During the evolution of pedicure techniques, the use of electronic files (efiles) for the removal of hard skin has revolutionized how professionals approach foot care. Providing efficiency and precision, efiles offer a modern alternative to traditional methods.
However, this technological advancement has also raised questions about safety and best practices. As more nail technicians and spas adopt this tool, it will be important to understand proper technique to ensure a safe and effective treatment. This article details the safe use of efiles to remove hard skin during a pedicure and offers expert insights and tips to help both practitioners and clients achieve optimal results without compromising safety.
Identifying the causes of calloused foot skin and guidelines for safe pedicures
It’s important to realize that there’s no single cause for hard skin on the bottom of your feet. A variety of factors can contribute to this common condition, from natural body mechanics to external environmental influences. For example, repeated pressure and friction from everyday walking or ill-fitting shoes can cause the skin to thicken as a defensive reaction.
Additionally, underlying health issues such as diabetes and skin conditions such as eczema and psoriasis can also manifest as hardened skin on the feet.
Lifestyle factors such as lack of moisture and standing for long periods at work can further complicate the condition. Understanding that the causes of hard skin are multifaceted is key to effectively addressing the issue and choosing the right treatment and prevention measures.
If a client has contraindications such as diabetes, chemotherapy, immunotherapy, rheumatism, rheumatoid arthritis, etc., I find it easier to say that it would be best not to perform any cosmetic services at all, as the potential for complications from overdoing it with efile is real and cannot be ignored.
Disadvantages of using Efilé for pedicures: what to be aware of
I’m not sure what the benefits of efile are. A quality foot file should be more than enough for a cosmetic service if you use an exfoliant as directed by the manufacturer. Still, you need to leave a layer of hardened skin to prevent your body from overproducing keratinocytes to protect itself and cause further problems at the next service.
efile, if too much pressure is applied, it can unintentionally cause damage to the foot, causing extreme discomfort to the client, or even worse, causing infection and all the complications that come with it.
Just because everyone is doing it doesn’t mean it’s a good thing.
Effective cold-hearted management: Understanding and treating the root causes
When dealing with a client’s issue of excessively tight or calloused skin on their feet, it’s important to investigate and treat the underlying cause rather than simply addressing the symptoms. This approach will ensure you don’t get caught in a vicious cycle of recurring problems.
The many questions we receive on this subject highlight the need for a greater understanding of the anatomy of the foot and the intricacies of the skin layers before any procedures can be performed.
My advice to fellow professionals is simple: use a quality hand file in combination with an effective callus softener. This will not only maintain the integrity of the skin on your feet, but it will also keep your clients happy and healthy.
