The tools are modern and the techniques are new but the pedicure is actually an ancient art. Decorating toe nails was so important such that many societies used tools made from precious metals. In China, members of the royal family used red and black polish to distinguish themselves from the lower class ranks. Pedicures can be done professionally but for those who prefer a more personal approach, here is a step-by-step guide on how to give your toe nails the spa treatment right at home:
Use The Right Pedicure Tools
Using the right pedicure tools ensures that you not only do your nails right, but also do it safely. Pedicure tools include the following;
- Nail cutter
- Nail file
- Nail polish remover
- Cotton balls
- Base coat
- Colored nail polish
- Intensive foot lotion to moisturize feet
Preparing To Do Your Own Pedicure
If you have applied nail polish and wish to change it, remove it using a cotton ball soaked in nail polish remover. A pedicure is best done either after a shower or a foot soak. Soaking the feet for about 10 to 15 minutes before starting the procedure is quite helpful, especially for people with hard, dry or brittle nails. While the feet are being soaked, rub a pumice stone over dry skin to remove calluses and dry the feet after you are done.
Shaping The Nails
Using a nail cutter, cut the toenails to the desired length and shape. Make sure that the clipper is sharp since dull ones will cause nails to split. Follow up with a nail file to smooth out edges. When using a file, apply a firm grip but buff gently. Buffing too much could create an undesirable shape or even shorten the nail.
Moisturizing
Apply moisturizer on your feet, giving extra attention to the soles and heels. Moisturizing helps prevent dry skin. Do not moisturize after nail polish has been removed since this could cause streaking. Using a cotton pad or dry towel, wipe off excess lotion from the nails.
Applying Nail Polish
Apply a base coat first. The base coat covers the surface of the nail to create the even, smooth surface ideal for pedicures. Work from one toe nail to the next, starting at the base of the nail and through the edge. Brush the polish gently and avoid applying a thick coat by pressing the brush against the neck of the nail polish container to squeeze out excess color.
Next, apply a coat or two of colored nail polish and finish with a top coat. In most cases, people do not use a base coat anymore and just apply colored nail polish in two layers, using the first one to even out the nail surface. Once the polish has been applied, use a toe separator to prevent toes from rubbing against each other. Allow the polish to dry thoroughly before washing or touching them.
Before you begin working on your feet, you should make sure that your toes are free from fungus. Tt would be advisable to get the fungus removed before doing your nails, and for health reasons in general. Clear Toes Clinic will use a simple low pain procedure to kill toenail fungus forever. For more information on toenail fungus, browse www.cleartoesclinic.com. After the procedure, you will have the liberty to do a pedicure at home or at the salon.
