Pedicure Protocols for the MNT

Pedicure Protocols for the MNT

The MNT pedicure is different. As an MNT you are different, and your pedicures can reflect your new knowledge. All MNT pedicures build upon a skin care-based protocol which:

1. Includes exfoliation at the beginning of the service to allow treatments to penetrate better 2. Increases relaxation by incorporating the massage much earlier in the service 3. Moves the nail and cuticle treatments to later in the service so they can be done efficiently

The foundation protocol is:

A Basic Pedicure – no bells and whistles For the feet only Scheduled for less time

If you wish to include the lower legs, it is an upgrade, must include more time, more product and therefore a higher price.

NOTE: Do not apply lotions or creams between the toes. You need to sanitize and cleanse between the toes at the beginning of the service, but do not end the service with any moisture between the toes.

Tidy your service area as you go. Often there are small breaks in the service that will allow you to do cleaning steps while the client is sitting with a treatment in place. If you feel that “set aside and clean” is not the way you wish to perform your clean up because you feel it would be disrupting to the clients, consider this: clients observe everything you do and are thinking “Wow, she’s really keeping things clean around here.” Your clients will know the tub is clean, because it was cleaned in front of the last client. It is your decision. It does, however, reduce the clean-up time between services to the absolute minimum amount between clients.

The non-attached tub and those with liners will be no problem, of course. Just remove them the first minute the client is in the “sit and process” time, and perform the amount of clean up remaining between services.

At the end of every pedicure, some sort of quick recordkeeping is needed – client cards attached to their Questionnaire, or notes made on the reverse side, etc.

The service area is cleaned, disinfected and “dressed” for the next client. If this can’t be done in 2 minutes, the technician needs to learn a new way of working. Make sure everything is within hand’s reach, and placed in the exact same place every time.

You will note that all Treatment Pedicures are the Basic Pedicure procedure with additions of the proper procedure and products.

Basic Pedicure

1. The pre-service and in-room seating of the client – A new client will fill out the New Client Questionnaire while in the waiting room prior to being seated in the service area. She/he should be shown where the restroom is, and offered a beverage.

2. Foot analysis and consultation – The pedicurist puts on her gloves for beginning the analysis, performing sanitation of the feet, including flossing, inspection and consultation. The polish is removed and the nails inspected, as well. At this time, it is determined if the pedicure will proceed, and if so, whether or not it will include a foot soak. If you observe any contra- indications for a pedicure service, refer to a physician.

3. Exfoliation – Large, loose and obvious eponychium is removed, and a dry callus reduction is done in the case of heavy calluses.

4. Foot bath – the water is prepared at a safe temperature and feet are soaked. During this time, the tech should discuss upgrades and costs, and choose a nail finish (polish color, or a buffed shine, etc.)

5. Moisturize and massage – Remove one foot from the bath, pat it dry and apply an appropriate lotion or cream. Perform the appropriate massage technique on this foot, wrap it in a towel and set it aside. Move to the second foot. During this portion, the nail tech is quiet. Note: The dominant (the foot on the side of the body of the writing hand) foot is second foot in the procedures, allowing a longer soak in Step 2. This foot usually has more calluses and is in the worse shape of the feet.

6. Apply callus softener – Apply a callus softening treatment ONLY to the callused areas. When both feet are again towel-wrapped, remove or drain the foot bath. This is a good time to start the disinfection cycle. Note: if the pedicurist leaves the area or washes the pedi basin out, new gloves are needed prior to returning to the procedure.

7. Callus reduction – The covering on the first foot is opened. If the product calls for it, callus softener must be cleansed away with either a warm wet towel or warm, soapy water in a spray bottle. It is important that the softener not be allowed to stay on the skin longer than recommended by the manufacturer. The callus reduction procedure is performed using a single-use abrasive pad or foot-file. After the procedure is completed, a light moisture lotion is applied and the foot is laid aside with a towel wrap for warmth. The procedure is repeated on the second foot. This is the time to discuss home-care products to increase hydration, etc.

