Ask the NMC

QUESTION:
Do I have to throw away wooden pusher sticks after each use?

ANSWER:
Yes, wooden pusher sticks used during manicure and pedicure services are considered one-use only disposable items that must be thrown away after each use. Some nail professionals prefer to cut them in two and use each half on a different client, which is perfectly acceptable. However, once an orangewood stick has come in contact with the client’s skin or nails, it must be discarded since it cannot be disinfected.

QUESTION:
Is it legal for a licensed technician to set up a salon in her house to do services there? Also, do you have to be licensed to do acrylic nails and pedicures in a salon or spa? There are many [non-standard salons] in my area and a salon owner told me that these salons don’t have to be licensed—is this correct?

ANSWER:
With the exception of Connecticut, every state in the U.S. requires a cosmetologist or manicuring license to work on hands and feet, and every salon needs to be licensed by the State Board of Cosmetology. There are no exceptions for one type of salon or another. To obtain information for starting a home-based salon, consult your local State Board. Each state has its own set of rules and regulations, and some do not allow home-based salons. You should also be aware that other regulations may apply to home salons, for example zoning restrictions, special business licenses, and various fire, health and workplace safety codes.

QUESTION:
Why should I use bleach if I already have an EPA-registered disinfectant approved for hospital use?

ANSWER:
EPA-registered disinfectants should always be used for disinfecting nail implements and whenever required by state board regulations. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) also considers both unscented bleach and alcohol (70% or greater) to be effective and acceptable disinfectants. Unscented bleach can be used to disinfect properly cleaned pedicure equipment, and alcohol is effective for disinfecting abrasive files and electric file bits. Neither bleach nor alcohol can completely clean dirty implements—so proper pre-cleaning is essential. However, you should check your state board regulations to determine which disinfectants meet local regulations.

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