Can I treat a client with diabetes in my salon?

Yes, in almost all cases — but diabetes changes how you assess risk for several everyday treatments, and most therapists were taught this once and never wrote it down anywhere useful.

Why it matters: diabetes can mean slower wound healing, reduced skin sensation (especially feet and lower legs), fragile skin, and higher infection risk. The client may not feel a wax that's too hot or a cut during a pedicure.

Where to be careful:

• Pedicures and foot treatments. The big one. Peripheral neuropathy means a client may not feel heat, pressure, or a nick from cuticle work. Never cut or aggressively file the skin of a diabetic client's feet; skip credo blades entirely. If they have ulcers, open cracks, or numbness, refer to a podiatrist — this is standard insurer guidance in the UK.
• Waxing. Thinner, slower-healing skin bruises and lifts more easily. Test wax temperature on yourself first and avoid waxing over broken skin or infected follicles.
• Massage. Generally fine and beneficial, but avoid vigorous work on injection sites and be aware of hypo symptoms — shakiness, confusion, sweating. Keep a sugary drink within reach.
• Electrical and heat treatments. Reduced sensation means the client can't reliably tell you something is too hot. Lower your default intensity.