8. Nail detailing – The first foot is now ready for the nail work to be completed – cuticle push back, trimming and filing. Any wayward eponychium will have become apparent for removal. An emollient oil can be buffed into and around the entire nail plate. Repeat on second foot.

9. Nail finishing – The nails are now ready to be finished in the manner discussed. If polish is to be applied, first cleanse the nail plates thoroughly with a nail dehydrant for better polish results. Place single-use toe separators between toes and complete the nail finish. This is a good time discuss the next appointment or the need for a series or a package,

10. Rebook, collect payment and dismiss – Unless you release them to a front desk, while the client’s nails are drying, gather any retail items, calculate the ticket total and collect payment and rebook the next appointment. In the moments while the client is getting her wallet out of her purse, looking at her calendar, finding keys, etc. be tidying up the service area. Help the client with their shoes or pedi slippers and then out of the chair – moving her to a “drying area” is ideal to prevent smudges, while freeing up the area for disinfection and set up for the next client.

Basic Pedicure Quick Reference

Time needed:

25-30 minutes without polish

35-40 minutes with polish

1. Entrance and seating, New Client Questionnaire if first time

2. Foot sanitation, analysis, consultation and polish removal

3. Exfoliation

4. Foot bath

5. Moisturize and foot massage

6. Apply callus softener and empty foot bath and start disinfection

7. Callus reduction, light moisture lotion

8. Nail detailing – cuticle push back, nail trimming, shaping, filing, buffing

9. Nail finish – polish/drying procedure or high-shine buffing

10. Closing routine-collect payment, rebook, dismiss, reset the service area

Scrub Pedicure

The Scrub Pedicure is designed to treat rough and scaly skin on the feet. This Pedicure’s scrub begins with Step 5, where the scrub step is incorporated before the massage.

The only Step different than the Basic Pedicure is Step 5.

You may need to add a few minutes in the soak, according to the degree of roughness. The foot soak must first soften the rough skin on the feet enough to allow it to be released by the healthy skin beneath. Understand, however, the rough skin must not be fully removed in one pedicure as the skin can become irritated, damaged and painful. Do NOT be aggressive. For that reason, if there is roughness beyond minor, it must be performed in a series of 3-6 pedicures, and home care is extremely important.

1. The pre-service and in-room seating of the client - New Client Questionnaire, if needed. 2. Foot analysis and consultation – At this time, it is determined if the pedicure will proceed,

and if so, whether or not it will include a foot soak. If you observe any contra- indications for a pedicure service, refer to a physician.

3. Exfoliation – Large, loose and obvious eponychium is removed, dry callus reduction done. 4. Foot bath – the water is prepared at a safe temperature and feet are soaked. During this time,

the tech should discuss upgrades and costs, such as whether or not to include the lower legs. A longer soak may be needed for rougher feet.

5. Scrub and massage – Remove one foot from the bath, pat it dry and apply an appropriate scrub product and using massage-type strokes, scrub the entire foot approx. 2 minutes. NEVER SCRUB UNTIL REDNESS IS APPARENT. Use the footbath water to remove the scrub, then pat dry again, and perform the usual moisturizing massage. Wrap the foot and set aside. Repeat on the second foot.

6. Apply callus softener – Apply a callus softening treatment and when both feet are again towel-wrapped, remove or drain the foot bath and start the disinfection cycle.

7. Callus reduction – If required, remove the callus softener and perform the callus reduction. Apply a light moisture lotion and towel wrap for warmth. The procedure is repeated on the second foot.

8. Nail detailing – Cuticle push back, trimming and filing. Oil can be buffed into and around the entire nail plate. Repeat on second foot.

9. Nail finishing – Place single-use toe separators between toes and complete the nail finish. Discuss the next appointment or the need for a series or a package.

