CHAPTER I

THE PROBLEM AND ITS SCOPE

Introduction

Nail beautification is a big industry today, with various nail cosmetics available, ranging

from nail hardeners, polishes, extensions, artificial/sculpted nails, and nail decorations (Madnani

& Khan, 2012). The significance of nail beautification is deep-seated, often ingrained

subconsciously at a young age, and while nail cosmetics have been traditionally reserved for

women, the market for male manicures is rapidly expanding (Jefferson & Rich, 2012). The nail

plays an essential role in patient appearance. Along with the face, neck, and hands, the nails are

one of the few areas of the body to receive consistent exposure. Thus, nail appearance, which

historically has served as proxy for social status, carries a significant cosmetic impact. In

addition, nails may have a large psychological impact, with the appearance of groomed and clean

nails are important for employability, the conduct of business, and social functions (Rieder &

Toste, 2016).

Nail cosmetics include the application of nail polish, artificial nails, nail elongations, and

other nail treatments as fashion trends may influence. The popularity of nail cosmetics is on the

rise globally (Ndejjo, Neebye, Atusingwize & Musingzi, 2019). Global nail care market is

growing significantly as nail care is one of the important aspects of personal grooming. As per

statistics, 85-90% of women and 10-12% of men use the nail care products across the world.

With the increasing affordability, nail care products are high on demand such as for the nail

strengtheners, backed with the continuous supply of nail care products from the nail care

manufacturers (Goldstein Market Intelligence, n.d.).

 Together with the rise of nail cosmetics industry, many have also suffered from nail

infections due to nail care services. According to the American Academy of Dermatology, 99%

of people will experience a nail disorder during their lifetime (Crutchfield, 2013). Many of these

disorders will require medical intervention. Nail disorders are the chief complaint in 10% of all

medical visits to dermatology specialists in the United States (Leone and Schupbach, 2017) and

are a substantial health care burden given that there were approximately 25.3 million visits to

dermatologists in 2006 in the United States (Pal, 2009) Infection is the commonest complication

of nail cosmetics. Water getting underneath the nails can cause infection, and clients also risk

infection from inadequately sanitized instruments. Some instruments cannot be sterilized, raising

the potential for transmission of blood-borne illnesses. Inadequately disinfected foot spas used

for pedicures may trap lint and skin debris, supporting the growth of mycobacteria. Fungal

infections are common. Mycological results of a study of 68 patients referred to a nail clinic for

assessment of nail changes after artificial nails use showed that 98.5% had a fungal infection

(Candida spp. in 91%). Use of ANs by workers in healthcare and in the food industry also poses

a risk of infection to other people (Dinani & George, 2019).

With nail salons expanding to new locations, such as supermarkets, drug stores, and

airports, individuals can get a manicure or pedicure just about anywhere. Consequently, the

absence of widespread, methodological regulation of the nail salon industry is becoming

increasingly problematic. Unsanitary conditions may lead to infections for customers, which can

sometimes become fatal (Walsh, 2012).

In the Philippines, there has been a growing population of businesses engaging in the

industry of providing personal care services. From the statistics provided by the Bureau of Labor

and Employment Statistics, in 2008 to 2010, there has been a 34.7% increase in the people
employed in this sector. These services include that of salons, with pedicure and manicure

services consisting 23% and 19% respectively (Alojado, Custodio, Lasala & Marigomen, 2015).

The purpose of this study is to know the infection control practices in salons offering nail

services in Dumaguete City and to and to edify them on proper disinfection of tools used for

manicure and pedicure.

It is observed that in Dumaguete City, there are many salons offering nail services and

few individuals offering home service nail care because nail cosmetics become a trend

nowadays. However, while nail cosmetics became trending, many customers also suffered from

nail infections. This prompted researchers to conduct this study.