What to Expect from a Professional Pedicure

A manicure can be not only a practical necessity, but also a small pamepring luxury, that gives you a break from daily stresses. So even if you do your own nails most of the time, having a professional job now and then, can be a real treat.

To start, your hands will be washed and disinfected. Depending on the salon, you may then be treated to moisturizers for the skin, and a hand massage. If it's a basic manicure, the next stage will be massaging an oil or cream into your cuticles, and soaking in warm water or other solution for up to ten minutes. This softens and lifts the cuticles, to allow for trimming.

One hand at a time is dried, and the cuticles trimmed or pushed back with an orange stick. Once they are taken care of, attention turns to the nails themselves. It is preferable to shape them with files, as opposed to clipping, unless there has been a break or accident to the nail that can't be repaired this way.

In general, emery boards are used to stroke away the edges or corners of nails, as opposed to metal files. However the "diamond" files are excellent, but few salons use them. The nails may be shaped according to the salon practice, or your personal preference. There is a trend to the blunt, square cut, but many women prefer a gentle rounding.

When the nails are done, you have the fun of selecting a nail polish to suit your mood or outfit, after which a protective coating may also be applied, to keep them fresher, longer.