Last Sunday, the New York Times released a fantastic investigation detailing the awful abuses workers in New York City’s nail salon industry endure, including wage theft, dismal pay, and exposure to toxic chemicals. The series was so powerful that even New York Gov. Andrew Cuomo, hardly a friend of workers, apparently felt obliged to respond with some policy measures, as did New York City Mayor Bill de Blasio.

Not so fantastic, however, was the list of suggestions the Times offered concerned nail salon consumers. While needed, it was full of bad ideas — including, for example, the suggestion that you talk to your manicurist about her working conditions. But acting on this advice could well get her in trouble with her boss — who could be listening in — or add stress to her day by making her feel obligated to reassure you that your pedicure isn’t unethical.

Treating your manicurist like a human being is great. Demanding she listen to your inner Barbara Walters or face the fear of a lousy tip is not.