FEET - Articles

Feet Wrapped Up

Mon, 22 Nov 2010 12:00:00 PST

A great way to soothe clients during the winter months is to put hot towels around their feet during a pedicure. But at what point in a pedicure should you use the hot towels and how?

Foot Treatments Honor Age-Old Ayurvedic Wisdom

Wed, 17 Nov 2010 12:00:00 PST

Bodipure offers a line of foot care products by Italian brand LakShmi. Called Pada, it draws on the traditional wisdom of Ayurveda, aromatherapy, and other natural healing systems.

I had a client who is a runner, and her toenail was on the verge of coming off. What should I do?

Mon, 15 Nov 2010 12:00:00 PST

I had a client who is a runner, and her toenail was on the verge of coming off. She wasn’t in any pain, but she wanted to try to have it look nice for an upcoming event. What should I do?

Herbal Warrior Relief Pedicure

Mon, 15 Nov 2010 12:00:00 PST

Signature Service by Presentations Salon, Kansas City, Mo.

Citrus Green Tea SpaPedicure

Mon, 15 Nov 2010 12:00:00 PST

Signature service by Holly Schippers/FingerNailFixer, Bussey, Iowa

A Pedicure Playlist

Fri, 29 Oct 2010 12:00:00 PST

Find out some sample playlists for delightful pedicures.

Young Nails Glitter Toes

Wed, 29 Sep 2010 12:00:00 PST

Young Nails educator Amanda Dodge shares her step-by-step for how she creates glitter toes using the manufacturer’s products.

What is Hammertoe?

Thu, 23 Sep 2010 12:00:00 PST

A progressive problem that could appear on one or all of the toes, hammertoe must be corrected early if sufferers hope to avoid surgery.

Sweet Sherbet Pedicure

Tue, 21 Sep 2010 12:00:00 PST

Stylux Beauty Salon, based in Glendale, Calif., demonstrates how to perform a Sweet Sherbet pedicure.

Warm Milk and Mud Pedicure

Mon, 20 Sep 2010 12:00:00 PST

Toronto-based Featuring...You Salon & Spa demonstrates how to perform a warm milk and mud pedicure.

Conquer Calluses in 28 Days or Less

Wed, 1 Sep 2010 12:00:00 PST

Removing rough calluses at home can be tedious and time-consuming for clients. Offer them a quick and effective new alternative: Gehwol’s med Callus Cream.

Is it better to perform pedicures with or without gloves?

Wed, 1 Sep 2010 12:00:00 PST

What types of infections or skin disorders can a nail technician get on her hands from infected clients? Is soaking with an antibacterial, antifungal, cross-contamination-preventing soak enough to protect our precious hands?

CND Cool As A Cucumber Pedicure

Tue, 31 Aug 2010 12:00:00 PST

Cool off your clients this season with a refreshing seasonal pedicure using CND’s Marine Spa Pedicure line and Scentsations Cucumber & Aloe lotion. The products use marine botanicals and sea salts to energize, cool, and rejuvenate tired feet. The CND Marine Spa Pedicure line includes a Mineral Bath, Salt Scrub, Cooling Masque, and Hydrating Oil that are lightly fragranced to create an aquatic and relaxing sensation for clients.

The Perfect Polish for Little Piggies

Thu, 26 Aug 2010 12:00:00 PST

The mom of two little girls who love to get their nails done, Piggy Paint founder Melanie Hurley always hated the thought of her children putting their hands in their mouths after she painted their nails with traditional solvent-based “kid” polishes. The result of her quest for a polish with no harsh chemicals, no foul odors, and nothing that might hurt the environment was Piggie Paint, which boasts the tagline “It’s as natural as mud.”

Exotic Mango Manicure/Pedicure

Mon, 16 Aug 2010 12:00:00 PST

Hollywood Nails explains how to give clients a luxurious manicure/pedicure with mango oil, sliced oranges, and flower petals.

All That Glitters…

Wed, 11 Aug 2010 12:00:00 PST

Stephanie Russo of Salon Kukata in Upland, Calif., shows how she does one of her popular designs. Russo sells these designs as add-ons, typically canvassing ankles and backs, and they have become quite popular during the summer months, with clients sometimes asking for more elaborate and flashy designs.

