If you’re feeling less-than-satisfied with your feet these days, a professional pedicure may be just what you need.
A pedicure is one of the most popular services offered by nail salons and spas. Not only does it improve the way your feet look and feel, it’s also a super-relaxing form of self-care.
A pedicure can give you softer, smoother skin and boost the appearance of your toenails. Although different types of pedicures are available, the most common services include soaking your feet, exfoliation to remove dead skin, moisturizer to improve softness, and cleaning, filing and painting your toenails.
Here are a few things to know if you’re thinking of getting a pedicure for the first time.
Benefits of Getting a Pedicure
There are many great reasons to treat yourself to a relaxing pedicure. Here are just a few of the benefits:
- Softer skin: Pedicures often include exfoliation and moisturizers to soften up dead skin.
- Nail and callus control: This improves the appearance of your feet and may help ward off foot infections.
- Stress relief: A pedicure helps you relax, making it an important form of self care.
- Stimulate circulation: If your pedicure includes a foot or lower leg massage, it promotes healthy blood flow.
- Spot foot health issues: An experienced pedicurist may be able to identify nail fungus, bunions or other foot problems early.
- Pretty feet: Your feet will look and better, for a boost of self confidence.
What’s Included in a Pedicure?
Most pedicures include a foot soak, exfoliation and moisturizer for your feet and a trim, filing and polish for your toenails. If you’ve never had one before, your pedicurist will talk to you about what to expect before beginning treatment. Pedicures typically last between 30 and 90 minutes depending on what services are included.
Foot Soak
A standard pedicure begins with a foot soak in warm water for about 10 to 15 minutes. The water may include epsom salts, essential oils or exfoliants, which soften your skin and make it easier to exfoliate afterward. Soaking also reduces aches and pains in your feet and may reduce the risk of infection, as epsom salts have antibacterial properties.
Exfoliation & Moisturizer
After soaking and drying your feet, the pedicurist will exfoliate and file your feet to remove dead skin cells and calluses. Common tools for this include a pumice stone or foot file. A topical exfoliant may be applied and rubbed off to further soften your skin. After exfoliation, your pedicurist will moisturize your feet by applying a soothing cream or oil.
Foot Massage
Many pedicures include a relaxing foot massage, usually while the pedicurist applies moisturizer. Our feet hold a lot of tension, so massaging them is a great way to relieve stress. Not only will your feet look better, but you may also find that a pedicure helps to boost your mood for the rest of the day!
Toenail Care
Your pedicurist will clean your toenails, including removal of old nail polish. Toenail care also includes removing dead cuticle skin and aligning cuticles for a more uniform appearance. Next, the pedicurist will trim and shape your nails before applying polish. Types of polish include regular, gel, powder and acrylic formulations.
“Pedicure Etiquette” & What to Do Before, During & After
If it’s your first time getting a pedicure, here are a few tips to follow before and after your appointment.
First off, don’t trim your toenails beforehand. Your pedicurist will take care of this for you. Choose your nail polish color ahead of time. This will save time and keep your pedicurist on schedule. And don’t be shy about asking questions! A good pedicurist will be happy to fill you in on what to expect during your first visit.
During your appointment, avoid talking on your phone unless it’s an emergency. You and everyone else at the salon or spa are there to relax. It’s also considered proper etiquette to tip your pedicurist – about 15-20% is considered appropriate.
Plan on wearing open-toed shoes after your pedicure to allow the nail polish to dry completely. Continue moisturizing your feet daily and thoroughly dry them after washing to avoid infection.
Scheduling a pedicure at a local spa is a great way to boost your feet and enjoy overall relaxation. If you’re looking for a great way to keep your feet soft and smooth at home, Baby Foot Original Exfoliation Foot Peel features 16 natural extracts that exfoliate and moisturize all at the same time!
It is highly recommended that you complete your Baby Foot treatment first, and allow your feet to finish peeling, before scheduling a pedicure. This will provide the best results and avoid dulling your new nail polish.
