For many women (and, increasingly, many men) a manicure or pedicure is one of life's great pick-me-ups. Whether you make a weekly pilgrimage to the salon or spend the time looking after your nails at home, there's nothing like a good pampering. However, in some cases, this pampering comes at a risk.

Numerous dangers lurk in both the home and the salon, from infections caused by dirty tools to painful burns from the strong chemicals used for nail care. Recognizing the potential hygiene pitfalls can help protect your nails and your general health and let you continue to enjoy your mani-pedi.

Rules and Regulations

The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) regulates the use of nail products in both the home and salons. FDA rules require that cosmetic products, when used correctly, should not contain substances that harm people. Meanwhile, local and state regulators are responsible for policing nail salons and defining rules for salon and technician licensing.

However, even with the supervision of these agencies, nail products and services can still cause harm. For example, the FDA has identified several chemicals commonly found in nail polish that may pose dangers, including:

• Acetonitrile, a toxic solvent used to remove artificial nails
  
  
• Formaldehyde, a chemical found in nail hardeners that is also used as a preservative
  
  
• Methacrylic acid, a highly toxic acid found in nail primers
  
  
• Toluene, a solvent used to dissolve paint (including nail polish)