Manicure and pedicure are two common nail-care treatments that are often mentioned together. Understanding the difference can help you decide whether your hands or feet need some attention first.
Manicure:
A manicure focuses on your hands, fingernails, and cuticles. The basic steps include trimming or shaping nails, pushing back or cutting cuticles, some hand and skin care, and often applying polish. It’s all about keeping your hands neat, soft, and polished.
Pedicure:
A pedicure is for your feet and toenails (sometimes including the soles). It usually involves soaking your feet, trimming toenails, removing dead skin or calluses, exfoliating, a foot massage, and optional polish. Pedicures target both appearance and foot health.
|
Treatment |
Focus |
Key Steps |
Duration |
|
Manicure |
Hands, fingernails |
Shaping, cuticle care, polish |
Shorter |
|
Pedicure |
Feet, toenails, soles |
Soaking, exfoliation, nail & skin care, foot massage |
Longer |
If you type all day or shake hands often, a manicure every 2–3 weeks keeps your hands looking tidy and professional. If you walk a lot, wear sandals or shoes, or notice rough skin on your heels, a pedicure once a month will keep your feet soft and healthy.
Q: Can I get a manicure and pedicure together?
A: Absolutely! Most salons offer combo sessions, saving time while giving complete grooming for hands and feet.
Q: How often should I do each?
Pedicure: Every 3–4 weeks, or as needed if your feet are dry or rough