Your feet are often the most neglected part of your body. If your feet have ragged nails or callouses, you should treat yourself to a pedicure. It's relaxing to have your feet pampered, and they will look much better too. If you've never had a pedicure before, you probably don't know what to expect. Here is a quick overview of the process of getting a pedicure at a spa.

Trimming Your Toenails

The first step is to remove any old polish you may have on your toes. Then your nails will be trimmed using professional equipment and proper technique so you won't get an ingrown nail. When your nails are trimmed, care is taken to keep the nail above the skin and to trim it so the corners don't grow into the skin and cause problems. In addition to grooming your nails so they are smooth and uniform, you'll have your cuticles pushed back too. This involves using a small stick to gently push away from the bottom of your nail so the cuticle bunches up against your skin. This makes your nails look more attractive, and it isn't painful at all because very gentle pressure is used.

Soaking Your Feet

Once your nails are in good shape, you'll get to soak your feet in a foot bath. There may even be a built-in massage option that forces water over the tops and bottoms of your feet for a gentle massage that relaxes you all over. There may be bath salts or therapeutic oils added to the water that soften skin and relieve tension and stress in your feet. You'll soak for a few minutes so the callouses soften, which makes them easier to remove.

Applying Oil To Your Feet

After the foot soak, the spa technician uses a filing paddle to remove the calloused areas on your feet. If you have a lot of skin built up, the technician probably won't remove it all the first time, or your feet might be sore when you walk. It may take a few pedicures to get your feet smooth and silky. After that, oil or lotion is applied to your feet to further soften skin and to facilitate a massage. The oil is then washed off so your feet won't be slick in your shoes and so new polish can be applied to your nails.

Polishing Your Nails

The final step in your pedicure is to have your nails polished. Your nails will look fine without polish once the treatment is over, but polish will make them pop. The technician places cotton balls or a foam toe separator between your toes so it is easier to paint the nails. Once all the coats have been applied and dried, you're ready to slip on your sandals and show off your pretty feet.

You can usually get a manicure at the same time you get a pedicure since spa stations are often built so the technician can reach both areas while you're seated in a relaxing chair. A visit to a spa is a fun way to spend an afternoon. It's a great way to take a break from your responsibilities and pamper yourself. For more information on pedicures, contact a company like Nails By Yen.