-grade autoclave effectively by submitting them to extreme heat under extreme pressure. Even better: Some salons use new, individually wrapped methods for each customer.

* How safe is the nail polish? Your nail polish ought to be treated like your toothbrush - do not reveal. Going To glass nail files probably provides tips you should use with your family friend. Rather than risk infection by using a previously opened bottle of polish, ask your salon to hold the Toma SlimLine individual polish variety or provide your own polish. As an added advantage, you can easily and quickly repair these expected chips in between nail services..