How To Become A Pedicurist

Pedicurists are the foot counterparts of manicurists. If manicurists are in charge of doing a client’s fingernails then a pedicurist takes care of cleaning, polishing and painting the nails on her feet. This is the career for those who love to work in nail salons and spas. This job enables you to give advice to clients on the proper care of her feet and nails.

Pedicurists should have good finger dexterity. The tools you will be using to clean and cut her toenails are sharp. If your hand isn’t steady or you have bad hand-eye coordination, the chances of hurting a customer are high. That could cost you your job—and even bring on a potential lawsuit. Pedicurists should also be creative and abreast of the latest trends in nail art. Just like manicurists, pedicurists also need to listen to their clients and truly find joy in talking with them so they can form great client relationships and encourage repeat customers.

Why Become A Pedicurist

Those who go on to become pedicurists don’t do so out of money because the pay isn’t really that lucrative. Rather, grooming a client’s feet and putting on nail art on toenails can serve as a good training ground for those who would like to open their own nail salons someday. It’s also a good part-time job for those who are still in school or have another fulltime work and want to augment their income.

Pedicurists focus on trimming, cleaning, polishing and beautifying a client’s toenails. They work in nail salons and foot spas and provide clients advice on how to care for their feet and nails properly. Pedicurists don’t earn a lot since they typically only earn minimum wages.

Pedicurist Work Environment

Just like manicurists, pedicurists work in nail salons, spas and hair salons. Their schedules depend on where they work. Full-service salons usually require pedicurists to work fulltime while boutique hair salons can work part-time. Those who are self-employed and already have regular clients just work when they are called. They don’t have a salon but do the work in the homes of their customers. Busy times for pedicurists are evenings and weekends.

Pedicurist Salary

Their income can be increased with tips from satisfied customers. The experience taught in this career also serves as a good training ground for those who have plans of putting up their own nail salons someday.

Highest Paying States For Pedicurists

• 1. Minnesota $17.59 / hr $36,580 / yr
• 2. New Hampshire $15.95 / hr $33,180 / yr
• 3. Arkansas $15.47 / hr $32,180 / yr
• 4. District of Columbia $15.11 / hr $31,430 / yr
• 5. Wisconsin $14.77 / hr $30,720 / yr

Top Paying Cities For Pedicurists

• 1. Springfield, IL $23.07 / hr$47,980 / yr
• 2. Boise, ID $22.59 / hr$46,980 / yr
• 3. Boulder, CO $21.62 / hr$44,970 / yr
• 4. Deltona, FL $19.25 / hr$40,040 / yr
• 5. Bloomington, IL $18.19 / hr$37,830 / yr

Pedicurist Career Outlook

From 2012 to 2022, the employment growth rate of pedicurists and manicurists is expected to rise 16 percent. This is faster than the average for all occupations, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. People, especially women, from different income levels will drive this demand because manicures and pedicures are not very expensive to get.

Pedicurist Degree

Only a high school diploma is necessary for aspiring pedicurists. They will still need to undergo a state-approved nail technician or cosmetology program to officially gain entry into the profession. After completing the program, they will have to take and pass a written and practical exam before they can get their license from the state boards. The National Interstate Council of State Boards of Cosmetology provides the requirements of each state for pedicurists to obtain their license.

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