The 'immaculate' dry pedicure looks salon-fresh for weeks, say experts - but what's actually involved?

While your toes tend to be most on show in the summer, pedicures and overall foot care are a year-round concern. That said, with sandal season still in full swing, one treatment is proving especially popular right now, touted for its long-lasting, salon finish: the dry pedicure.

If you thought the sheer array of timeless pedicure colours, summer pedicure trends and types of polishes (from air-drying to gels) were already too much to choose from, you must also consider the kind of pedi you're paying for. There's the trendy Japanese pedicure, for instance, that features no polish at all, just nail care and an array of nourishing products that reveal a natural but enhanced shine. For those seeking gel colour and a very precise, long-lasting finish, however, a dry pedicure, also often referred to as a Russian pedicure (having been popularised by nail techs in Russia and Eastern Europe), might prove to be the better option.

Demand for the treatments has been on the rise, but they're not your average pedicures and do require some considerations before you book in. So naturally, we've quizzed the nail experts on everything you need to know - from what sets it apart, the reported benefits and any potential risks.

A Russian pedicure, explained by the experts

A pedicure, like a manicure, has the power to really elevate your look, especially in the warmer months when you're wearing sandals and flip-flops. But even outside of summer, it can help keep your nails neat and strong, whilst also removing rough skin from your heels and soles.

Dry pedicures might be a little different from what you're used to, though. So, whether you're considering booking in for one or are just curious, the experts have shared all the ins and outs of the professional, in-salon treatment.

What is a Russian pedicure

"A Russian pedicure is a dry pedicure that focuses on detailed cuticle work and skin refinement using an e-file," explains Celebrity Session Manicurist Ami Streets. "Rather than soaking the feet first, the treatment is carried out on dry skin, allowing the nail tech to carefully remove excess cuticle and tidy the nail area with much more precision. Depending on the client’s needs, it can also include targeted removal of hard skin before finishing with gel polish if desired."

Annabelle Taurua, beauty expert at Fresha, the top-rated booking platform for nail salons, also adds that the treatment uses "an electric file and special drill bits instead of soaking the nails and using manual cutting tools. This treatment focuses on precision cleaning of the cuticles and surrounding skin to achieve exceptionally clean, defined, and long-lasting results. Many people believe this technique yields better results than manual tools and is especially beneficial for those with rough skin."

A Russian manicure and pedicure use the same core technique, Streets notes, "particularly when it comes to detailed cuticle work with an e-file, but they’re adapted for different areas. A Russian manicure focuses on the hands and creating the cleanest possible finish around the nails, while a Russian pedicure also addresses the condition of the feet, including hard skin removal where needed."

You may have also heard it referred to as a type of waterless pedicure, because, as mentioned, it doesn't feature the classic foot soak to soften the skin. As for why this dry pedicure is gaining popularity and interest, Streets says that "Clients are looking for treatments that deliver long-lasting, flawless results, and that’s exactly what a Russian pedicure offers.

"Social media has definitely helped shine a spotlight on the treatment, but its popularity really comes down to the finish. The nails look immaculate, the cuticle area stays tidy for weeks, and the overall result feels much more premium."

Our at-home pedicure picks

If you'd rather skip a Russian pedicure and instead want to give your feet a zhush at home, we've rounded up a few of our favourites - including a nourishing foot cream, a subtle nail polish-strengthener hybrid and an electric foot file - which comes in handy to remove dry and rough skin from your heels and soles. It's imperative, though, to leave any cuticle work to the professionals.

What are the differences and benefits of a Russian pedicure

If you're familiar with what a standard pedicure involves but not a waterless one, Streets says "the biggest difference is the level of detail. Traditional pedicures tend to focus on relaxation, soaking and surface exfoliation, whereas a Russian pedicure is much more technique-led. It creates an incredibly clean, neat finish around the nail and leaves the feet looking polished and well-maintained for longer."

How long does a Russian pedicure last?

"Most clients can expect the results to last around four to six weeks, depending on how quickly their nails grow and how well they care for their feet at home - daily application of cuticle oil and keeping on top of hydration of the skin is important for longevity of results," notes Streets. "The tidy cuticle work helps the treatment maintain its fresh appearance for much longer than a standard pedicure."

Taurua adds that because this dry pedicure features such meticulous cuticle work, the gel polish can be applied closer, meaning "the pedi also lasts much longer - staying intact for weeks past a standard pedi."

Is a Russian pedicure safe?

"When performed by a properly trained professional using the correct techniques, it’s a very safe treatment," says Streets. "The biggest risk comes from overworking the skin or using the e-file incorrectly, which can cause irritation or damage. It’s also not suitable if you have open wounds, infections or certain foot conditions until they’ve healed."

Taurua also notes that taking away too much of the protective cuticle barrier "could lead to bacterial infections. This is a risk if an inexperienced or poorly trained technician performs the pedicure, so it’s important to book with a trained professional or in a salon that meets the proper hygiene standards."

While it is a good option for those seeking a really neat and long-lasting finish, Streets doesn't recommend the treatment to all. "I wouldn’t recommend it for anyone with active fungal infections, open cuts, inflamed skin or certain medical conditions affecting the feet such as diabetes, until they’ve been assessed or fully healed. A thorough consultation is always important to make sure the treatment is both safe and suitable for each individual client."

Consult your doctor before booking in for any pedicure treatment if any of the aforementioned concerns apply to you.