A pedicure usually includes a foot soak, nail trimming and shaping, cuticle care, callus or dead-skin removal, moisturizing, and often a foot massage; polish is usually optional. Typical sessions can also vary by salon, with spa versions adding extras like exfoliating masks, aromatherapy, or paraffin wax.

Quick Scoop

A basic pedicure is mainly a foot-and-toenail care service. The most common steps are:

  • Foot soak.
  • Nail trimming and filing.
  • Cuticle care.
  • Exfoliation or callus removal.
  • Moisturizer or foot cream.
  • Massage.
  • Nail polish, if you want it.

What to expect

If it’s your first time, the pedicurist will usually clean your toenails, remove old polish if needed, shape the nails, and soften rough skin before finishing with lotion and polish. Standard pedicures often take about 30 to 90 minutes, depending on what is included.

Common types

Type| What it usually includes
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Basic pedicure| Soak, trimming, exfoliation, massage, polish. 3
Spa pedicure| Basic care plus extras like aromatherapy, masks, and deeper hydration. 3
Paraffin pedicure| Warm wax treatment for extra moisture and softness. 3

If you want, I can also break down what happens at a salon step by step.