22 types of pedicures explained: here’s what you need to know

There are so many different types of pedicures you could get.

But what are all the types of pedicures and which one is best for you?

This post is going to help you figure that out.

We’ll go through 22 different types of pedicures, explaining what each one is and what benefits they offer.

By the end of this post, you’ll know exactly which type of pedicure you should book the next time you’re at the salon!

Let’s get started.

How many types of pedicures are there?

There are 22 main types of pedicures.

Here’s the full list of 22 types of pedicures:

• Basic Pedicure
• Deluxe (spa) Pedicure
• Shanghai Pedicure
• Dry/waterless Pedicure
• Parrafin Pedicure
• Hot stone Pedicure
• French Pedicure
• Mini Pedicure
• Athletic Pedicure
• Chocolate Pedicure
• Ice-cream Pedicure
• Margarita Pedicure
• Champagne / wine Pedicure
• Gel Pedicure
• Fish Pedicure
• Salt Pedicure
• Rose Pedicure
• Milk and honey Pedicure
• Men’s Pedicure
• Collagen Pedicure
• Jelly Pedicure
• Medical Pedicure

Some of these types of pedicures offer a fun and unique experience.

Others are based around a specific type of nail polish.

And some of them offer specific health or medical benefits, so it’s important to choose the right one for you.

7 key benefits of pedicures

Depending on the type of pedicure you get, there are a number of different benefits on offer.

Here are some of the main benefits you can expect:

1. Relaxation

One of the main reasons people get pedicures is to relax.

This is especially true for deluxe and spa pedicures, which often include a massage as well as a nail treatment.

2. Improved Circulation

Pedicures can also help to improve circulation in your feet.

This is because they often involve massaging the feet and lower legs, which encourages blood flow.

3. Softer, smoother skin

Another benefit of pedicures is that they remove calluses and dead skin. This leaves your feet feeling softer and smoother.

This is because they usually involve exfoliation, which gets rid of dead skin cells.

4. Healthier nails

Pedicures can also help to keep your nails healthy and help prevent ingrowing toenails.

This is because they often involve trimming and filing the nails.

5. Fungus prevention

Another benefit of pedicures is that they can help to prevent fungal infections.

This is because the procedure involves soaking the feet in treated water, which helps to kill any bacteria or fungus.

Pedicurists can often detect the start of a fungal infection and advise you to treat it early.

6. Improves sleep quality

The relaxing effects of a pedicure can also help to improve your sleep quality.

This is because the massage can help relieve tension or stress in the feet and lower legs.

7. Boosts confidence

Finally, pedicures can also boost your confidence.

This is because they make your feet look and feel good, which can make you feel good about yourself.

Now that you know the benefits of pedicures, let’s take a look at the different types on offer.

22 pedicure types explained

Basic Pedicure

A basic pedicure is a simple no-frills nail treatment.

It takes around 35 minutes and usually includes the following steps:

• Brief foot soak (and sometimes a quick massage or exfoliating scrub)
• Trimming and filing the nails
• Pushing cuticles back
• Removing any dead skin
• Applying toenail polish.

This is the most basic type of pedicure and is often the cheapest option.

Deluxe (spa) Pedicure

A deluxe or spa pedicure is a more luxurious version of a basic pedicure.

It includes the basic steps listed above, but may also include:

• A longer foot soak with fancy products
• A more thorough/longer massage or scrub
• The use of more expensive and better-smelling products
• A moisturizing treatment like a seaweed wrap or hot wax

This type of pedicure is often more expensive than a basic pedicure but can offer a more relaxing and luxurious experience.

A luxury pedicure typically takes between 60 and 90 minutes.

Shanghai Pedicure

The Shanghai pedicure is certainly not for the fainthearted!

Originating in china, this type of treatment uses sharp scalpel blades to remove dead skin and calluses from the feet.

You should always get this 50-minute treatment done by a highly trained professional.

Dry/waterless Pedicure

A dry or waterless pedicure is a type of foot treatment that doesn’t involve soaking the feet in water.

Instead, products are applied directly to dry feet.

Some people prefer dry pedicures because they are eco-friendly and hygienic.

(no soaking your feet in a tub that’s been used by many others).

As with most of the treatments in this list, the basic steps are the same (trimming, filing, polishing, etc.

However, since the feet have not been softened by water, an electric file will remove dry and dead skin.

Parrafin Pedicure

In a paraffin pedicure, you get all the usual steps, plus warm wax applied to the feet and legs.

Your legs will either be dipped or rubbed in wax, then wrapped up in plastic or a towel.

This is very moisturizing and it helps relieve aches and pains.

Once the wax is cool, the pedicurist will wipe it off with soft tissue.

If you have arthritis or poor circulation, this is a great one to go for.

Paraffin treatments typically last for 60 minutes.

Hot stone Pedicure

A hot stone pedicure is one where, you guessed it, warm stones are used to massage the feet.

The Stones are usually made of basalt, a type of rock that retains heat well.

They are placed on key points on the feet and used to relax the muscles.

