Anytime the skin barrier is broken or cut, it becomes possible for germs to start an infection. However, breaks in the skin aren’t always visible. For example, shaving the legs creates hundreds of invisible, microscopic cuts that can become infected. This is why clients should be advised not to shave their legs within 24 hours of receiving a pedicure service. Nail infections don’t require the skin to be cut and can also be spread by contaminated implements. So in short, it is possible to give the client an infection without creating a visible cut or break in the skin. This explains why all implements and tools must be properly cleaned and disinfected before use.
— Doug Schoon is chief scientific advisor for CND.