Here's Why Getting a Gel Pedicure Is Actually Worth It

Many people prefer gel manicures because they last much longer than regular polish. Though taking the polish off at home can be difficult, there are safe ways to do it. All of that said, we're not nearly as educated in the gel pedicure category, even though it's always been offered on the salon's menu.

If you're like us and haven't thought about getting one yet, know that a gel pedicure will give you near-perfect nails for two or more weeks. That's why we considered getting one — and why we think you should, too. We reached out to nail expert Amy Ling Lin to get the details on the entire process.

Keep reading to learn everything you need to know about getting a gel pedicure.

What to Expect

A gel pedicure is very similar — if not identical — to a gel manicure. "The basic outline is cutting the nails, lightly soaking the feet, cutting the cuticles, thorough cleaning, a callus treatment, and a scrub and massage, followed by one base coat layer, two layers of color, and a top coat layer," says Lin.

After every layer of gel polish applied to the toenails, the feet are placed under an LED light for 30 seconds, or 60 to 90 seconds after the topcoat, she adds. (You can follow these same steps if you're doing your pedi at home.)

Just like any pedicure, your feet are treated before polish is painted on the nails. However, thanks to the LED light, you don't have to worry about waiting for your nails to dry. Plus, the LED light helps your polish last longer. If you need an LED light, we recommend the Sally Hansen Salon Pro Gel Starter Kit.

How Long They Last

Here's why getting a gel pedicure is worth it. According to Lin, pedicures generally last longer than manicures. "There's just less wear and tear on your toes, even if you're on your feet all day," she says, adding that pedicures usually last two to three weeks. With that in mind, it's not a surprise that you can ride out your gel pedicure for a month.

Removal Process

Just like a gel manicure, gel pedicures have the potential to disturb the health of your nails. However, Lin says a lot of the damage can be avoided by getting the polish properly removed so you're not peeling off your nail with the polish. Also, spacing out how often you get a gel pedicure can help reduce nail damage.

1. Cover the nails in an acetone-soaked cotton ball and aluminum foil.
2. Wait 10 to 15 minutes before removing.
3. After the foil is removed, the gel should then slide off.
4. Gently file off or use a wooden stick to remove any remaining polish.

How Much Gel Pedicures Cost

At Sunday's Nail Studio, a 65-minute gel pedicure costs $78 — and a 45-minute non-gel pedicure costs $55. The price of a pedicure depends on your location, what's included, and your technician's skill level, but you can expect the treatment to fall in the $40 to $80 range.

The Bottom Line

Gel mani and pedis are ideal for someone who doesn't want to frequent the salon. They generally last longer, so you don't have to deal with polish dulling or chips. Lin recommended a gel pedicure if you're going on a vacation or plan on spending a ton of time at the beach or a pool. Chlorine and salt water are both worn on regular nail polish.

Now that you have all the basics on getting a gel pedicure, you're armed with knowledge that'll help you decide whether or not one is right for you. Just make sure that you follow the instructions for removing the polish — lest you accidentally peel off layers of your toenails.