Pedicures can be very relaxing, and if you have problems with your toenails, they can be very therapeutic. Unfortunately, they can also be quite expensive when administered by a licensed professional. If you enjoy pedicures, but do not enjoy the cost, you may want to consider learning how to give yourself a pedicure.

Self-Pedicure Steps

Just like a professional pedicure, a self-pedicure involves several different steps. It is very important that none of them are ignored. With that in mind, find yourself a quiet and comfortable spot. Then, using the step-by-step instructions below, begin your self-pedicure.

Step One

Remove any nail polish that was previously applied to your nails with nail polish remover. Try to use as little nail polish remover as possible. Nail polish remover contains very harsh chemicals that can damage nails and cuticles.

Step Two

Wash your feet with a gentle cleanser. If you need to trim the nails or cuticles, soak your feet in plain, warm water for three minutes (maximum). This will make nails easier to cut and make cuticles more manageable. However, you should avoid over soaking, which can dry the skin, damage the nails, and hurt the cuticles.

Step Three

Gently trim cuticles or push them back using a specially designed cuticle tool. Be extremely careful not to force, tear, pull, or rip cuticles. Over pushing or over trimming cuticles is the number one cause of nail problems.

Step Four

Using sharp manicure scissors or nail clippers, trim your nails straight across, slightly above the quick. Do your best to avoid cutting nails too short, as this may lead to painful ingrown toenails.

Step Five

Moisturize your cuticles with an emollient moisturizing cream. Though you can use creams made specifically for nails, a regular dry skin moisturizer will work just as well. After working on your cuticles, use small circular motions to massage more cream into the rest of your foot.

Step Six

Gently remove moisturizer from your nails with a soft tissue. Moisturizing ingredients can sometimes prevent nail polish from adhering properly.

Step Seven

Apply three coats of nail polish (color or clear coats) to your nails, allowing drying time between coats. If you’d like, you can use a quick-dry oil or spray after polishing to prevent smudges, but you still need to allow nails to dry well, as these products will not protect your nails from dents or scratches.

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