Perfect Nails, Poisoned Workers

A growing body of medical research shows a link between the chemicals that make nail and beauty products useful — the ingredients that make them chip-resistant and pliable, quick to dry and brightly colored, for example — and serious health problems. Whatever the threat the typical customer enjoying her weekly French tips might face, it is a different order of magnitude, advocates say, for manicurists who handle the chemicals and breathe their fumes for hours on end, day after day.

 UV nail dryers may pose cancer risks, a study says. Here are precautions you can take

They found that chronic use of the machines can damage DNA and cause mutations in human cells that could increase the risk of skin cancer. But, they caution, more data is needed before being able to state that conclusively.

A History of the Pedicure

The word “pedicure” comes from the Latin words “pedis,” meaning foot, and “cura,” which means care. Pedicures are among the most popular modern day nail treatments for both men and women and it has been that way for thousands of years. Although it is traditionally used as a method of beautifying nails and feet, it does bring with it the medical benefits of preventing nail diseases and disorders, too.

Are Gel Manicures Going to Give Me Skin Cancer?

This not to say that gel manicures are entirely without risk — they’re unquestionably hard on your nails, especially if you pick them off — but probably, the health risk they pose is no greater than their radiation-less sister, the normal manicure.

Is the Best Pedicure in New York Worth $85?

Is there anything easier to sell than a pedicure to a sweaty New Yorker? Plop down, let someone soak and exfoliate and massage and moisturize your feet, and all that is asked of you is to stare into space, read that week’s tabloid or, in my case, gently stalk your high school crush’s wife on Instagram. It’s a respite, a meditation, a way for me to incorporate some color into my wardrobe.

Is the Natural Nail Shaping Up to Be Winter’s Chicest New Anti-Manicure? Reasons to Go Buff This Month

Of her own decisions to forgo the polish, Vogue.com Fashion News Editor Alessandra Codinha says this: “Buff nails feel fresh. Less uptight. It’s just the right amount of natural. And if you have a nice bit of shine to your nail, it’s kind of the dressiest way to do nothing.”

The Manny Pedi

Once they get past the initial awkward feeling, men discover the rewards of this pampering treatment. Hey, LeBron James does it!

Thinking Of Getting A Pedicure? Beware The Health Risks First

When you walk into a salon, look for tools soaking in that blue liquid disinfectant (a common brand is Barbicide). This effectively kills most microbial life that can lead to infection, in accordance with the Environmental Protection Agency’s guidelines. Of course, some salons are better than others about cleaning, so make sure your pedicurist is using freshly sanitized metal tools on you.