10. Rebook, collect payment and dismiss – Homecare is especially important for this client. They will need a foot file and instructions in the proper use, as well as foot cream

Scrub Pedicure Quick Reference

Time needed:





3. Exfoliation

4. Foot bath

5. Scrub, rinse, then moisturize and foot massage

6. Apply callus softener and empty foot bath and start disinfection





Hydration Pedicure

The Hydration Pedicure is designed to treat dry and scaly skin on the feet. This pedicure includes a hydrating masque after the massage in Step 5

The only Step different than the Scrub Pedicure is adding the masque in Step 5. Scrub on the foot, perform post-scrub removal of the product and then apply lotion. It is more effective to remove dead, dry surface skin cells before attempting to rehydrate the skin.

Generally, you won’t extend the foot soak because it will increase dryness in the skin.

1. The pre-service and in-room seating of the client - New Client Questionnaire, if needed. 2. Foot analysis and consultation – At this time, it is determined if the pedicure will proceed, and if

so, whether or not it will include a foot soak. If you observe any contra- indications for a pedicure service, refer to a physician.

3. Exfoliation – Large, loose and obvious eponychium is removed, dry callus reduction done. 4. Foot bath – the water is prepared at a safe temperature and feet are soaked. During this time, the

tech should discuss upgrades and costs, such as whether or not to include the lower legs. 5. Scrub, massage and masque – Remove one foot from the bath, pat it dry and apply an

appropriate scrub product and using massage-type strokes, scrub the entire foot approx. 2 minutes. Use the footbath water to remove the scrub, then pat dry again, and perform the moisturizing massage. Apply a hydrating masque, wrap the foot and set aside. Repeat on the second foot. Remove the masque, if required, or massage it into the skin, as per the instructions of the masque.

6. Apply callus softener – If needed, apply a callus softening treatment and when both feet are again towel-wrapped, remove or drain the foot bath and start the disinfection cycle.




10. Rebook, collect payment and dismiss – Homecare is especially important for this client. Be sure to recommend a truly hydrating foot cream with Urea or and AHA.

Hydration Pedicure Quick Reference

Time needed:





3. Exfoliation

4. Foot bath

5. Scrub, rinse, moisturizing foot massage, then masque application and removal

6. Apply callus softener, if needed, and empty foot bath and start disinfection





Pampering Pedicure

The Pampering Pedicure is a high-end ticket pedicure and designed for both skin care and relaxation. This pedicure includes the use of heat for better penetration of the moisturization and for that “pampering” feeling. This pedicure can be themed, such as one designed for Christmas or Valentine’s Day. Usually they are offered for a month.

The only Steps different than the Hydration Pedicure is a leg treatment is included, and a heat or warmth element is added. Scrub on the foot and leg is performed, post-scrub removal of the product and then the massage is performed, including the leg. Also, you are adding paraffin after the moisturizing massage OR heated booties over a plastic bag after the masque.

1. The pre-service and in-room seating of the client - New Client Questionnaire, if needed. 2. Foot analysis and consultation – At this time, it is determined if the pedicure will proceed,

and if so, whether or not it will include a foot soak. If you observe any contra- indications for a pedicure service, refer to a physician.

3. Exfoliation – Large, loose and obvious eponychium is removed, dry callus reduction done. 4. Foot bath – the water is prepared at a safe temperature and feet are soaked. During this time,

the tech should discuss upgrades and costs, such as whether or not to include the lower legs. 5. Scrub, massage and masque – Remove one foot from the bath, pat it dry and apply an

appropriate scrub product on the foot and leg; using massage-type strokes, scrub the entire lower leg and foot gently for approx. 2 minutes. Use the footbath water to remove the scrub, then pat dry again. Now perform the appropriate massage on the foot and leg. IF PARAFFIN, move to the second foot and catch it up. Apply the paraffin to both feet, place in a plastic bag and terry booties; set aside and then allow time for it to cool. Remove the booties and paraffin and continue to step 6. IF HEATED BOOTIES, move to the second foot and catch it up. First foot, apply a hydrating masque, wrap the foot in a plastic bag and place it into a heated boot. Same for the second foot, and set a timer. Remove the masque, if required, or massage it into the skin, as per the instructions of the masque and continue.

