by Gwynita Leggington

Created on: May 15, 2008

Have you treated yourself to a manicure or pedicure lately? Manicures and pedicures have become so popular in the world today. Not only are females taking care of their hands and feet, but males are starting to get manicures and pedicures too. The purpose of a manicure and pedicure is to enhance the health and appearance of the nails and feet. Manicures and pedicures are so relaxing and comforting. It's nice to be pampered and to receive that special kind of treatment. It's not unusual to see people rushing off to the local nail salon or spa to take advantage of these services.

A manicure involves caring for your hands and a pedicure involves caring for your feet. Although you can surely care for your hands and feet in the comfort of your home, it is so wonderful to have someone else care for them for you. Plus, when you visit a nail salon or spa, you are receiving professional services from trained individuals who have experience and knowledge in knowing how to care for you. So, it is definitely worth the investment, time and effort to visit a place of business for these specific services.

There are different types of manicures and pedicures. Different locations may offer several options and treatments. Quite often, nail salons and spas will offer a basic package and let you add on additional services, or they might already have several packages already put together for you to choose from.

Usually a basic manicure includes clipping and cutting the nails, shaping, pushing back the cuticle and applying nail polish and nail hardener (which makes the nail stronger) to the surface. Also, you may choose to add acrylic nails to enhance the look. This is when a fake nail is glued to your nail bed and acrylic powder is applied to create a natural look. Then the nail technician or manicurist cuts down the nail to the length of your choice. Acrylic nails normally lasts for about two to three weeks before touch-ups or refills are needed.

It is very important to take care of your fingernails, toenails, and the skin on your hands and feet. So, just like your hands, your feet need special treatment too. A basic pedicure includes the same services as a manicure, with the addition of a warm foot bath and foot exfoliation (scraping the dead skin from under the foot).

Most nail salons and spas offer additional services with your manicure and pedicure. For example, if you are getting a manicure or pedicure, you may have the choice of receiving a paraffin wax treatment. This is when

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