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Beauty and waxing

What does a spa manicure or pedicure include?

Spa manicure and pedicure: treatment steps, cosmetic vs medical pedicure, gel polish, durations and prices in Paris.

Pedicure armchairs with foot baths in a beauty salon

In short:

  1. A spa manicure takes about 45 minutes, a pedicure 60 minutes.
  2. The treatment combines nail shaping, cuticles, scrub, massage and polish.
  3. In Paris, expect 35 to 60 euros for a manicure and 45 to 80 euros for a pedicure.
  4. Gel polish lasts 2 to 3 weeks on hands.

The steps of a spa manicure

A spa manicure differs from a simple polish application by the time devoted to caring for the hands. The sequence is broadly the same from one venue to another.

  1. Removing old polish and shaping the nails with a file.
  2. Warm soak to soften the cuticles, then pushing them back.
  3. Hand scrub to remove dry skin.
  4. Massage of the hands and forearms with a nourishing cream.
  5. Application of a base coat, classic or gel polish, and a top coat.

Foot care and pedicure

A cosmetic pedicure follows the same logic, with a filing step to smooth the heels. It does not replace a visit to a podiatrist for medical problems.

TreatmentDurationAverage price in Paris
Simple manicure30 to 45 min€35 to €50
Manicure with gel polish60 min€45 to €70
Cosmetic pedicure60 min€45 to €80
Pedicure with gel polish75 min€60 to €90

Combining the treatment with a relaxing moment

Many Paris spas include manicures and pedicures in wider packages. After a hammam session, the skin of the feet is already softened, which makes the treatment easier.

Hand treatments also suit moments for two or gifts: the article on the spa day gift presents the most common packages. For other beauty treatments, the guide to oriental sugar waxing details a gentle, natural method.

Frequently asked questions

What does a spa manicure or pedicure include?

A spa manicure or pedicure includes removing old polish, shaping the nails, cuticle care, a scrub, a hand or foot massage and applying polish. Allow 45 to 60 minutes and 35 to 80 euros in Paris depending on the treatment and the venue.

What is the difference between a cosmetic and a medical pedicure?

A cosmetic pedicure is a beauty treatment: nails, cuticles, scrub, massage and polish. A medical pedicure, performed by a podiatrist, treats problems such as corns or ingrown toenails.

How long does gel polish last?

Gel polish generally lasts 2 to 3 weeks on hands and up to 4 weeks on feet. Removal should be done in a salon to avoid damaging the nail.