EPA Preventing Pedicure Foot Spa Infections

Guidance on preventing infections during pedicures from the EPA and the CDC.

Guidance from the EPA and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)

Outbreaks of skin infections on the legs and feet of patrons following spa pedicures have caused concern about spa safety. This page provides information for customers of salon pedicure foot spas which can help reduce the potential for infections associated with pedicure foot spa use.

Protect Your Skin!

• Microorganisms in foot spas can enter through the skin; so broken skin (e.g., cuts and abrasions) should not come into contact with foot spa water.
• Do not shave, use hair removal creams, or wax your legs during the 24 hours before receiving treatment in a foot spa.
• Do not use a foot spa if your skin has any open wounds such as bug bites, bruises, scratches, cuts, scabs, poison ivy, etc.

Identifying an Infection

Open wounds appear on the skin of feet and legs. Initially they may look like insect bites, but …