This is a very relaxing treatment that’s great for those who have trouble sleeping.

The stones will be in place for 10 to 30 minutes and a full treatment usually lasts for an hour.

You will get your toenails trimmed, filed, and polished after the stone part.

French Pedicure

A french pedicure is a cosmetic pedicure that focuses on painting your toenails in a french manicure style.

After soaking and nail prep steps have been followed, your toenails will be painted in the French style.

This will be a natural pink or nude color and the tips will be white.

It’s a very natural and classic style.

Mini Pedicure

If you’re short on time, you can always get a mini pedicure.

This is a basic treatment that includes:

• Soaking the feet
• Trimming and filing the nails
• Pushing back the cuticles
• Applying toenail polish

There is no foot massage, scrub, or removal of dead skin with this type of treatment.

The main focus is on getting your toenails to look pretty.

A mini pedicure (aka Express pedicure) usually takes around 20 minutes and is cheaper than a full pedicure.

Athletic Pedicure

Runners and athletes often get what’s called an Athletic Pedicure.

This is a sports pedicure that involves intense massage.

The main focus of this type of treatment is on getting rid of tension, relieving pressure points, and improving circulation in the feet.

No special attention is given to the toenails in this treatment.

So no filing, shaping, or polish is done.

You should allow about an hour for this kind of procedure.

Chocolate Pedicure

Fancy dipping your feet into warm, gooey chocolate?

Then this type of pedicure is for you!

A chocolate pedicure involves soaking your feet in a chocolate foot bath.

It’s a fun experience that’s great to do with friends.

Here are the steps:

• Feet are soaked in warm chocolate
• Then scrubbed clean with a chocolate scrub
• Cocoa butter is applied to the bottom of the legs and feet
• Toenails are prepped and painted

Ice-cream Pedicure

This type of pedicure is not exactly what it sounds like.

Although being handed a bowl of ice-cream mid pedicure sounds amazing!

The name actually comes from the bath bomb that’s used.

It’s shaped like a scoop of ice cream and comes in yummy scents like strawberry and vanilla.

The ice cream scoops contain oils like jojoba or coconut which are known for their intense moisturizing properties.

Margarita Pedicure

Salt scrub, fresh lime juice, and massage oil are used in this type of pedicure – hence the name.

Slices of lime may also be used as exfoliating tools.

The treatment also includes margarita-scented sugar scrub and a citrous moisturizer.

You also get the usual toenail care and polish with a margarita manicure.

Champagne / Wine Pedicure

With a champagne or wine manicure, the feet are soaked in either wine or champagne instead of water.

Wine pedicures are great for those looking for anti-aging benefits along with their pedicure.

Red wine is typically used in this type of pedicure because of its anti-oxidant and inflammatory properties.

Red wine or champagne pedicures are also good for dry or cracked skin on the heels and calluses.

Gel Pedicure

A gel pedicure has the usual soak and scrub and ends with gel polish being applied.

Gel polish is a type of nail polish that’s cured under UV light.

This makes the manicure last much longer – up to 4 weeks!

The gel pedicure process is as follows:

• Soak and scrub
• Nails are trimmed and filed
• Cuticles are pushed back
• A base coat is applied
• Two coats of color are applied
• A top coat is applied
• Nails are cured under UV light

The gel pedicure process takes a little longer than a regular pedicure – about 45 minutes to an hour.

Fish Pedicure

A fish pedicure is exactly what it sounds like – tiny little fish nibbling at your feet!

This type of pedicure is said to be beneficial for the skin.

The fish used are usually Garra rufa fish, also known as “doctor fish”.

These fish eat dead skin cells, which leaves the feet feeling softer and smoother.

The fish pedicure process is as follows:

Feet are soaked in a tank of warm water containing fish.

The fish start nibbling at the dead skin cells on the feet.

After 15-20 minutes, the fish are removed and the feet are scrubbed clean.

Salt Pedicure

Salt has lots of healing properties, which is why it’s often used in spa treatments.

A salt pedicure usually starts with a foot soak in warm, salty water.

Epsom salt, sea salt or Himalayan salt is usually used.

The feet are then scrubbed with a salt scrub to get rid of dead skin cells.

After the scrub, the feet are rinsed and moisturizing cream is applied.

The benefits of a salt pedicure include:

• improved circulation
• relief of muscle pain
• reduced inflammation
• hydration

Rose Pedicure

If you love the smell of roses, then you’ll love this type of pedicure.

A rose pedicure starts with a foot soak in warm water with rose petals.

The feet are then scrubbed with a sugar or salt scrub infused with rose oil.

Rose petal extract is anti-inflammatory and an antioxidant.

The scent of roses is also scientifically proven to reduce stress levels and help with sleep.

After the scrub, the feet are rinsed and a hydrating rose-scented product is applied.

The benefits of a rose pedicure include:

• relaxation
• reduced stress
• hydration
• improved sleep

Milk and honey Pedicure

Milk and honey are both great for the skin.