Hot Lava Pedicure

Fri, 30 Jul 2010 12:00:00 PST

Step-by-step by Nails by Nia Cooper at Erwin Gomez Salon & Spa, Washington D.C.

What Is Onychogryphosis?

Fri, 16 Jul 2010 12:00:00 PST

Onychogryphosis refers to nails that have thickened and developed a deep curve. Techs may be more familiar with the term “ram’s horn,” which is the common description given to this condition.

Indian Therapy Pedicure

Fri, 9 Jul 2010 12:00:00 PST

Step-by-step by Elizabeth Ashton Ayurvedic Nail Spa, Long Beach, Calif.

What is Foot Odor?

Tue, 6 Jul 2010 12:00:00 PST

Summertime is here and that means it’s time for open-toed shoes and perfectly polished piggies. But not everybody looks forward to the time when shoes are optional. Some people prefer to keep their shoes on to cover their feet — and an unpleasant foot odor.

It's Not About Pretty, It's About Healthy

Tue, 6 Jul 2010 12:00:00 PST

For $66 and one hour and 45 minutes of your time, the staff at Wet Paint Nail Spa in Cambridge, Mass., will inspect your feet for calluses, ingrown nails, cracks, and other symptoms of hard use, give you a fabulous pedicure, and teach you proper care of the feet at home.

Antoine de Paris Pedicure

Tue, 29 Jun 2010 12:00:00 PST

Antoine de Paris offers durable and economical pedicure and manicure tools to keep nails trimmed, cleaned, and ready for any product enhancement. The tools are made of stainless steel so they can withstand a lifetime of cleaning and sanitizing, and they are ergonomically designed to keep nail techs from getting cramps or fatigue while using them. The pedicure tools are formulated to completely clean the nail beds and leave toes fresh and clean for polished or natural looks.

Day Spa Soothes Weary Feet in the Community Room

Mon, 28 Jun 2010 12:00:00 PST

When Briana Borten opened a second Dragontree Holistic Day Spa in the Portland International Airport, she made very few changes to accommodate the unique location. “Overall, though, we are trying to recreate the traditional day spa environment as much as possible, offering the same treatments and attention.”

Alert Clients to the Risk of Skin Cancer on Feet

Tue, 22 Jun 2010 12:00:00 PST

Pedicurists are in the unique position of being able to advise clients of the risks and educate them about sunscreen use.

Correct Painful Toenail Woes Easily and Quickly

Tue, 11 May 2010 12:00:00 PST

Heather Goodwin offers relief to clients suffering from mildly ingrown toenails and pincer nails with the application of a B/S Brace.

Massage Pregnant Pedicure Clients With Caution

Tue, 11 May 2010 12:00:00 PST

A massage might seem just the thing to bring relief to pregnant clients’ swollen feet and legs, but there are acupressure points around the lower legs and feet that, when aggressively worked, can bring on contractions.

Balinese Ginger Pedicure

Mon, 3 May 2010 12:00:00 PST

Step-by-step by Laurentius Salon, Philadelphia

Peripheral Artery Disease: What You Should Know

Tue, 20 Apr 2010 12:00:00 PST

Peripheral Artery Disease (PAD) affects more than eight million Americans and can be an early sign of blocked arteries in the body that can lead to heart attacks. Find out how you can spot PAD in clients and how you should advise them.

Extra Pampering Takes No Time at All

Mon, 19 Apr 2010 12:00:00 PST

Looking for ways to give your clients something extra that doesn’t cost much in the way of time or money?

Can you do pedicures on people with psoriasis on their legs? What pre-cautions should be taken?

Thu, 15 Apr 2010 12:00:00 PST

Can you do pedicures on people with psoriasis on their legs? What pre-cautions should be taken?

Floating Pedicure

Thu, 15 Apr 2010 12:00:00 PST

Step-by-step by Nails & More Day Spa, Greensboro, N.C.

Milk with Coffee Beans Pedicure

Thu, 4 Mar 2010 12:00:00 PST

Step-by-step by North Point Nail Spa, San Francisco

Irish Crème Pedicure

Thu, 4 Mar 2010 12:00:00 PST

Step-by-step by Vito Mazza Salon & Day Spa, Woodbridge, N.J.

