Jelly pedicure (Crystal Jelly): the jelly soak, what happens and our tips

What is a jelly pedicure?

The name comes from the soak. Generally, a jelly pedicure turns the warm foot-bath water into a translucent, often coloured jelly that surrounds the feet and ankles. With the most common products, a powder is added to the water to make it gel, and a second product dissolves it at the end so the tub drains easily.

The rest is a full pedicure. The difference is mostly the experience: the texture is thicker and more enveloping than water, which makes it more playful and pampering. Products and exact steps vary from salon to salon; for the details of our soak, just ask when you book.

What happens during a Crystal Jelly pedicure

Our pedicures share the same base. Here's the usual order, with the jelly soak at the soaking step:

• Choosing your colour and finish (regular polish or Shellac), then removing old polish.
• Jelly soak to relax and soften the skin and nails.
• Toenail trim and shaping, following their natural shape.
• Cuticle care for a clean line around the nail.
• Exfoliation to smooth rougher areas like the heels.
• Moisturizing, with a massage depending on the treatment.
• Polish: regular, which air-dries, or Shellac, cured under a lamp.

Classic, deluxe or Crystal Jelly: what's the difference?

All the salon's pedicures share the same base. What changes is the time spent on you, the soak and how long the colour lasts.

• Classic: the complete basic treatment, ideal for regular upkeep.
• Deluxe: more time for a more thorough, relaxing treatment.
• Crystal Jelly: the same length as the deluxe, with the jelly soak that makes it our most pampering option.

Who is it for?

A Crystal Jelly pedicure is a great pick if:

• you want a real break rather than routine upkeep;
• you like trying something new, or you're planning an outing with friends;
• you're getting ready for an occasion (a trip, sandal season, the holidays) and want a fuller treatment;
• you're treating someone to some downtime (for gift cards, call us at (819) 770-6886).

Before your appointment

A few simple things to get the most out of it:

• Book a little ahead: plan for about 75 minutes, and weekends fill up fast.
• Choose regular polish or Shellac when you book.
• Bring sandals or open-toe shoes, especially with regular polish, so the fresh colour doesn't smudge.
• A photo of the colour you like can help.
• A pedicure is a cosmetic treatment. If you have a wound, an infection, a condition such as diabetes or foot pain, see a health professional first and tell your technician before the treatment. Also mention any past reaction to a product.

After your pedicure: making it last

Regular polish on toes usually lasts one to two weeks. Shellac generally lasts longer, often several weeks, since toes get less friction than hands.

• Moisturize your feet every night, especially the heels.
• Don't pick at Shellac as it grows out: book a removal instead.
• A pedicure every four to six weeks keeps skin soft and nails well maintained.
• Our nail aftercare guide covers the full routine between visits.