A pedicure is one of the most relaxing and beneficial self-care treatments you can give your feet. Whether you’re going for a simple cleanup, a spa-style luxury pedicure, or a medical-grade treatment, time matters because it affects cost, results, and overall experience. Many people wonder: How long should a pedicure take?
The answer depends on several factors such as the type of pedicure, your foot condition, the salon’s service quality, and add-on treatments. Below is a complete guide explaining the ideal pedicure duration, types of pedicures, what affects the time required, how to speed up your session, and how long each step should realistically take.
What Is a Pedicure?
A pedicure is a cosmetic and therapeutic treatment for the feet and toenails. It usually includes cleaning, nail trimming, shaping, exfoliation, massage, and polishing. The main goals are to improve appearance, hygiene, and foot health.
Pedicures are done in salons, spas, nail bars, and even medical settings for people with foot conditions. Because it is a widely practiced beauty and grooming technique, the time required varies depending on method and purpose.
How Long Should a Basic Pedicure Take?
A basic pedicure typically takes 30 to 45 minutes.
This includes:
- Foot soaking (5–10 minutes)
- Nail trimming and shaping (5 minutes)
- Cuticle care (5 minutes)
- Light callus removal (5–10 minutes)
- Lotion application or brief massage (5 minutes)
- Nail polish application (5–10 minutes)
Basic pedicures are ideal for people who maintain their feet regularly and prefer quick sessions without additional treatments. They are fast yet effective for hygiene and appearance.
How Long Does a Spa Pedicure Take?
A spa pedicure is more luxurious and usually takes 60 to 90 minutes.
This is because spa pedicures include:
- Aromatherapy soaking
- Salt scrubs
- Paraffin wax
- Hot towel wraps
- Extended massage
- Hydrating masks
- Deep callus treatment
These extras increase both relaxation and service duration. Spa pedicures are popular for special occasions or deep foot rejuvenation.
How Long Does a Gel Pedicure Take?
A gel pedicure usually takes 45 to 60 minutes.
Why it takes longer:
- Gel polish needs to be cured under UV/LED light
- Layers are applied more precisely
- Removal of old gel polish (if needed) adds 10–15 minutes
Gel pedicures last much longer—usually 3–4 weeks—so many people find the extra time worthwhile.
How Long Does a French Pedicure Take?
A French pedicure typically takes 45 to 60 minutes depending on the skill level of the technician.
Reasons for longer duration:
- Precise white tip application
- Additional shaping
- Multiple layers of polish
- Drying between coats
French pedicures require clean lines, so technicians take their time to ensure a perfect finish.
How Long Should a Medical Pedicure Take?
A medical pedicure (performed by a podiatrist or trained professional) takes 45 to 90 minutes.
Medical pedicures address:
- Cracked heels
- Painful calluses
- Thick toenails
- Ingrown nails
- Fungal infections
- Corns
- Severe dryness
Because the focus is on treatment rather than cosmetics, each issue requires careful attention.
How Long Does a Deluxe or Premium Pedicure Take?
A deluxe pedicure ranges from 75 to 120 minutes.
It includes:
- Deep exfoliation
- Detox foot masks
- Hot stone foot massage
- Essential oils
- Herbal foot soak
- Moisturizing booties
- Scrubs and treatments
These sessions are designed for full relaxation and complete foot restoration.
What Factors Affect How Long a Pedicure Should Take?
Several factors change the timing:
1. Nail Technician Experience
A skilled technician works faster without compromising quality. A beginner might take longer.
2. Foot Condition
- Thick calluses
- Dry skin
- Fungal nails
- Overgrown nails
- Ingrown issues
These require extra care, adding 10–20 minutes.
3. Type of Polish
- Regular polish dries slower
- Gel polish requires curing under light
- Nail art adds 10–30 minutes
4. Add-On Services
- Paraffin wax (10–15 minutes)
- Foot masks (10 minutes)
- Sugar scrubs (5–7 minutes)
- Massage upgrades (10–30 minutes)
5. Salon Busy Hours
When salons are crowded, waiting time may increase.
Step-By-Step Timeline: How Long Each Pedicure Step Should Take
Here’s the breakdown:
Foot Soak – 5 to 10 Minutes
Softens dead skin and prepares feet for treatment.
Nail Cutting and Filing – 5 to 7 Minutes
Shaping and shortening nails.
Cuticle Trimming – 5 Minutes
Excess cuticles are removed for a smooth look.
Exfoliation and Scrubbing – 7 to 10 Minutes
Removes dead skin and smoothens rough areas.
Callus Removal – 5 to 15 Minutes
Time varies depending on severity.
Foot Massage – 5 to 20 Minutes
Relaxation step; longer in spa pedicures.
Polish Application – 10 to 20 Minutes
- Base coat
- 2–3 color coats
- Top coat
- Drying time
Drying Time – 10 to 20 Minutes (Regular Polish)
Gel polish dries instantly under UV/LED light.
How Long Should a DIY Pedicure Take?
A DIY pedicure typically takes 30 to 60 minutes.
Why DIY takes shorter or longer:
- You control the pace
- Fewer professional tools
- No massage or add-ons unless you choose
Doing your own pedicure at home can save time and money, but results vary.
How Often Should You Get a Pedicure?
Experts recommend getting a pedicure every 3 to 4 weeks depending on:
- Nail growth
- Skin dryness
- Callus buildup
- Personal preference
Regular pedicures reduce time because maintenance becomes easier.
How to Make a Pedicure Faster Without Reducing Quality
If you want a good pedicure in less time:
- Choose regular maintenance appointments
- Avoid heavy callus buildup
- Choose gel polish (faster drying)
- Skip long massages and extra treatments
- Bring open-toed shoes to avoid smudging
- Book appointments during non-peak hours
These small tips can reduce your pedicure time by 10–20 minutes.
How Long Should a Pedicure Last After It Is Done?
Regular polish: 1–2 weeks
Gel polish: 3–4 weeks
Spa pedicure results: 2–4 weeks (skin benefits)
Medical pedicure: 4–8 weeks depending on condition
The longevity also depends on footwear and foot hygiene.
Conclusion: How Long Should a Pedicure Take?
The ideal pedicure time ranges from:
- 30–45 minutes for a basic pedicure
- 45–60 minutes for gel or French pedicures
- 60–90 minutes for spa pedicures
- 75–120 minutes for deluxe pedicures
- 45–90 minutes for medical pedicures
Your foot condition, chosen polish, and extra treatments all affect the duration.
Understanding these timelines helps you plan your appointment, avoid delays, and get the best possible results.
