If you’d prefer to use a product that doesn’t dry out your skin, try using other vinegar, hydrogen peroxide, or other household products. You can also look for a polish remover without acetone. You might have to use more than 1 cotton ball or pad to successfully remove all of the old polish.
If you’d like, add a scoop of epsom salt to your basin, stirring until the salt has totally dissolved. This can relieve pain and help you feel even more relaxed.
Be patient as you file away at the rough skin. While it may seem more time-consuming, try working on your feet in slow, buffing motions. Check your local beauty store for other filing tools. Some brands make filing equipment specifically for pedicures. A pumice stone is a great way to keep your feet smooth after the pedicure. [4] X Research source
Make sure that the skin you’re trimming away is dead, and not healthy skin that’s still connected to the toe.
Only push back your cuticles after your feet are soaked and the skin is softened.
Polish is less likely to chip from nails that are trimmed in a straight line.
Rubbing alcohol works fine as a disinfectant. Always sterilize your nail equipment after using it.
If you don’t have a towel on hand, feel free to use a wash rag or paper towel instead.
For a full pedicure experience, rub lotion over your ankles and lower calves as well. Use a lotion that works best for your skin type. For instance, if your feet are especially dry, look for a lotion that’s moisturizing.
If you’re experienced with nail polish, feel free to disregard this.
Base coats prevent the polish from staining your base nail later on. If you prefer to use dark nail polish shades, base coats can keep your nails from looking yellowed. While you’re shopping at your local beauty supply shop or drugstore, look for a base coat formula that’s labeled as moisturizing.
Ideally, you only need to use 3 swipes of your polish brush to apply a single coat of polish.
While it may be tempting to only apply 1 coat of colored polish, the second coat can make the color of your pedicure look bolder and more striking. [19] X Expert Source Kristin PulaskiSalon Owner & Nail Specialist Expert Interview. 19 May 2020.
Check the label on your bottle for exact drying instructions. Some formulas might dry faster than others.
Don’t skip this step! A top coat helps your pedicure last longer, without chips and nicks in the surface.
Always apply cuticle oil at the end of your pedicure. If you apply it early on in the process, your polish might not stick to your nails as well.
