Learn how to get a smart, safe pedicure and how to care for your feet.Pedicures are popular among women and men. Medical pedicures are well-suited for those who have certain conditions. Many women have foot fungus that causes thickened, brittle, discolored toenails. Getting a pedicure at a local salon may just disguise the nail with polish. It’s tough to eliminate fungus, especially when the instruments aren’t sterilized properly. A diligent treatment program can eliminate the condition. High heels and active lifestyles can predispose your nails to fungus. The toenail bumps up against the toe box of your shoe. High heels can cause microtraumas. Bacterial infections and abscesses can result from contaminated pedicures. Your local salon should not deal with ingrown toenail removal unless they are trained in medical procedures. All pedicure tools that cannot be sterilized should be single-use and thrown away. Microbes on unsterilized, shared tools can lead to fungus and infection. Your shoes should be cleaned with a UV light if you have fungus and infection. That’s the only way you can kill most of the microbes. There are devices you can place in your shoe for sterilization at home. Gel nail polish lasts a long time but destroys the nail. It’s unhealthy to have the nail covered for consecutive weeks. Harsh chemicals are used to remove the polish. These chemicals can compromise the nail bed, which is there to keep harmful organisms out. It’s best to keep a healthy, natural nail. But, you can remove your nail polish every two weeks to air out the nails. Don’t let your technician cut your cuticles. This opens you up to infection. Treat your cuticles with a gentle nail oil. Best Feet Treats Get to know your foot. Do you have a high or low arch? Find the right athletic shoe for your foot type. Do you have any pain? Talk to a doctor if you have pain. How do your feet move? Do you feel comfortable the entire time you engage in athletics? Seek medical advice if there is chronic discomfort. Learn how to best care for your foot based on your particular foot issues. You may need orthotics or arch supports. Investigate the skin on your feet. Treat as appropriate or seek medical advice. Moisturize your feet daily. If a skin conditions doesn’t resolve after two weeks of moisturizing, see a doctor for a diagnosis Listen as Dr. Krista Archer joins Dr. Pamela Peeke to help you have lovely, healthy feet. Resources: www.incrediwear.com Use code DA20off to save $20 on your UVTR purchase www.drkristaarcher.com/products Use code ARCH5 to save $5 Sponsor: Smarty Pants Vitamins