No one wants to leave their nail appointment with a side of regret (or worse, an infection). Here are the major red flags to watch for when choosing a nail salon so you can treat yourself with peace of mind.
1. Cleanliness Is Clearly Not a Priority
Walk into the salon and take a look around. Do the floors look dirty? Are the tools scattered and unclean? Hygiene is a nonnegotiable when it comes to nail services. Unsanitized tools and improper cleaning practices might result in you getting an infection, including fungal issues and skin diseases.
Look for tools that come out of sealed, sterilized pouches or that rest on trays prepared with clean towels. Examine the equipment too. For instance, one of the main sanitation features to look for in pedicure chairs is a footbath that is compatible with disposable liners. And of course, make sure there is a disposable liner in there! Additionally, make sure that the nail techs wash their hands thoroughly before starting with a new client.
If a salon fails to meet these standards, it’s a good idea to turn around and find one that does. Your health is worth it!
2. The Staff Rush Through Services
Getting a manicure shouldn’t feel like a race against time. If the nail tech is rushed or careless, you might end up with sloppy art, cut skin, and uneven nails.
Watch for these warning signs:
- aggressive or careless filing and clipping
- skipping a base coat or forgetting to apply proper layers
- staff pressuring you to pick a color quickly or refusing to customize services
A good nail salon will take the time to make you feel comfortable and perfect your nails. If it feels like they’re pushing you out the door, it’s not a good sign.
3. No Licenses or Certifications on Display
Legitimate nail salons have nothing to hide. A reputable establishment will proudly display its licenses and the certifications of its technicians. If the salon avoids this altogether, it’s a huge red flag.
This is because certified technicians are trained in proper nail care and hygiene techniques. Plus, licensing proves that the salon adheres to local regulations and safety standards.
If the salon isn’t following the rules by not displaying their technicians’ certifications, they probably don’t exist.
4. Strong Chemical Smells Permeate the Air
Sure, nail salons often have a mild chemical smell from polishes and acrylics. But if the scent is downright overpowering, consider it a red flag. This could mean the salon has poor ventilation or is using low-quality or harmful products.
A good salon will have proper ventilation systems to keep air fresh and breathable. Pay attention to your body. If you feel lightheaded or woozy within minutes of walking in, leave and find another spot.
5. The Price Seems Too Good To Be True
We all love a good deal, but when it comes to nail care, rock-bottom prices should be suspicious. Super cheap services usually entail poor-quality results or hidden fees you’ll pay for at checkout.
Look out for these red flags:
- deals that seem suspiciously cheaper than other local salons
- add-on services or upgrades that the salon pushes aggressively
While budget-friendly salons exist, you always get what you pay for. Prioritizing quality and safety is always worth the extra few bucks.
6. Unfriendly or Unprofessional Staff
Nothing dampens the salon experience like grumpy or unprofessional staff. Whether they lack customer service skills, aren’t treating you kindly, or fail to explain the process, you shouldn’t trust them with your nails.
You deserve a welcoming and respectful experience. Don’t settle for less than professional care!
Treat Yourself Right!
A pedi or mani is one of the best things you can buy to treat yourself, so don’t ruin the fun by not watching for these red flags when choosing a salon. Always trust your instincts, and never be afraid to walk out if something feels off. Good luck, girlie!
