I glove up when using callus remover or if a client requests it. However, I can feel the texture of the foot better without, so I usually remove them prior to using the massage lotion to make sure no additional buffing is needed around the ball of the foot or heel.
Amy Murphy
New Image, Arcadia/Ruston, La.
I have been a nail artist for 10 years, and I am also a manicuring instructor. I have never worn gloves during a service unless I had a cut on my hand. Wearing gloves makes clients feel uncomfortable. If the technician is keeping her equipment sanitized, giving a thorough consultation, and cleansing the feet before the service, there should be no need for gloves.
Tracy Balistreri
Nails By Tracy, Milwaukee, Wis.
I never wear gloves although I know I probably should. I just feel like gloves really dull your sense of touch. I also know that some people are offended by it because they think that you think their feet are nasty.
Kathy Dent
Salon Glow, Reno, Nev.
The only time I wear gloves is when waxing. There really is no need to wear gloves for pedicures as clients’ feet should be cleaned properly prior to treatment. I would find it rather offensive if gloves were put on to do my feet. If your client had a contraindication you would have noticed this in your consultation. Therapists who dislike like feet should reconsider their careers totally.
Soraya Wizzart
Wizzarts Beauty Salon, Manchester, U.K.
I always wear gloves. The exfoliating scrubs are great for pedicures but are too harsh for my hands, as is cuticle remover. I take them off for the massage so I do benefit from the lotion as I apply it and massage my client. For my manicures, I wear gloves while applying gel-polish removal wraps too, so I don’t have repeated exposure to the acetone, as well as during the cuticle remover and exfoliating service, and again take them off before the massage and polish.
Shirlee Ann Kerr
Five Doors Down the Salon, San Dimas, Calif.
I don’t wear them. It bothers me to put gloved hands in water; it feels claustrophobic. That said, I make sure feet are properly clean before I touch them and if clients’ feet look too nasty I turn them away. It’s mean but it works for me. I haven’t suffered financially from it.
Kelly Louise
Pearlisque, Gympie, Queensland, Australia
I wear gloves for pedicures throughout the entire service. I also wear gloves when applying certain products like a mask or scrub to the hands. Universal precautions! This protects the client from me and me from the client.
Monet Macomber
Nine Stones, Portland, Maine
I wear them to be safe, but I also wear them during services so I don’t mess up my nails. I like to look cute too!
Michelle Jackson
Diamond Girl Nails, Morrow, Ga.
Yes. Yes. Yes. I wear gloves for both manicures and pedicures. I feel that it protects not only myself but my client too. It’s more sanitary in my eyes. Regardless of how well you clean the footsies, there’s still bacteria. It also protects your hands from the products that are being used during the service. I don’t know about others, but this gal doesn’t want fungus or any extra bacteria on these phalanges.
Jessica Del Leola
Cutting Edge 54 Salon, Elk Grove Village, Ill.
I personally don’t use gloves unless I have an open sore. People like to feel the touch of a hand, not a rubber glove and mask like you’re going to war or something. I think it makes the service more personal and I have had no complaints.
Dianna Medeiros
Woodbury Heights, N.J.