What is the purpose of soaking the feet during a pedicure?

Soaking the feet during a pedicure primarily serves to soften the skin and nails, making them easier to treat. This process is essential for effectively removing dead skin, calluses, and rough patches, which can enhance the overall appearance and health of the feet. Additionally, softening the nails allows for easier trimming and shaping, ensuring a more aesthetically pleasing outcome. The warm water and any additives—like salts or oils—used in the soaking bath can also help relax the client, which contributes to a more enjoyable experience during the pedicure process.

While improving circulation is a potential benefit of soaking, it is not the primary purpose of the soaking step in a pedicure. Similarly, enhancing the color of nail polish and making feet smell pleasant do not adequately capture the essential role of soaking in facilitating skin and nail treatment.