Hair Loss and Beauty Why a Manicure and Pedicure?
Why a Manicure and Pedicure?
Written by Kori Ellis Monday, 01 August 2011 00:00
The Health and Beauty Benefits of Manicures and Pedicures
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In this modern age, both men and women can enjoy the health benefits of a professional manicure and pedicure.
Getting one’s nails done isn't a recent practice. Manicures began in India more than 5,000 years ago, while pedicures are thought to originate in ancient Egypt. And women aren't the only ones who enjoy them -- men also love the experience of a professional manicure and pedicure.
The benefits of massage during a manicure and pedicure
A professional nail technician does more than just file your nails and add a coat of polish. With a manicure and pedicure, you also get a relaxing massage in which moisturizers are applied to the hands, forearms, feet and lower legs. Massage can improve circulation, reduce stress and relax tired muscles.
It can also help relieve aches and pains caused by overwork, arthritis, carpal tunnel syndrome and long periods of standing or walking. The moisturizers and cuticle treatments used during the massage will hydrate and nourish your skin, leaving it soft and smooth.Most pedicures include exfoliating the skin on your feet to remove dead cells and rough patches. Calluses are removed, and skin is smoothed with pumice stones, files and other methods. The result is beautifully soft, healthy skin.
Recognizing nail problems
Professional manicurists are trained to recognize common nail diseases and disorders. The most common problems are fungal diseases, which can be treated by over-the-counter products. Some nail problems are highly contagious, so a nail technician may refuse services until your issues are treated.
Types of fake nails available
After your massage and exfoliation, your manicure and pedicure continues with your nails being cleaned, trimmed, buffed and shaped. Women with short fingernails can ask for fake nails to extend the length of their own nails. Various types of fake nails are available at different salons including acrylic, solar, gel, wrap and press-on. Talk to your nail technician about which methods the salon offers, as well as the price, longevity and maintenance.
When nail polish is applied, you should get a base coat, two coats of the nail color and a top coat. After the final coat, cuticle oil is often applied to maintain the condition of your nails.
Tips for a safe manicure and pedicure
When choosing a nail salon or spa, consider your health and safety. Ask salon workers how often their foot spas are cleaned and disinfected, as well as their methods for sterilizing tools and instruments. Some items, such as files and buffers, are disposable and should be discarded after each customer. To help lower risks of bacteria and infection, you can bring your own manicure and pedicure tools to your appointment. Don't get your manicure or pedicure done if you have any cuts, scrapes or bug bites on your feet, hands and legs, or if you have shaved within 24 hours.
Costs of a manicure and pedicure
The costs of a professional manicure and pedicure vary from city to city and salon to salon. For a traditional manicure, you can expect to pay anywhere from $10 at a small local shop to $40 at a resort spa, while pedicures generally range from $15 to $50. Of course, acrylic nails or other treatments cost extra. You can oftentimes receive a discount by packaging services together; therefore, if you need your eyebrows plucked or bikini line waxed, you should get it done at the salon on the same day as your manicure and pedicure.
A professional manicure will last two to three weeks. A pedicure should last even longer. Although you can give yourself a manicure and pedicure at home, a professional job will usually last longer (and look better) owing to the quality of products used and the expertise of the technician.
Trim, well-shaped nails and soft, cared-for hands and feet will definitely impress. If your budget permits, treat yourself to a manicure and pedicure regularly to keep your hands and feet looking and feeling their best.
