Pedicure in Alicante:
what to expect and how to prepare

Pedicure is often treated as less important than manicure — something done quickly before summer or before a trip. But foot care done properly is one of the most genuinely useful things you can do for yourself, especially in a place like Alicante where sandals and open shoes are part of everyday life for much of the year.

This article covers what a professional hygienic pedicure actually includes, how to prepare if it's your first time, and a few things that are worth knowing before you book.

What a hygienic pedicure includes

A hygienic pedicure — without gel coating — is a thorough treatment focused on the health and appearance of the feet. It typically includes:

• Softening of the skin and cuticles
• Hardware treatment: careful removal of calluses, rough skin, and excess cuticle using a professional nail drill
• Nail trimming and shaping
• Surface buffing and finishing
• Moisturising treatment for the skin

When gel coating is added, the above is followed by preparation and gel polish application — either on all toes or just the visible ones (the toes-only option is a practical choice for many people).

Hardware vs. classic pedicure

There are two main approaches: classic (using files and blades) and hardware (using a professional electric drill with various attachments). Hardware pedicure tends to give a more thorough and longer-lasting result, particularly for thicker skin and more pronounced calluses.

Both have their place, and the right choice depends on the condition of your feet. At the studio, I use hardware technique as the standard approach — it allows more precision and is gentler than it might sound.

How to prepare for your appointment

A few simple things make a difference:

• Remove existing nail polish before coming, or arrive a few minutes early — removal takes extra time and it's better accounted for in advance
• Wear or bring open-toed shoes or flip-flops — your nails will need time to dry if you're having gel applied
• There's no need to soak your feet before coming. The hardware technique works on dry skin, and soaking can actually make some steps less effective
• If you have any concerns about the condition of your feet (infections, ingrown nails, skin conditions), mention them when booking — some situations require medical attention before a cosmetic treatment

Pedicure in the Alicante climate

Living in or visiting Alicante means your feet are often in sandals, exposed to sun and salt water, and working hard on warm stone surfaces. This accelerates wear on the skin of the heels and feet more than in colder climates.

Regular pedicure — every 4 to 6 weeks — keeps the skin in good condition and prevents buildup that becomes harder to address if left too long. Even a basic hygienic pedicure without coating is worthwhile as a maintenance routine.

Why private format is particularly good for pedicure

Pedicure takes time. A proper session is rarely under an hour, and often closer to 75 or 90 minutes depending on what's needed. In a shared salon, this can feel rushed — you're aware of the next client waiting, and the master is aware of it too.

In a private appointment, the session lasts as long as it needs to. If something takes a bit longer to do properly, it gets done properly. There's no one waiting.