FEET - Articles

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.

Stay Dry!

Thu, 26 Feb 2009 12:00:00 PST

The 60-degree days sure make winter pedis an easier sell. But when the days dip back down to freezing, convincing clients to expose their toes to the elements (or stick around until they’re dry) gets a little more difficult.

Gulfstream CleanJet SL Liner

Wed, 25 Feb 2009 12:00:00 PST

The hygienic CleanJet SL Liner for Gulfstream’s pedicure chair bowls makes it easy and convenient to keep the bowl sanitized between clients. The CleanJet Liner is made from durable, thin plastic and has an attachment for the water jet and a convenient pull-strip plug. Just drop it in, use it, drain, and dispose.

Sling Back Pedicure

Wed, 25 Feb 2009 12:00:00 PST

Extremedys uses: Pinnacle SOHO Wooden Foot File, Be Natural Callus Eliminator, Epicuren Tri-Crystal Microdermabrasian Treatment and Hydrating Mineral Mask, base top, top coat, and polish.

Boredom Be Gone! Our A–Z Guide to Keeping Yourself Entertained in the Salon

Fri, 20 Feb 2009 12:00:00 PST

Combat boredom in the salon by varying your routine and trying new things from time to time. Whether you’ve got a little downtime or you simply need to kick-start a new routine, there are many ways to re-energize and refresh your surroundings in order to up the entertainment factor of your job.

What is a good technique for polishing a French manicure on toes?

Thu, 19 Feb 2009 12:00:00 PST

What is a good technique for polishing a French manicure on toes? I seem to make a mess and can’t get a thin, white free edge.

Hawaiian Pampering, Japanese Style

Sat, 14 Feb 2009 12:00:00 PST

A one-stop shop for luxury, the Japanese-inspired Ville de Coco nail salon is nestled on the ground floor of one of Waikiki’s most popular hotels, bringing in guests from around the world.

What is a Splinter Hemorrhage?

Wed, 11 Feb 2009 12:00:00 PST

n. (splĭn ‘tər hem’ər-ĭj) small areas of bleeding or hemorrhage underneath the nail bed that take the shape of straight lines; usually caused by hard impact or physical trauma to the nail; usually grows out with the nail after a few months

Clients Take a Walk on the Wild Side

Thu, 5 Feb 2009 12:00:00 PST

As animal prints come back en vogue, the style pubs are making it their mission to help readers understand that it’s chic to wear…and best in small doses.

Pedicure Troubles Still Bubbling

Tue, 3 Feb 2009 12:00:00 PST

An outbreak of bacterial infections linked to pedicure foot spas poses new mysteries for public health detectives. It also shows there is still a lot of confusion among nail technicians and salon owners about proper cleaning procedures. To protect yourself, do your homework!

Mani Pedi Cutie

Sat, 31 Jan 2009 12:00:00 PST

Mani Pedi Cutie caters to moms and daughters - providing them with their own individual space and needs.

When Empty is Better

Sat, 31 Jan 2009 12:00:00 PST

Sanitation-conscious patrons may prefer to be able to inspect the pedicure basin’s cleanliness and see you draw fresh water just for them.

Estelina Says File Feet Twice

Sat, 31 Jan 2009 12:00:00 PST

Estelina recommends beginning each pedicure with a dry filing of the feet. Then, when the service is almost complete, apply a foot scrub and file again.

Have Some Sake While You Soak

Sat, 31 Jan 2009 12:00:00 PST

What better to accompany Salon Utopia’s Yin and Yang Pedicure than a tempting array of sushi and sake?

The Priciest Pedicure?

Sat, 31 Jan 2009 12:00:00 PST

If clients complain about the price of a pedicure, tell them about Amp Salon’s VIP pedicure, which just might be the world’s most expensive feet treat.

High-Heel Stats

Fri, 30 Jan 2009 12:00:00 PST

A survey by the American Podiatric Medical Association crunches the numbers on how much we suffer, and why we wear, high-heeled shoes.

The One-Hour Princess

Fri, 30 Jan 2009 12:00:00 PST

How seven salons use indulgent pedicure services to increase their profits.

How do you interest hair clients in nail services?

Tue, 27 Jan 2009 12:00:00 PST

You can get results if you talk to your clients about your services or advertise within the salon. Sometimes a direct approach is all it takes.

What do you talk about with male clients?

