What is a Pedicure?

A pedicure is a cosmetic treatment, specifically for the feet and toenails. During a pedicure, an aesthetician helps you soak your feet, exfoliates them and proceeds to offer you a cuticle and nail treatment. This includes nail cutting and grooming as well as a coat of nail polish or nail art. 

What to expect in a pedicure

Combining therapeutic and cosmetic benefits, a professional pedicure addresses issues such as dry and cracked feet, bunions, ingrown and overgrown nails, while also aiding in the prevention of infections. Executed with precision and thoroughness, a skilled pedicurist embarks on a 30- to 45-minute session that includes the following steps using meticulously sanitising tools.

• Prep:The first step is the removal of nail paint, if applicable. Toenails are then trimmed with nail clippers and filed to a desired length and shape using a nail file. At this stage, the pedicurist also addresses in-grown nails by trimming and filling them down, providing relief from pain.
• Warm soak:A cuticle softening cream is applied on and around the toenails and your feet are soaked in a warm foot bath that usually has Epsom salts. The foot bath helps in softening the skin and relaxing the muscles.
• Exfoliation:Following the foot bath, the pedicurist works on removing the dead skin and calluses on the foot. The initial focus is on the cuticles (the skin around the base of the nail). The pedicurist will delicately push and trim any dry or dead skin around the toenails. Next, the attention shifts to the underside of the foot. A pumice stone and foot file are used to carefully smoothen tough calluses and remove dead skin. Finally, a scrub is used on your foot and leg (up to the calves) to further smoothen and soften the skin.
• Hydration and massage:This step is the highlight of the pedicure procedure for many people. The pedicurist uses a nourishing and hydrating moisturiser to expertly massage feet and legs using reflexology techniques, strategically applying pressure on energy points – the perfect way to release all the tension and knots in your muscles.
• Buff and shine:Lastly, you have the option to select from the latest nail polish shades of the season to adorn your toenails or opt for a natural look with a gentle buff and shine. (Pro tip: If you frequently apply nail paint to your toenails, it is recommended to take occasional breaks to reduce discoloration, dryness, etc. and give your nails a chance to heal.)