The Ultimate Guide to Pedicure Procedure: 18 Steps to Soothe Your Feet
As we go about our daily lives, our feet can take a beating. From walking and running on hard surfaces to wearing ill-fitting shoes, it’s no wonder that our toes and heels can become dry, cracked, and even painful. That’s where a pedicure comes in – a relaxing and rejuvenating treatment that leaves your feet feeling smooth, soft, and fresh.
In this article, we’ll take you through the 18-step pedicure procedure, so you know what to expect from your next salon visit or DIY treat at home.
Step 1-3: Preparation is Key
Before diving into the pedicure process, it’s essential to prepare your feet. Here are the first three steps:
- Step 1: Remove Old Nail Polish: Before starting any pedicure treatment, remove any existing nail polish from your toenails using a nail polish remover.
- Step 2: Soak Your Feet: Soaking your feet in warm water can help loosen dirt and oil. Add some Epsom salt or essential oils to make it even more relaxing!
- Step 3: Wash Your Hands: Don’t forget to wash your hands before starting the pedicure, as this will prevent the risk of infection.
Step 4-6: Trimming and Shaping
Now that we’ve prepared our feet, it’s time to trim and shape. Here are the next three steps:
- Step 4: Trim Toenails: Use nail clippers to carefully trim your toenails straight across. Don’t cut too short, as this can be painful!
- Step 5: Shape Toenails: Use a nail file or emery board to shape and smooth out the edges of your toenails.
- Step 6: Remove Dead Skin: Use a foot file or pumice stone to gently remove dead skin from your heels.
Step 7-9: Nourishing and Moisturizing
It’s time to nourish and moisturize our feet. Here are the next three steps:
- Step 7: Apply Cuticle Oil: Rub cuticle oil onto the nail beds to help hydrate and protect them.
- Step 8: Massage Feet: Use a gentle, soothing massage oil or cream to nourish your feet while exfoliating them with a foot scrubber.
- Step 9: Moisturize Heels: After exfoliating, apply a thick layer of moisturizer or Vaseline to the heels and toes.
Step 10-12: Polish Time
Now that we’ve polished our toenails, it’s time for some extra TLC. Here are the next three steps:
- Step 10: Shape Nails: Use nail clippers to shape your nails before applying polish.
- Step 11: Apply Base Coat: Apply a clear base coat to protect your nails and make them last longer.
- Step 12: Finish with Top Coat: Use a top coat to seal in the finish of your polish.
Step 13-15: Cuticle Care
Don’t forget about cuticle care! Here are the next three steps:
- Step 13: Gently Push Back Cuticles: Using an orange stick, gently push back cuticles to prevent ingrown toenails.
- Step 14: Apply Cuticle Oil: Reapply cuticle oil after pushing back cuticles for hydration and shine!
- Step 15: Finishing Oil: Finish the pedicure with a layer of fragrance finisher or nourishing plant extract.
Step 16-18: Finishing Touches
The final steps to complete your pedicure treatment include:
- Step 16: Inspect Your Hands: Verify that all parts have been done correctly before finishing.
- Step 17: Review and Check: Double-check for any excess nail polish, oils or lotions for neatening touch-ups.
- Step 18: Finishing Touch: Clean your workspace thoroughly as well as remove protective materials once complete!
By following these steps, you’ll have beautiful, long-lasting pedicure treatments at home that keep your feet looking and feeling their best.