What are the differences between cosmetic and therapeutic pedicure?

A cosmetic pedicure and a therapeutic pedicure are two different types of foot care treatments, each with distinct goals, methods, and areas of focus. Here are the key differences between them:

1. Purpose of the Treatment

Cosmetic pedicure – primarily aims to improve the appearance of the feet and nails. It focuses on aesthetics, smoothing the skin, nail care, and optionally applying nail polish (regular or gel).
Therapeutic pedicure – is designed to address foot health issues and treat conditions such as corns, calluses, cracked heels, ingrown nails, or fungal infections. The main goal is to restore foot comfort and health.

2. Scope of the Treatment

Cosmetic pedicure includes basic care procedures such as:
- Soaking feet in a softening bath
- Trimming and filing nails
- Pushing back or removing cuticles
- Exfoliation and foot massage
- Nail polishing (optional)
Therapeutic pedicure is more advanced and includes:
- Diagnosis of foot conditions
- Removal of calluses, corns, and cracked heels
- Treatment of ingrown nails (e.g., with corrective braces)
- Cleaning and caring for nails affected by fungal infections
- Recommendations for further care and prevention

3. Tools and Techniques

Cosmetic pedicure uses standard tools such as nail files, clippers, buffers, and nail polish.
Therapeutic pedicure requires specialized podiatric tools, including:
- Podiatric drill for precise nail and skin treatment
- Scalpel for removing corns and calluses
- Special clippers and probes for ingrown nails
- Corrective braces and dressings for problematic nails

4. Who Performs the Treatment?

Cosmetic pedicure is performed by a beautician or nail technician specializing in aesthetic foot care.
Therapeutic pedicure should be carried out by a podiatrist or foot care specialist with medical knowledge and experience in diagnosing and treating foot conditions.

5. Who Is It For?

Cosmetic pedicure is ideal for people who want to enhance the appearance of their feet and nails, for example, before summer or a special event.
Therapeutic pedicure is recommended for people with foot health problems, such as:
- Corns and calluses
- Cracked heels
- Ingrown toenails
- Fungal nail infections
- Diabetes-related foot issues (diabetic foot)

6. Cost of the Treatment

Cosmetic pedicure is usually more affordable as it involves basic care procedures.
Therapeutic pedicure is more expensive due to the need for specialized knowledge, precise tools, and a personalized approach to each client’s problem.

Easy Waxing recommendation

A cosmetic pedicure focuses on aesthetics and foot care, while a therapeutic pedicure is aimed at treating and preventing foot health issues. Individuals with foot-related problems should opt for a therapeutic pedicure, whereas those looking to improve the appearance of their feet and nails can choose a cosmetic pedicure.

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