When it comes to self-care, our feet often get the short end of the stick! We pamper our skin and hair, but those hard-working feet? They’re usually forgotten. A pedicure isn’t just about cute nails – it’s about giving your feet the love they deserve. Fun fact: your nails can hint at health issues like diabetes or kidney problems! So, treat yourself to a regular pedicure. Not only will your feet look fabulous, but you’ll improve circulation, prevent infections, and keep your nails in tip-top shape! 

Benefits of Pedicure:
• Eliminates Dead Skin: Dead skin can make your feet feel rough and worn, but it is more than just a cosmetic issue. It can also trap germs, leading to infections. Regular pedicures help remove flaky, rough skin, allowing fresh, healthy skin to emerge and keeping your feet both soft and protected.
• Keeps Your Skin Moisturized and Soft: Pedicures are not just effective for your nails, new cell growth and remaining dead skin; they nourish your skin too. With moisturisers and soothing foot massages, your feet are left feeling soft and smooth. This extra hydration helps prevent calluses, cracks, and other skin issues, making your feet look and feel their best.
• Boosts Circulation: The foot massage during a pedicure is not just relaxing, it improves blood flow, delivering oxygen and nutrients to your feet. This is especially helpful for people with diabetes, as it promotes better circulation and reduces the risk of foot ulcers.
• Reduces Stress: Life can be overwhelming, but pedicure offers few moments of relief. The pampering and relaxation during a pedicure help reduce stress, boosting your emotional well-being. A small self-care ritual leaves you feeling refreshed and better equipped to handle whatever comes your way.
• Prevents Nail Infections: Regular pedicures lower the risk of nail fungi and other infections. The exfoliation and cleaning process helps keep your nails strong and healthy by promoting new cell growth and removing dead skin. 
Types of Pedicures
Regular Pedicure
•    Starts with a warm foot soak, followed by nail trimming, shaping, and cuticle care.
•    Includes foot scrubbing, a short massage for your feet and calves, and finishes with nail polish.
•    Ideal for regular maintenance to keep your feet and nails clean.
Spa Pedicure
•    All the steps of a regular pedicure, but with added pampering.
•    Includes relaxing extras like aromatherapy oils in the foot bath, an exfoliating scrub, a hot towel wrap, and even a paraffin wax dip.
Gel Pedicure
•    Uses UV light technology for long-lasting, chip-free nail colour.
•    Includes the usual steps of trimming, shaping, and cleaning nails, followed by gel polish in 3 layers: base, colour, and top coat.
•    Each layer is cured under LED light, leaving you with nails that stay shiny and strong for 2-4 weeks.
Paraffin Pedicure
•    Features a paraffin wax bath that soothes aching feet and relieves pain.
•    It’s great for improving circulation and treating issues like arthritis or joint stiffness.
•    The wax deeply moisturises, leaving your feet soft and smooth, while promoting relaxation.
Salt Pedicure
•    Starts with a relaxing foot soak in a water bath filled with salts like sea salt, Himalayan salt, or Epsom salt.
•    The salts help exfoliate, relax, and detoxify your feet, leaving them feeling refreshed and revitalised.
Diy Pedicure at Home
Giving yourself a pedicure at home can be a rewarding and rejuvenating experience, combining self-care with relaxation. You don’t need to spend a fortune at a salon to enjoy beautiful and healthy feet. With a few simple steps and some readily available supplies, you can create a spa-like atmosphere in your own bathroom.
Gather Your Supplies
Before you dive into your pampering session, gather everything you need. Here’s a basic list of supplies:
•    Foot Tub: A large bowl or basin that fits your feet comfortably.
•    Warm Water: Enough to soak your feet.
•    Salt or essential Oil: For a soothing soak.
•    Nail Clippers and a File: To trim and shape your nails.
•    Foot Scrub: You can use a store-bought scrub or make your own with sugar and olive oil.
•    Moisturiser or Foot Cream: To keep your feet soft and hydrated.
•    Nail Polish: Your favourite colours for that polished finish.
•    Towel: For drying your feet.
Step 1: Prepare Your Space
Create a cozy and relaxing atmosphere. Choose a comfortable spot where you can relax, whether it’s in your bathroom or on a soft rug in your living room. Dim the lights, play some soothing music, and maybe light a scented candle to set the mood. Having a cup of herbal tea or infused water nearby can make the experience even more enjoyable.
