Milady's Standard Cosmetology Chapter 26

Pedicure Fundamentals

• Mid-tarsal Area: Key area to hold when performing a pedicure, providing better control.
• Overnight Disinfection: Pipe-less foot spas should be disinfected with a solution left overnight for effective cleaning.
• Effleurage Technique: A popular massage technique during pedicures involving light stroking movements that relax muscles and enhance blood circulation.
• Disinfectant Usage: Never immerse disinfectants in foot baths along with client's feet to avoid contamination.
• Exfoliating Scrubs: These products help reduce calluses by effectively sloughing off dead skin.
• Time Management: During a one-hour pedicure, polishing should start around the 45-50 minute mark to ensure efficiency.

Client Care and Comfort

• Paraffin Bath Benefits: Stimulates circulation and reduces joint inflammation during treatment.
• Skin Damage Awareness: Prolonged exposure to pedicure water may lead to cracking on the hands.
• Regular Treatments: Scaly feet often require weekly salon treatments for optimal maintenance.
• Relaxation Focus: Massage techniques in pedicures prioritize relaxation to enhance the overall experience.
• Foot File: Commonly referred to as a paddle, it is essential for smoothing the feet.

Tools and Techniques

• Nail Rasp: A metal tool with a grooved edge for filing and smoothing nails.
• Curette Use: A scoop-shaped implement efficiently removes debris from nail folds and cuticle areas.
• Toenail Clippers: Ideal clippers should have straight jaws that taper to a point for precision.
• Nippers Function: Primarily used for trimming dead skin tags.
• Mask Application: Typically left on the skin for 5-10 minutes during treatment.

Best Practices and Precautions

• Pre-Pedicure Shaving Warning: Clients should avoid shaving their legs at least 48 hours before a pedicure to minimize irritation.
• Series Treatments: Difficult foot conditions may require a series of appointments to see improvement.
• Liquid Soap: Mild detergents are used in foot baths for effective cleansing without irritation.
• Masques Composition: Often contains mineral clays and essential oils for an enriching foot treatment.
• Massage Preparations: Include oils and creams that provide lubrication and nourishment during massage.

Equipment and Setup

• Foot File Attributes: Larger sanding files than those for fingernails, designed for removing dry skin and smoothing calluses.
• Pedicure Carts: Used to store and organize tools and products efficiently during the pedicure process.
• Water Baths: Another term for the pedicure basin is crucial for the soaking process.
• Three-part Pedicure Service: Encompasses pre-service setup, the actual pedicure procedure, and post-service follow-up.

Massage Techniques

• Massage Definition: Manipulation of the body through techniques such as rubbing and kneading to promote relaxation.
• Petrissage Movements: Involves kneading and squeezing, enhancing muscle relaxation and circulation.
• Tapotement: A quick, percussion-like movement that aids circulation and adds variety to massage techniques.
• Foot Massage Techniques: Incorporate various movements to ensure comprehensive relaxation and relief of foot joints and muscles.

Skin Care and Treatments

• Foot Soaks: Products added to pedicure baths that soften skin to facilitate easier removal of dead skin.
• Dead Sea Salts: Common in foot soaks, containing minerals like sodium, calcium, and magnesium for skin health.
• Abrasive Scrubs: Effective for eliminating dry skin and calluses from the feet and legs.
• Foot Care Products: Essential for conditioning and moisturizing feet, playing a critical role in the pedicure experience.

General Hygiene and Safety

• Proper Implement Use: Critical to avoid injuries; always use professional-grade tools designed for pedicures.
• Cuticle Removers: Formulated to soften cuticles, making removal from the nail plate easier and safer.
• Pedicure Sandals: Clients can use sandals designed with toe separators for comfort during pedicure sessions.