Hong Kong Needs Hygienic Spa
When you need an indulgent and relaxing experience, you head to the salon to get your nails done.
Did you ever think about the risk of infections you expose your nails and skin to? Many consumers
are unaware of the sub-standard hygienic measures in “premier salons”. When it comes to the
“instant-salons” that Hong Kong is flooded with, the less said the better.
A recent survey reveals that 52% of people get fungal infections, skin rashes or nail issues, mainly
from nail salons. Owing to lack of hygiene or use of contaminated instruments, the salons may
expose their customers to athlete’s foot, cellulitis (a serious bacterial infection) and viral warts, to
name a few. Alarmingly, it is even reported that you can develop hepatitis or even HIV through a
mani-pedi. Although the possibility of risk is relatively low, it is imperative that you practice caution
and choose the salons wisely.
You must be an aware and informed customer before stepping into a nail salon or spa for any
treatments.
Absence of Hygienic Standards
In the absence of standardized practices of hygiene, it is difficult to regulate the nail care industry.
You may visit a salon that does not have proper knowledge or training about how important it is to
maintain cleanliness, using sterilized manicure tools and ensure that disposable tools such as pumice
stones, nail brushes, cuticle sticks are not shared between customers. For example, pumice stone is
a common tool that is used to smooth rough skin. They are porous and prone to spread bacteria –
a pedicure tool you just DON’T share.
Additionally, a traditional pedicure often involves soaking feet in a water tub or bowl. When several
feet go through the process in the same tub (that may not get a thorough cleaning in between
sessions), it can lead to nail fungus and other bacterial infections, especially with the humidity in
Hong Kong.
If you want to be cautious and safe, the best bet is to bring your own tools and nail polish to the
salon. You may need to take an extra step of a thorough cleaning and disinfection before and after
use.
Health Risks Due to Poor Sanitation
Due to paucity of space in Hong Kong, it is common to see instant-salons spring up everywhere
offering nail treatments and foot spas. They may offer these treatments at throwaway prices
however hygiene and sanitation may take a backseat. Scan the room and observe:
1. Is the floor clean and dry (no stagnant water or moisture)?
2. Does the bin look like it is cleared regularly?
3. Are the tools neatly organized or strewn everywhere as they get used?
4. Are the footbaths, basins, step stools clean and dry, when not in use?
While these safety measures may be customary many salons tend to ignore these healthy steps.
Sharing manicure instruments, towels shared among customers are health hazards as they are
breeding ground for bacteria. As a result, many customers are unknowingly exposed to skin
infections or vulnerable to all kinds of bacteria, fungus or viruses that can manifest into greater
health risks.
Dry Non-Surgical Procedure – iPedicure
The perfect answer to all these challenges is the iPedicure ® , popularly referred to as “Medi-Pedi” in
Europe, which means “Medical Pedicure”. It is a dry procedure that is quick, painless and provides
results with a perfect finish and clean, beautiful feet. As there is no water involved, there is no fear
of infection from the moisture or humidity.
Performed by trained professionals, the equipment used goes through stringent process of cleaning:
1. The equipment is soaked in disinfectant solution.
2. Hot air sterilization is performed to prevent the spread of germs, fungus and diseases.
3. Sterile equipment is then sealed and packed through foil welding
4. Finally, the sterile goods are safely stored into an UV unit to maintain cleanliness.
It is imperative that the cleaning process is in a sequence and each stage of disinfection, hot air
sterilization and finally sealing and storage of equipment is performed collectively. Each stage of cleaning cannot be skipped, swapped or performed separately.
Hugely successful in Europe, recently launched in Hong Kong, you can experience the magic of
iPedicure ® at Hong Kong’s renowned beauty centre in Central.
Call them now to avail special discounted prices for the first trial. Visit www.mypb.com.hk
