Nail salon sterilisation: what to ask before you book

Hygiene is the part of a manicure you can't see in the final result, yet it matters most. The good news: you don't need to be an expert to judge a salon. A few questions are enough.

Cleaning, disinfecting, sterilising, disposable

• Cleaning removes visible dirt. It's the first step, but not enough.
• Disinfecting reduces the number of microorganisms, usually with liquid products. It's right for surfaces and hands.
• Sterilising kills all microorganisms, including the most resistant ones. It's what metal tools that can touch the skin need — nippers, pushers, e-file bits.
• Disposable means used once and thrown away, like paper files and buffers.

Questions you can ask in any salon

1. Are metal tools sterilised between clients? The answer should be a clear "yes".
2. How? A serious salon explains the method without hesitation.
3. Are e-file bits sterilised too? They should be treated like any other metal tool.
4. Are files new for every client? A paper file used on someone else can't be sterilised.
5. Do you open the tools in front of me? Seeing the pouch opened is the simplest proof.

Vague answers are a warning sign — even if the salon is beautiful and the price is attractive.

Signs to look for

• A clean, tidy workstation before you sit down.
• Hands sanitised — yours and the technician's.
• No "loose" tools left from a previous client.

How we work at Noir Privé

All metal tools and e-file bits are sterilised before every client. You can always ask how it's done — we're happy to explain. An e-file (Russian) manicure also uses no cutting tools on the cuticle, which lowers the risk of small cuts.

Other questions? See the FAQ or message us.