A trip to the nail salon is meant to be a relaxing and enjoyable experience. However, what many people don’t realize is that improper practices at nail salons can lead to serious health risks. From bacterial infections caused by unsterilized tools to allergic reactions from harsh chemicals, the dangers of nail salons are real and growing. Recently, we’ve seen an increase in cases where clients have suffered injuries and damages due to negligence at nail salons. These injuries can range from minor infections to permanent nail and skin damage, requiring medical treatment and leading to long-term consequences.

At MacCloskey Kesler & Associates, we understand the physical, emotional, and financial toll these injuries can take. Nail salons have a legal duty to maintain a clean and safe environment for their clients, and when they fail to do so, they must be held accountable. Our experienced personal injury attorneys are here to help you navigate the legal process and seek compensation for your injuries. In this post, we’ll discuss the common risks at nail salons, how to spot negligence, and what steps to take if you’ve been injured. Your safety matters, and we’re here to protect your rights.

Common Types of Nail Salon Injuries

When we think of nail salons, we often picture a relaxing experience – the pleasant hum of tools, the vibrant array of polish colors, and the pampering of our hands and feet. Unfortunately, that relaxation can quickly turn into a nightmare if proper hygiene and safety protocols aren’t followed. At MacCloskey Kesler & Associates, we’ve represented numerous clients who have suffered serious injuries due to nail salon negligence.

Common injuries sustained at nail salons include:

• Infections: Bacterial, fungal, and even viral infections are some of the most common dangers. These can be caused by unsterilized tools, unsanitary workstations, or reused disposable items like nail files or buffers. What may start as redness or swelling around the nail can quickly escalate into severe infections that require medical attention.

• Chemical Burns and Reactions: Many nail salons use harsh chemicals for services like acrylic nails, gel polish, and nail removal. If these chemicals are not applied properly, they can cause burns, rashes, or other skin reactions. For individuals with allergies, exposure to certain chemicals can result in severe, even life-threatening, reactions.

• Cuts, Abrasions, and Nerve Damage: Improper use of tools such as cuticle cutters, nail clippers, or electric files can lead to cuts and abrasions. In some cases, mishandling these tools can even cause nerve damage, leading to long-term issues with sensitivity or mobility in the fingers.

• Permanent Nail and Skin Damage: A botched service can result in long-lasting damage to your nails or skin, which may take months or even years to heal fully. In some cases, improper techniques or unsterilized tools can cause permanent disfigurement.

These injuries can lead to a range of medical complications, pain, and even lost work time. If you’ve experienced any of these issues following a visit to a nail salon, you may have a case for compensation.

Legal Responsibility of Nail Salons

Nail salons are responsible for creating a safe and sanitary environment for their clients. This means adhering to strict hygiene protocols, properly training technicians, and maintaining equipment in good condition. When salons fail to meet these standards, they can be held legally accountable for any injuries that occur as a result of their negligence.

According to Illinois law, businesses like nail salons owe a duty of care to their clients. This means that they are required to take reasonable steps to prevent injuries. For example, they must ensure that tools and equipment are properly sterilized between clients, technicians are licensed and trained, and products are applied according to manufacturer instructions.

When a salon breaches this duty and someone is injured as a result, that salon can be held liable for the resulting damages. These damages can include medical bills, lost wages, and compensation for pain and suffering.

At MacCloskey Kesler & Associates, we are skilled in handling cases where clients have been harmed by negligent practices at nail salons. If you’ve been injured, our legal team will work with you to build a strong case and pursue the compensation you deserve.

Signs of Negligence at Nail Salons

As a client, it’s important to recognize the red flags that may indicate a nail salon is not adhering to proper safety protocols. Some of the most common signs of negligence include:

• Unclean or Disorganized Workstations: If a salon’s workstations appear dirty or cluttered, it’s a major red flag. Nail dust, used tools, or spilled chemicals that aren’t promptly cleaned up can contribute to an unsanitary environment.

• Unsterilized Tools: All reusable tools, such as clippers and cuticle pushers, should be sterilized between clients. If you notice that tools are being used without proper cleaning, this could lead to serious infections.

• Reusing Disposable Items: Items like nail files, buffers, and pumice stones should never be reused between clients. If a technician tries to reuse these items, it may be a sign that the salon is cutting corners to save costs.

• Lack of Licensing: Ensure that the technicians working on your nails are licensed professionals. Unlicensed technicians may lack the training required to safely provide services, increasing the risk of injury.

If you observe any of these warning signs at a salon, it’s best to leave immediately and consider finding a safer, more reliable option.

What to Do If You’ve Been Injured at a Nail Salon

If you’ve been injured as a result of negligence at a nail salon, it’s important to take immediate action to protect your health and your legal rights. Here are the steps to follow:

Seek Medical Attention: Your health should always be your first priority. If you’ve experienced an infection, chemical burn, or other injury, seek medical care right away. This ensures that your injuries are properly treated and documented.

Document the Injury: Take photos of your injury, the tools used, and the salon environment if possible. Save your receipts from the service as well as any communications you’ve had with the salon.

Report the Incident: Report the injury to the salon owner or manager. Make sure to keep a record of any conversations or written communications you have with the salon regarding the injury.

Contact a Personal Injury Lawyer: Nail salon injury cases can be complex, and it’s essential to have an experienced lawyer on your side. At MacCloskey Kesler & Associates, we understand how to navigate these cases and can help you pursue the compensation you’re entitled to.

How MacCloskey Kesler & Associates Can Help

Our firm has extensive experience representing clients who have been injured at nail salons. We understand the unique challenges involved in these cases, from proving negligence to dealing with uncooperative salon owners. When you choose MacCloskey Kesler & Associates, you’ll receive personalized attention from attorneys who are committed to protecting your rights.

We’ll work closely with you to gather evidence, communicate with the responsible parties, and build a strong case on your behalf. Our goal is to secure the compensation you need to cover medical bills, lost wages, and other damages. You shouldn’t have to bear the burden of a salon’s negligence, and we’re here to ensure that you receive the justice you deserve. Contact us now at (815) 965-2000.