A pedicure is a beauty treatment for your feet and toenails, similar to how a manicure treats hands and fingernails. During a pedicure, someone trims and shapes your toenails, removes rough or dead skin from your feet, and often applies polish to make the nails look neat and colorful.

People get pedicures at salons, where trained professionals use special tools to clean and care for feet. The treatment usually includes soaking feet in warm water, scrubbing away calluses (thick, hardened skin that builds up from walking), pushing back cuticles (the skin around the nail base), and moisturizing. Some pedicures include foot massages, which can feel relaxing after a long day of walking or playing sports.

While pedicures are often associated with appearance and grooming, they also serve practical purposes. Properly trimmed toenails can prevent ingrown nails, where the nail grows painfully into the skin. Regular foot care keeps feet healthy and comfortable, especially for athletes, dancers, or anyone who spends lots of time on their feet.

Some people give themselves pedicures at home with nail clippers and files, while others visit professionals for the full treatment.