Nail Salon Infections in Perth Spark Investigations
Multiple women report severe infections after treatments
"I was told amputation would have been required if the infection had reached the bone." — Kyla Willcox
Multiple women in Perth have reported developing infections following treatments at nail salons, prompting investigations by local government and health authorities.
Kyla Willcox: Sepsis After a Pedicure
Kyla Willcox reported developing a severe infection after a pedicure at a nail salon in Ellenbrook. According to her account, during the procedure a beautician used a pumice stone to file a callus under her big toe.
Two days later, she experienced pain, chills, sweating, and nausea. She sought medical treatment and was diagnosed with the early stages of sepsis. Doctors drained pus from the toe.
She stated that medical professionals told her that amputation would have been required if the infection had reached the bone. Her toe was saved. She spent 11 days in hospital.
Monika Jaecksh: Nail Removal After Manicure
Monika Jaecksh reported requiring nail removal after an infection she said resulted from a manicure. She stated that she observed a technician reusing tools on multiple clients.
Kate (anonymous): Two Surgeries for Cellulitis
A woman who requested to remain anonymous (referred to as Kate) reported undergoing two surgeries for cellulitis following a pedicure. She stated that a subsequent inspection by the Western Australia Health Department identified poor hygiene practices at the salon, including a lack of sterilisation and failure to change water between clients.
Medical Context: How Infections Occur
Dr. David New, a clinical microbiologist at East Metropolitan Health Service, stated that skin infections commonly occur when bacteria naturally present on the skin enter through broken skin. He noted that while surgical-level sterilization is not required for pedicures, proper hygiene and disinfection are necessary.
Podiatrist Robert Mullins, who conducts infection control workshops, stated that infections after nail treatments are rare but possible. He noted that in podiatry clinics, instruments are cleaned, disinfected, sterilized, and packaged to maintain sterility, and are opened in front of the client. He advised individuals with cracked skin to seek treatment from a podiatrist.
Regulation and Complaints
Ms. Willcox filed a complaint with the City of Swan. City of Swan chief executive Stephen Cain confirmed that an environmental health officer is investigating the matter. He stated that nail salons are regulated under the Health (Skin Penetration Procedure) Regulations 1998 and must register with local government, with periodic inspections to assess compliance.
Consumer Protection Western Australia reported receiving:
- 10 complaints against nail salons in 2024
- 10 complaints in 2025
- 8 complaints so far in 2026
Complaints included issues related to payments, quality of service, and injuries such as cuts and infections.
Owen Kelly, Director of Conciliation and Services at Consumer Protection, advised customers to inquire about hygiene practices, staff training, and materials used before a service. He also stated that unusually low prices may indicate substandard practices.
Aftermath
Ms. Willcox stated she would not get another pedicure.