A Dry Pedicure, What is it Good For?

We recently went to try the new fad, “ a ‘dry’ pedicure,” at Nail Couture in Midtown, Manhattan. Here are three takes on our experience, from Jess, Allison and Nabi.

So let's get into it, what is a dry pedicure?

N: The word “dry” simply refers to the absence of water, otherwise process is nearly identical to a regular pedicure. They still scrub your heels, massage the foot and calf, and then paint the toes. It’s not a revolutionary new process. In our case they just used a lot of cuticle lotion to play the part of the water.

Nail Couture Studio. Allison sitting on the pedicure benches after her pedicure.

Do you think it was more HYGIENIC than a regular pedi?

J: Not really. At Nail Couture we sat on built in stone benches covered with pads and towels. They looked like they could have installed basins if they wanted to, but the space was so small. And it didn’t seem super clean. Like, it was clean, but the whole thing is that it’s supposed to be cleaner, without the water sitting in the tub, but the overall setup wasn’t sparkling. I honestly think this studio in particular only does dry pedicures because of the space. Maybe it was more hygienic overall, but I’ve never received a foot fungus from a regular pedicure and I felt like they could have had a longer foot massage to make up for the lack of bath.

A: Same, I really missed the water. I don’t like pedicures, or people touching my feet in general, and after all the time I took to finally get used to pedicures I don’t want to lose the best part of the process!

J: That’s so funny because when I mentioned it to a friend of mine they said, “Isn’t it about the water though?” I didn’t have that impression going in, but now I believe I missed the water because it feels more luxurious to have a foot bath.

N: I actually didn’t miss the water. I guess it’s because I was expecting it to be super weird and different from a regular pedicure. Like it was going to be like getting your feet dry-cleaned. It was a lot quicker, and my feet still felt clean afterwards. Maybe you have to go in with lower expectations and then you won’t be thinking about the water.

Would you get it again?

J: Well they say a dry pedicure is supposed to last longer, somehow. I don’t know if that’s really possible because pedicures always last forever anyways and, like we said, everything seemed pretty standard. I might get it one more time at a place that showcases it as a specialty. At Nail Couture, I thought they were attentive and friendly, I feel like they focused on keeping my feet and toenails and healthy. They seemed to put some nice oils on, but maybe that’s standard.

A: I would not, I’m in it for the water. When I get a pedicure I really want it to be great. I just don’t see that happening with a dry pedicure. Also, I feel like my pedicure is not lasting longer. If anything I think it started chipping sooner that usual.

N: I would go again. But only if it looked really special. I don’t have anything against dry pedicures after this experience, but I do still prefer the water. It was a lot faster though, so if I’m in a hurry and nearby I’d go for it. The staff at Nail Couture was super nice and I’d love to go back for a mani. Their manicure work looks a lot more special.

Have you ever had a dry pedicure? Let us know what you think in the comments below!