Honey is a natural humectant, which means it helps the skin retain moisture.

Milk contains lactic acid, which is an alpha hydroxy acid (AHA) that has anti-aging effects.

A milk and honey pedicure starts with a foot soak in milk.

The feet are then exfoliated with a sugar scrub.

After the scrub, the feet are rinsed and a hydrating milk and honey mask is applied.

The benefits of a milk and honey pedicure include:

• hydration
• anti-aging
• soothes infections

Men’s Pedicure

A men’s pedicure is basically the same as a regular pedicure, but with some slight variations.

The products used will typically be ones with more masculine scents like musk or cedar.

And instead of the toenails being polished, they are buffed and smoothed to improve their appearance.

Collagen Pedicure

Collagen is a protein that’s found in the skin, and it’s responsible for its elasticity.

As we age, our body produces less collagen, which leads to dryness, wrinkles, and sagging skin.

A collagen pedicure can have anti-aging effects and help tighten everything up a little.

In this type of pedicure, a collagen gel is applied and the feet are left in “collagen socks” for 15 minutes.

Once complete, the skin will be silky and smooth and wrinkles and lines will be diminished.

The treatment concludes with a massage and a hot towel wrap.

Jelly Pedicure

A jelly pedicure is a new type of pedicure that’s becoming increasingly popular.

In this type of pedicure, instead of using water, the feet are soaked in a nourishing jelly that often contains natural ingredients.

Your jelly may contain grapeseed, avocado, or jojoba seed oil, aloe vera extract, or essential oils like rose or lavender.

There will also be plant enzymes in the mixture (from papaya or pineapple) which help to break down dead skin cells.

This type of treatment is great for getting a little relief from eczema and psoriasis.

It also boosts circulation.

Medical Pedicure

A medical pedicure is done by a podiatrist or other medical professional.

It’s usually recommended for people with diabetes or other foot problems.

In this type of pedicure, the aim is to improve the overall health of the feet.

This means that the focus will be on things like calluses, corns, ingrown toenails, and fungal infections.

The treatment will be tailored specifically to the needs of the individual.

Which type of pedicure is best?

This depends on your individual needs and preferences.

If you’re looking for massage and relaxation, then a luxury or a rose pedicure would be a good choice.

If you’re wanting something more therapeutic, then a medical pedicure might be better.

And if you’re just looking to improve the appearance of your feet, then any type of pedicure will do the trick.

Just remember to take good care of your feet in between pedicures!

What’s the difference between a pedicure and a deluxe pedicure?

The main difference between a regular pedicure and a deluxe pedicure is the length of time.

A regular pedicure will usually take around 30 to 45 minutes, while a deluxe pedicure can last up to an hour and a half.

In a deluxe pedicure, there is usually more time for soaking, massage, wraps, etc.

The type of products used may be nicer with a deluxe pedicure as well.

A deluxe pedicure is often seen as a more indulgent experience.

It’s the perfect way to relax and pamper yourself!

Do gel pedicures last longer?

Gel polish is used in a gel pedicure and this means that your toenail polish will last longer and be less likely to chip.

I usually get around a month out of a gel pedicure.

The only downside to gel pedicures is that they are much harder to remove than regular nail polish.

What is a collagen pedicure?

A collagen pedicure is a type of pedicure that uses products containing collagen.

Collagen is great for keeping the skin looking young and tight.

It can also help to reduce wrinkles, fine lines, and sagging skin.

A collagen pedicure often uses a collagen gel which is applied to the feet, which are then placed in socks for 15 minutes.

Types of nail polish for pedicures

Most pedicures include the regular polish, but there are other options as well.

Gel polish is a type of nail polish that is cured under UV light.

This means that it lasts much longer than regular polish and is less likely to chip.

Shellac is another type of long-lasting nail polish that can be used for pedicures.

You could also have toenail enhancements made from hard gel or acrylic.

Here’s the full list of options:

• basic polish
• shellac
• gel polish
• hard gel
• acrylic

Best type of pedicure for dry cracked feet

If your feet are dry and cracked, then you might want to try a hydrating pedicure.

This type of pedicure uses products that are designed to hydrate and nourish the skin.

A red wine or champagne pedicure may be a good option for you, or you could also go for a luxury spa pedicure.

In a jelly pedicure, your feet will be soaked in a mixture of oils and extracts, which will help to soften the skin.

Talk to your pedicurist and see which option they recommend.

Best type of pedicure for callused feet

If your feet are callused, most pedicures will help to improve the appearance and feel of your feet.

A luxury or spa pedicure will often include a thorough foot scrub, which will help to remove dead skin cells.

If you have particularly callused feet, you might want to try a paraffin pedicure.

In this type of pedicure, your feet are dipped in melted wax, it’s very relaxing.

Depending on how bad they are, you may want to look into the medical pedicure option too.

There are many different types of pedicures to choose from, and the best one for you will depend on your individual needs and preferences.

I hope that this article has helped you to understand the different types of pedicures available, and which one might be best for you.

Thanks for reading!