Pedicure Tips for People With Diabetes

Many people with diabetes enjoy pedicures, but diabetes can reduce sensation and circulation in the feet and slow healing, so a small nick or infection can become a serious problem. A few precautions make a big difference.

Talk to your doctor or podiatrist first

Ask whether salon pedicures are safe for you, especially if you have neuropathy, poor circulation, a history of foot ulcers, or are being treated for any foot problem. Some people are better served by a podiatrist for nail trimming and callus care.

Tell the technician

Let the nail technician know you have diabetes before the service starts. A good technician will be gentler and skip risky steps.

Ask them to skip or avoid

• Cutting cuticles. Gently pushing them back is safer.
• Razors or blades on calluses. Light filing is gentler.
• Hot water or hot paraffin, since you may not feel if it is too hot. See paraffin wax treatment guide.
• Aggressive filing or trimming nails too short; ask for straight-across trimming.

Hygiene to insist on

• Clean, sanitized tubs, ideally with disposable liners or pipe-less systems.
• Metal tools sterilized and opened from a sealed pouch, or bring your own kit.
• New files and buffers for each client.

See how to tell if a nail salon is clean and safe.

Timing

Avoid pedicures if you have any cut, blister, sore or sign of infection on your feet, and do not shave your legs right before. Check your feet daily afterward, and contact your doctor about any redness, swelling, warmth or wound that does not heal.

At-home care between visits

Wash and dry feet daily, especially between toes; moisturize heels but not between toes; and wear well-fitting shoes. See nail care tips between appointments.

Find a nail salon near you and call ahead to ask how they accommodate clients with diabetes.

This guide is general information, not medical advice. Follow your doctor's foot care guidance.