Manicures and pedicures are cosmetic treatments designed to enhance the appearance and health of your hands and feet.

Manicure

Description: A manicure is a cosmetic treatment specifically for the hands and nails. It typically involves several steps to clean, shape, and polish the nails, and to care for the skin of the hands.

Steps:

1. Soaking: Hands are soaked in warm, soapy water to soften the cuticles and skin.
2. Exfoliation: A scrub or exfoliating cream is applied to remove dead skin cells.
3. Cuticle Care: Cuticles are pushed back and trimmed if necessary.
4. Nail Shaping: Nails are filed and shaped according to your preference.
5. Buffing: Nails may be buffed to smooth out ridges and create a shine.
6. Massage: A hand and forearm massage with lotion or cream to hydrate the skin and relax the muscles.
7. Polishing: A base coat, color polish, and topcoat are applied. The nails are usually dried under a UV or LED lamp if gel polish is used.

Types:

• Classic Manicure: The basic treatment involving the steps mentioned above.
• Gel Manicure: Uses gel polish that is cured under a UV/LED lamp, lasting longer without chipping.
• French Manicure: Characterized by a clear or light pink base with white tips.
• Paraffin Manicure: Includes a paraffin wax treatment to moisturize the hands.

Pedicure

Description: A pedicure is a cosmetic treatment for the feet and toenails, similar to a manicure but tailored to address the specific needs of the feet.

Steps:

1. Soaking: Feet are soaked in warm, soapy water to soften the skin and nails.
2. Exfoliation: The feet are exfoliated using a scrub or pumice stone to remove dead skin and calluses.
3. Cuticle Care: Cuticles are pushed back and trimmed if necessary.
4. Nail Shaping: Toenails are filed and shaped.
5. Foot Massage: Feet and lower legs are massaged with lotion or cream to improve circulation and relaxation.
6. Polishing: A base coat, color polish, and topcoat are applied. Like manicures, gel polish options are available and may require UV/LED drying.

Types:

• Classic Pedicure: The traditional treatment involving all the essential steps.
• Spa Pedicure: Includes additional treatments like exfoliating masks, extended massage, or a paraffin dip.
• Gel Pedicure: Uses gel polish for longer-lasting results.
• Medical Pedicure: Performed by a podiatrist or trained specialist, focusing on foot health issues such as fungal infections or ingrown toenails.

Both manicures and pedicures not only enhance the appearance of your nails and hands/feet but also contribute to overall hand and foot health by keeping skin hydrated, removing dead skin, and maintaining nail health.