Step 2: Soak Your Feet
Fill your foot basin or tub with warm water, adding Epsom salts or a few drops of your favourite essential oil to enhance the experience. Soaking your feet for about 10–15 minutes will soften the skin, making it easier to remove any dead skin and calluses. This step is all about relaxation, so take your time and enjoy the warm water.
Step 3: Exfoliate and Care for Your Feet
Once your feet are nicely soaked, it’s time to exfoliate. Use a pumice stone or foot file to gently scrub away rough patches and calluses, focusing on the heels and balls of your feet. Next, apply your foot scrub and massage it into your feet for a few minutes, rinsing afterward. This will leave your feet feeling smooth and refreshed.
Step 4: Nail Care
Now, turn your attention towards your toenails. Start by trimming them to your desired length with nail clippers. After clipping, use a nail file to shape the edges and prevent snagging. For cuticle care, gently push back the cuticles with a cuticle pusher or an orange stick. If you notice any overgrown cuticles, you can carefully trim them, but be cautious to avoid cutting too deep.
Step 5: Moisturise
After your nails are prepped, it’s time to hydrate your feet. Apply a generous amount of moisturiser or foot cream, massaging it into your feet, ankles, and calves. This step is vital for keeping your skin soft and preventing dryness. If you have thick or rough skin, consider using a heavier foot cream or specialised foot balm.
Step 6: Polish Your Nails
If you want to add a splash of colour, now’s the time to polish your toenails! Start with a base coat to protect your nails and help the polish adhere better. Once the base coat is dry, apply your chosen nail polish in thin layers, allowing each coat to dry before adding another. Finish with a top coat for a glossy finish and added durability. Don’t forget to clean up any smudges around the nails with a cotton swab dipped in nail polish remover.
Step 7: Final Touches
After your nails are dry, you can wrap up your pedicure. Give your feet a little more attention by putting on a pair of cosy socks to lock in the moisture. If you’re feeling extra indulgent, consider a gentle foot massage or use a foot roller to ease any lingering tension.
Common Mistakes to Avoid While Doing Pedicure
• Choosing the Wrong Polish
With countless nail polish options available, selecting the right one can be daunting. You have a variety of colours, finishes, textures, and quality levels to consider.
When performing a pedicure, it’s important to remember that toenails are generally sturdier than fingernails. This resilience means that even budget-friendly polishes may hold up better on toenails. However, that doesn’t guarantee you’ll achieve great coverage or results.
Opt for a nail polish that applies evenly and opaque in one or two coats to minimise the hassle of repeated drying. And don’t forget to apply a topcoat to protect against chipping and enhance shine.
• Only Taking Care of Your Toes
Simply painting your toenails doesn’t constitute a proper pedicure. If you’re committed to giving yourself a full pedicure, it’s essential to dedicate time to pamper your feet, too. Begin with a warm foot soak to cleanse and soften your feet, preparing them for the rest of your pedicure routine. Incorporate a rich lotion, an exfoliating scrub, and consider treating yourself to a relaxing foot massage. This holistic approach will leave your feet looking and feeling rejuvenated.
• Rushing the Pedicure
We all lead busy lives, but hurrying through your pedicure can lead to less-than-ideal results. Rushing not only detracts from the attention your toes deserve but also increases the risk of injury.
A complete pedicure involves callus removal, nail trimming, and cuticle refining—all tasks that require careful handling of sharp tools. While minor injuries may not be severe, taking out time helps you avoid them entirely. By slowing down, you’ll achieve smooth and soft feet.
• Not Taking Care of Your Feet Afterwards
After completing your pedicure, it’s vital to preserve your results. Don’t let your hard work go to waste by neglecting your feet afterward.
Allow your feet to dry after applying lotion, and consider wearing slippers around your house to help the treatment soak in. If you’ve just painted your nails, opt for open-toed slippers to prevent any smudging. By giving your feet the care they need post-pedicure, you’ll maintain the fresh look and feel you’ve worked so hard to achieve.
A pedicure isn’t just about cute toenails—it’s a mini vacation for your feet! Skip the rush, treat your toes right, and avoid picking that chipped old polish. Your feet do all the hard work, so give them some love! With a little pampering, you’ll have soft, happy feet and polished nails that will make you want to show them off. So go on, indulge yourself, and strut out with a bounce in your step and toes ready to steal the show! HH

Dr. Shaista Lodhi is an expert in the field of Aesthetic Medicine and Cosmetology, as well as a renowned television presenter and actress.