6. Apply callus softener – If needed, apply a callus softening treatment and when both feet are again towel-wrapped, remove or drain the foot bath and start the disinfection cycle.




10. Rebook, collect payment and dismiss – Homecare is important for this client to extend the softening and moisturizing beyond 48 hours.

Pampering Pedicure Quick Reference

Time needed:





3. Exfoliation

4. Foot bath

5. Scrub, rinse, moisturizing foot and leg massage,

IF paraffin, apply now, and tidy while waiting, remove and continue

IF heated booties, apply masque, then booties and tidy while waiting, remove and

continue

6. Apply callus softener, if needed. Leave on no longer than the instructions say on label.





Aromatherapy Pedicure

The Aromatherapy Pedicure is also a high-end ticket pedicure and designed for both skin care and relaxation. This pedicure includes the use of synergistic (work well together, similar in fragrance) aromatherapy oils.

The only Step different than the Pampering Pedicure is adding good quality aromatherapy oils to the various steps.

NOTE: Due to the medicinal properties of many Essential Oils, it is not recommended they be incorporated into foot care services. Use aromatherapy oils and products which are specifically designed for skin care.

1. The pre-service and in-room seating of the client - New Client Questionnaire, if needed. 2. Foot analysis and consultation – For aromatherapy, a couple drops of oil can be added to the

sanitation during the consultation and inspection. Determine if the pedicure will proceed, and if so, whether or not it will include a foot soak. If you observe any contra- indications for a pedicure service, refer to a physician.

3. Exfoliation – Large, loose and obvious eponychium is removed, dry callus reduction done. 4. Foot bath – the water is prepared at a safe temperature and feet are soaked. Aromatherapy oils

can be incorporated in the foot soak. During this time, the tech should discuss upgrades and costs, such as whether or not to include the lower legs.

5. Scrub, massage and masque – Remove one foot from the bath, pat it dry and apply an appropriate scrub product and using massage-type strokes, scrub the entire foot and leg, approx. 2 minutes. Use the footbath water to remove the scrub, then pat dry again, and perform the usual appropriate massage on the foot and leg. Drops of oil can be included in the cream.

IF PARAFFIN, move to the second foot and catch it up. Apply the paraffin to both feet, the plastic bag and terry booties and then allow time for it to cool. Set the feet to the side, comfortably. Remove the paraffin and continue to step 6. IF HEATED BOOTIES, move to the second foot and catch it up. First foot, apply a hydrating masque, wrap the foot in a plastic bag and place it into a heated boot. Same for the second foot, and set a timer and set the feet aside. Remove the masque, if required, or massage it into the skin, as per the instructions of the masque and continue.

6. Apply callus softener – If needed, apply a callus softening treatment and when both feet are

again towel-wrapped, remove or drain the foot bath and start the disinfection cycle. 7. Callus reduction – If required, remove the callus softener and perform the callus reduction.

Apply a light moisture lotion and towel wrap for warmth. The procedure is repeated on the second foot.



10. Rebook, collect payment and dismiss – Homecare is important for this client to extend moisturization beyond 48 hours.

Aromatherapy Pedicure Quick Reference

Time needed:




2. Foot sanitation with aromatherapy, analysis, consultation and polish removal

3. Exfoliation

4. Foot bath with aromatherapy soak

5. Scrub the legs and foot, rinse, perform moisturizing foot and leg massage with aromatherapy oils

IF paraffin, apply now, and tidy while waiting, remove and continue

IF heated booties, apply masque, then booties and tidy while waiting, remove and continue

6. Apply callus softener, if needed

7. Callus reduction, light aromatherapy moisture lotion




Soakless Pedicure

This pedicure uses the same protocols as the above mentioned ones, but instead of soaking, the feet are cleaned by applying a gel or foam hand cleanser on your hands (you may have to renew) and massaging at the very beginning of the service. Massage the cleanser thoroughly all over the feet – even between the toes. Wipe the feet with a warm, wet or dry towel.

