Life Science Encyclopedia

  A pedicure is a way to improve the appearance of the feet, and their nails. It provides a similar service as a manicure. The word pedicure comes from the Latin words pes, which means foot, and cura, which means care.

Foot massage

  Feet, leg, hand,and arm massages are an important part of pedicures and manicures. This creates a relaxing environment for the person having the treatment.

Foot reflexology has been widely used while giving the foot massage; it is said to sooth nerves throughout the body. Practitioners may also massage with hot stones in their hands, and use special creams with menthol which are said to help rejuvenate the foot. Pumice stone is used to rub off dead skin of feet.^[1]

See also: Reflexology

Tools used

Different tools used for pedicure include:

• Towels
• Cotton balls
• Toenail clippers
• Lotion
• Cuticle cream
• Cuticle pusher or Cuticle nipper
• Orangewood sticks
• Acetone
• Antibacterial soap
• Foot bath

Safety rules followed

• Always sanitize hands before the start
• Keep all containers covered and labeled
• Keep hands dry when handling containers
• Avoid dropping sharp implements
• Dull sharp edges with emery board
• Do not file nails too deeply
• Avoid excessive friction when nail buffing
• Apply antiseptic if skin is broken

Typical feet disorders

• Athlete's Foot
• Ingrown toenails
• Fungus

See also

• Manicure

References