A pedicure is similar to a manicure, but for your feet. It is a great way to pamper one’s feet and to be sure that their feet and toe nails are well taken care of. Pedicures have been used to care for toe-nails and feet for over 4,000 years. There is even historical evidence that points back to self-manicure and pedicures in ancient Babylon. Nail polish finds its origin in China about 6000 years ago! The color of your nails indicated social status according to ancient manuscripts. Royals were treated to black and red fingernails. You could get a manicure in 2300 BC in Ancient Egypt!
There are carvings on the tombs of pharaohs that depicted manicures and pedicures. Egyptians were actually quite particular about leg and feet care. Similar to the ancient Chinese, the Egyptians colored their nails also to display social class. Cleopatra’s nails were said to be painted deep red, and Queen Nefertiti preferred a ruby shade. Ancient Egyptian and Roman military commanders painted their nails to match their lips before going to battle.
In North America the pedicure industry began to noticeably grow in 2000. People started to think of manicures and pedicures as a great way to relax and pamper themselves, so nail salons grew from about 50,000 salons to over 200,000 salons today in the United States alone. The trend of pedicures especially has grown as many people enjoy the pampered feeling one gets during a pedicure.
What Does a pedicure involve?
In general, a regular pedicure treatment will cost around $40 – $60 and will take about 45 minutes depending on what type of pedicure you are wanting. You will find that many nail salons will offer a variety of options for your pedicure. Each will have its own unique “extras” and you can generally see what each includes. If it doesn’t state anywhere what each means, then be sure to ask so that you can choose what you are wanting to receive.
A basic pedicure, however, generally involves a foot bath, shaping of the nails and cuticles, buffing of the feet, massage of feet and calves, and then lotion to finish. Other things that may be included are things like, exfoliation, paraffin wax, and nail polish.
Some common types of pedicures are:
- Regular Pedicure
- Spa Pedicure
- Paraffin Pedicure
- Stone Pedicure
- French Pedicure
- Mini Pedicure
- Athletic Pedicure
- Chocolate Pedicure
- Ice Cream Pedicure
- Margarita Pedicure
- Champagne or Wine Pedicure
Potential Pedicure Issues
- Most businesses that do pedicures use a pumice stone to shave off calluses. Calluses that are too aggressively shaved off resulting in broken skin, can create an opening for bacteria or fungus. It is also important if you have any health concerns and any procedure of a pedicure that could potentially affect your health, be sure that you inform your technician. For example, if you have diabetes it isn’t recommended that you have your feet buffed with a pumice stone.
- Different types of solutions and chemicals are employed to cleanse or soak your feet. You should be aware that there is potential for irritations or allergic reactions to these chemicals.
- As with any professional service you should always ask the person performing services for their credentials.
- You will want to ensure that proper sterilization techniques are employed where you receive your pedicure. Organisms and different diseases are potentially transferable when equipment is not properly cleaned between customers receiving treatments.
