Beware of unsanitary beauty salons, public warned
Following the case of a woman who developed a severe infection in her thumb that spread to the bone after a manicure and the application of false nails at a salon in Southern Thailand, the Department of Health’s director general, Dr Panpimol Wipulakorn has warned people to be wary of unsanitary services and dirty tools and that can lead to purulent wounds.
“Files, scissors and all other tools must be cleaned and sterilized with ethyl alcohol after being used, and manicurists should wear a face mask and receive annual check-ups,” she added.
According to Bangkok Sanitation Department’s survey in 2014, several salons failed to adhere to health standards. Floors and walls were worn out and dirty, tubs and basins were not properly cleaned and combs, scissors, curling brushes, cuticle sticks and nail files were not cleaned after being used.
In addition, 81 types of fungus were found in those salons. They normally do not cause disease, but could lead to illness in people with pre-existing conditions. “Moreover, hazardous waste like razor blades, curling liquid containers, and sprays were not managed properly,” she added. “In addition, salon employees coughed and sneezed while working and were not wearing masks”.
Beauty salons are subject to controls by the Public Health and anyone wanting to open such a business must first apply for permission from the local government agencies. Businesses that fail to comply with standards can be shut down.