Can You Pick Up A Nail Fungus Infection At The Spa?
Unfortunately the answer is yes. The fact of the matter is there are around 37 million people in the US with a nail fungus infection. That’s approximately 10% of the population. That means one in every 10 people using the spa on average is infected and can pass the condition to others.
As fungal organisms thrive in damp environments you are most at risk if you walk around barefoot in public places like the locker room or shower rooms. The chlorine (bromine or other disinfectant) used in the spa itself will be effective at destroying the infected spores, so you’re generally not at risk once you’re in the water. But walking around barefoot on damp floors is less safe.
If you decide to have a pedicure or manicure at the spa make sure that all the nail instruments that are being used for you have been very thoroughly sterilized. I’m pretty sure I picked up my nail fungus after having a pedicure. Now when I book an appointment I always make sure that I bring along my own equipment.
It is thought that any damage or trauma to the skin surrounding the nails provides an easy entry point for the fungal spores. This is another reason why a pedicure can put you at risk because the skin around your nails as well as the nail itself is often pushed back and manipulated during the process.