Every Type Of Pedicure, Explained

As self-care becomes a bigger part of everyone's routine, more people are indulging in manicures and pedicures. Getting your nails done is an easy way to unwind after a long day or to experiment with colors as a form of self-expression. Nail care has also been found to be great for one's well-being, according to a 2023 study published in Frontiers in Psychology.

But as beneficial as pedicures can be for the mind and body, rolling into a salon and trying to figure out which pedicure to get can sometimes be overwhelming. While every salon offers the standard pedicure which is a basic pedicure that trims nails, removes calluses, and updates the polish color — there's also a quicker version of this called the mini pedicure — most of these places offer an entire menu of choices.

To better understand what all those different pedicures entail and which one might be best for you, Women exclusively talked to celebrity nail artist, Lisa Kon, who is also the founder of the Lisa Kon brand and owner of the Lisa Kon nail salon chain. Thanks to Kon, you don't have to stare at a pedicure menu and wonder what means what ever again.

When you're looking at a list of pedicures, right under the standard is usually the spa pedicure — and it's exactly that: a little spa treatment for your feet. "It's a more luxurious experience that adds extra steps such as aromatherapy, exfoliating scrubs, hydrating masks, and foot massage to the classic pedicure," says Lisa Kon. "Perfect for relaxation and indulgence." Each spa pedicure can be different based on what the salon offers and how many add-ons you choose to get. This will also affect the price.

According to Kon, a regular spa pedicure will cost anywhere between $50 and $80. But the more you add to it, like opting for gel polish instead of regular or a longer foot massage than usual, the higher the price can be. So as much as you may be enjoying your spa pedicure and saying yes to every extra thing the nail tech suggests, you want to make sure you know exactly what you're saying yes to and how much it costs.

Because a spa pedicure is an upgraded version of a standard pedicure, it's ideal for anyone who wants to take their usual basic pedicure routine to a new level or indulge in something different for a change. "It's a great choice for anyone who wants to combine foot care with a relaxing and rejuvenating spa-like experience," says Kon.

If you don't know that paraffin is a wax, then seeing this option can be confusing. If you know it's a wax, but are unsure of how wax can be beneficial for your feet, then that can also leave you scratching your head. According to Medical News Daily, paraffin is an occlusive moisturizer, meaning it's fantastic for those with dry skin because it locks in hydration. "[A paraffin pedicure] involves applying warm paraffin wax to the feet for deep hydration and skin nourishment," says Lisa Kon. "Ideal for those with dry, cracked skin or anyone seeking intense hydration and a soothing experience."

Paraffin can also be great for those with joint pain. Because the wax is heated, when it's applied to an area of the body that suffers from aches and pains, it gets the blood flowing, which eases pain. It's this factor that makes paraffin pedicures a sweet relief for those with arthritis. However, if you know have an allergy to wax, then you want to skip this one. It may feel good at the moment, but once the rash and itchiness kick in, you'll regret that paraffin real fast. This particular pedicure costs anywhere from $40 to $70.

A gel pedicure is like a mini pedicure, in that it's just a different take on the classic pedicure. When you choose a gel pedicure, you'll get everything that comes with the standard pedicure: soaking, callus removal, trimming, cuticle care, and probably a short foot and lower leg massage. Then, instead of getting traditional polish, you'll be asked to choose a color from the gel collection. What's great about gel is how long it lasts. "[Gel manicures are] suited for those who prefer a long-lasting, glossy finish that remains chip-free for up to two to three weeks," says Lisa Kon.

Despite the convenience of a gel mani in that you don't have to hit up the salon once a week thanks to its durability, in recent years there's been concern over the health risks of using UV rays to harden the polish. "As a dermatologist, I have always known that UV exposure up close on a regular basis is not good for the skin and can lead to mutations," board-certified dermatologist Dr. Anna Guanche told Refinery 29. Because cell mutations can possibly lead to cancer, Dr. Guanche wears fingerless gloves when getting a gel manicure to be extra safe. That might be something you want to consider if you're concerned about UV rays on your hands.

For people who want a more mindful pedicure, waterless pedicures have become more common. "Instead of soaking in water, this pedicure uses moisturizing treatments or wraps to soften the skin," says Lisa Kon. "It is considered more hygienic and eco-friendly."

Not only are waterless pedicures easier on the environment and less likely to result in possible infection due to a water basin that hasn't been properly cleaned, but the lack of soaking is better for the nails. We've been conditioned to believe that soaking should be part of a pedicure, but because the nail plate is porous, it expands when it's in water too long. "If you apply polish to an expanded nail, the polish will not adhere as well and is [likely] to chip when the nail dries out and shrinks back to its normal state," celebrity manicurist Deborah Lippman told PS. Considering a basic pedicure can cost anywhere between $30 and $50, or more when you've added extra treatments, ensuring that your polish stays intact by opting for waterless may be your best bet.

If you've read this entire list and haven't found a pedicure that's a fit for feet that have been put through the wringer, then the athletic pedicure is probably the one for you. "This pedicure prioritizes foot health by addressing issues like calluses, corns, and ingrown nails while also including a soothing massage to relieve foot fatigue," says Lisa Kon. "It's tailored for active individuals." That's right, runners, dancers, and everyone else who does a number on their feet regularly can benefit from an athletic pedicure. According to Kon, this pedicure will set you back somewhere between $50 and $70.

While these are the most common types of pedicures you'll find at a salon, don't be surprised if you find other pedicures like the Russian or Smart pedicure, both of which are becoming more popular. "[The Russian] technique emphasizes meticulous cuticle and nail care, performed using specialized electric files," says Kon. "It creates a clean and polished appearance by focusing on the nail and surrounding area with precision." Smart pedicures, on the other hand, offer a modern and customized approach for whatever issues you might have with your feet. 

There are a lot of pedicure options out there. If you're not sure what something means, don't be afraid to ask and be open to recommendations from the nail tech — they know best, after all.