Any pedicure can be “soakless.”

A brush with gel cleanser on it is used around the toenails.

If the legs are included, perform the same cleansing and massage on the legs.

1. The pre-service and in-room seating of the client –New Client Questionnaire, if needed. 2. Foot analysis and consultation – Gloves for the analysis and performing an extra thorough

sanitation of the feet, inspection and consultation. The polish is removed and the nails inspected, as well.

3. Exfoliation – Large, loose and obvious eponychium is removed, and a dry callus reduction is done in the case of heavy calluses.

4. Foot bath – this step is not included. 5. Moisturize and massage – apply an appropriate lotion or cream. Perform the appropriate

massage technique on this foot, wrap it in a towel and set it aside. Move to the second foot. During this portion, the nail tech is quiet.

6. Apply callus softener – Apply a callus softening treatment and when both feet are again towel-wrapped, tidy the service area. Do not allow the callus softener to remain longer than instructed by the manufacturer.

7. Callus reduction – The covering on the first foot is opened. If the product calls for it, callus softener must be cleansed away with either a warm wet towel or warm, soapy water in a spray bottle. Perform the callus reduction procedure, a light moisture lotion is applied and the foot is laid aside with a towel wrap for warmth. The procedure is repeated on the second foot. This is the time to discuss home-care products to increase hydration, etc.

8. Nail detailing – The first foot is now ready for the nail work to be completed – cuticle push back, trimming and filing. Any wayward eponychium will have become apparent for removal. An emollient oil can be buffed into and around the entire nail plate. Repeat on second foot.

9. Nail finishing – The nails are now ready to be finished in the manner discussed. If polish is to be applied, first cleanse the nail plates thoroughly with a nail dehydrant for better polish results. Place single-use toe separators between toes and complete the nail finish. Discuss the next appointment or the need for a series or a package,

10. Rebook, collect payment and dismiss – Final steps of the pedicure service are setting next appointments, collecting home care, discussing the total due and then helping the client with their shoes or pedi slippers and then out of the chair.

Soakless Pedicure Quick Reference – Basic

Time needed:

Based upon the Pedicure performed


2. Thorough sanitation procedure, foot analysis, consultation and polish removal

3. Exfoliation

4. NO foot bath is included

5. Moisturize and foot massage

6. Apply callus softener and set feet aside, tidy service area





NOTE: For other Pedicure types, see their Quick Reference and take extra care with Step 2, but

eliminate Step 4. Warm, wet towels may be used to remove products.

Callus Reduction Pedicure – Initial

This pedicure is based on the Hydration Pedicure with emphasis on the callused areas. A scrub and rehydration are both needed to effectively reduce the calluses. Shorten the soak time, to allow for more time exfoliating and to reduce the dehydration effects of soaking.

This pedicure does not induce more calluses as the blades do and the client’s feet are not sore. Many never have calluses again, but do not promise that.

If you have an esthetician on staff, you may consult with her for a skin-care product such as glycolic or salicylic acid to incorporate into the service.

NOTE: Do not attempt to remove ALL the calluses in a single pedicure. Suggest a series of Callus Treatments (see the following protocol.)

1. The pre-service and in-room seating of the client – New Client Questionnaire, if needed 2. Foot sanitation, analysis and consultation – At this time, it is determined if the pedicure will

proceed, and if so, whether or not it will include a foot soak. If you observe any contra- indications for a pedicure service, refer to a physician.

