Why it’s important to take care of feet & advice for pedicurists

The importance of footcare can be overlooked, particularly during colder weather when feet and toenails tend to be tucked into thick socks and closed-toe footwear.

But footcare services are not just beneficial for pedicure season. Foot and toenail issues can arise at any time, and treating them early can prevent further problems and medical attention down the line.

Most clients will suffer with some kind of foot or toenail issue in their lifetime, whether that be dry and calloused skin, toenail trauma such as sports-related problems, or issues caused by conditions like diabetes. That is why it is important to carry out a thorough consultation before any footcare service.

“A consultation is essential, whether the client is new or a regular. A thorough one with questions and observations allows you to prepare for a treatment and determines the products and techniques you’ll be able to use throughout,” explains Footlogix educator, Clare Hooson.

Consultation checklist

Nailchemy educator, Pamela Brawn, reveals the key points to learn from a consultation:

• Whether the client has an active lifestyle and if this includes sports involving the feet.
• Whether they have any existing medical conditions or are taking medication that may cause a contra-indication (a reason that prevents a treatment from being carried out).
• Whether they have any allergies.
• What they use at home for footcare (if this has not been recommended by you), helping you to gauge the products that do/don’t work well for them and that may affect the condition of their nails and feet.

When & how to refer a client

There are situations where it may not be suitable to treat a client and the help of a medical professional is required, for example if there is a nail or skin infection or open wound. Particular signs of infection that require referral include redness, swelling, discharge, pain and loss of function.

“As professionals, we should always use the 3 Rs,” says Clare Hooson.

Recognise – skin conditions and concerns.

Recommend – a service or product to help treat the condition.

Refer – to a specialist if it is necessary.

“If someone presents with a nail that you think is fungal, politely recognise this and say to the client: ‘do you see where your nail is discoloured and very thick? It looks as though it could be fungal, so I recommend that we avoid/tailor this treatment. I would suggest referring you to see a GP or specialist for confirmation and further treatment of the nail’,” she continues.