OPI Axxium Soak Off Gel Lacquer

Wed, 3 Mar 2010 12:00:00 PST

OPI’s Axxium Soak Off Gel Lacquers come in a number of fan-favorite OPI polish colors and are easily applied and soaked off. The gels are perfect for busy women that demand long-lasting color, and best of all, toes can go straight into shoes immediately.

What Are Corns?

Wed, 24 Feb 2010 12:00:00 PST

Though a common ailment, corns can often be avoided by something as simple as changing one’s shoes.

Tweezerman Professional Pedicure Tools

Fri, 19 Feb 2010 12:00:00 PST

Tweezerman’s professional line of sanitizable and disposable pedicure tools can be used in the salon to give clients a perfect pedicure.

Pedicure Chairs and a Draining Economy

Fri, 19 Feb 2010 12:00:00 PST

Find out what’s new and how it can benefit you.

Pedicures Gone Dry

Fri, 19 Feb 2010 12:00:00 PST

Bonnie Rios of Rio Rancho, N.M., shows how she does her waterless pedicure using CND’s Almond SpaManicure System.

Papaya Pineapple Pedicure

Thu, 4 Feb 2010 12:00:00 PST

Step-by-step by Jeanet Spa & Salon, Toronto

Pedicure Poise

Tue, 19 Jan 2010 12:00:00 PST

Pedicures can be quite tough on a nail tech’s body. Holding legs while clipping toenails, massaging calves and ankles, and scrubbing down thick callus can all quickly lead to sore backs and arms — and cranky dispositions. Here’s what some techs have done to keep their poise during strenuous pedicures.

Feet Need Kneading

Thu, 14 Jan 2010 12:00:00 PST

It’s the mandatory element to every pedicure — the foot and calf massage — and there’s no one way to do it.

That’s So Pedi Gets the Votes

Wed, 13 Jan 2010 12:00:00 PST

Despite having been in business just six months, San Jose, Calif.-based That’s So Pedi Nail Salon beat out well established salons to be voted #1 for manicures and #2 for pedicures in the Metro newspaper’s 2009 Best of Silicon Valley reader survey.

What Are Pincer Nails?

Mon, 4 Jan 2010 12:00:00 PST

A common and potentially painful condition, pincer nails can often be avoided by careful detection and proper care.

Leading Men

Thu, 31 Dec 2009 12:00:00 PST

At Extremedys2010 Hand & Foot Spa in West Hollywood, Calif., the French manicure isn’t just for women anymore. The salon offers a popular “Boy French” nail style that gives its male clients a “healthy-looking, groomed nail that doesn’t look like polish or a traditional French manicure,” says owner Naja Rickette.

Sea My Pedi

Thu, 31 Dec 2009 12:00:00 PST

Step-by-step by Talons Nail Evolution, Victoria, B.C., Canada

What’s the trick to getting dark glitters to cure when doing rock star gel nails?

Fri, 11 Dec 2009 12:00:00 PST

What’s the trick to getting dark glitters to cure when doing rock star gel nails? I do my nail prep, then a layer of Akzentz Base N Gloss. I cure and put another layer of Base N Gloss, then sprinkle on the glitter and tap off some of the excess. I cure after that, and I brush off the excess again when it’s done, but a lot of glitter will come off with it. And this is with a brand new gel lamp. So I put on more gel, more glitter, etc., but I’d like to get it right the first time to save time.

Ice Cream Sundae Pedicure

Fri, 11 Dec 2009 12:00:00 PST

Step-by-step by The Painted Nail, Los Angeles

What Are Neuromas?

Thu, 19 Nov 2009 12:00:00 PST

When the weight of the body lands on a swollen nerve, it can be debilitating. Learn the symptoms and alert clients to this common problem that develops in the nerves of the foot.

Caviar & Pearl Foot Treatment

Fri, 6 Nov 2009 12:00:00 PST

Step-by-step by MG’s Grand Day Spa, Greenville, S.C.

Rosemary-Citrus Spa Pedicure

Thu, 29 Oct 2009 12:00:00 PST

Step-by-step by Spa Touch, Orlando

You’re Never Alone When a Nail’s Ingrown

Mon, 26 Oct 2009 12:00:00 PST

Ingrown toenails are painful afflictions that usually require a doctor’s help to remove. But if you catch them early enough, you can help maintain the nail using a special Ingrown Nail File and prevent the nail from growing into the surrounding skin.

