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Key Takeaways

  • Pedicure foot baths must be properly disinfected between every client to prevent infection.
  • Diabetic clients require special care and may need physician clearance before pedicure services.
  • Never use razor-type implements on feet - they are illegal in most states.
  • Foot massage follows a specific pattern from ankle to toes for best results.
  • Proper sanitation is critical - foot infections can be serious and spread easily.
Last updated: January 2026

Pedicure Services

Pedicures are a popular nail service, but they carry additional infection risks compared to manicures. Proper sanitation, disinfection, and awareness of contraindications are essential for client safety and exam success.

Basic Pedicure Procedure

StepProcedurePurpose
1Sanitize hands and prepare stationInfection control
2Have client remove shoes and soak feetClean and soften skin
3Remove feet, dry one at a timeWork on one foot while other soaks
4Remove old polishPrepare nail surface
5Shape toenails straight acrossPrevent ingrown nails
6Apply cuticle removerSoften cuticles
7Push back eponychium gentlyClean nail plate
8Remove calluses with file/paddleSmooth rough areas
9Rinse feet, dry thoroughlyRemove all debris
10Perform leg and foot massageRelax and moisturize
11Remove lotion from nailsPrepare for polish
12Separate toes and apply polishComplete service

Foot Anatomy Basics

Understanding foot anatomy helps you provide better pedicure services:

Key Structures:

StructureDescription
MetatarsalsFive long bones forming the arch
PhalangesToe bones (14 total)
Plantar SurfaceBottom of the foot
Dorsal SurfaceTop of the foot
HeelBack portion, bears most weight
BallPadded area beneath toes

Common Foot Conditions:

ConditionDescriptionCan You Service?
CallusesThick, hardened skinYes - file gently
CornsConcentrated callusesRefer if painful
BunionsBony bump at big toeYes - avoid pressure
Athlete's FootFungal infectionNO - refer to physician
Plantar WartsViral infection on soleNO - refer to physician
Ingrown ToenailsNail growing into skinNO - refer to physician

Pedicure Safety and Sanitation

Pedicure safety is critical because feet are more prone to infection than hands. The warm, moist environment of pedicure basins can harbor dangerous bacteria and fungi.

Foot Bath Disinfection Protocol

Between EVERY Client:

  1. Drain all water from the basin
  2. Remove visible debris
  3. Clean basin with soap and water
  4. Rinse thoroughly
  5. Apply EPA-registered hospital-grade disinfectant
  6. Follow manufacturer's instructions for contact time (usually 10 minutes)
  7. Rinse and dry basin
  8. Run clean water with disinfectant through jets for 5-10 minutes

End of Day:

  • Perform between-client cleaning
  • Remove and clean filter/screen
  • Run disinfectant solution through system for minimum 10 minutes
  • Drain and air dry

Weekly:

  • Deep clean entire system
  • Check for biofilm buildup
  • Replace screens/filters as needed
  • Document cleaning in logbook

Implement Safety

ImplementProper Use
Metal Foot FileMust be disinfected between clients
Disposable FilesUse once, discard
Pumice StoneMust be given to client or discarded
Foot PaddlesDisinfect if non-porous; discard if porous
Razors/Credo BladesILLEGAL in most states - never use
Electric Callus RemoversDisinfect heads; use gentle pressure

Exam Alert: Razor-type callus removers (credo blades) are ILLEGAL in most states. The exam will test whether you know this is prohibited.

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Pedicure Basin Disinfection Protocol

Foot Massage Techniques

Foot massage is a key component of the pedicure service, improving circulation and providing relaxation.

Massage Sequence:

StepAreaTechnique
1Entire footEffleurage (relaxing strokes)
2Sole of footThumb friction circles
3HeelDeep circular pressure
4ArchThumbs along arch
5Ball of footKneading movements
6Each toeIndividual rotation and pull
7Top of footEffleurage to ankle
8AnkleRotation movements
9Lower legEffleurage and petrissage
10FinishLight effleurage to soothe

Massage Pressure Points:

  • Solar plexus (center of ball) - relaxation
  • Arch center - digestive system
  • Heel - lower back connection
  • Big toe - head/brain reflexology

Contraindications for Pedicure Services

ALWAYS Refer to Physician:

  • Any open wounds, cuts, or sores on feet
  • Athlete's foot or other fungal infections
  • Plantar warts (verrucae)
  • Severely ingrown toenails
  • Signs of infection (redness, swelling, pus, warmth)
  • Unexplained rashes or skin conditions
  • Severe circulatory problems

Special Considerations for Diabetic Clients:

Diabetic clients require extra caution due to:

  • Reduced sensation (may not feel injury)
  • Poor circulation (slower healing)
  • Higher infection risk
  • Potential for serious complications

Diabetic Client Protocol:

  1. Ask if they have physician clearance for pedicures
  2. Use extra caution with water temperature
  3. Avoid cutting cuticles or calluses aggressively
  4. Do not use electric callus removers
  5. Check feet for any injuries before and after service
  6. Recommend they inspect their feet daily at home
  7. Document any concerns noted during service

Spa Pedicure Services

ServiceFeaturesBenefits
Paraffin PedicureWarm paraffin wax treatmentDeep moisture, softens calluses
Hot Stone PedicureHeated basalt stonesMuscle relaxation, improved circulation
Exfoliating PedicureSalt or sugar scrubRemoves dead skin, smooths feet
Aromatherapy PedicureEssential oilsTherapeutic benefits, relaxation
Detox PedicureClay or charcoal maskDraws out impurities
Collagen PedicureCollagen socks/treatmentsAnti-aging, intense hydration
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Pedicure Service Decision Guide
Test Your Knowledge

How should toenails be shaped during a pedicure?

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Test Your Knowledge

Which implement is ILLEGAL in most states for callus removal?

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D
Test Your Knowledge

A diabetic client requests a pedicure. What should you do?

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D
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