All About Pedicures and Manicures

Most of us think that skincare only means taking good care of our face, but we do not know that it also means taking care of your hands, legs, feet, and nails. According to studies, nails are one of the most attractive parts of the body, so keeping them clean and beautiful means that we have to go through specific techniques to enhance their appearance. In this article, we are going to talk all about manicures and pedicures. 

What is a Manicure?

Manicure is a treatment that is done on fingernails and hands. The word manicure came from the Latin language, and it can be divided into two parts, “manus” means hands, and “cura” means to care. Manicure includes:

  • Nail trimming.
  • Nail filing.
  • Giving shape to the nails.
  • Applying nail varnish to keep it clean.

 Today, a manicure uses a particular substance that aims to soften the nails to clean and file the nail bed becomes less hurtful and easier. After the process, a moisturizing lotion is applied to the hands. 

Some people like to use artificial nails that are made of acrylic materials or artificial gel nail color. There’s also a trend where fingernails are decorated using intricate details and designs. 

What is a Pedicure?

On the other hand, pedicure concentrates on foot care, and it aims to enhance the appearance of the feet as well as the toenails. Just like manicure, the word pedicure also came from the Latin words “pedis,” which means foot, and “cura,” which means care. 

According to experts, a pedicure is a vital way to help our feet to stay clean, healthy, and free from any risk of nail diseases and infections.

A pedicure requires the use of a soap-like object known as a pumice stone, which helps to effectively and gently scrub off any dead cells on the bottom of the feet. The whole process of a pedicure helps maintain the feet’ natural beauty and protects them from any dust particles that may enter the nail beds and crevices in the skin. 

Difference Between Pedicure and Manicure

The beauty industry requires several cosmetic treatments for nails and skin. It is not enough that you choose the best treatment. You should also make sure that you have enough knowledge of how these techniques work on your hands and feet. That is why here are the differences between a pedicure and manicure based on their effects and process on feet, hands, and nails. 

  • Process – As we mentioned, the manicure’s primary focus is on the fingernails and hands. Nail technicians will trim, file, and shape the nail to perfection. If required, they may add decorations and extensions to the nails to make them appealing. On the other hand, a pedicure is a treatment that is given to toenails and feet. Nail technicians will clean and form the toenails, then scrub the feet off of any dust. 
  • Rubbing – A pedicure requires the use of a pumice stone to achieve harsh brushing and get the bottom of the feet free from dust and dead skin cells. While a manicure uses softening agents such as moisturizers and lotions to keep the hands soft and smooth. 
  • Nails – The treatment given to fingernails is more elaborate and detailed, not like toenails because they are less seen and often used. 
  • Benefits – The massage done in a manicure relaxes the muscles of the hands, thus allowing better blood circulation. Not only that, but a manicure also improves the healthy growth of nails, which in turn makes them shiny and flexible. In short, a manicure enhances the appearance of the hands and nails. On the other hand, the pedicure’s primary focus is to keep the toenails and feet clean to avoid any risk of nail infections and diseases associated with toenails. A pedicure also retains the natural beauty of the feet.