Ingrown Toenail Myths Debunked

Wed, 14 Oct 2009 12:00:00 PST

When it comes to ingrown toenails and how to treat them, misinformation abounds. The American College of Foot and Ankle Surgeons offers this list of myths you may hear from clients and how to counter them.

Nailite’s Soak-Off Gel Toes

Fri, 9 Oct 2009 12:00:00 PST

Nailite’s Soak-Off Gels gently soak off in acetone in 10 minutes or less. The one-step, self-leveling gels can be used on sensitive skin, and are durable, flexible, and easy to use. The gels cure with a 9-watt UV lamp in two minutes and with a 6-watt UV lamp in three minutes.

Onsen (Japanese Hot Spring) Getaway

Tue, 29 Sep 2009 12:00:00 PST

Step-by-step from Zenka Nail Beauty Lounge, Manhattan Beach, Calif.

Shoe Accessories

Thu, 17 Sep 2009 12:00:00 PST

Clients are more likely to show off their new pedicures in comfortable heels and sandals. With cushions, inserts, and protectors available, stock up on shoe accessories to enhance your clients’ footwear comfort.

Laser Fungal Treatment Twice as Effective as Pills

Tue, 15 Sep 2009 12:00:00 PST

The new treatment for fungal nails is not only safe, but it’s proving much more effective than the currently available oral antifungal medications, which may have side effects. Introduced in 2008, the treatment involves a small laser beam that is moved over the surface area of the toenail, instantly killing the fungal spores in the nail bed while leaving healthy tissues intact.

Lexor Introduces “Smart” Pedi-Spa Technology

Tue, 15 Sep 2009 12:00:00 PST

Lexor pedicure spas now incorporate “Smart” Pedi-Spa technology, including Auto-Fill, Sani-Drain, and Universal File Controller.

Protect Your Valuables

Tue, 15 Sep 2009 12:00:00 PST

Repairing or replacing pedicure spas and other salon equipment can be costly. One way to protect against these usually unexpected expenses is with an extended warranty. One Source Extended Care offers extended warranty plans on all types of salon and day spa equipment, providing coverage beyond the manufacturer’s standard warranty.

Foot and Calf Massage

Thu, 10 Sep 2009 12:00:00 PST

Want to incorporate a nice foot and calf massage into your pedicures but unsure about your massage technique? Then take a cue from Renee Doran, educator for OPI and experienced pedicurist out of Glitz Salon in Rochester Hills, Mich.

Poof! Glitter Toes

Fri, 4 Sep 2009 12:00:00 PST

Nail tech Jennifer Brickl of Especially Nails by Jennifer in Madison, Wis., came up with an easier way to create trendy glitter “rock star toes” gel enhancements.

Lemon Drop Pedicure

Fri, 4 Sep 2009 12:00:00 PST

Step-by-step from Natural Beauty Salon & Spa, Twinsburg, Ohio

Estelina’s Spa Products Callus Removal Treatment

Wed, 2 Sep 2009 12:00:00 PST

Estelina introduces a new treatment to soften, smooth, and hydrate the skin. The Intensive Heel and Foot Scrub Therapy, Intensive Heel and Hand Cream Therapy, and EZ-Off Callus Remover, are made with ingredients such as pomegranate extracts and vitamins A, C, and E that are rich in antioxidants to fight free radicals, and naturally help protect the skin from aging.

Callus Be Gone

Wed, 2 Sep 2009 12:00:00 PST

Have you ever thought of using a specialized callus remover to aid in your foot filing battles? There are some instances where a client’s callus has built up so much that simple soaking and hand filing barely make a dent. Sometimes a liquid callus remover product can be applied after the soak to further soften callus so more of it can be filed off.

Flip-Flop Flubs

Wed, 26 Aug 2009 12:00:00 PST

Foot-related injuries due to flip-flop wear are on the rise, according to the American Podiatric Medical Association. “There are many flip-flops on the market that offer little to nothing in terms of arch support, stability, and shock absorption,” says the APMA’s Dr. Ross Taubman. “Opting to wear a pair of cheaply constructed flip-flops puts the wearer at risk for injuries such as arch pain, tendinitis, and sprained ankles.”