Tue, 27 Jan 2009 12:00:00 PST

Conducting conversations with male clients needn't be difficult if both parties are comfortable. Learn how these techs create an easy-going rapport with their male clients.

How do you store your files?

Tue, 27 Jan 2009 12:00:00 PST

Sanitation is the most important aspect of caring for your files. These readers have developed thrifty methods to ensure files are clean and ready for each client.

If It’s Tuesday, It Must Be Toes-Day

Mon, 26 Jan 2009 12:00:00 PST

Top salons use promotional gimmicks, discounts and targeted advertising to get clients to try their pedicures.

Taking the Foot Massage One Step at a Time

Sun, 25 Jan 2009 12:00:00 PST

A properly performed foot massage provides a welcome add-on to your professional pedicure services as well as soothing your client's aching feet.

Pedisavers Pedicure Sock

Sun, 25 Jan 2009 12:00:00 PST

Keep freshly pedicured feet warm and clean with special pedicure socks.

Closing In On Ingrown Toenails

Sat, 24 Jan 2009 12:00:00 PST

Wearing tight, closed-toed shoes is an invitation for ingrown toenails. Soreness, irritation, and pain are just a few symptoms clients live with. Here we give you tried-and-true solutions to ease client discomfort.

Building Custom Pedicures

Fri, 23 Jan 2009 12:00:00 PST

Pedicures serve many purposes from the therapeutic to the beautifying to the pampering. Here we show you how to customize your services to the special needs and desires of pedicure clients in need of a touch up, an overhaul, or simply an hour of luxury.

Themed Pedicures

Fri, 16 Jan 2009 12:00:00 PST

Services like the Chocolate pedicure, or even hot stone massages and reflexology, are great ways to keep clients coming back for more.

Footlogix Medi-Pedi

Thu, 1 Jan 2009 12:00:00 PST

This is where Medi meets Pedi – where science and technology meet healthy, happy, and well-cared for feet.

Could It Be Gel Toes?

Thu, 1 Jan 2009 12:00:00 PST

Those subtle classy toes peeking out beneath a sandal may look like they’re flashing just ordinary polish, but in fact they could be secretly showcasing the newest trend in feet — gel toes.

No Toenail? No Problem. Rebuilding Toenails

Thu, 1 Jan 2009 12:00:00 PST

You may be surprised to learn that scotch tape is a key ingredient when repairing badly damaged toenails. Athena Elliott, the owner of SPAthena in Houston and a certified Medical Nail Technician, describes her method of rebuilding toenails when clients have very little nail.

Callus Compassion - Filing Feet

Thu, 1 Jan 2009 12:00:00 PST

Pay extra attention to callus filing, because when clients go home and feel the refreshing softness of their feet, they’ll realize that the only way to repeat this wonderful sensation is to go back for another pedicure.

Smooth Sole-ing

Thu, 1 Jan 2009 12:00:00 PST

Feet are at the forefront of your clients’ minds in the summer, but that still doesn’t mean they don’t want them in tip-top shape when they’re seen during the winter months…even if it’s just running around the house barefoot.

Winter Warming Mani's and Pedi's

Thu, 1 Jan 2009 12:00:00 PST

As the chill of winter settles in, clients begin to look for ways to take quick retreats from the cold. By adding a heating element to your service, you can set yourself apart from other salons as a winter indulgence, and maybe even warm your clients up into paying a little extra.

Callus Compassion: Filing Feet

Thu, 1 Jan 2009 12:00:00 PST

It’s important to pay extra attention to callus filing, because when clients go home and feel the refreshing softness of their feet, they’ll realize that the only way to repeat this wonderful sensation is to go back for another pedicure.

Reconstructing Damaged Toenails

Mon, 1 Dec 2008 12:00:00 PST

Excessively short and damaged toenails can be completely changed with acrylic toenail enhancements.

The Rise of Gel Toes

Mon, 1 Dec 2008 12:00:00 PST

One of the hottest trends sweeping the feet industry is gel toes. Risé Carter, national director of sales and education for NSI, did these polka dot gel toes for our May ’08 cover.

Shea on Me Pedicure

Mon, 1 Dec 2008 12:00:00 PST

Nail Fetish Inc. in Chicago does a great Shea on Me Pedicure with oatmeal, sugar, and OPI Avojuice Juicie (in vanilla spice).