3. Exfoliation – Large, loose and obvious eponychium is removed, dry callus reduction done. 4. Foot bath – the water is prepared at a safe temperature and feet are soaked for a short time.

The tech should discuss upgrades and costs, such as whether or not to include the lower legs. 5. Scrub, massage and masque – Remove one foot from the bath, pat it dry and apply an

appropriate scrub product and using massage-type strokes, scrub the entire foot approx. 2 minutes. Use the footbath water to remove the scrub, then pat dry again, and perform the usual moisturizing foot and leg massage (the length of time is according to salon policy). Apply a hydrating masque, wrap the foot and set aside. Repeat on the second foot. Remove the masque, if required, or massage it into the skin, as per the instructions of the masque.

6. Apply callus softener – Apply a callus softening treatment and when both feet are again towel-wrapped, remove or drain the foot bath and start the disinfection cycle.

7. Callus reduction – If required, remove or neutralize the callus softener and perform the callus reduction. This will be an extended time for large calluses, but never remove all the callus. The use of an e-file is very efficient here. Apply a light moisture lotion and towel wrap for warmth. The procedure is repeated on the second foot.



10. Rebook, collect payment and dismiss – Homecare is especially important for this client. Be sure to recommend a both a foot file and a truly hydrating foot cream with Urea or and AHA.

Callus Reduction Pedicure Quick Reference

Time needed:





3. Dry exfoliation with a foot file

4. Foot bath – shortened soak time

5. Scrub, rinse, moisturizing foot massage, then masque application and removal

6. Apply callus softener, if needed, and empty foot bath and start disinfection





Callus Reduction Treatment – Series

This foot service is not the same as a “pedicure” since no massage, masque nor nail detailing/polishing will performed. It is a short treatment appointment that focuses on reducing excess calluses.

This is the Basic Pedicure without the soak and with no work on the toe nails.

Excess calluses do not build up quickly and they must not be taken off the foot quickly or the client will have soreness and the possibility of an ulcer forming under the calluses.

1. The pre-service and in-room seating of the client – New Client Questionnaire is not needed, but ask if anything has changed.

2. Foot sanitation and analysis – At this time, it is determined if the pedicure will proceed. Take extra care with the foot sanitation, including flossing.

3. Exfoliation – Large, loose and obvious eponychium is removed, dry callus reduction done. 4. Foot bath – this step is skipped – no foot bath is needed. 5. Scrub, massage and masque – Apply an appropriate scrub product and using massage-type

strokes, scrub the entire foot approx. 2 minutes. Use a warm, wet towel to remove the scrub, and then pat dry again. Apply a hydrating masque, wrap the foot and set aside. Repeat on the second foot. Remove the masque, on the first foot and continue to the next step.

6. Apply callus softener – Apply a callus softening treatment (only on the calluses), wrap the foot for warmth during the set time (the time is according to instructions), and then return to the second foot and remove the masque, wrap and set it aside. Return to the second foot, remove or massage the masque and wrap it and set it aside.

7. Callus reduction – First foot, remove or neutralize the callus softener and perform the callus reduction. Apply a light moisture lotion and towel wrap for warmth. The procedure is repeated on the second foot now, according to the set time.

8. Nail detailing – Cuticles may be treated with an emollient oil. 9. Nail finishing – is not done for this treatment. 10. Rebook, collect payment and dismiss

Callus Treatment Quick Reference

Time needed:

20-25 minutes

1. Entrance and seating

2. Foot sanitation and analysis

3. Dry exfoliation with a foot file

4. Foot bath - not needed

5. 1st foot: apply scrub, remove, moisturizing foot massage, masque application, then 2nd foot

6. First foot, remove masque/massage, apply callus softener and set aside, then 2nd foot.

7. First foot, callus reduction, light moisture lotion, set aside, then repeat steps on 2nd foot

8. Nail detailing – apply cuticle oil only

9. Nail finish – not performed


Documents

Pedicure Protocols for the MNT