Invigorating Thermafuse Pedicure

Thu, 20 Aug 2009 12:00:00 PST

Step-by-step from Medusa Salon, Springville, N.Y.

The Waxing of the Toe

Wed, 19 Aug 2009 12:00:00 PST

Toe waxing can be a great add-on for pedicures. It gives the client that little extra pampering so they know their entire foot will be smooth and clean for uninhibited bare feet flashing. Experienced pedicurist Cyndi Grohowski of Polished From Head to Toe in Haddon Heights, N.J., offers these five steps on how to do a flawless toe waxing.

Behind the Scenes: Shooting for the Star(s)

Fri, 31 Jul 2009 12:00:00 PST

Elaine Watson, Star Nail International vice president of marketing and global education director, created our July cover’s fabric with resin and UV sealer-encapsulated nails. You can use just about anything — have your client bring in their old favorite piece of clothing.

Callus Be Gone

Tue, 28 Jul 2009 12:00:00 PST

Eucalyptus Ice Spa Pedicure

Thu, 23 Jul 2009 12:00:00 PST

Step-by-step from Zoe Nail Salon and Spa, Charlotte, N.C.

Colonial Pedicure

Wed, 15 Jul 2009 12:00:00 PST

Step-by-step from The Spa of Colonial Williamsburg, Williamsburg, Va.

Nailtural Natural Nail Treatment

Wed, 1 Jul 2009 12:00:00 PST

Nailtural Botanical nail care and nail treatment system specializes in natural plant extracts with organic ingredients. These products help create a healthier salon/ spa environment and fulfill greener product demands.

What are the dry white spots on my client’s toenails?

Wed, 1 Jul 2009 12:00:00 PST

One of my clients has dry white spots on her big toenails. She went to the podiatrist and he said she was allergic to nail polish. I would put oil on and buff and the white spots would go away. I have seen this on almost every client at one time or another, especially in the winter. What do you think it is?

A League of Your Own

Mon, 8 Jun 2009 12:00:00 PST

Caught between high-volume discount salons and high-end mega-spas? Rather than try to win by their rules, write your own rules geared to a more narrow and tailored clientele and create your own niche.

Pedicure Product Management

Mon, 8 Jun 2009 12:00:00 PST

Product rationing is an important element to business, so how do you regulate how much product to use on clients? Here are a couple tips on increasing product value for your dollar.

Flip Flops

Mon, 1 Jun 2009 12:00:00 PST

Whether cute, comfy, or for emergencies only, every woman has at least one pair of flip flops. Display some fun footwear and your client may walk out wearing a pair.

Foot Filing Tips

Thu, 28 May 2009 12:00:00 PST

Jill Wright, of Jill Wright’s Spa For Nails in Bowling Green Ky., is an experienced pedicurist who offers this interesting foot filing technique.

What are some ideas I can use to create themed manicure and pedicure services?

Thu, 28 May 2009 12:00:00 PST

Answered by Sara Spallino, founder and co-owner of The Beauty Bar in Toledo, Ohio.

Get Your Pedicure Cleaning on the Record

Tue, 26 May 2009 12:00:00 PST

Pedicure spa cleaning logs are mandatory in California and Texas, and they’re a good idea no matter where your salon is located. Create your own format or borrow one from the Lone Star state.

Runner’s Sport Pedicure: A Step-by-Step Look

Fri, 22 May 2009 12:00:00 PST

Salons across the country have added sports pedicures to their menus. As more and more clients make fitness a priority, salons are developing services that cater to their clients’ active lifestyles.

Going the Distance (Restoring Runners' Feet)

Thu, 21 May 2009 12:00:00 PST

Runners’ feet crave special attention. Rev up your pedicure business by catering to those clients who run for fun or fitness. A foot is a runner’s first point of impact — you can be their first line of defense against injury, through service and education.

Grated Coconut & Passion Fruit Pedicure

Thu, 21 May 2009 12:00:00 PST

Your feet and senses will delight in this tropical refresher rich in coconut and fruit.

Why do some of my clients’ toenails seem to warp with age?