Beach Babe Pedi

Mon, 1 Dec 2008 12:00:00 PST

Mani Pedi Cutie, Hermosa Beach, Calif., makes a refreshing beach-themed pedicure.

The Diabetic Discussion

Sat, 1 Nov 2008 12:00:00 PST

All clients need personal attention, but our diabetic pedicure clients need an extra dose of TLC. Learn how to alter pedicure services to accommodate diabetic clients, and you’ll not only be offering them an hour of relaxation, you’ll also be protecting their health.

Rock Star Toes

Sat, 1 Nov 2008 12:00:00 PST

Young Nails educator Melissa Garcia of Studio 115 in Tulare, Calif., made these Rock Star Toes for NAILS’ December 2007 cover. Once you get the hang of it, a set takes only 15-20 minutes to complete.

Citrus Callus Blast

Sat, 1 Nov 2008 12:00:00 PST

Rosa Martinez uses scents of orange for her Citrus Callus Blast pedicure.

Hand and Foot Treatments Draw From Global Cultures

Wed, 1 Oct 2008 12:00:00 PST

Chicago’s Allyu Spa features four signature manicure and pedicure treatments that draw upon the wisdom of earth-honoring cultures from around the world. Allyu nail treatments incorporate fresh, natural ingredients to beautify, nourish, and detoxify the hands and feet.

Try a Soak-Free Foot Fix

Mon, 1 Sep 2008 12:00:00 PST

Here's a step-by-step instruction for the Pillow Pedicure.

Dear Shari: My pedicurists don't like doing pedicures.

Mon, 1 Sep 2008 12:00:00 PST

Shari Finger, salon owner and veteran nail technician, tackles your tough questions.

How do I diplomatically turn away a pedicure customer who has a fungus?

Mon, 1 Sep 2008 12:00:00 PST

Take the time to quietly explain to the customer that fungus could be spread to other customers so it is salon policy never to service customers with possible fungus .

There's a First Time for Everything

Thu, 1 May 2008 12:00:00 PST

Risé Carter, national director of sales and education for NSI and consummate nails industry professional, makes her NAILS cover debut with this playful, bright gel polkadot pedicure design.

European Touch Clean Touch Pipe-Free System

Thu, 1 May 2008 12:00:00 PST

The components of this pedicure spa were designed by, and for, nail technicians. They are lightweight and compact making them easy to remove and sanitize.

What Are Plantar Warts?

Thu, 1 May 2008 12:00:00 PST

Somewhat unsightly and decidedly painful, plantar warts are an annoying, persistent nuisance. But early, consistent treatment could be all it takes to eliminate this common virus.

Grandma's Milk and Honey Cookies Pedicure

Thu, 1 May 2008 12:00:00 PST

Using Cuccio Naturalé's Scentual Spa Signature Service Enhancement Kit in Milk & Honey, the Element Day Spa in Los Angeles gives its clients a most welcome "after-school" treat.

Pick-Me-Up Pedicures

Thu, 1 May 2008 12:00:00 PST

Using products from CND's Spapedicure kits, the Samone Spa Bar gives clients the ultimate pedicure pick-me-up.

Maestro, Please

Sat, 1 Mar 2008 12:00:00 PST

Continuum Footspas presents the elegantly styled Maestro pedicure spa chair. The chair is made with the least amount of plastic possible, instead using cherry wood for the chair and Corian for the basin.

Medicool Pro Touch 1000 Electric Callus Filing

Tue, 1 Jan 2008 12:00:00 PST

Medicool's Pro Touch 1000 electric pedicure file diminishes strain on techs’ elbows, shoulders, and wrists caused by conventional foot paddles, and comes complete with specially designed tools for every pedicure procedure.

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.

Finding Your Electric File

Thu, 1 Jun 2006 12:00:00 PST

Electric nail file machines come in all shapes and sizes (not to mention colors and maximum RPM). With all these options, the possibilities can be overwhelming. To help you find your ideal file, we've rounded up a variety of machines and highlighted specifications of interest: from ergonomic handpieces to volt-change capabilities to battery operation.

Drill Bit Cheat Sheet

Wed, 1 Mar 2006 12:00:00 PST

Do you have a cheat sheet for the specific use of each drill bit? One of my clients asks what every bit is for every time shee comes in.

Cuccio Hydra-Massage Treatment

Sun, 1 May 2005 12:00:00 PST

Enhance the Scentual Spa pedicure experience by adding the Cuccio Hydra-Massage Treatment to your current service menu.

