the Cost of Pedicures

I got a pedicure at a nail salon in Santa Rosa. They had spa chairs, let me soak my feet, gave me a foot massage, shaped and painted my nails. The pedicurist even did a very pretty flower design on my big toenails.

It was $18 for the pedicure, $5 for the flower design, and I added a tip.

The salon was very busy, which was a good sign. I had gotten a recommendation and went with the friend who had recommended it. It was as good as she said. The women were professional and gave excellent foot and leg massages! There was even one man working and he did a good job painting nails (I've never before seen a male give a pedicure!)

I saw them scrubbing out the tub where customers soaked their feet, which made me feel good about the cleanliness, and they seemed to be taking the metal instruments from an autoclave - also a good sign.

Watch for cleanliness because you really don't want to get nail fungus or something from a nail salon. Feel free to ask how they clean their instruments and tubs. If they can't tell you, go somewhere else! Too many germs can be passed along that way.

I personally think that a busy nail salon is key - it shows you that there are many happy customers who don't mind waiting. Be clear about what you want, from the color of the polish to designs to how much pressure you want on any foot/leg massage. You're paying for this, so don't be shy!