Manicures and Pedicures

The hands and feet probably get used more than any other part of the body, and consequently hands often become dry, rough and chapped and feet calloused and tough. As they serve us so well, they deserve a bit of pampering and tender loving care to keep them in tip-top shape. As a rule of thumb, whatever is done to your hands can be done to your feet, and a good starting point is to have a regular manicure or pedicure.

Typically, a spa manicure or pedicure will start with a soak to soften the nails and skin, but if you want to give your hands and feet a real treat, why not try a paraffin wax treatment? Hands or feet are submerged for a few seconds in a warm mixture of melted paraffin and mineral oil. As they are removed the wax hardens slightly, and they are then dipped in the mixture again and the process repeated three to six times. A thick layer of wax eventually forms which is left to dry for 10-15 minutes, often with mittens or booties on top, after which the wax is peeled or rubbed away. This treatment softens rough skin and leaves hands and feet feeling beautifully silky smooth.
Exfoliation follows next. Glycolic exfoliation, which involves the application of glycolic acid in cream or gel form, dissolves and removes dead and damaged skin cells. In the case of feet, you may also get the soles pumiced, particularly on the heels and ball of the foot, to remove dead or hard skin. A nourishing massage of the hand, wrist and lower arm or the foot, ankle and lower leg, brings this stage of the manicure or pedicure to an end.
As a finishing touch the nails are then shaped, the cuticles trimmed, and nail polish applied. In recent years, gel polish has grown in popularity. Manufacturers boast that the finish can remain flawless and chip-free for up to 14 days and with a zero drying time and no damage to the nail, it’s easy to understand why it’s often the first choice.
Nail art is on the increase and is high profile in the fashion world and amongst celebrities. It’s a great way to express individuality, fashion savvy, creativity and humour. Nail art involves painting and gluing designs and jewels onto nails to create a myriad of exciting and fun looks, but it does require skill and a lot of time. An easier and quicker option is to have nail wraps. Made from vinyl adhesive, a detailed design can be applied in a fraction of the time – and looks almost as good.

We have a lot of local places offering deals, take a look at these places

Newbury WellBeing Centre

Laurabella

Thompson Local

Yell.com

Or you could take a look at some Pinterest pages for ideas Nail Art Gallery