Risk Level: Medium.
Purell or no Purell, hands carry many germs, and organisms often settle into the skin underneath the nails. Also, if you cut your cuticles (you shouldn’t), germs can easily enter your system.

Watch Out For…

Files, Clippers, Scissors, Pumice Stones: Nail salons that don’t follow strict cleaning guidelines can spread all sorts of infections — including, in rare cases, furunculosis, which causes boils. Other infections include fungi, like onychomycosis, and viruses that cause warts. But don’t cancel that manicure appointment just yet. To be safe, it’s not a bad idea to bring your own manicure and pedicure sets, and be sure not to shave your legs for a day or two before a pedicure, as nicks create an entry point for germs. Even among friends, you should think twice before sharing nail implements, which can spread infections. If you do share, soak the tools before and after use for at least 10 minutes, using a household disinfectant that has an Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) registration number. (The number is found in small print on the back label and means the product has met the EPA’s testing requirements.) Never share pumice stones or emery boards, which have a limited life span.