Post-Surgery Pedicures: When Can You Wear Polish After Toenail Surgery?

Have you struggled with the persistent throb of an ingrown nail? If yes, then you know that the relief following a procedure is immense. However, for many of our clients at Harley Street Nail Specialist Clinic, the very next question is often about aesthetics. We understand that you don’t just want to be pain-free; you want your feet to look their best again.

If you are considering private ingrown toenail surgery in London, you are likely looking for a specialist approach that prioritises both your clinical health and the final look of your nail. But when does medical end and beauty begin?

Why the Wait Matters

After we perform a partial or total nail avulsion, your toe needs time to establish a healthy barrier. During surgery, we often use a chemical called phenol to ensure the offending edge doesn't return. This creates a controlled chemical burn that needs to weep and heal naturally.

Applying nail polish or heading for a pedicure too early is a risk we don’t recommend. The chemicals in polish can irritate the raw nail bed, and the dust from filing in a standard salon can lead to secondary infections.

We generally advise waiting until the wound is completely dry and a new layer of toughened skin has formed, usually around 4 to 6 weeks.

The Problem with Standard Salons

It is important to remember that a medical clinic is not a nail salon. While we focus on the naked nail trend of 2026, meaning healthy, strong, natural nails, high-street salons often prioritise speed over sterile precision.

If you’ve had private ingrown toenail surgery in London, the last thing you want is a non-sterile foot bath introducing bacteria into a healing surgical site.

Transitioning to a Medical Pedicure

Instead of a traditional pedicure, we often suggest a medical pedicure once you are healed. This is a dry procedure performed by our podiatrists. We use surgical-grade tools to tidy the nail edges and clear any debris without the risks associated with water-logged skin or shared basins.

Let Us Help You Recover

At Harley Street Nail Specialist Clinic, our goal is to get you back into your favourite shoes with confidence. Whether you are dealing with a recurring ingrown nail or want to discuss a medical-grade refresh for your feet, we are here to provide expert and honest care.