Fri, 15 May 2009 12:00:00 PST

The feet are tortured more than most other body parts, which is one of many reasons they change as we age.

Instant Rock Star Toe Glitter Shakers

Fri, 24 Apr 2009 12:00:00 PST

There’s a hot tip circulating among educators to help techs with their glitter applications.

What is the proper way to smooth callused heels?

Wed, 15 Apr 2009 12:00:00 PST

Answered by Samone Rhodes, president of Samone Spa Bar in Chicago.

Get Your Pedi Menu in Shape

Mon, 6 Apr 2009 12:00:00 PST

Race off with new clients when you add a runner’s pedi.

Apothecary Spa Ritual Pedicure

Thu, 2 Apr 2009 12:00:00 PST

Blu Water Day Spa in Kensington, Md. uses a blend of herbs, salts, and essential oils in unique treatments designed to fit each client's needs to relax, energize, detoxify or recharge.

Making It Your Own Creating Custom Services Out of Pedicure Systems

Tue, 31 Mar 2009 12:00:00 PST

Many nail manufacturers offer all-encompassing kits for manicures and pedicures, which can easily be turned into signature services at a salon.

Bellini Pedicure

Sat, 21 Mar 2009 12:00:00 PST

From the Beauty Bar in Toledo, Ohio, comes a fresh idea inspired by the champagne-peach cocktail of the same name. The Bellini Pedicure is a hydrating and exfoliating treatment designed for dry skin.

What Is Athlete’s Foot?

Thu, 19 Mar 2009 12:00:00 PST

This common infection of the feet is most often characterized by cracked, flaking, peeling skin between the toes. In the majority of cases, it responds well to self care.

How does cold weather affect the nails?

Wed, 18 Mar 2009 12:00:00 PST

Have you ever wondered about this?

Can callus buildup be caused by a fungus?

Wed, 18 Mar 2009 12:00:00 PST

Fungus or callus? Here's how to tell the difference.

Watermelon Toes

Tue, 17 Mar 2009 12:00:00 PST

The natural pastel colors and polka-dotted seeds of this well-known fruit provide a simple model for techs to recreate on the limited toenail plate.

Take a Tip from European Touch’s Dawn Holz

Wed, 4 Mar 2009 12:00:00 PST

As the economy forces us to make better budget decisions, it is now more than ever imperative that salon owners get the right equipment for their needs. European Touch’s vice president of sales, Dawn Holz offers some advice on finding the right pedicure throne.

Bio Creative PediSation Pedicure System

Tue, 3 Mar 2009 12:00:00 PST

Bio Creative’s PediSation Pedicure System uses the power of science and nature to bring a soothing antioxidant treatment that leaves feet refreshed and clean.

Captain and Soak Pedicure

Tue, 3 Mar 2009 12:00:00 PST

The Nail Bar uses: Captain Morgan’s Original Spiced Rum, Gena Tea Tree Oil, Be Natural Cuticle Eliminator and Callus Eliminator, CND Solar Oil, The Nail Bar Rum Spice Lotion, paraffin, Beautiful Feet Antiseptic Foot Spray, Man-e-Cure Matte Polish

Lavender Mint Pedi

Tue, 3 Mar 2009 12:00:00 PST

3 Logic uses: Star Nail Sani Spray, Beauti Control Cosmetics Therapeutic Bath Minerals, Stonewall Kitchen Cleanser (in lavender mint), Haken Spa Foot Honey Scrub, Yogurt Mask, and Foot Massage Butter (in lavender mint); paraffin, base coat, top coat, and polish.

Spa Specifics Velvet Milk Collections

Thu, 1 Feb 2007 12:00:00 PST

This pedicure demo, using organic products by Spa Specifics, eliminates the need to re-submerge your client's feet in the tub after the first soaking.

Salon Cielo

Sat, 1 Nov 2003 12:00:00 PST

Salon provided a peaceful escape in Orlando.

Launch Clients Into Deep Relaxation

Sat, 1 Nov 2003 12:00:00 PST

Zero-gravity recliners allow clients to have an astronaut-like experience.

Foot Huggies Pedicure

Thu, 1 Feb 2001 12:00:00 PST

Your client's basic pedicure needs are met with this trouble-free treatment by Foot Huggies.