Have you noticed the Healthy Nail Salon Program logo displayed at various local nail salons? Wondering what it means? To protect the health of nail salon technicians and customers, San Mateo County Environmental Health has developed the County’s first Healthy Nail Salon Recognition Program. This
innovative program requires nail salons to choose safer products for their employees, customers and the environment.
Nail salon-related chemicals emit vapors, dusts or mists that can be breathed in or absorbed through the skin and eyes. Participating salons must provide proper ventilation and go through training that helps nail salons implement safer practices that protect both worker and customer health. To date, 13 salons have voluntarily completed certification. To find out where you can find a recognized Healthy Nail Salon in San Mateo County, visit smchealth.org/healthynails
Remember, you have the right to request healthy nail salon products WITHOUT the “toxic trio:” toluene, formaldehyde and dibutyl phthalate.
- Ask your local nail salon to join this new program! Print out the fact sheet located at smchealth.org/healthynails and give it to the salon you frequent.
- Encourage your nail technician to protect his/her health by using gloves and masks.
