How long does a pedicure take? From 30 to 90 minutes

How long does each type of pedicure take?

A basic pedicure takes about 30 minutes, and each added step adds time. At Nail Shadow, each pedicure in our collection builds on the one before it, so the times grow with the treatments:

• Just Need a Break, about 30 minutes: soak, nail shaping, cuticle care, callus smoothing, lotion and polish.
• Finally, Some Me Time, about 45 minutes: adds a sea salt soak, sugar scrub, mud masque and massage cream.
• Don't Text Me, I'm Relaxing, about 60 minutes: adds a CBD-mint treatment, collagen sock, hot towel wrap and a 10-minute massage.
• Melt My Stress Away, about 70 minutes: adds an organic product treatment, therapeutic hot stone massage, deep relaxation treatment and a 15-minute massage.
• I Deserve This, about 80 to 90 minutes: adds a hot neck wrap, steamed eye mask and a 20-minute massage.

See every step in detail on our spa pedicure menu.

What adds time to a pedicure?

Add-ons and polish choices are the most common reasons a pedicure runs longer. Plan a little extra time for:

• Gel polish: each coat is cured under a lamp, and removal of old gel adds a few minutes.
• French finish or design: hand-painted details take care and a steady hand.
• Paraffin treatment: a warm wax wrap that rests on the skin before it is peeled away.
• Hot stone or extra massage time: simply more time in the chair.
• Extra callus work: feet that have gone a while between visits may need more smoothing.

Should you book your pedicure ahead?

Booking ahead is the best way to keep a pedicure on schedule, especially for longer rituals. Weekends and evenings fill quickly at both Nail Shadow salons, so a reservation helps you avoid a wait.

If you are pairing a pedicure with a manicure, let the salon know when you book. Some guests like to do both back to back, and our manicure menu lists the options.

How can you make the most of your pedicure time?

A little planning makes your time in the chair more relaxing. A few simple tips:

1. Wear open-toe sandals so regular polish can dry without smudging.
2. Arrive a few minutes early to choose your color and scent.
3. Mention any sensitivity, cuts or skin concerns to your technician before you start.
4. If you have diabetes, circulation problems or are pregnant, check with your doctor first and tell your technician.

Not sure which ritual suits you? Our guide on what a spa pedicure is walks through the steps.

Which pedicure should you choose if you are short on time?

If you are short on time, Just Need a Break covers the essentials in about 30 minutes. Finally, Some Me Time adds scrub and masque in about 45 minutes, which many guests find a good balance of care and time.

When you have an afternoon to yourself, Melt My Stress Away or I Deserve This turns a pedicure into a longer, slower break. Many guests find the extended massage and warm wraps especially relaxing.

Where can you get a spa pedicure in Atlanta?

Nail Shadow has offered pedicures in Atlanta since 1990, with spa chairs with massage, sterilized tools and fresh liners for every guest.

Choose the ritual that fits your schedule and visit our Buckhead salon or our Kennesaw salon.