NAVIGATING THE WORLD OF PEDICURES

It’s that time of year again, ladies! Summer is upon us and our feet are out and about! Are your feet summer ready?? A pedicure is a great way to not only indulge yourself for an hour, but to get your feet into barefoot sandal condition! As an avid pedicure attendee, I have some tips as to how to navigate the world of pedicures.

When choosing a nail salon, do some research first; there are many websites with reviews to see what other people are saying about the salons in your area. Upon visiting a spa or salon, take a walk around and even ask a representative how they clean their foot spas and instruments. At the salon I go to regularly, they insert plastic coverings around their foot spas and the water that is dispensed into the spa is circulated within itself (so no sharing of water that is recirculated). Speaking of instruments- metal sterilized instruments are safest- if they are being reused, they should be coming out of personal packages that have been safely sterilized in between patrons or brand new. Feeling comfortable with your pedicurist is a must! Choose someone who you feel you can convey your opinion of what you’re really looking for during your pedicure experience, especially when they’re cutting your nails! It’s suggested that nails be cut straight across to prevent ingrown toenails. Beware of the “cheese grater” device- they can cause more harm than good. Bath salts, foot scrubs or masks, and ”purple pads” (which are called pumice stones are very common at spas and salons) are more effective for softening skin and callous prevention.  Oddly enough, wait a couple days after shaving before heading to the salon! When shaving, micro cuts can occur in the skin and leave it vulnerable to any bacteria that could be present. If you make pedicures an indulgence, like I do, and regularly head to the salon, it is nice to form a relationship with your pedicurist. This way, you can tell them the do’s and don’ts of YOUR feet; everyone is different!

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If heading to the salon is not your thing, try a pedicure at home! Many of the same ideas apply for at home pedicures including cutting nails straight across. Soaking your feet in a warm bathtub for at least 10 minutes will soften up the skin on the bottom of your feet. Treat yourself to a nice foot scrub or mask to exfoliate dead or dry skin. Those purple pumice stones are also available to purchase.  Lastly, after drying feet, apply a moisture rich foot lotion or an oil to lock in all your hard work! 
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There are so many benefits of pedicures in addition to having beautiful and attractive summer ready feet! Frequently trimming toenails can prevent ingrown nails or painful re-growth. The relaxation foot massage portion of the pedicure not only induces tranquility and calming, but also increases circulation to calf muscles and feet. Oils, masks, salt scrubs and lotions all help to promote healthy, moisturized skin on your lower legs and feet. Lastly, having that go-to pedicurist who knows your feet almost better than you do can be a great benefit. Often times, pedicurists can recognize changes to your feet or can earlier detect problems you may not even have noticed.
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Whether you choose to do some research and venture out in the world of pedicures for the first time or rethink your current approach as to how you get your pedicure, or even attempt a personalized at home spa day, taking care of your feet is a total necessity. Pedicures can be beneficial not only for health and hygiene but you need to keep your feet on point for your Bec’s Beach Feet this summer!

References:
http://www.footvitals.com/health/pedicure.html
https://www.sallybeauty.com/What-are-the-benefits-of-a-pedicure%3F/FAQ_NAILS_025,default,pg.html

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