You are right–a professional pedicure feels great! During a pedicure, your feet are soaked in warm, soapy water to increase blood circulation and to soften your skin so that your dry, dead skin can be removed easily. Many salons now have chairs that massage clients and water tubs with Jacuzzi-style action.

After removing your feet from the warm water your toenails will be shaped and your cuticles pushed back into place. Next, your feet and lower legs will be exfoliated using sloughing lotion and a foot file. The exfoliating leaves your feet soft as newborn skin. To further improve your circulation and encourage relaxation, you may also receive a lower leg and foot massage. After selecting your polish color, the technician will complete your pedicure with an application of base coat, color coat and top coat polishes. Pedicure service normally takes one hour and is pampering at its best!

Some nail technicians may prefer to use reflexology as part of the massage or even place essential oils in the water as part of the massage lotion. It would be wise to discuss these possibilities with your health care provider and if you are advised to be cautious, then address them with the nail technician at the time of your pedicure.

-- Answered by Lora Ferry, nail care specialist at Daired's Salon & Day Spa