Microbiological Risks and Dermatological Consequences of Aqueous Maceration in Manicure Practice: Rationale for Transition to Waterless Hardware Techniques

Citation: Mazur Sofiia, "Microbiological Risks and Dermatological Consequences of Aqueous Maceration in Manicure Practice: Rationale for Transition to Waterless Hardware Techniques", Universal Library of Medical and Health Sciences, Volume 03, Issue 03.

Copyright: This is an open access article distributed under the Creative Commons Attribution License, which permits unrestricted use, distribution, and reproduction in any medium, provided the original work is properly cited.

Abstract

The study provides a comprehensive analysis of the risks associated with the traditional practice of soaking hands (maceration) in manicure procedures and a scientific rationale for transitioning to modern waterless hardware technologies. The introduction emphasizes the relevance of the topic in the context of the rapid growth of the global nail-care services market and the tightening of biosafety requirements. The aim of the present research is to argue for the abandonment of aqueous maceration in manicure by systematizing and analyzing the risks of cross-contamination and disruption of the skin barrier, as well as to present evidence of the advantages of waterless hardware techniques, illustrated by a case study. The methodological framework includes a systematic review of peer-reviewed sources, a content analysis of regulatory acts and industry reports, and an in-depth case study of the advanced waterless technique E-File Dry Manicure. The results demonstrate that water in manicure bowls acts as a vector for pathogens, in particular Pseudomonas aeruginosa, and creates conditions for the development of onychomycoses, whereas maceration disrupts the barrier properties of the skin, increasing its susceptibility to damage and infection. An analysis of regulatory enforcement practice reveals systemic gaps in monitoring compliance with sanitary standards. As a practical solution, E-File Dry Manicure is proposed as a safe and atraumatic alternative, whose effectiveness is supported by professional recognition and sustained market demand. The conclusions confirm the hypothesis of the superiority of waterless methods and contain targeted recommendations for practicing specialists, educational institutions, and regulatory bodies. The information contained in the study will be of interest to nail-care professionals, educators, salon owners, and representatives of regulatory structures in the beauty industry.

Keywords: Maceration, Hardware Manicure, Salon Safety, Pseudomonas Aeruginosa, Onychomycosis, Skin Barrier Function, E-File Dry Manicure, Professional Standards, Nail-Care Service, Infection Control.

https://doi.org/10.70315/uloap.ulmhs.2025.0303011