I have an elderly client with fungus on one foot only. Is that normal?

Tue, 1 Feb 2005 12:00:00 PST

Dr. Phoebe Rich responds about the prevalence of toenail fungus.

Raw Earth SpaPedicure by CreativeSpa

Sat, 1 Jan 2005 12:00:00 PST

Try this earthy pedicure from CND using the Raw Earth System.

How can I remove callus from the feet if it's illegal in my state to use a metal rasps and such?

Sat, 1 Jan 2005 12:00:00 PST

How can I remove callus from the feet if it's illegal in my state to use a metal rasps and such?

Will Pipes Become Obsolete?

Wed, 1 Dec 2004 12:00:00 PST

As pipe-free pedicure systems gain popularity within the industry, and concerns over sanitation and salon safety preoccupy the minds of clients and nail techs, it forces the question: Are pipe-free systems a better option?

Pedicure Benches Save Money, Increase Capacity

Wed, 1 Oct 2003 12:00:00 PST

BeautyWorx salon to create more seating and accommodate small pedicure parties, but whirlpool pedicure chairs, at several thousand dollars a piece, were considerably beyond her budget. Her solution — a $700 renovation that included pedicure benches.

Cuccio Naturale Milk & Honey Pedicure

Mon, 1 Sep 2003 12:00:00 PST

This pedicure offers a soothing sent for the ultimate manicure or pedicure service.

What's the Diagnosis: Dry Skin or Athlete's Foot?

Mon, 1 Sep 2003 12:00:00 PST

Think someone wiht athlete's foot would never come in for a pedicure? Think again. What you and your clients desdribe and treat as dry skin might actually be a mild, but still contagious, case of athlete's foot.

My pedicure client has deep cracks in her heels. Is it safe to work on her?

Mon, 1 Sep 2003 12:00:00 PST

Focus on moisturizing, whether the client is diabetic, and being very careful.

Toe Woes - what goes wrong with feet

Thu, 1 May 2003 12:00:00 PST

Stay a step ahead of clients' needs by learning to recognize the most common woes that may cause pain and disfigurement to clients' toes.

Fit for Royalty (A Buyer's Guide to Pedicure Thrones)

Thu, 1 May 2003 12:00:00 PST

With summer approaching, clients are itchnig to show off their freshly pedicured feet. Pamper them even more by investing in a pedicure throne.

Playing footsie - ideas to make the pedicure more pleasant.

Thu, 1 May 2003 12:00:00 PST

You can change up the layout of the pedicure, add rocks to your massage or "feed" clients' feet.

Insoles Ease Foot Pain

Thu, 1 May 2003 12:00:00 PST

A poll conducted by the American Podiatric Medical Association found that 55% of Americans miss a day of work due to foot problems.

When starting a pedicure, do you soak the client’s feet in disinfectant for at least five minutes or just soapy water?

Tue, 1 Apr 2003 12:00:00 PST

Disinfectants are far too harsh and can cause injury, skin irritation, and allergies.

Is it best to have a toenail removed completely if you suffer from chronic ingrown toenails?

Tue, 1 Apr 2003 12:00:00 PST

When all else fails, surgery to correct the problem is needed. A portion of the toenail is removed and often the root of the nail that forms that part of the nail is permanently destroyed.

Go to Healthy Extremes With Feet

Sat, 1 Mar 2003 12:00:00 PST

Do your best not to get on a client’s nerves -- because you never know who might have peripheral neuropathy. The loss of sensation in feet and hands that marks this not-uncommon condition leaves the unaware client susceptible to infection.

I have a client who has been working on her feet for 36 years and is now developing painful calluses. How can I ease her pain?

Sat, 1 Mar 2003 12:00:00 PST

If they are deep and painful, the calluses should first be shaved by a podiatrist.

I think I may have scaly skin that's caused by something called two foot/one hand syndrome. What do I do?

Sat, 1 Mar 2003 12:00:00 PST

Treating with an antifungal medication (oral works best but topical helps too) clears the skin of the palms and soles. There is a fairly high recurrence rate of this fungal condition, so long-term preventative treatment with a topical antifungal cream is helpful.

What is the main difference between a classic pedicure and a spa-type pedicure?

Wed, 1 Jan 2003 12:00:00 PST

A spa-type pedicure goes further with exfoliation and pampering of the client. You want to appeal to all her senses.

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.