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information is meant as a guide for the nail consumer in
choosing a top quality salon. This guide may be used
to determine whether your salon is providing not only great
nails, but a safe and pleasant experience as well.
Are
the salon and individual workstations clean?
Does your nail technician observe proper
sanitation practices?
Before
the technician begins your service, you should both
wash your hands and nails thoroughly. The
table should be cleaned off between clients,
disinfected with a hard surface disinfectant. All
non-disposable instruments used in the service
should have been disinfected. All disposable
items should have been discarded and fresh ones
taken out for your use. Don't be afraid to ask
your nail technician how the instruments have been
disinfected, and what solutions have been used.
Ask to see the bottle of sanitizing solution if you
aren't satisfied.
What
is included in the price of the service?
Many
salons provide all-inclusive service prices; some
salons charge a-la-carte. Be sure you
understand exactly what services are performed for
the price being charged. For example, is
polish extra? Is top coat or fast-dry extra?
Will you be charged for broken nails?
Did
the nail technician explain the service to you, ask
questions about your needs and inform you of
proper home care?
There
have been so many advancements in artificial nail
products that nail technicians can make the most
natural looking nails in the world, but artificial
nails aren't for everyone. Your nail
technician should ask you about your needs and
explain the at-home maintenance you should perform
to care for your nails between salon visits.
You should also share pertinent medical information
with her/him (certain medications, for example, can
hinder the application of certain nail products).
Does
the salon have a strong odour?
There
is an odour associated with some artificial nail
products, but there is no danger to customers
smelling it during their service. However, an
overpowering odour can be an indication of an
inadequate ventilation system in the salon.
Ask your nail technician or the salon owner what is
done in the salon to minimize exposure to odours,
vapors, and filing dust for customer comfort.
An overpowering odour can also signify the use of
MMA which has been prohibited by the FDA (USA) for
use in nail Enhancement Products since the 70's.
Does
the technician use a drill or electric file?
Drills
(or electric files) are commonly used in the
industry and, when used properly, are perfectly
safe. You should not feel any pain or burning
when the drill is being used; if you experience any
discomfort, tell your technician immediately.
The only time a drill should be used on the natural
nail is with a buffer (no grit).
Are
the technician and the salon licensed?
NB.
In the UK there is not presently a minimum
qualification requirement for Nail Technicians, so
please be vigilant and make sure that your tech has
been on recent courses with either a national
recognised awarding body or a reputable
manufacturer. Also check that your techs courses are
not only a 1 or 2 day course, and that they are
properly insured.
What
products are used in the salon?
Most
salons use products that are for professionals only,
and your technician should be able to explain what
products she uses and why. There have been a
great many advances in nail chemistry in the last 10
years, but some salons still use chemicals whose use
in nail care is not recommended, specifically a
product called methyl methacrylate (MMA).
What
if you have a problem with your nails?
Good
communication between nail professional and customer
is essential, so if you are not happy with your
service or your nails, talk to your technician or
the salon owner about it.
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