Hot Stone Pedicure Procedures

Hot stones are used in spas to enrich pedicures, manicures and massages. Hot stones are typically made of Basalt, Jade or Pumice rocks because of their ability to retain heat. The stones are placed in a massage stone heater in the opposite order they are used. This way, the stones needed first are on top, making them easily accessible. With the right equipment and stones, hot stone pedicures can be performed at home.

Soak

• Heat a bowl of warming stones in a professional stone heater and place them in the pedicure bowl with warm water. These are large, flat stones designed to maintain the water temperature while the feet soak. Place both feet in the pedicure bowl and let them soak for 5 to 10 minutes.

Exfoliate

• Completely dry the feet with a soft, warm towel. Heat a pumice stone and soak it in hot water just long enough to wet the stone. Exfoliate the feet with the pumice stone to remove dead skin and soften the feet. Wash off any excess pumice left on the foot after exfoliating. Pumice stones are a naturally forming lava rock that make for excellent exfoliates.

Massage

• Massage the feet and calves with hot massage stones. If massaging someone else, always warn the person when you are about to place hot stones on them, and check as to whether the stones are too hot. Never put the stones directly on someone after removing them from the heater. To reduce some of the initial heat, flip the stones over a few times as you transfer them from the heating unit to the point of massage. During the massage you can incorporate oils, but never lotions or gels because they stain the stones.

Relax

• Relax after the massage by placing the feet onto two large hot foot stones. Insert hot toe stones between each toe and wrap the feet in warm towels to help maintain the heat longer. The muscles in the feet will relax from the heat and the pressure of the large foot stones. Allow the feet to relax for about 7 to 10 minutes.

Polish

• Finish the pedicure with a trim and polish. Cut the nails straight across to prevent ingrown nails. Use a cuticle stick to push the cuticles back. They should be soft and pliable at this point, but if needed, use a cuticle cream. Paint the nails with a seasonal color, allow to dry, then apply a clear coat. Separate the toes and allow them to dry for a few minutes.