When cutting toenails, you should cut straight across, and avoid trimming too close to the skin or rounding the corners of the nails, which can lead to painful ingrown toenails. If you believe that you’re getting an ingrown toenail, you should schedule an appointment with a foot specialist to have it treated so that you don’t develop an infection.
Avoid Pedicure Pitfalls
Pedicures are a great way to pamper ourselves, but there are countless hidden dangers lurking at your local salon. You should choose a reputable salon, avoid using foot baths that have jets (they harbor potentially dangerous bacteria), and bring your pedicure tools when possible. Also advisable -- make your appointment during the morning hours when fewer clients have been in the chair since it was cleaned and avoid going on busy days or days when there are specials happening. When there are lines of patrons waiting for appointments, there is a greater likelihood that corners will be cut in cleaning stations between appointments.
Treat, Don’t Hide, Ugly Toe Nails
If you notice that your toenails are becoming thick, discolored, cracked or crumbly, it could be the sign that you’ve developed a nail fungus. And while no one wants to show off those nails, hiding them under nail polish not only makes it more difficult to treat and monitor the infection, but it also may make the infection worse. Instead, take the steps to treat the fungus so that you can show off your toes’ natural beauty.
Avoid Going Barefoot In Public Places
When you’re in the gym locker room, spending an afternoon at a public pool, or enjoying a resort or water park, it may be tempting to kick off your shoes, rather than bringing them with you. However, these places are breeding grounds for infection-causing fungi, so you should always wear shower shoes. Don’t want to risk having your favorite sandals swiped? Inexpensive foam flip flops can be purchased for a few dollars at many retailers and will save your feet from a condition that is painful, unsightly and often difficult to treat.