Short answer: a regular pedicure covers the basics: a soak, nail shaping, cuticle care, light smoothing and polish. A spa pedicure includes everything in a regular pedicure plus extras such as a scrub, mask, longer massage and sometimes warm towels or paraffin. It takes longer and costs more.
If you are standing at the salon menu wondering which pedicure to pick, this guide breaks down the differences in steps, time and price so you can choose.
Spa vs regular pedicure at a glance
| Regular (classic) pedicure | Spa pedicure | |
|---|---|---|
| Soak | Short warm soak | Longer soak, sometimes with salts or oils |
| Nail care | Shape and cuticle tidy | Shape and cuticle tidy |
| Smoothing | Light buff or file | Scrub or file plus extra smoothing |
| Mask or wrap | No | Often included |
| Massage | A few minutes | Longer, with lotion or oil |
| Extras | Polish | Warm towels, paraffin, hot stones or similar |
| Typical time | 30 to 45 minutes | 45 to 60 minutes or more |
| Price | Base price | Higher, depending on extras |
What is a regular (classic) pedicure?
A regular pedicure is a tidy-up for your feet and toenails. It usually includes a warm soak, nail trimming and shaping, cuticle care, a light smoothing of rough skin, a short massage and nail polish. It is a good choice when you want neat nails and polished toes without the extras.
What is a spa pedicure?
A spa pedicure is a more relaxing, longer version. It includes the same basics, plus a scrub, a mask or wrap, a longer massage and sometimes warm towels or paraffin wax. The aim is relaxation and soft-feeling feet as well as tidy nails.
Spa vs regular pedicure: step-by-step
| Step | Regular | Spa |
|---|---|---|
| 1. Soak | Yes | Yes, longer |
| 2. Nail shaping and cuticles | Yes | Yes |
| 3. Smoothing | Light file | Scrub and file |
| 4. Mask or wrap | No | Often |
| 5. Massage | Short | Longer |
| 6. Warm towels or paraffin | No | Sometimes |
| 7. Polish | Yes | Yes |
How long does each take?
A regular pedicure usually takes 30 to 45 minutes. A spa pedicure takes 45 to 60 minutes or longer, depending on which extras you add.
How much more does a spa pedicure cost?
A spa pedicure usually costs more than a regular pedicure because of the extra time and products, and the gap grows with each add-on. Prices vary by city and salon, so check the menu. Our guide to how much a pedicure costs explains typical prices and tipping.
Basic, classic, deluxe, signature: salon menu terms decoded
Salons use different names, but they usually mean something like this:
- Basic or express: a quick tidy with polish, often with a short soak
- Classic: the regular pedicure described above
- Spa: a classic plus a scrub, mask and longer massage
- Deluxe: a spa pedicure with extra treatments, such as a hot towel wrap or paraffin
- Signature: a salon's own service, with special products or add-ons
Always ask the salon what is included.
Is a spa pedicure worth it?
Choose a spa pedicure if you want to relax, you have an event coming up or your feet need extra attention. Choose a regular pedicure if you want neat nails and polish and prefer to spend less or save time. Many people alternate, with a spa pedicure for a treat and regular ones in between.
Other types of spa pedicure
Spa pedicures come in many styles, such as:
- Jelly pedicure, where you soak in a gel-like jelly
- Collagen pedicure, with a collagen mask or socks
- Zero gravity pedicure, done in a reclining chair
- Paraffin pedicure, with a warm wax dip
If you want long-lasting colour, you can also add shellac on your toenails.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between a spa pedicure and a regular pedicure?
A spa pedicure includes extras such as a scrub, mask and longer massage, and it takes more time and costs more.
How long does a spa pedicure take?
Usually 45 to 60 minutes, and longer with extra treatments.
Is a spa pedicure worth the money?
It is worth it if you want a relaxing treat or need extra smoothing. For a quick tidy, a regular pedicure is enough.
What does a deluxe pedicure include?
Usually everything in a spa pedicure plus extras such as hot towels, paraffin or a longer massage. Ask your salon.
How often should you get a pedicure?
Many people book one every four to six weeks to keep nails neat.
