Is It Safe to Get a Manicure or Pedicure While Pregnant?
08 May 2025
Pregnancy comes with a lot of dos and don’ts, but what about getting a manicure or pedicure? If you're craving a little self-care and relaxation, you may be wondering: Is it safe to get my nails done while pregnant?
The good news? Manicures and pedicures are generally safe during pregnancy—as long as you take a few precautions. Let’s explore the potential risks, safety tips, and how to enjoy a salon visit worry-free!
Fumes from Nail Products – Nail polishes, removers, and acrylics contain chemicals like formaldehyde and toluene, which can be irritating if inhaled in large amounts over time. A well-ventilated salon minimizes this risk.
Infections – Pregnancy weakens the immune system, making you more prone to infections from improperly sterilized tools. Always make sure the salon follows strict hygiene practices.
Swollen Feet and Blood Circulation Issues – Pedicures feel amazing, but avoid deep foot massages (especially in the first trimester), as certain pressure points could trigger contractions.
Choose a Well-Ventilated Salon – If you can smell strong chemical fumes, it’s best to find a different place. Look for salons with open windows, fans, or air purifiers.
Ensure Proper Sanitation – Ask if the tools are sterilized after each use. If in doubt, bring your own nail file, clippers, and buffer.
Opt for Pregnancy-Safe Nail Products – Many polishes contain harmful chemicals, but brands like Zoya, Butter London, and Ella+Mila offer non-toxic, pregnancy-safe options.
Be Cautious with Foot Massages – While a gentle foot massage is fine, avoid strong pressure on reflexology points around the ankles, as they may stimulate contractions.
Skip Gel Nails and Acrylics (If Concerned) – While occasional use is fine, frequent exposure to UV lamps, acrylic fumes, and acetone removers may not be ideal during pregnancy.
✔ Use non-toxic nail polish (like Zoya or OPI’s “Nature Strong” line).
✔ Open a window or do your nails outdoors for fresh air.
✔ Moisturize with pregnancy-safe lotions to keep hands and feet soft.
✔ Let someone else remove polish if strong acetone fumes bother you.
You feel lightheaded or nauseous from salon fumes.
You’re experiencing high-risk pregnancy complications (check with your doctor first).
A manicure or pedicure during pregnancy is a great way to relax and feel pampered, as long as you take a few safety precautions. Choose a clean, well-ventilated salon, use pregnancy-safe products, and be mindful of foot massages to enjoy your spa day worry-free.
Is It Safe to Get Your Nails Done While Pregnant?
Yes! Getting a manicure or pedicure during pregnancy is considered safe, as long as the salon is clean and well-ventilated. However, some concerns—like chemical exposure, fumes, and infections—mean it’s important to take a few extra precautions.Potential Risks of Nail Salons During Pregnancy
While the risk is low, here are a few things to keep in mind:Fumes from Nail Products – Nail polishes, removers, and acrylics contain chemicals like formaldehyde and toluene, which can be irritating if inhaled in large amounts over time. A well-ventilated salon minimizes this risk.
Infections – Pregnancy weakens the immune system, making you more prone to infections from improperly sterilized tools. Always make sure the salon follows strict hygiene practices.
Swollen Feet and Blood Circulation Issues – Pedicures feel amazing, but avoid deep foot massages (especially in the first trimester), as certain pressure points could trigger contractions.
Safety Tips for Getting a Manicure or Pedicure While Pregnant
To enjoy your nail treatment safely, follow these simple guidelines:Choose a Well-Ventilated Salon – If you can smell strong chemical fumes, it’s best to find a different place. Look for salons with open windows, fans, or air purifiers.
Ensure Proper Sanitation – Ask if the tools are sterilized after each use. If in doubt, bring your own nail file, clippers, and buffer.
Opt for Pregnancy-Safe Nail Products – Many polishes contain harmful chemicals, but brands like Zoya, Butter London, and Ella+Mila offer non-toxic, pregnancy-safe options.
Be Cautious with Foot Massages – While a gentle foot massage is fine, avoid strong pressure on reflexology points around the ankles, as they may stimulate contractions.
Skip Gel Nails and Acrylics (If Concerned) – While occasional use is fine, frequent exposure to UV lamps, acrylic fumes, and acetone removers may not be ideal during pregnancy.
What About At-Home Manicures?
If you’d rather skip the salon, you can still enjoy a safe, pregnancy-friendly manicure or pedicure at home!✔ Use non-toxic nail polish (like Zoya or OPI’s “Nature Strong” line).
✔ Open a window or do your nails outdoors for fresh air.
✔ Moisturize with pregnancy-safe lotions to keep hands and feet soft.
✔ Let someone else remove polish if strong acetone fumes bother you.
When to Avoid Manicures or Pedicures
While nail treatments are generally safe, skip the salon if: You have open cuts, wounds, or infections on your hands or feet.You feel lightheaded or nauseous from salon fumes.
You’re experiencing high-risk pregnancy complications (check with your doctor first).
A manicure or pedicure during pregnancy is a great way to relax and feel pampered, as long as you take a few safety precautions. Choose a clean, well-ventilated salon, use pregnancy-safe products, and be mindful of foot massages to enjoy your spa day worry-free.
Self-care is important—so go ahead and treat yourself, mama!
